Ingredients:
- Steak (ribeye, sirloin, filet mignon, etc.)
- Salt
- Pepper
- Olive oil or butter
Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Steak**: Take the steak out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to 1 hour before cooking. This allows the steak to cook more evenly.
2. **Season the Steak**: Season the steak generously with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add other seasonings or marinades if desired, but a simple salt and pepper seasoning allows the natural flavor of the steak to shine.
3. **Preheat the Skillet**: Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. You want the skillet to be hot before adding the steak to ensure a good sear.
4. **Add Oil or Butter**: Once the skillet is hot, add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan. Swirl the oil or butter around to coat the bottom of the skillet evenly.
5. **Sear the Steak**: Carefully place the seasoned steak in the hot skillet. Let the steak cook without moving it for about 3-4 minutes to sear the first side. You should hear a sizzling sound when the steak hits the skillet.
6. **Flip the Steak**: Use a pair of tongs to flip the steak to the other side. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes for medium-rare, or adjust the cooking time according to your desired level of doneness.
7. **Check for Doneness**: To check if the steak is cooked to your liking, use a meat thermometer to measure the internal temperature:
- Rare: 120-125°F (49-52°C)
- Medium-rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
- Well-done: 150-155°F (66-68°C)
Alternatively, you can use the touch test to gauge doneness by pressing the steak with your finger.
8. **Rest the Steak**: Once the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove it from the skillet and transfer it to a plate. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
9. **Slice and Serve**: Use a sharp knife to slice the steak against the grain into thin slices. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a salad.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked steak! Adjust the cooking time according to the thickness of the steak and your preferred level of doneness.