Home Delivery Subscribe & Save Brothers Guarantee
Blog Recipes Manifesto Learning Hub Farm Life Show Meet the Family Virtual Farm Tour Our Farm Partners
Roanoke, IN Farm Store Seasonal Farm Tours Get Directions
Contact Us
Get 5% Off + Free Item for Life When you Subscribe and Save

How to Cook Steak on a Grill - an Easy Step-by-Step Guide

written by

Bruce Hitzfield

posted on

June 24, 2020

How-to-Cook-Steak-on-a-Grill.png

A perfectly grilled steak is one of life's great joys. The warm summer air, the laughter of friends, and beautiful cuts of meat cooking to perfection on the grill create some of the best memories and meals.

Of course, if you're the one cooking for your family or throwing the party, you have to know how to get it just right. It's just as true if you're cooking for yourself as a group - you deserve amazing steak all of the time!

Read on to discover how to grill meat just right, every time.

Things to Keep in Mind Before You Cook Steak on a Grill

Before your steak goes anywhere near the grill, you'll want to consider the cut. This will change depending on who you're serving:

  • Larger cuts like Porterhouse are perfect for gatherings, as just one of these can feed a few people.
  • If you're just feeding a couple of guests, a smaller cut like New York strip might be appropriate.

Finding a farm where you can get to know the farmer who raises your food is a great way to be sure you're getting a higher quality product than you’d get from a large supermarket.

How to Prepare Steak for Grilling

Two things are important here - temperature and seasoning. Especially for larger cuts, letting the meat come to room temperature before you cook it ensures the beef will cook evenly.

Small steaks benefit from a bit of chill if you're aiming for mid-rare, as they cook much more quickly. We highly recommend letting the cut sit out for at least half an hour, even up to two hours for big pieces of meat.

Secondly, seasoning is king. Salt and pepper are the classics, and there's a reason for that. While all sorts of rubs and marinades exist, if you're just starting out, learn how to use the basics first. They're your best friends when it comes to getting to know seasoning.

Salting your steak a couple of hours before you grill allows the seasoning to penetrate right through the meat, making it flavorful throughout. Some people even salt overnight.

If you're in a hurry, don't salt a cold steak 10-20 minutes before cooking - this will mostly just draw out moisture and dry the meat out. Salting right before the steak hits the heat means that you won't lose moisture in this way.

One final tip is to pat the beef dry when you're bringing it up to temp. This will allow it to develop a better sear when you grill it.

How Long to Grill Steak

The cooking time is hugely subjective, as it depends on two things:

  • How cooked you like your beef
  • How big your cut of meat is

One of the best ways to cook it to perfection is to get a temperature probe. You insert this into the steak, and it'll tell you how done the meat is.

Here is a general guide to internal temperature (given in degrees Fahrenheit):

  • Rare: 120-130
  • Medium Rare: 130-135
  • Medium: 135-140
  • Medium Well: 140-150
  • Well Done: 150

In general, the consensus is that for a prime steak, medium-rare is the holy grail. It maximizes tenderness and flavor in the relatively pricier cuts of meat we tend to use for this process.

However, it's your party, and you can grill how you want to. Many people prefer medium or even medium-well. Just make sure you're keeping an eye on it.

Another tip is not to turn the steak too much. This will allow the meat to brown well on each side as it picks up grill marks. The Maillard reaction is what makes seared meat so delicious, and to make the most of this effect, let each side pick up good color before you turn it over.

For big, thick cuts, turning it a few times is more common to allow better heat penetration right through the meat.

What Temperature to Cook Steak on a Grill?

You should aim to reach a temperature of 450 degrees Fahrenheit. When it comes to this kind of meat, high heat is essential.

Fire up your charcoal grill at least half an hour before you plan to put any meat on it. You don't want the steak to be touching a flame, as this will add an unpleasant burning taste.

If possible, create different sections of heat on your grill - if you're using charcoal, this means moving the coals around a bit to utilize some indirect heat. The meat needs to cook on high heat to get a good sear. Also, create a low-heat area to let the steak rest once it's cooked (more on that later).

Ingredients for the Perfect Steak

Salt and cracked black pepper are your best bets when it comes to seasoning your steak. For beginners, getting to know what levels of these seasonings to apply will make you a wiser chef. They let the flavor of the meat really come through before you add any extra.

Always remember: the meat is your main ingredient. You should never overpower the flavor of the meat by overseasoning.

Once you're comfortable with the basics, the world is your oyster. Marinades and dry rubs come in an endless variety. From punchy Cajun spicing to Korean flavor-bomb marinades, there's so much to discover.

Most of all, buy a good quality steak.

Look for good marbling (little veins of fat running through the meat) as this will add flavor and juiciness. It melts as you grill, keeping the meat tender and delicious.

Don't sweat the small stuff. Many of the best steaks in the world don't use anything more than the basics as seasoning. But if you want to get creative, there's a whole world to choose from.

How to Cook a Steak on a Grill: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prep the Meat

Take your steak out of the fridge 30-120 minutes before cooking and let it come up to room temperature. Season well in advance to allow maximum flavor penetration.

Step 2: Prep the Grill

Pre-heat your grill and create a hot zone and a cooler zone. Brush a little olive oil on the bars to prevent too much sticking.

Step 3: Sear the Steak

Drop the steak on the hot zone. Allow it to sear for a few minutes before turning.

Turn to get color on the other side. Let this cook for a couple of minutes less than the first side.

Step 4: Check the Temp

Check the temperature with a probe. If the temp is more than 5 degrees lower than your desired result, keep cooking; turn again if necessary.

Step 5: Transfer to the Cool Zone

When the center of the beef comes up to around 5 degrees lower than the desired result, move it to the cooler zone. Let it rest for at least 5 minutes. This allows the proteins to relax and the meat to re-absorb juice. It also continues to cook, bringing it up to the desired level.

Last Step: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the steak with refreshing side dishes of your choice to your delighted guests!

Conclusion

Grilling steak isn't rocket science, but it does require attention to detail and respect for the delicious cut of meat you're using. At Seven Sons, we believe steak is one of the most delicious foods known to man. When you aim to make your cuts really special, you'll always create meals that are above and beyond.

Grill with confidence and spend the summer wowing your friends and family with a gorgeous steak! Browse our selection of grass-fed meats to grill the best cuts possible.

More from the blog

French Chefs Visit the Farm

French Chefs Visit the Farm

Earlier this month, Spencer and I had the privilege of hosting some incredible chefs from France for a farm tour. They are here in Indiana competing in the World Food Championships which are being hosted in Indianapolis. Last year, their team actually won the World Burger Championship! 🍔 While prepping for their event down in Indianapolis (about 90 minutes South of us), they looked online for a local farm to partner with to grab the meats they'd use for their competition.

Read more
5 Easy Ground Beef Recipes with Few Ingredients: Quick and Delicious Meals

5 Easy Ground Beef Recipes with Few Ingredients: Quick and Delicious Meals

Ground beef is a kitchen staple, and it’s easy to see why. This incredibly versatile protein source is easy to cook and naturally packed with flavor.  Today, we’re sharing five simple ground beef recipes – needing only a few ingredients – that will bring a little flair to your dinner table. From Mexican to Italian to Asian, these recipes will help you whip up quick dishes that taste like you spent all day in the kitchen. The secret to these delicious recipes? We use grass-fed, grass-finished beef – you’ll taste the difference!  Grass-fed beef is also better for you and the planet. No antibiotics or GMOs means better nutritional quality. Plus, we raise our cattle on regenerative pastures where they’re free to roam. They enjoy happy, healthy lives and nurture the natural ecosystem. It’s a farming method that’s a win-win—for your plate, your body, and the environment. So, let’s get cooking! 1. Ground Beef Tacos This speedy, tasty taco dish comes together in just 20 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick midweek meal–or a weekend taco party!  Here are the ingredients you’ll need:  1 Lb grass-fed ground beef 8 Taco shells or tortillas 1 Cup shredded lettuce 1 Cup shredded cheese Salsa and guacamole to serve And, of course, our healthy seasoning (no added sugars or preservatives, and MSG-free): 1 TBSP Chili powder 1 TBSP Paprika 1 TSP Garlic powder 1 TSP Cumin 2 TSP Salt And here’s what to do to make this 5 ingredient ground beef recipe: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes.  Sprinkle the dry seasonings over the cooked beef. Follow the package instructions, which usually involves adding a bit of water (around 2/3 cup) and letting it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens. When cooked, grab your taco shells or tortillas and start filling them with ground beef.  Add the garnishings of your choice. You can add shredded lettuce and a generous sprinkle of cheese to each taco. If you’re using salsa and guacamole, add a dollop of each at this point.  Serve and enjoy while they're warm! 2. Beef and Rice Skillet Cooking with one pot is great on those busy nights when you just don’t want to do the dishes. With maximum flavor and minimal washing up, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.  You’ll need the following:  1 Lb Ground beef 1 Cup Long-grain white rice 2 Cups Beef broth 1 Cup Frozen peas and carrots Salt and pepper to taste Here’s how to make it: Cook the ground beef. In a large skillet over medium heat, break up the ground beef with a spatula and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked – about 6-8 minutes. Add vegetables, broth, and rice. Stir in the rice, beef broth, peas, and diced carrots. Make sure everything is evenly combined. Bring to a boil. After the pot comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed. Remove the lid, stir, and taste. To ensure everything is just right, taste your creation after a quick mix. If needed, season with salt and pepper. Serve and enjoy. Separate the meal between 4-6 plates and dig in! 3. Beef and Tomato Pasta This hearty, comforting pasta dish comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s also highly customizable. You can add peas, carrots, peppers–whatever needs to be used in the fridge!  To start, assemble these ingredients: 1 Lb Ground beef 1 Large onion, diced 1 Can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes 8 Oz pasta (any shape) 1 TSP Paprika 1 TSP Garlic powder 1 Cup Shredded cheese (optional) Salt and pepper to taste Here’s how to make this:  Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spatula, until the meat is browned and the onions are softened – about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the diced tomatoes, paprika, and garlic powder. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes—season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Mix everything until the pasta is coated in the beef and tomato mixture. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top and stir. Serve and Enjoy! 4. Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry This paleo-friendly stir fry recipe is rich in meaty, umami flavors. It’s a great choice if you’re craving takeout but want a healthy (and quick) alternative! You’ll need these ingredients:  1 Lb Ground beef 1 Small head of cabbage, shredded 1/2 Cup shredded carrot 2 TBSP Bragg’s Aminos or Soy sauce (low sodium) 1 TBSP Honey  2 Cloves garlic, minced 1 Inch Ginger, grated Salt and pepper to taste Extra virgin olive oil Red chili flakes (optional) Brown rice or cauliflower rice, to serve  How to make it. Mix ingredients. Combine the soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a small bowl. Set aside. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the oil and the ground beef. Cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked–roughly 6-8 minutes.  Add the shredded cabbage and shredded carrots to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cabbage begins to wilt.  Pour the soy sauce and honey mixture over the beef and vegetables. Toss everything together until evenly coated and cook for another 3-4 minutes. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the stir-fry over a bed of your chosen rice. 5. Ground Beef and Black Bean Chili We simply couldn’t share a list of ground beef recipes without including a good ‘ol fashioned chili. This cozy, protein-packed dish is the definition of comfort food—perfect for chilly evenings when you need something warm and hearty. Here’s what you’ll need:  1 Lb Ground beef 1 Can (15 oz) Black beans, drained and rinsed 1 Can (15 oz) Diced tomatoes with green chilies 1/2 Cup Water Salt and pepper, to taste Shredded cheese (optional) Sour cream (optional) Brown rice or cauliflower rice, to serve And our healthy chili seasoning mix: 2 TBSP Chili powder 2 TSP Ground cumin 1 TSP Garlic powder 1 TSP Onion powder 1 TSP Salt ¼ TSP Cayenne pepper Here’s how to make it:  Cook the ground beef. In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Add in everything else. Toss in the black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, dry ingredients, and water to the pot. Give it a good stir. Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.  Taste and season. Add salt and pepper if needed. Ladle the chili into bowls, serving with your favorite rice. For an extra touch, top it off with a sprinkle of shredded cheese or a dollop of creamy sour cream! Grab a spoon and dive in! Is Ground Beef Healthy? Ground beef has an excellent nutritional profile. It’s rich in protein, iron, and other essential vitamins and minerals. However, not all ground beef is the same. Meat from concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) has been shown to be lower in nutritional quality. If you’re concerned about your health, look for grass-fed and grass-finished beef. This type of beef has a better ratio of Omega 3 to Omega 6, and is higher in antioxidants and minerals. Which Ground Beef Is Best? 100% grass-fed and grass-finished ground beef is the best home cooking option. It’s incredibly flavorful, nutritionally rich, and better for the environment.  Of course, there are different types of grass-fed ground beef–and that’s where your personal health and wellness goals come in:  If you’re watching your fat intake, our ground sirloin is the leaner option at 90/10.  Ground beef is great for everyday meals, and comes in at 85/15.  Choose gourmet ground beef for show-stopping meals and entertaining, which is about 80/20.  How Long Will Ground Beef Last in the Fridge? Raw ground beef lasts in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you have leftovers after cooking, you can store them in the fridge for up to 4 days. Ready to taste the difference?  Are you ready to taste the difference that high-quality, grass-fed beef can make in your meals? Order Seven Sons’ ground beef today and elevate your meals. 

Read more
3 Super Easy, Super Tasty Chicken Liver Recipes

3 Super Easy, Super Tasty Chicken Liver Recipes

Our commitment to ethically sourced meat includes using every part of our pastured chickens – including chicken liver! It's a delicious way to add nutrition and sustainability to your plate. If you’re unsure how to cook chicken liver, we’ve got you covered! In this post, you’ll find three methods for preparing chicken liver. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, the whole family, or hosting friends, these quick and delicious recipes will surely impress! Is Chicken Liver Good for You? Chicken liver is a nutritional powerhouse. Here’s why: Rich in nutrients: Chicken liver is nutrient-dense, loaded with iron, vitamin B12, vitamin A, choline, selenium, and copper. These vital nutrients support immune function, help wounds heal faster, aid in developing strong bones, and assist with hormone regulation. All of which keep your body functioning optimally.  High in protein: With 23 grams of protein per serving, chicken liver is a protein-packed choice that supports muscle tone, brain health, and blood sugar stability.  Combat anemia risks: Iron deficiency is a leading cause of anemia, which means having too few red blood cells. Fortunately, chicken liver is an excellent source of iron and vitamins C and B, which work together to keep your blood cells healthy and lower the risk of anemia. The Best Way to Cook Chicken Livers Offal like chicken and beef liver are best cooked quickly. This is because of their naturally high water content. They'll become dry and tough if you cook them for too long. However, chicken liver turns out deliciously creamy, mild, and tender when cooked right. Here are some of the best ways to cook it:  Sauté: Cook chicken livers in a pan with a small amount of grassfed butter or extra virgin olive oil for 5-7 minutes. This method crisps the liver’s exterior while keeping the inner meat tender and juicy.  Fry: Coat the chicken livers in a little flower, then fry them in a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat until they’re crispy on the outside and cooked through. Again, this will take 5-7 minutes.  Grill: Thread chicken livers onto skewers and grill them over medium-high heat for 4 minutes, turning halfway through cooking. Stir-fry: Cook chicken livers in a wok or pan with your chosen vegetables and sauce. Stir fry for 4-5 minutes. 3 Quick and Easy Chicken Liver Recipes Ready to unleash the wonders of chicken livers in your kitchen? Here are some recipes to try out.  The best part? They all take less than half an hour to make!  1. Chicken Liver and Onions Liver and onions are a classic flavor combination for good reason. The deep, rich flavor of the liver balances the sweet, caramelized onions. This recipe is so delicious and satisfying, it will turn even the biggest liver skeptics into fans.  To make it, you’ll need: 1 Lb chicken livers 2 Large onions, thinly sliced 3 TBSP Extra virgin olive oil 2 TBSP Butter 2 Cloves garlic, minced 1 TSP salt 1/2 TSP Black pepper 1 TSP Paprika 1/4 Cup flour (optional for coating) Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Here are the steps to follow: Rinse the chicken livers under cold water, then pat dry with a paper towel. If you like a bit of extra crunch, coat them lightly in flour. In a large skillet, heat a splash of extra virgin olive oil with a teaspoon of butter over medium heat until melted and bubbling. Toss in the onions and let them cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re soft and caramelized—this should take about 10-15 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for an extra minute until fragrant. Push the onions to the side of the skillet and add the chicken livers. Sauté until they’re browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika. Stir everything and cook for another 2 minutes to blend the flavors. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and serve hot. Enjoy! 2. Chicken Liver Salad with Spinach and Avocado If you’re in the mood for a light and fresh meal, this chicken liver salad fits the bill. It’s full of heart-healthy fats and iron, and packed with crisp, fresh vegetables. Simple, nourishing, and beautifully balanced. For this recipe, you’ll need: 1 Lb chicken livers 3 TBSP Extra virgin olive oil 1 TBSP Balsamic vinegar 1 TBSP Dijon mustard 1 TSP Honey Salt and pepper to taste 6 Cups fresh spinach leaves 1 Ripe avocado, sliced 1 Small red onion, thinly sliced 1/2 Cup cherry tomatoes, halved 1/4 Cup chopped walnuts (optional) Here’s how to make it: Rinse the chicken livers under cold water, then pat them dry with paper towels. Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken livers and cook until they’re browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk together the remaining olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl to make a zesty dressing. In a large bowl, toss together the spinach, avocado, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and walnuts. Add the warm chicken livers to the salad and drizzle with the dressing. Gently toss everything to combine. Serve immediately and enjoy!  3. Chicken Liver Stir-Fry with Vegetables This nutritious dish brings all the flavors of your favorite Chinese takeout without the excess sodium. It’s quick to prepare and a feast for the eyes—bright, colorful, and packed with nutrients.  All you’ll need is the following ingredients:  1 Lb chicken livers 2 TBSP Soy sauce 1 TBSP Oyster sauce 1 TBSP Rice vinegar 1 TBSP Cornstarch 3 TBSP Extra virgin olive oil 1 Red bell pepper, sliced 1 Yellow bell pepper, sliced 1 Small broccoli head, cut into florets 2 Cloves garlic, minced 1 Inch piece of ginger, minced 2 Green onions, chopped 1/4 TSP red pepper flakes (optional) Cooked brown rice, for serving Once you’ve got the ingredients, just follow these steps:  Rinse the chicken livers under cold water, pat dry with paper towel, then cut into bite-sized pieces. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons olive oil, and cornstarch to create an Asian-style marinade. Add the chicken livers and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes to soak up all the flavors. Heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add garlic and ginger, and stir-fry for 1 minute. Toss in the bell peppers and broccoli, and stir-fry for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften. Push the veggies to the side and add the marinated chicken livers to the skillet. Cook until they’re browned on all sides and no longer pink in the center–about 5-7 minutes. Mix everything, adding green onions and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat). Stir-fry for another minute to bring all the flavors together. Serve hot over a bed of cooked brown rice. How Long Should You Cook Chicken Livers? You should cook chicken livers quickly over high heat. Two great ways to cook this organ meat are sauteing and grilling. To saute, cook the chicken livers in a pan with a dash of olive oil for 5-7 minutes. To grill, simply thread the livers onto skewers and grill over medium-high for 4 minutes, turning halfway through. Why Do You Soak Chicken Livers in Milk? Soaking chicken livers in milk can enhance the tenderness of the meat. If you want a melt-in-your-mouth texture, place the chicken livers in a bowl of milk for 45 minutes before cooking.  Which Recipe Will You Try?  Ready to try one or all three of these chicken liver recipes? Seven Sons’ chicken livers come from ethical, pasture-raised chickens, making them a flavorful and nutritious choice. Give them a try today and taste the difference

Read more
Return To Top

About

Services

Resources

Visit

Featured Articles

Seven Sons Farms

  • 15718 Aboite Road
    Roanoke IN 46783
  • (877) 620-1977

Seven Sons Family of Companies:

FreshEggCo.com | HenGear.com

Privacy Policy and Terms of Service