As much as I love grilling some steak, to be honest, cast iron steak recipes are some of my all-time faves. In fact, there’s nothing quite like a sizzling hot skillet for getting that perfect, steakhouse-quality sear. With this method, the skillet can bring out the best in every cut of steak—from ribeye to filet mignon—giving you that killer crust and juicy center you crave. Ultimately, if you’re looking for both flavor and texture, the cast iron skillet is a game-changer.
A cast iron pan not only handles high temperatures but also retains heat beautifully, making it ideal for creating the perfect pan-seared steak. In other words, cast iron skillets are perfect for home cooks looking for a no-fuss way to make a steak that’s so freakin’ delicious! Whether you’re new to cast iron cooking or a seasoned pro, this skillet will help you get that incredible sear and flavor every time.
Table of Contents
- Why You’ll Love Cast Iron Steak Recipes
- What’s the Key to Perfectly Cooked Steak in a Skillet
- Cast Iron Steak Recipe Round-Up
- Classic Skillet Steaks
- Cast Iron Steak Bite Recipes
- Breakfast Skillets with Steak and Eggs
- What to Serve with Classic Steak Skillets
- More with Cast Iron Skillets
- FAQs for Cast Iron Steak Recipes
- This sauce is FYR!
Why You’ll Love Cast Iron Steak Recipes
Some of the best steak I’ve ever made was in a hot cast iron skillet. That’s why I have to say, if you don’t have a cast iron pan yet, you absolutely need to invest in one. It’s a workhorse I can’t live without in my backyard grilling setup. Not only does it help create the ideal texture on the outside of the steak, but it also keeps the inside juicy and tender. Plus, you can easily control the level of doneness using a meat thermometer for the best results every time.
Each cast iron skillet steak recipe in this round-up undoubtedly has something for everyone. So, grab your favorite cut, and let’s get cooking because it’s time to turn your kitchen into a steakhouse with these cast-iron skillet recipes!
What’s the Key to Perfectly Cooked Steak in a Skillet
Achieving the perfect steak vs. a good steak in a cast-iron skillet isn’t just about following an easy recipe. Here are the key elements for mouth-watering, perfectly cooked steak:
- Start with Room Temperature Steak: Take your steak out of the fridge and let it come to room temperature—this step ensures even cooking from edge to center.
- High Smoke Point Oil: Use oils like avocado oil or canola oil, which can withstand high temperatures without burning. A little olive oil can be used but keep it minimal.
- Season Generously: Go big on kosher salt and black pepper to bring out the natural flavors of your steak. Feel free to add fresh herbs or a simple marinade for extra flavor.
- Hot Skillet: Get that cast-iron skillet piping hot. The iron heats evenly and maintains medium-high heat, giving you that good sear you’re after.
- Perfect Sear: Add the steak to the skillet and press it down slightly to ensure full contact with the pan. Sear each side of the steak for 3-4 minutes or until you get a nice crust.
- Check Doneness with an Instant-Read Thermometer: Use an instant-read thermometer or meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature and achieve the perfect doneness. For medium-rare, aim for 120F.
- Let the Steak Rest: After cooking, let your steak rest on a cutting board for at least five minutes to lock in the juices and avoid a dry steak.
Cast Iron Steak Recipe Round-Up
Cooking steak in a cast iron skillet is more than just a cooking method. It’s a way to make steakhouse-quality steaks, tasty steak bites, or something in-between in your own backyard. Following my simple steps, you’ll learn how to develop great flavor with these recipes every time!
Classic Skillet Steaks
These classic steak recipes are two of my favorites. Always so freakin’ delicious!
Perfect Ribeye Steak
Steak with Tennessee Onions
Crusted Tomahawk Recipe
Chicken Fried Steak
The Best Tomahawk Steak
Steak and Lobster in a Pizza Oven
Milanesa Napolitana
Grilled Tuscan Steak
Peter Luger Style Steak
Blue Cheese Crusted Steaks
Grilled Steak and Shrimp with BLK Garlic Butter
Ribeye Cap Recipe
Umami Ribeyes with Steakhouse Fried Rice
Ribeyes and Bacon Wrapped Scallops
Bacon Wrapped Filet
Cast Iron Steak Bite Recipes
Does it get any better than some juicy steak bites? They are easy to cook in the hot skillet and then unbelievably versatile. Great in tacos, with eggs, rice, or mashed potatoes!
Steak Bites with Mashed Potatoes
Garlic Teriyaki Steak Bites
Steak Bite Tacos
Steak Bites with Smoked Chimichurri
Steak and Egg Bites
Smoked Beer Cheese
Surf and Turf Hibachi
Breakfast Skillets with Steak and Eggs
Last but not least, some of my favorite breakfast skillets. They feature some whole steaks sliced into perfect strips with a whole lot of other tasty ingredients.
Chipotle Coffee Rub Steak & Eggs Skillet
Ron Swanson Breakfast Skillet
Grilled Steak with Skillet Potatoes
Country Breakfast Skillet
Bourbon Prime Steak and Eggs
Steak and Egg Bites
What to Serve with Classic Steak Skillets
When it comes to serving up these skillet steaks, you’ll want sides that really bring out the flavors of that juicy sear. Garlic mashed potatoes are a go-to classic. Their creamy texture balances the richness of the steak beautifully. Roasted Brussels sprouts add a nice crisp texture and a bit of bitterness, which works wonders alongside steak.
If you’re in the mood for something earthy with your steak, sautéed mushrooms and onions make a fantastic pairing. For a lighter option, green beans with almonds bring a fresh crunch that complements the meat’s bold flavors. And, with a classic steak, consider a red wine reduction sauce that can add a rich, savory note to the meal.
More with Cast Iron Skillets
Leftovers and Reheating Instructions
Got some leftover skillet steak? No problem. Store the meat in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-5 days. To keep it juicy, you can reheat it slowly in a hot skillet over low heat with a bit of melted butter or broth. Avoid microwaving to prevent a dry steak. Leftover steak bites can be tossed into a salad, sandwiches, or burritos the next day.
FAQs for Cast Iron Steak Recipes
Cast iron retains heat exceptionally well, making it ideal for searing steak and creating that crispy, flavorful crust. It also distributes heat evenly for a consistent cook, which is essential for cooking steak to the perfect level of doneness every time. Plus, the cast-iron pan only gets better with age and adds great flavor!
To keep your cast-iron skillet in good shape, follow our guide on Cleaning Your Cast Iron Skillet. Avoid soap and use a brush or salt scrub to remove excess moisture and food.
Learn how to Season or Re-Season a Cast Iron Skillet to maintain it. Use a thin layer of oil, then bake the skillet to create a durable seasoning layer. Seasoning is key to a non-stick surface.
Get stoked for life
This sauce is FYR!
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