Steak lovers often debate the ideal doneness for a perfectly cooked steak. Among the various levels of doneness, medium well steak strikes a balance between tenderness and flavor without compromising too much on juiciness. Knowing the right temperature is key to achieving that ideal medium well result.
This article will provide an in-depth guide on what temperature a medium well steak should reach, factors affecting cooking times, tips for checking doneness, and all you need to know to achieve that perfect medium well steak every time you fire up the grill or heat your skillet.
What Temp Is a Medium Well Steak?
A medium well steak is typically cooked to an internal temperature of 150°F to 160°F (65°C to 71°C). At this temperature, the steak will have a mostly browned center with just a hint of pink. While the meat may lose some of its juices compared to lower doneness levels, it can still offer a satisfying texture and flavor when cooked properly.
Understanding Steak Doneness Levels
To grasp the significance of medium well steak, it’s essential to understand the different doneness levels, as it provides context for achieving the perfect level based on personal preference. Here’s a breakdown of the doneness levels:
- Rare: 120°F to 125°F (49°C to 52°C) – Cool, red center.
- Medium Rare: 130°F to 135°F (54°C to 57°C) – Warm, red center with a hint of pink.
- Medium: 140°F to 145°F (60°C to 63°C) – Warm, pink center.
- Medium Well: 150°F to 160°F (65°C to 71°C) – Mostly brown center with a slight hint of pink.
- Well Done: 160°F and above (71°C and above) – Fully cooked with no pink remains.
Factors That Affect Cooking Times
Cooking steak involves more than just watching the temperature. Several factors can influence how long it takes to reach the desired internal temperature:
1. Thickness of the Steak
The thickness of the steak affects cooking time significantly. Thicker steaks will require more time to reach medium well compared to thinner cuts. A typical guideline is that a 1-inch thick steak will take about 10 to 14 minutes on medium heat, while thicker steaks may take longer to cook through.
2. Cooking Method
The method you choose to cook your steak can also alter cooking times. Here are some common cooking methods:
- Grilling: High heat cooking which can produce great sear marks. Ideal for steaks.
- Searing: Sear in a pan and then finish in the oven for even cooking.
- Broiling: Uses high heat from above, similar to grilling, and can cook a steak quickly.
- Slow Cooking: Less common for steak but useful for larger cuts cooked for extended times at low temperatures.
3. Meat Temperature Prior to Cooking
If the steak is at room temperature before cooking, it will cook more evenly and often faster than a steak taken straight out of the refrigerator.
4. Type of Steak
Different cuts of steak have varying fat content and tenderness, affecting cooking times. For instance, a ribeye steak has more intramuscular fat and may reach medium well more quickly than a lean cut like a filet mignon.
How to Measure Steak Temperature Accurately
To ensure you’re cooking your steak to the right temperature, using a meat thermometer is essential. Here’s how to do it correctly:
- Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding any bones or fatty areas to get an accurate reading.
- Wait for the thermometer to provide a steady reading, which takes just a few seconds.
- Remove the steak from heat at 150°F to allow carryover cooking to take it to the desired medium well level.
Tips for Achieving Perfectly Cooked Medium Well Steak
Here are some practical tips to help you cook a medium well steak with assurance:
1. Let the Steak Rest
Allow your steak to rest for 5 to 10 minutes after cooking. This step helps redistribute the juices, making it more tender upon slicing.
2. Avoid Overcooking
Pull the steak from the heat when it reaches about 145°F. The residual heat will increase the temperature to your target doneness as it rests.
3. Use Seasoning Wisely
Simply seasoning with salt and pepper allows you to enjoy the steak’s natural flavors. For added depth, consider using a marinade or rub prior to cooking.
4. Utilize a Meat Thermometer
Using a well-calibrated meat thermometer will give you the best chance of reaching the perfect doneness. It takes the guesswork out of the cooking process.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While cooking a medium well steak seems straightforward, several common pitfalls can compromise your result:
1. Cutting into the Steak Too Soon
Resist the urge to cut into your steak immediately after cooking. Doing so can lead to a release of juices and a drier texture. Always wait for your steak to rest.
2. Incorrect Temperature Settings
Using too high heat can char the outside without properly cooking the inside. Aim for a medium-high heat to create a good sear while allowing thorough cooking.
3. Cooking Straight from the Fridge
Taking the steak straight from the refrigerator results in uneven cooking. A room-temperature steak cooks more evenly.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftover cooked steak, proper storage techniques will preserve its quality:
1. Storing Cooked Steak
Place diced or sliced steak in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it.
2. Safely Reheating Steak
Reheat steak in the oven at a low temperature (around 250°F or 121°C) until warmed through, which helps maintain moisture instead of drying it out in a microwave.
Recipe for a Perfect Medium Well Steak
Follow this simple method to achieve a perfectly cooked medium well steak:
Ingredients
- 1 boneless ribeye or sirloin steak (1 to 1.5 inches thick)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon)
- Fresh herbs (optional, for flavor)
Equipment
- Meat thermometer
- Sauté pan or grill
- Tongs for flipping
- Cutting board
- Knife for slicing
Instructions
- Remove the steak from the refrigerator and allow it to sit at room temperature for 30 to 45 minutes.
- Preheat your grill or sauté pan on medium-high heat and coat lightly with olive oil.
- Season the steak generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Place the steak in the pan or on the grill; cook for about 5 to 7 minutes on one side to develop a nice crust.
- Flip the steak using tongs and cook for an additional 5 to 7 minutes on the other side.
- Begin testing the internal temperature with a meat thermometer after the second side has cooked for about 5 minutes. Aim for 150°F to 155°F before removing.
- Once the desired temp is reached, remove the steak and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing.
- Slice against the grain and serve immediately.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
Medium well steak can be paired with several side dishes or sauces to enhance its flavor:
1. Sides
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Grilled asparagus or broccoli
- Classic Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
2. Sauces
- Chimichurri sauce for a fresh herb flavor.
- Classic red wine reduction for an elegant touch.
- Horseradish cream sauce for a spicy kick.
Cooking a medium well steak is achievable with the right tools, temperature awareness, and dedication to precise cooking practices. Whether grilling, pan-searing, or broiling, understanding the science behind steak doneness will transform your cooking experience. Start mastering the medium well steak today and enjoy the delicious results.
For even more culinary inspiration, check out our delicious T-bone Steak Recipe or whip up a flavorful Chuck Eye Steak dish. Explore these recipes to elevate your steak-cooking game!