When cooking steak, it’s essential to know the internal temperature to achieve the desired level of doneness. For a rare steak, the internal temperature should be around 125°F, resulting in a cool red center. A medium-rare steak will have an internal temperature of 135°F and a warm red center. Medium steak is cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F, with a slightly pink center.
If you prefer a more well-done steak, aim for an internal temperature of 160°F for a medium-well steak, with a slightly pink center. A well-done steak will have an internal temperature of 170°F or higher, resulting in no pinkness and a fully cooked piece of meat.
3. Cooking Methods and Tips
When cooking steak, it’s essential to consider the thickness of the cut and the cooking method. Thicker cuts will require longer cooking times, while thinner cuts will cook faster. For grilling, sear the steak over high heat for a few minutes on each side, then move to a cooler part of the grill to finish cooking. For pan-searing, use a hot skillet and cook the steak for a few minutes on each side until it reaches the desired internal temperature.