Cooking steak on a Blackstone griddle is a popular method that produces flavorful and perfectly cooked meat. With its expansive cooking surface and even heat distribution, the Blackstone allows you to achieve restaurant-quality results at home. Understanding the timing and techniques involved will help you grill steak to perfection every time.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know, including cooking times for various doneness levels, temperature tips, and essential grilling techniques. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced cook, you’ll find useful information to enhance your steak-cooking skills.
How Long To Cook Steak On Blackstone?
Cooking steak on a Blackstone griddle typically takes around 4 to 8 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the steak and your preferred doneness level. For best results, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
Understanding Steak Doneness Levels
Before cooking, it’s essential to understand the different doneness levels of steak, as they correspond to cooking times and internal temperatures. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Rare: 120°F to 125°F (49°C to 52°C) – Bright red center.
- Medium Rare: 130°F to 135°F (54°C to 57°C) – Warm red center.
- Medium: 140°F to 145°F (60°C to 63°C) – Pink center.
- Medium Well: 150°F to 155°F (65°C to 68°C) – Slightly pink center.
- Well Done: 160°F and above (71°C and above) – No pink, fully cooked.
Factors Influencing Cooking Time
Several factors will influence your cooking time, including:
- Thickness of the Steak: Thicker steaks require more time to cook.
- Type of Steak: Different cuts, like ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon, may cook differently.
- Initial Temperature: Steak at room temperature will cook more evenly than cold steak right out of the fridge.
- Heat Level: Cooking at high heat will brown the surface more quickly while cooking through.
Essential Equipment
Before you start cooking, ensure you have the following equipment:
- Blackstone griddle
- Cooking oil (canola, vegetable, or avocado oil)
- Meat thermometer
- Spatula or tongs
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Steak on a Blackstone
1. Choosing Your Steak
Select a good quality steak. Popular options include ribeye, strip steak, or filet mignon, each providing unique flavors and tenderness. Look for well-marbled steaks for enhanced flavor.
2. Preparing the Steak
- Remove the steak from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking to let it come to room temperature.
- Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Season generously with salt and pepper or your preferred steak seasoning.
3. Preheating the Blackstone
Turn on the Blackstone griddle and preheat it over medium-high heat for about 10-15 minutes. A good indicator that it’s ready is when water droplets sizzle and evaporate almost immediately on the surface.
4. Cooking the Steak
- Lightly oil the griddle surface with your choice of cooking oil.
- Place the steaks on the preheated griddle. Avoid overcrowding; cook only what can fit comfortably.
- For 1-inch thick steaks, cook for 4-5 minutes on the first side without moving them to achieve a proper sear.
- Flip the steak using tongs and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side for medium-rare.
5. Checking Doneness
Use a meat thermometer to check the steak’s internal temperature :
- 120°F to 125°F for rare
- 130°F to 135°F for medium rare
- 140°F to 145°F for medium
- 150°F to 155°F for medium well
- 160°F and above for well done
6. Resting the Steak
Remove the steak from the griddle and let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing. Resting allows juices to redistribute for a more flavorful steak.
7. Slicing and Serving
Slice the steak against the grain to ensure tenderness. Serve it with your favorite sides like grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Preheating: Skipping this step can lead to uneven cooking.
- Overcrowding the Griddle: This causes temperature drops, affecting cooking time and searing.
- Using a Cold Steak: Cooking steak straight from the fridge can lead to a gray band around the edges.
- Cutting Too Soon: Cutting a steak before resting will lead to a loss of juices.
Practical Tips for Cooking Steak on a Blackstone
- Experiment with different seasonings such as garlic powder, smoked paprika, or a dry rub for added flavor.
- Consider basting with butter and herbs during the last minute of cooking for an extra rich taste.
- Use a two-zone cooking method for thicker cuts: sear on high heat and then move to a cooler side to finish cooking.
Storage and Leftover Tips
If you have leftover steak:
- Allow the steak to cool completely, then wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat or in a microwave at 50% power to avoid further cooking.
Additional Cooking Methods for Steak
While the Blackstone griddle is an excellent tool for cooking steak, you may want to try other methods as well:
- Grilling: Charcoal or gas grills can provide a smoky flavor. Adjust your cooking times based on the heat level.
- Pan-Seared: Use a cast-iron skillet for a beautiful crust and perfect cooking.
- Oven: Start on the stovetop then finish in the oven for thicker cuts.
Conclusion
Cooking steak on a Blackstone griddle is straightforward, and with the right techniques and timing, you can achieve perfectly cooked steak every time. Always take note of thickness, doneness preference, and preheating for the best results. So fire up that Blackstone and enjoy your delicious steak!
If you’re looking for more delicious recipes, check out our Steak Alfredo Recipe and Chuck Eye Steak Recipe for some fantastic meal ideas!