Summer Grilling: The Joy of BBQ and Perfect Steaks
When it comes to summer grilling, few things can top the flavor of a perfectly grilled steak. If you’re searching for grilled steak ideas to spice up your next BBQ, you’re in the right place. Here are a few creative options to start:
- Ribeye Steak with Rosemary Rub: Simple yet packed with flavor.
- T-Bone Steak with Chimichurri Sauce: A zesty addition.
- Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak: Perfect with charred tomatoes.
- New York Strip with Herb Butter: Classic and always a hit.
Grilling is more than just cooking; it’s an experience that brings people together. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just starting, a few simple tips can lift your steaks to restaurant-quality levels.
I’m Arlo Harris, your grill expert and guide. With years of experience in grilling, I’ve learned what makes a fantastic steak. From juicy burgers to perfectly seared steaks, my passion is sharing foolproof tips that make outdoor cooking a breeze.
Let’s dive into the art of grilling and make your next BBQ one to remember.
The Rule of 3 for Grilling Steaks
Grilling the perfect steak can feel like a science, but with the Rule of 3, it becomes a simple, repeatable process. The key elements are high heat, indirect heat, and aiming for medium-rare doneness.
High Heat
To start, you need high heat to sear the steak and lock in those delicious juices. Preheat your grill for at least 10 minutes. If you’re using a gas grill, turn 1/2 to 2/3 of the burners on high. For a charcoal grill, make sure your coals are “screaming hot” and then move them to one side.
Pro Tip: When you can hold your hand about 6 inches above the grates for only a couple of seconds, your grill is hot enough.
Indirect Heat
After searing, move your steak to the indirect heat zone. This keeps the steak cooking without burning. On a gas grill, turn off or lower the heat on one side. For charcoal, simply move your steak to the cooler side of the grill.
Example: For a 1-1/2″ thick steak, sear for 1-1/2 minutes per side, then move to indirect heat and cook for about 7 more minutes to reach medium doneness.
Medium-Rare
Most steak lovers aim for medium-rare because it balances tenderness and juiciness. The internal temperature should be 135 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature accurately.
Steak Temperatures for Doneness:
- Rare (cool red center): 125°F
- Medium rare (warm red center): 135°F
- Medium (warm pink center): 145°F
- Medium well (slightly pink center): 150°F
- Well done (little or no pink): 160°F
Grilling Technique
- Preheat the Grill: High heat for at least 10 minutes.
- Sear the Steak: 1-1/2 minutes per side on the hottest part.
- Move to Indirect Heat: Finish cooking until desired doneness.
Keep the Lid Down while searing and cooking to maintain the heat.
By following this simple Rule of 3, you’ll master the art of grilling steaks. Ready to explore some mouth-watering recipes? Let’s dive into 20 grilled steak recipes that will make your mouth water.
Perfect Grilled Steak with Herb Butter
Homemade Steak Seasoning
Creating your own steak seasoning can lift your grilled steak to the next level. The seasoning blend includes rock salt, whole black peppercorns, dried minced garlic, dried minced onion, fennel seeds, and red chili pepper flakes.
Here’s how to make it:
- Combine Ingredients: Add all the dry ingredients to a mortar and pestle or a heavy-duty Ziplock bag.
- Crush and Mix: Coarsely grind with the pestle or crush using a meat pounder, rolling pin, or heavy skillet.
This homemade blend will create a flavorful crust on your steak that’s simply irresistible.
Herb Butter
Herb butter is the secret weapon for adding rich, melty flavor to your steak. You’ll need softened salted butter, fresh rosemary, fresh thyme, parsley, and garlic.
- Mix Ingredients: Combine the butter, herbs, and garlic in a bowl and stir with a fork.
- Shape and Chill: Scoop the mixture onto plastic wrap, shape into a log, and refrigerate until firm.
This can be done ahead of time, making it easy to slice and add to your steak right before serving.
Searing
Searing locks in the juices and adds a delicious char to your steak. Follow these steps:
- Preheat Grill: Get your grill to a scorching 500 degrees. This takes about 10-15 minutes on high heat.
- Oil and Season: Rub the steaks with vegetable oil and generously coat with your homemade steak seasoning.
- Sear: Place the steaks on the hottest part of the grill for 1-1/2 minutes per side. Keep the lid closed to maintain the high temperature.
Indirect Heat
After searing, move the steaks to the cooler part of the grill to finish cooking without burning.
- Move to Indirect Heat: Transfer the steaks to the unlit portion of the grill.
- Cook to Desired Doneness: Continue grilling with the lid closed. This typically takes 7-10 minutes for medium doneness, depending on the thickness of your steak.
Steak Temperatures
Knowing the right temperature ensures you get the perfect doneness every time:
- Rare: 125°F (cool red center)
- Medium Rare: 135°F (warm red center)
- Medium: 145°F (warm pink center)
- Medium Well: 150°F (slightly pink center)
- Well Done: 160°F (little or no pink)
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature for accuracy.
Rest and Serve
Letting your steak rest is crucial for juicy, flavorful meat.
- Rest: Allow the steak to rest on a platter for at least 15 minutes.
- Top with Herb Butter: Add slices of the prepared herb butter on top before serving.
This combination of homemade seasoning, herb butter, and proper grilling technique will make your steak the star of any BBQ.
Ready to find more grilled steak ideas? Let’s dive into 20 mouth-watering recipes that will make your taste buds dance!
20 Grilled Steak Recipes That Will Make Your Mouth Water
When it comes to grilled steak ideas, variety is key. Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, these recipes will lift your grilling game.
Char-Grilled Recipes
1. Flank Steak Marinade: This simple marinade with soy sauce, citrus juice, olive oil, and brown sugar will tenderize and flavor your flank steak perfectly. Grill for a caramelized crust and juicy interior.
2. Perfectly Grilled Ribeye: Ribeyes are ideal for grilling with their marbling of fat. Season with kosher salt and black pepper, then grill 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare perfection.
3. Soy-Ginger Beef Kebabs: Marinate beef chunks in soy sauce, honey, sherry, ginger, and garlic. Skewer with veggies and grill for a flavorful and easy dinner.
4. Cowboy Steak: This extra-thick, bone-in ribeye is perfect for special occasions. Grill it to your desired doneness and top with melted ranch butter for an over-the-top experience.
5. Carne Asada: Marinate flank or skirt steak in a blend of garlic, cilantro, citrus, and chipotle pepper in adobo. Grill it to perfection for an authentic Mexican experience.
Backyard Barbecue Staples
6. Surf ‘n’ Turf Foil Packs: Combine steak and shrimp in foil packs with veggies and seasonings. Grill for 15 minutes for a quick and delicious meal.
7. Green Chile Cheeseburgers: Top your grilled burgers with roasted green chiles and melted cheese for a spicy twist.
8. Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs: Wrap hot dogs in bacon before grilling. The crispy bacon adds a smoky flavor that’s irresistible.
9. Grilled Pork Tenderloin: Marinate in soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic. Grill until tender and juicy, then serve with grilled broccolini.
10. Grilled Pizza: Shape the dough, add toppings, and grill for a crispy crust and melty cheese.
Weeknight Dinner Delights
11. Balsamic Grilled Steak Salad With Peaches: Pair peppery arugula with grilled steak and ripe peaches. Top with blue cheese for a savory-sweet combo.
12. Steak Fajita Skewers: Skewer steak with bell peppers and onions. Grill and serve with tortillas for a fun and easy meal.
13. Chile-Lime Steak Salad: Marinate steak in a zesty chile-lime mixture, then grill and serve on salad greens with a spicy-sweet dressing.
14. Ranch Turkey Burgers: Mix ranch seasoning into turkey patties. Grill and top with bacon and cheddar for a juicy, flavorful burger.
15. Grilled Salmon: Marinate salmon in lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs. Grill until flaky and serve with rice and salad.
Flavor-Packed Marinades and Butters
16. World’s Best Grilled Steak: Marinate steaks in soy sauce, olive oil, ketchup, garlic, oregano, and pepper. Grill and enjoy the rich, savory flavors.
17. Garlic Herb Butter: Make a compound butter with garlic, herbs, and a pinch of homemade steak seasoning. Top your grilled steaks for an extra layer of flavor.
18. Teriyaki Steak: Marinate steak in a mix of soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger. Grill for a sweet and savory delight.
19. Cajun Butter Steak: Mix melted butter with Cajun seasoning. Brush on steaks while grilling for a spicy, buttery finish.
20. Cowboy Butter: Combine melted butter with garlic, chives, and lemon juice. Drizzle over grilled steak for a tangy, herby touch.
These grilled steak ideas are sure to impress your guests and make your next BBQ unforgettable. Ready to pair your steaks with the perfect sides? Let’s explore the best side dishes for grilled steak!
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Steak
Pairing your perfectly grilled steak with the right side dishes can lift your BBQ experience. Here are some mouth-watering options:
Grilled Corn
Grilled corn on the cob is a classic BBQ side. It’s simple but delicious. Pro Tip: Brush the corn with a mix of melted butter and a sprinkle of sea salt before grilling. Rotate it every few minutes until it’s charred and tender. The smoky flavor complements the steak beautifully.
Potatoes Au Gratin
Creamy, cheesy, and comforting, potatoes au gratin are a hit at any BBQ. Thinly slice potatoes and layer them with cream, cheese, and a touch of garlic. Bake until golden and bubbly. The rich, creamy texture pairs well with the robust flavor of grilled steak.
Citrus Beet Salad
For a refreshing contrast, try a citrus beet salad. Combine roasted beets with orange segments, feta cheese, and a light vinaigrette. The sweetness of the beets and the tangy citrus balance the savory steak. Plus, it adds a vibrant pop of color to your plate.
Baked Asparagus
Asparagus is easy to prepare and delicious when baked. Toss asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Bake until tender and slightly crispy. A squeeze of lemon juice after baking adds a fresh, zesty flavor that pairs well with steak.
Sautéed Mushrooms
Mushrooms are a fantastic steak topping or side. Sauté them in butter with garlic and fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. The earthy, savory mushrooms improve the steak’s flavor. Pro Tip: Use a mix of different mushrooms for added texture and taste.
These grilled steak ideas paired with the right side dishes will make your BBQ unforgettable. Ready to master your grilling technique? Let’s dive into some frequently asked questions about grilling steak!
Frequently Asked Questions about Grilled Steak Ideas
What is the rule of 3 for grilling steaks?
The Rule of 3 for grilling steaks is simple. It involves three key steps: high heat, indirect heat, and medium-rare doneness.
- High Heat: Start by preheating your grill to a high temperature, around 500°F. This is crucial for getting a good sear on your steak.
- Indirect Heat: After searing both sides for about 1-1/2 minutes each, move the steak to an area of the grill with indirect heat. This allows the steak to cook evenly without burning.
- Medium-Rare: Aim for an internal temperature of 135°F for medium-rare. This ensures a warm red center, which many consider the perfect doneness for steak.
Why put butter on a grilled steak?
Adding butter to a grilled steak improves its flavor profile in several ways:
- Fat Content: The butter adds extra fat, which makes the steak juicier and more tender.
- Taste Improvement: Butter melts over the steak, mixing with the steak juices to create a rich, savory sauce. Adding herbs to the butter can lift the flavor even more.
What is the best method for grilling steaks?
For the best results, use a combination of direct and indirect heat:
- Hot Grill: Preheat your grill to a high temperature to ensure it’s hot enough to sear the steak.
- Direct Heat: Start by placing the steak directly over the hottest part of the grill. Sear each side for about 1-1/2 minutes to develop a crust.
- Indirect Heat: Move the steak to a cooler part of the grill to finish cooking. This method prevents burning while ensuring the steak cooks evenly.
Searing the steak locks in the juices and creates a flavorful crust. Then, using indirect heat to finish cooking ensures the steak reaches your desired level of doneness without charring the exterior.
These techniques will help you master the art of grilling steaks, making your BBQs a hit every time.
Conclusion
At Grill Wizard Oz, we are dedicated to helping you become the ultimate grill master with our expert-driven content and comprehensive outdoor cooking guides. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newbie, our resources are custom to lift your grilling game.
From mastering the rule of 3 for grilling steaks to experimenting with creative steak recipes, we cover it all. Our guides are designed to make the complex art of grilling simple and accessible for everyone. We believe that with the right knowledge and tools, anyone can create memorable and delicious BBQ experiences.
For more tips, techniques, and equipment recommendations, visit our gas grill for sale page. Let’s make your next BBQ the best one yet!
Happy grilling!