Print

Ultimate Reverse Sear Steak Method

reverse sear steak method - featured image

A foolproof method for cooking juicy, perfectly cooked steaks with a flavorful crust by slow cooking first and finishing with a high-heat sear.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Thick-cut ribeye, New York strip, or filet mignon (1½ to 2 inches thick)
  • Coarse kosher salt or sea salt
  • Freshly cracked black pepper
  • High smoke point oil (avocado oil, grapeseed oil, or refined canola oil)
  • Unsalted butter
  • 23 cloves garlic, smashed (optional)
  • Sprigs of thyme or rosemary (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat your steak dry with paper towels.
  2. Season generously on all sides with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
  3. Let the steak rest at room temperature for 30-45 minutes.
  4. Preheat oven or grill to 225°F (107°C).
  5. Place the steak on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet.
  6. Cook the steak in the oven or on the grill until the internal temperature is about 10-15°F below your target final temperature (e.g., 115°F for medium-rare). This usually takes 30-45 minutes depending on thickness.
  7. Remove the steak and let it rest briefly while heating your skillet.
  8. Heat 1-2 tablespoons of high smoke point oil in a cast iron skillet over high heat until shimmering but not smoking.
  9. Sear the steak for 1-2 minutes per side until a deep brown crust forms.
  10. For extra flavor, add butter, smashed garlic cloves, and fresh herbs to the pan and spoon melted butter over the steak.
  11. Check the steak’s final temperature with an instant-read thermometer aiming for 130-135°F for medium-rare.
  12. If needed, sear a bit longer or rest longer.
  13. Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing against the grain and serving.

Notes

Pat steak dry before seasoning to ensure a good crust. Use an instant-read thermometer for precise doneness. Avoid overcrowding the pan during searing. Rest steak after cooking to redistribute juices. For dairy-free, omit butter or use plant-based alternative.

Nutrition

Keywords: reverse sear, steak recipe, juicy steak, perfect steak, cast iron skillet, steakhouse steak, medium-rare steak