How to Grill Steak: Perfectly Cooked Methods for Various Cuts Recipe
Introduction
Grilling steak is a simple way to enjoy a flavorful and juicy meal at home. With just a few basic steps, you can achieve a perfectly cooked medium-rare steak that’s tender and satisfying. This guide covers how to grill various steak cuts to perfection.

Ingredients
- 1 lb. steak (such as flank, skirt, ribeye, filet mignon, sirloin, tri-tip, or strip steak)
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare your grill for high heat and preheat it for about 5 minutes.
- Step 2: Generously season the steak on both sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Step 3: Place the steak over direct heat. Grill times vary by cut:
- Flank Steak: 4 to 6 minutes per side
- Skirt Steak: 3 to 5 minutes per side
- Ribeye: 4 to 6 minutes per side
- Filet Mignon: 5 to 6 minutes per side
- Sirloin: 4 to 5 minutes per side
- Strip Steak: 5 to 6 minutes per side
- Tri-Tip: Grill 5 minutes per side over direct heat, then move to indirect heat and continue grilling 7 to 10 minutes per side
- Step 4: Use an instant-read thermometer to check doneness; aim for 130° to 135°F for medium-rare at the thickest part of the steak.
- Step 5: Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for several minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips & Variations
- Allow the steak to come to room temperature before grilling for more even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking and achieve your preferred doneness.
- For extra flavor, marinate the steak for 30 minutes before seasoning, or brush with melted butter after grilling.
- Resting the steak after grilling helps the juices redistribute, keeping it tender and juicy.
Storage
Store leftover grilled steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven to keep it tender and avoid drying out. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the steak tough.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I grill steak without a thermometer?
While a thermometer is the best way to ensure perfect doneness, you can use the finger test method to estimate steak doneness by comparing the firmness of the meat to different parts of your hand.
Is it necessary to rest steak after grilling?
Yes, resting steak for 5 to 10 minutes allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful steak.
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How to Grill Steak: Perfectly Cooked Methods for Various Cuts Recipe
- Total Time: 20 to 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2 people 1x
Description
This detailed guide shows you how to perfectly grill various types of steak to medium-rare, using high heat direct grilling for most cuts and incorporating indirect grilling for the tri-tip for best results. Each steak cut is generously seasoned with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper and cooked until an instant-read thermometer reads 130° to 135°F for optimal medium-rare doneness.
Ingredients
Steak and Seasoning
- 1 lb. steak (options include flank, skirt, ribeye, filet mignon, sirloin, tri-tip, strip steak)
- Kosher salt, generously for seasoning
- Freshly ground black pepper, generously for seasoning
Instructions
- Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill for high heat, allowing it to heat up thoroughly for about 5 minutes to ensure a hot direct grilling surface.
- Season the Steak: Generously season your steak on all sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavor and create a flavorful crust.
- Grill the Steak: Place the steak over direct high heat. For flank, skirt, ribeye, filet mignon, sirloin, and strip steak, grill for the specified time per side until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 130° to 135°F, indicating medium-rare doneness. Grill times vary by cut: flank steak – 4 to 6 minutes per side; skirt steak – 3 to 5 minutes per side; ribeye – 4 to 6 minutes per side; filet mignon – 5 to 6 minutes per side; sirloin – 4 to 5 minutes per side; strip steak – 5 to 6 minutes per side.
- Tri-Tip Specific Grilling: For tri-tip, grill over direct high heat 5 minutes per side to sear, then move to indirect heat and continue grilling until the internal temperature reaches 130° to 135°F. This usually takes an additional 7 to 10 minutes per side, ensuring even cooking and tender results.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute before slicing and serving for optimal juiciness and flavor.
Notes
- Use an instant-read meat thermometer to accurately check doneness for medium-rare.
- Rest the steak for about 5 minutes after grilling to keep it juicy.
- Adjust grilling time slightly if you prefer different levels of doneness.
- Ensure the grill is preheated well to get a good sear on the steak.
- Season generously as salt and pepper are key for crust formation and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 to 20 minutes depending on steak cut
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: steak, grilling, medium-rare steak, flank steak, skirt steak, ribeye, filet mignon, sirloin, tri-tip, strip steak, barbecue, summer grilling

