Are you looking for the perfect steak dinner?
Learning how to cook a flat iron steak does not have to be intimidating or time consuming.
With our tried-and-tested tips and tricks, you can learn how to make delicious flat iron steaks that your family and friends will love.
Our guide will give you the confidence to create an amazing steak dinner every time.
Unleash your inner chef with our foolproof techniques! Save time by mastering essential cooking skills, like searing, seasoning, slicing, and more.
Discover the smart way of preparing your favorite dishes and impress your guests.
Read our free ‘Flat Iron Steak Guide’ now!
Learn how easy it is to master this culinary skill today – don’t wait another minute!
Key Points For Flat Iron Steak
•Proper seasoning is crucial. Before cooking a flat iron steak, it's important to season it well.
Season with salt and pepper or your preferred seasoning blend. The seasoning helps to bring out the natural flavor of the meat and adds depth to the taste.
•Cooking temperature is important. Flat iron steak should be cooked at a high temperature for a short period of time.
Ensure that it's properly seared on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside. Searing the steak creates a crust that locks in moisture and flavor.
•Resting the meat is essential. After cooking a flat iron steak, it's important to let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Introduction To Flat Iron Steak
Flat iron steak is a popular cut of beef known for its rich flavor and tender texture.
While it's a relatively affordable option compared to other cuts like ribeye or filet mignon, it can be tricky to cook correctly.
Whether you're a novice home cook or a seasoned grill master, there are a few tips you should keep in mind when cooking a flat iron steak to ensure that it turns out perfectly.
In this article, we'll share some key tips for cooking the perfect flat iron steak, from seasoning and cooking temperatures to resting the meat before serving.
Selecting the Right Cut of Flat Iron Steak
Look for marbling. Marbling is the small streaks of fat that run through the meat.
A good flat iron steak will have visible marbling, which will help keep the meat tender and juicy.
Check for thickness. The ideal thickness for a flat iron steak is around 1 inch. Thicker steaks can be more difficult to cook evenly and may take longer to cook.
Choose a bright red color.
Fresh flat iron steak should be bright red in color with a slight sheen.
Avoid steaks that are dull in color or have a grayish tint, as this may show signs that the meat is past its prime.
Consider the grade. Flat iron steaks are available in USDA Choice or Select grades.
Choice-grade steaks will have more marbling and tenderness than Select grade steaks.
Preparing Your Flat Iron Steak for Cooking
Preparing a flat iron steak for cooking is a simple process that can be done in a few easy steps.
It's important to take the steak out of the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before cooking, to allow it to come to room temperature.
Once you're ready to cook, pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
Seasoning Your Flat Iron Steak to Perfection
Seasoning a flat iron steak is crucial to achieving great flavor.
To season your flat iron steak to perfection, start by seasoning both sides of the steak.
For a simple seasoning use kosher salt and ground black pepper.
You can also add extra spices or herbs to enhance the flavor, such as garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or rosemary.
If you prefer, you can also marinate the steak in a marinade for at least an hour or more before cooking.
By taking the time to season your flat iron steak, you'll be rewarded with a flavorful and juicy steak that's sure to impress.
Understanding the Importance of Temperature
Using the right temperature cannot be overstated when it comes to cooking a flat iron steak.
The temperature at which you cook your steak can impact its flavor, texture, and quality.
For best results, it's important to cook at a high temperature for a caramelized outside and juicy inside.
When cooking a flat iron steak, it's recommended to sear it on high heat first to create a crust on the outside.
Then, reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking until it's done to your liking.
Don't forget to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature to see if it's safe to consume.
For a medium-rare steak, the internal temperature should reach 130-135°F (54-57°C). And for the medium, it should reach 140-145°F (60-63°C), and for medium-well, it should reach 150-155°F (65-69°C).
Cooking a flat iron steak to the right temperature is crucial to achieving great results.
Overcooking the steak can result in a tough and dry texture and undercooking can result in a raw center.
By watching the temp and using a thermometer, you'll guarantee that your flat iron steak is cooked every time.
Pan-Searing a Flat Iron Steak: Step-by-Step Instructions
Add a small amount of oil to the skillet and swirl to coat the bottom.
Place the steak in the skillet and let it sear for about 3-4 minutes on one side, without moving it.
Flip the steak over and sear for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side.
If the steak is particularly thick, you can also sear the edges by holding it up with tongs.
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare doneness, the temperature should reach 130-135°F (54-57°C).
Once the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove it from the heat and let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Resting Your Flat Iron Steak: How Long and Why?
Resting your flat iron steak is an essential step to achieving a tender and juicy steak.
Resting allows the juices to redistribute in the meat and helps keep it moist.
After cooking your flat iron steak, remove it from the heat source.
Let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing.
During this time, the inside temperature of the steak will rise slightly as the juices settle in the meat.
This extra cooking allows the steak to come up to its temp, resulting in a tasty cooked steak from edge to center.
Resting the steak lets the proteins in the meat relax and reabsorb some of the fluids that were released.
This helps to prevent the juices from running out of the steak when it's sliced.
The amount of time you should rest your flat iron steak depends on its thickness.
As a general rule, thicker steaks need a longer resting time than thinner ones. A good rule of thumb is to let the steak rest for about 1 minute for every 10% of its thickness.
For example, if your steak is 1 inch thick, it should rest for about 6 minutes.
By taking the time to rest your flat iron steak, you'll be rewarded by being the best chef at the next neighborhood cookout.
Slicing and Serving Your Flat Iron Steak
When slicing your flat iron steak, it's crucial to cut against the grain.
This means cutting vertically to the lines of muscle fibers that run through the steak.
Cutting against the grain breaks up these fibers and makes a more tender and easy-to-chew steak.
A sharp knife will make it easier to slice through the steak cleanly and evenly.
Make sure to use a knife with a long, thin blade for best results. Slice thinly to get the most flavor out of your flat iron steak, slice it thinly against the grain.
Slicing it too thickly can result in a tougher and chewier texture.
Flat iron steak is best served immediately after it's been rested and sliced.
If you need to hold it for a few minutes, after resting cover it loosely with aluminum foil to keep it warm.
Flat iron steak pairs well with a variety of garnishes.
Some of them being fresh herbs, baked potatoes, sliced tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms.
Choose garnishes that complement the flavors of the steak without overpowering them.
Storing Your Left Over Steak
Yes, you can store flat iron steak in the refrigerator for up to four days after it's been cooked.
Make sure to place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent air exposure.
You can also freeze cooked flat iron steak for up to three months.
To reheat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and then cook it on a skillet over medium heat until done.
Cooking Steak To Perfection: FAQ Section
You're trying to find reliable information on flat iron steaks but you don't know where to look?
You can search the web for hours, try out too many recipes and waste your time – or worse – waste your money on an overpriced cut of meat.
Get the answers you need fast by visiting our FAQ Section.
We have the best and most reliable answers in one place, so you get it right every time.
How should I season my flat iron steak?
Flat iron steaks can be seasoned in a variety of different ways.
One of the most popular methods is to rub the steak with coarse sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Alternatively, you could marinate it in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, fresh herbs, and citrus juice for added flavor.
To get an ultra-tender steak, try wrapping it in bacon or adding on butter before cooking to help lock in moisture.
What is the best way to cook a flat iron steak?
The best way to cook a flat iron steak is by pan-searing it in a hot skillet.
Heat 1-2 tablespoons of cooking oil in the skillet over medium-high heat, then lay the steak in and let it cook for 2-3 minutes per side until nicely browned.
Reduce heat to medium low, and continue cooking another 4 minutes or so (for a total of 8 minutes) until an internal thermometer inserted into the center reads 125°F for rare, 135°F for medium rare, 145°F for medium, or 155°F for well done.
Let rest 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.
Using a cast iron pan or a cast iron skillet can also result in a very delicious meal!
Enjoy!
How long does it take to cook a flat iron steak?
It takes about 8 to 10 minutes to cook a flat iron steak.
To ensure that the steak is cooked evenly, you should use direct heat and keep turning the steak every couple of minutes until it reaches your desired doneness.
The best way to check for doneness is by using a digital thermometer.
Should I marinate my flat iron steak before cooking?
Yes!
Marinating your flat iron steak can help enhance the flavor of the meat, as well as tenderize it.
Depending on how much time you have available, several marinade recipes range in complexity and preparation time.
For a quick, easy, and delicious marinade, combine soy sauce, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, sea salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
Place your steak into the marinade for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking – you’ll be amazed at what great results you’ll get!
How do I know when my flat iron steak is cooked to the right temperature?
The best approach is to use a food thermometer to measure the internal temperature of your flat iron steak.
According to the USDA, beef steaks should be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 145°F (62.8°C) for medium-rare and 160°F (71.1°C) for medium doneness.
You can also press the steak with your finger; when it's done, it should have a little give.
How should I slice my flat iron steak before serving?
The best way to slice flat iron steak is against the grain.
To do this, hold your knife parallel to the grain of the meat and make thin slices at a 45 degree angle.
This will ensure that each bite is tender and full of flavor.
What are some good side dishes to serve with flat iron steak?
Flat iron steak is best served with classic accompaniments such as roasted potatoes, sautéed mushrooms or grilled vegetables.
For a unique and tasty twist, serve flat iron steak with lightly boiled baby potatoes that are tossed in olive oil and garlic butter; caramelized onions; or steamed broccoli with parmesan cheese sprinkled over the top.
Can I grill a flat iron steak?
Absolutely!
Grilling is one of the best ways to cook a flat iron steak.
To grill flat iron steak, start by preheating your gas or charcoal grill on high heat.
Oil the grate with canola oil to prevent sticking and season both sides of the steak with salt and pepper.
Place the steak on the hot side of your grill (the side closer to the flame) for about three-five minutes per side for medium rare doneness.
Remove from heat, and let rest for five minutes before serving.
Enjoy!
What is the difference between flat iron steak and flank steak?
Flat iron steak and flank steak are both cuts of beef that can be cooked in a variety of ways.
The biggest difference between the two is their texture.
Flat iron steaks have more marbling, which makes them juicier.
It also has a finer grain structure, making it more tender than flank steak.
Flank steak has much less marbling due to its thinness and fibrous nature, so it requires longer cooking times but still maintains its flavor when done correctly.
Can I cook my flat iron steak in the oven?
Yes, you can cook your flat iron steak in the oven.
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Rub your steak with cooking oil and season with salt and pepper on both sides.
Place the steak onto a baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 135°F (for medium-rare).
The Best Way To Cook Flat Iron Steak
We hope this article has been informative and useful in helping to learn how to cook the best flat iron steak.
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By following these simple tips and tricks, we are sure that everyone can now cook an amazing steak at home in their kitchen.
