A perfectly grilled BBQ steak is the pinnacle of summer cooking and a favorite for gatherings, cookouts, and family dinners. There’s something undeniably satisfying about the sizzle of a juicy steak hitting a hot grill, the tantalizing aroma of seasonings wafting in the air, and the anticipation of slicing into a perfectly charred exterior to reveal a tender, juicy interior. Achieving that ideal steak—crispy on the outside, pink and flavorful inside—is a combination of choosing the right cut, using the best seasonings, and mastering the grill.
From ribeye to sirloin, a well-prepared BBQ steak can elevate any meal, making it an unforgettable experience for your taste buds. This recipe will guide you through every step of the process, ensuring that you’ll know how to select the right steak, season it to perfection, and grill it like a pro. Whether you’re a seasoned BBQ enthusiast or a beginner, this comprehensive guide will help you create the ultimate steak, packed with flavor and perfectly cooked every time.
Grilling is not just about the meat—it’s about the experience, the anticipation, and the joy of sharing a meal with friends and family. Follow along for a detailed breakdown of ingredients, preparation techniques, and grilling tips to make sure your next BBQ steak is nothing short of perfect.
Ingredients
For the steak:
2 large ribeye, sirloin, or New York strip steaks (about 1-inch thick)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
1 tablespoon coarse sea salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon brown sugar (optional for a hint of sweetness)
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra spice)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the BBQ sauce (optional):
1/2 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
Directions
1. Choosing the Right Steak
Selecting the right cut of meat is crucial for a great BBQ steak. Ribeye is known for its marbling and rich flavor, while sirloin offers a leaner, beefy taste. New York strip strikes a balance with tenderness and flavor. Choose steaks that are at least 1-inch thick for optimal grilling, and make sure the meat has a bright, cherry-red color with a good amount of marbling for tenderness.
2. Preparing the Steak
Start by patting the steaks dry with paper towels—this helps the seasonings adhere better and ensures a great crust. Brush both sides of the steaks lightly with olive oil. In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, sea salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and brown sugar. Rub this mixture generously over the steaks, pressing the seasonings into the meat. Let the steaks rest at room temperature for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
3. Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to high heat, around 450-500°F (230-260°C). You want the grill to be hot enough to sear the steak and create a beautiful crust. If using a gas grill, heat with the lid closed. For a charcoal grill, arrange the coals in a two-zone setup: one side with high heat for searing and the other side with medium-low heat for finishing the cooking.
4. Grill the Steaks
Place the steaks directly on the hot grill grates. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on the first side without moving them—this will allow the meat to develop a nice sear. Flip the steaks and grill for another 4-5 minutes on the second side for medium-rare (130-135°F or 54-57°C internal temperature). Adjust the time slightly for your preferred level of doneness.
5. Baste with Butter
During the last 2 minutes of grilling, brush the steaks with melted butter for an extra layer of flavor and moisture. This step helps enhance the crust and adds a rich, buttery finish to the meat. If you’re using a BBQ sauce, brush it lightly during the final minute of grilling to caramelize without burning.
How to Prepare
1. Rest the Steaks
Once the steaks are cooked to your desired doneness, remove them from the grill and let them rest on a cutting board for about 5-10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a juicy and flavorful steak.
2. Slice and Serve
Slice the steak against the grain to ensure tenderness, cutting at a slight angle. Serve the steak with your favorite sides, like grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad. You can also drizzle with additional BBQ sauce or top with a pat of herb butter for extra indulgence.
Preparation Time
Prepping the steak: 15 minutes (plus 20-30 minutes marinating)
Preheating the grill: 10 minutes
Grilling the steak: 8-12 minutes (depending on doneness)
Resting time: 5-10 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes (including marinating time)
Servings
This recipe serves 2-4 people, depending on the size of the steaks and side dishes served. Adjust quantities as needed for larger gatherings.
FAQs
1. How do I know when the steak is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F (54-57°C); for medium, go for 140-145°F (60-63°C); for medium-well, target 150-155°F (65-68°C).
2. Can I cook this steak indoors?
Yes, you can cook the steak indoors using a cast-iron skillet or grill pan. Heat the skillet over high heat and follow the same grilling instructions, but be mindful of the smoke level.
3. How long should I marinate the steak?
For best results, marinate the steak for at least 20-30 minutes at room temperature. If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can marinate it in the fridge for up to 2 hours.
4. Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, a good-quality store-bought BBQ sauce will work. Choose a sauce with a smoky and slightly sweet profile to complement the steak’s flavors.
5. What sides go well with BBQ steak?
Grilled vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, corn on the cob, and a fresh green salad are excellent side choices that pair well with BBQ steak#cooking
