Cooking a steak in a cast-iron skillet is a fantastic way to achieve a flavorful crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Here's a simple recipe for Cast-Iron Skillet Steak:

Ingredients:

  • 2 boneless ribeye or New York strip steaks (about 1.5 inches thick)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or canola oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3-4 garlic cloves, smashed (optional)
  • Fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme), optional for garnish

Instructions:

 1. Bring the Steak to Room Temperature:

  • Take the steaks out of the refrigerator at least 30-60 minutes before cooking to allow them to come to room temperature. This ensures more even cooking.

2. Preheat the Cast-Iron Skillet:

  • Place a cast-iron skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Preheat for 5-7 minutes until the pan is very hot.

3. Season the Steak:

  • Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.

4. Add Oil to the Skillet:

  • Add the vegetable oil to the hot cast-iron skillet. Swirl the oil to coat the bottom of the pan.

5. Sear the Steaks:

  • Carefully place the steaks in the hot skillet. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side to achieve a golden-brown crust.

6. Add Butter and Aromatics:

  • Add the unsalted butter and smashed garlic cloves (if using) to the skillet. Tilt the skillet slightly and spoon the melted butter over the steaks. Optionally, add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for added flavor.

7. Finish in the Oven (Optional):

  • If your steaks are thicker and you prefer a more well-done result, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) and finish cooking to your desired doneness. Cooking times will vary based on the thickness of the steaks and your preferred doneness.

8. Rest the Steaks:

  • Once cooked to your liking, remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy steak.

9. Slice and Serve:

  • Slice the steaks against the grain and serve immediately. Optionally, drizzle any remaining pan juices over the sliced steak for extra flavor.

Enjoy your delicious Cast-Iron Skillet Steak with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.