Few things can satisfy a carnivorous craving quite like a perfectly grilled steak. While some swear by the traditional grilling method, cooking steak on a Blackstone griddle is a fantastic way to achieve a delicious, evenly cooked steak with that perfect sear. In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about cooking steak on a Blackstone griddle, from selecting the right cut to troubleshooting common issues that may arise during the cooking process.
What is a Blackstone Griddle?
If you're new to the world of grilling, you may be wondering what a Blackstone griddle is. Essentially, it's a gas-powered griddle that's designed for outdoor use. It typically features a flat cooking surface made of stainless steel or cast iron, which heats up quickly and evenly to ensure that your steak cooks to perfection. While they're most commonly used for making breakfast foods like pancakes and bacon, they can also be a great option for cooking a steak.
One of the advantages of using a Blackstone griddle is that it allows you to cook a variety of foods at once. With its large cooking surface, you can cook eggs, bacon, and pancakes all at the same time, making it a great option for feeding a crowd. Additionally, the griddle's flat surface makes it easy to cook delicate foods like fish and vegetables without worrying about them falling through the grates.
Another benefit of using a Blackstone griddle is that it's easy to clean. Unlike traditional grills, which can be difficult to clean due to their grates and hard-to-reach areas, a griddle's flat surface can be easily wiped down with a damp cloth. Some models even come with a built-in grease management system, which makes cleaning up even easier.
Choosing the Right Cut of Steak
Now that you've got your griddle ready to go, it's time to select the right cut of steak. The most popular cuts for grilling are typically ribeye, sirloin, and filet mignon. When selecting your steak, look for cuts with marbling (fat throughout the meat), which will give your steak flavor and tenderness as it cooks. You'll also want to consider the thickness of your steak; 1 to 1.5 inches is a good rule of thumb.
Another factor to consider when choosing a cut of steak is the level of doneness you prefer. Different cuts of steak have different ideal levels of doneness. For example, a filet mignon is best served rare to medium-rare, while a ribeye can be cooked to medium or even medium-well. Keep this in mind when selecting your cut of steak.
It's also important to consider the price of the steak. While a filet mignon may be the most tender and flavorful cut, it's also typically the most expensive. If you're on a budget, consider a sirloin or flank steak, which can still be delicious when cooked properly and are often more affordable.
Preparing Your Steak for Cooking
Preparation is key when it comes to cooking steak on a Blackstone griddle. Before you start cooking, take your steak out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour. This will ensure even cooking throughout the steak. Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which can cause steaks to steam rather than sear. Season your steak with salt and pepper before cooking.
Another important step in preparing your steak for cooking is to trim any excess fat. Leaving too much fat on the steak can cause flare-ups and uneven cooking. Use a sharp knife to trim the fat, leaving a thin layer for flavor. Additionally, consider marinating your steak for added flavor and tenderness. You can use a store-bought marinade or make your own with ingredients like olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Allow the steak to marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
Seasoning Your Steak
While salt and pepper are the classic seasonings for steak, feel free to experiment with other options to add flavor. Some other popular options include garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Whatever you choose, make sure to season both sides of your steak generously before cooking.
Another important tip for seasoning your steak is to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This allows the seasoning to penetrate the meat and results in a more flavorful steak. Additionally, consider using a marinade to infuse even more flavor into your steak. Some popular marinade options include soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and balsamic vinegar.
Preheating Your Blackstone Griddle
Once your steak is seasoned and ready to go, it's time to preheat your Blackstone griddle. Heat it to medium-high or high heat for about 10 to 15 minutes to ensure that it's hot enough to sear your steak quickly and give it that signature crust.
It's important to note that preheating your griddle not only ensures a perfect sear on your steak, but it also helps to prevent sticking. When the griddle is hot enough, the meat will release easily from the surface, making flipping and cooking a breeze. So, take the extra time to properly preheat your Blackstone griddle and enjoy a perfectly cooked steak every time.
The Best Temperature for Cooking Steak on a Blackstone Griddle
The ideal temperature for cooking steak on a griddle is between 400 and 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the temperature of the griddle surface before you start cooking.
It is important to let the griddle preheat for at least 10 minutes before cooking the steak. This ensures that the surface is evenly heated and the steak will cook evenly. Additionally, it is recommended to lightly oil the griddle surface before cooking to prevent the steak from sticking.
When cooking the steak, avoid flipping it too frequently. Allow it to cook for 3-4 minutes on one side before flipping it over. Use tongs to handle the steak instead of a fork, as piercing the meat can cause it to lose its juices and become dry. Once the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for Achieving Perfect Grill Marks
Grill marks are one of the most coveted aspects of a perfectly grilled steak. To achieve them, place your steak on the hot griddle and don't touch it for two to three minutes. Then, use tongs to flip the steak and cook the other side for another two to three minutes. Repeat this process, turning your steak 45 degrees each time to create criss-cross grill marks.
Another tip for achieving perfect grill marks is to make sure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled. This will prevent your steak from sticking to the grates and ruining the grill marks. You can also try using a marinade or dry rub on your steak to enhance the flavor and create a more pronounced contrast between the grill marks and the meat.
It's important to note that grill marks are not just for aesthetics, they also serve a functional purpose. The caramelization that occurs on the surface of the meat when it comes into contact with the hot griddle creates a delicious crust that locks in the juices and enhances the flavor of the steak. So, don't be afraid to experiment with different techniques and seasonings to achieve the perfect grill marks and take your grilling game to the next level.
Flipping and Cooking Time for Your Steak
The rule of thumb for flipping steak on a griddle is to only flip it once. After you've achieved those crave-worthy grill marks, flip your steak and cook it for another two to three minutes on the other side. This will result in a medium-rare steak.
However, if you prefer your steak to be cooked to a different level of doneness, adjust the cooking time accordingly. For a rare steak, cook it for only one to two minutes on the second side. For a medium steak, cook it for four to five minutes on the second side. And for a well-done steak, cook it for six to seven minutes on the second side.
Checking the Internal Temperature of Your Steak
To check the internal temperature of your steak, use an instant-read thermometer. For a rare steak, aim for 120 to 130 degrees, medium-rare is 130 to 140 degrees, medium is 140 to 150 degrees, and well done is 160 degrees or higher.
It is important to let your steak rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute. This will result in a more tender and flavorful steak. Cover the steak with foil and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
If you don't have an instant-read thermometer, you can also use the touch test to check the doneness of your steak. Press the center of the steak with your finger: if it feels soft and squishy, it is rare; if it feels slightly firm with some give, it is medium-rare; if it feels firm with little give, it is medium; and if it feels very firm, it is well done.
Resting Your Steak Before Serving
Once your steak reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the griddle and let it rest for five to ten minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the steak and make for a more tender and flavorful bite.
Serving Suggestions and Accompaniments for Steak on a Blackstone Griddle
Now that your steak is cooked to perfection, it's time to serve it up. Pair it with a classic baked potato, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Top your steak with a pat of butter or a sprinkle of fresh herbs to enhance its flavor.
Troubleshooting Common Issues When Cooking Steak on a Blackstone Griddle
If your steak isn't cooking evenly, make sure your griddle is heated evenly and adjust as necessary. If your steak is sticking to the griddle, make sure you've preheated it long enough and brush or spray the griddle with oil before cooking. If your steak is overcooked or undercooked, adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly for next time.
Cleaning and Maintaining Your Blackstone Griddle After Cooking Steak
After you've enjoyed your delicious steak, it's important to clean and maintain your Blackstone griddle. Use a scraper to remove any excess food or debris, then wipe the surface down with warm soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely before storing.
With these tips, you'll be a pro at cooking steak on a Blackstone griddle in no time. Enjoy the perfect sear and tender, juicy bite every time you cook a steak on your griddle.
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