How to Make The Perfect Pan Seared Steak

Step 1

The first step to making the perfect pan seared steak is to make sure that your steak is room temperature. In order to get that perfect crust / sear, your steak has to be room temperature. If it’s cold, it will turn grey and sad!

Step 2

The next step is to pat the steak dry with a paper towel, to soak up any extra juices.

Step 3

Next is to add a lot of salt. Believe me, you’ll want to use more salt than you think! If you want to add pepper or other seasonings, you can add them at this step. But I recommend sticking to just salt and pepper.

Step 4

Next, add your meat thermometer, if using one. I highly recommend it!

Step 5

Then, add a high heat oil (like avocado oil) to a pan, on the stove, over high heat. A high heat oil is key to ensuring that the steak cooks properly!

Step 6

Wait to add your steak to the pan until the oil glistens or shimmers – that’s how you know it’s hot enough!

Step 7

Add your steaks to the hot pan and DO NOT touch them for 3-4 minutes. For a medium rare steak (135 F), flip the steak once the 3-4 minutes are up, and cook for another 3 minutes. For any other steak preparation, refer to your thermometer!

Step 8

Once you have flipped your steak, smash 2-4 cloves of fresh garlic and add them to the pan alongside 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and some sprigs of thyme. Move the pan around and use a spoon to baste the steak with the butter.

Step 9

Once done, remove the steak from the heat and let it rest for five minutes. This is very important, to ensure that all of the flavors cook properly!

Step 10

Finally, once it’s done resting, transfer your steak to a cutting board and slice it. Pour the rest of the butter from the pan over the steak, and enjoy!