Introduction:
Cooking the perfect steak is all about hitting the right temperature, and when it comes to a medium steak, the right steak temp is crucial to achieving that perfect balance of flavor, tenderness, and texture. In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about medium steak temp, why it’s a favorite among steak lovers, and how to cook it flawlessly every time.
What Is Medium Steak Temp?
A medium steak temp is when the internal temperature of the steak reaches 135°F (57°C). At this temperature, the steak has a warm, pink center with slightly more browned edges than rare or medium-rare steaks. This level of doneness delivers a tender, juicy bite without being too soft or overcooked.
Why Medium Steak Temp Is the Perfect Balance
For many, a medium steak offers the best of both worlds. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
- Flavorful and Juicy: At 135°F, the steak retains its natural juices, ensuring each bite is flavorful and moist.
- Tender Yet Firm: The meat is cooked just enough to break down some of the muscle fibers, giving it a perfect balance of tenderness and a slightly firmer texture.
- Great for All Steak Cuts: Whether you’re cooking a ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon, the medium temp works well across all cuts, delivering consistency in flavor and texture.
How to Cook a Medium Steak: Step-by-Step Guide
Achieving the perfect medium steak temp requires precision. Here’s how to do it:
- Prep the Steak: Start with a room-temperature steak, seasoned with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices.
- Preheat the Grill or Pan: Heat your grill or pan to medium-high heat. For an even sear, make sure it’s hot before placing the steak on.
- Cook the Steak: Place the steak on the grill or pan and cook for 4-5 minutes per side for a 1-inch thick steak. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 130-135°F (54-57°C).
- Rest the Steak: Once it reaches the desired temp, remove it from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicier bite.
- Slice and Serve: Slice the steak against the grain for maximum tenderness, and enjoy!
Medium Steak Temp: Grilling vs. Pan Searing
Both methods—grilling and pan-searing—can help you achieve a perfect medium steak, but each has its own unique benefits:
- Grilling: Provides a smoky flavor and beautiful grill marks. It’s ideal for outdoor cooking.
- Pan Searing: Gives a great crust on the steak’s exterior due to direct heat contact. You can also baste the steak with butter for extra flavor.
How to Tell If Your Steak Is Medium Without a Thermometer
If you don’t have a meat thermometer handy, you can use the finger test:
- Press the center of the steak lightly with your finger. A medium steak should feel like the base of your thumb when your hand is slightly relaxed—firm with a little give.
While this method isn’t as precise as using a thermometer, it’s a useful trick when cooking without one.
For more tips on how to tell if your steak is medium without a thermometer, you can visit The Spruce Eats, where they offer practical advice on steak doneness, cooking techniques, and additional methods for checking steak temperature without tools.
Medium Steak Temp vs. Other Doneness Levels
Here’s how medium steak temp compares to other levels of doneness:
- Rare (120°F – 125°F): Cool, red center; very soft and juicy but not for everyone.
- Medium-Rare (130°F – 135°F): Warm, red center; tender and juicy with more structure than rare.
- Medium (135°F – 145°F): Warm, pink center; slightly firmer but still juicy—perfect balance for most people.
- Medium-Well (145°F – 155°F): Small traces of pink; firmer and less juicy.
- Well-Done (155°F+): Fully cooked through, brown throughout; firmer texture, with very little juice.
Conclusion: Why Medium Steak Temp Is the Ideal Choice
Cooking steak to a medium temp ensures a delicious balance of flavor, tenderness, and texture. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or searing on a stovetop, aiming for 135°F (57°C) guarantees a juicy, pink-centered steak with just enough firmness. Perfect for those who want the best of both worlds—flavorful yet tender. Next time you’re cooking steak, try this temperature and experience the perfect bite every time!