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Cast Iron Steak

A steakhouse-quality crust with a perfectly pink and juicy interior, made in under 30 minutes using a hot cast iron skillet.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2 steaks 1.5 inches thick (ribeye or New York strip recommended), about 12 ounces each
  • Kosher salt 1 teaspoon per steak
  • Freshly ground black pepper 1/2 teaspoon per steak
  • Butter 2 tablespoons, divided
  • Fresh rosemary 2 sprigs (optional but excellent)
  • Garlic 2 cloves, smashed

Equipment

  • 12-inch cast iron skillet
  • Instant-read meat thermometer
  • Paper towels
  • Metal tongs
  • Small bowl or ramekin
  • Cutting board
  • chef's knife

Method
 

  1. Remove steaks from refrigerator 15 to 20 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature.
  2. Preheat a 12-inch cast iron skillet over high heat for 5 minutes until it is extremely hot.
  3. Pat steaks completely dry with paper towels to remove surface moisture.
  4. Season each steak with 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper on both sides.
  5. Drizzle a small amount of high-heat oil into the hot skillet, then place steaks in the pan and sear undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes.
  6. Flip steaks once and immediately add 1 tablespoon butter, smashed garlic cloves, and rosemary sprigs; cook for 3 to 4 minutes.
  7. Insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of each steak; remove from heat at 130 to 135°F for medium-rare.
  8. Transfer steaks to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Pair with creamed spinach, loaded baked potato, grilled asparagus, or a simple arugula salad for a complete meal.