Imagine enjoying a mouthwatering, perfectly grilled steak in the comfort of your own home. Sounds tempting, right? Believe it or not, all you need is an electric grill and some expert tips to achieve that restaurant-quality taste. In this article, we’re sharing everything you need to know about how to cook steak on electric grill – from selecting the perfect cut to mastering temperature control and cooking times.

Key Takeaways

• Select the perfect cut of meat for electric grill steak depending on thickness and marbling. Prime or Choice grades are recommended.
• Season and marinate the steak, remembering that less is more when it comes to seasoning.
• Preheat the grill to the correct temperature, clean the grates thoroughly, and use oil or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
• Use pro grilling techniques like searing or indirect heating, flipping your steak only once during cooking. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure optimal doneness.

Choosing And Preparing The Steak

Select the appropriate steak cut for grilling, considering factors like thickness and marbling, then season it well with your preferred spices or marinade and let it sit at room temperature for at least an hour to ensure even cooking.

Selecting The Right Cut Of Meat

Selecting the right cut of meat is a crucial step in grilling the perfect steak on an electric grill. Each cut offers different textures and flavors, so it’s important to choose one that suits your taste preferences and cooking style.

To ensure top-quality results, look for steaks with good marbling – thin streaks of fat throughout the meat that contributes to its tenderness and juiciness when cooked.

Additionally, aim for cuts that are at least 1 inch thick or thicker since these are easier to cook evenly without overcooking. If possible, opt for USDA Prime or Choice Grades of beef as they provide superior quality compared to lower grades available on the market.

Seasoning And Marinating The Steak

Before grilling, it is essential to season and marinates your steak. Depending on your preferences, you can use a dry rub or a wet marinade with different ingredients like herbs, spices, oil, vinegar, soy sauce, or citrus juice.

For example, if you want to add some sweetness and tanginess to your steak try using honey and balsamic vinegar marinade. To make the most of the flavors, season the meat generously with salt and pepper at least 30 minutes before cooking.

This will allow enough time for the seasoning to penetrate into the meat’s pores fully.

Bringing The Steak To Room Temperature

Before placing your steak on the electric grill, it’s essential to bring it to room temperature. This step is often overlooked but makes a significant difference in how evenly your steak cooks.

Bringing your steak to room temperature also helps you achieve an attractive sear and reduces cook time, resulting in juicier and more flavorful meat. Additionally, if you’re marinating your steak, allowing it to sit at room temperature for a bit will allow flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat.k

Preheating And Preparing The Electric Grill

Preheat the electric grill to the recommended temperature, and clean the grates thoroughly with a wire brush or scraper.

Setting The Correct Temperature

To cook the perfect steak on an electric grill, it’s important to set the correct temperature. Electric grills can reach high temperatures quickly, so it’s essential to preheat your grill before cooking.

For thinner steaks like filet mignon or New York strip steak, aim for a higher heat of around 450-500 degrees Fahrenheit.

It’s always recommended to follow USDA guidelines when cooking meat and use a meat thermometer to check if the internal temperature has reached safe levels. By setting the right temperature on your electric grill, you’ll ensure that your steak is cooked thoroughly while retaining its natural juices and flavor.

Cleaning The Grill Grates

Cleaning the grill grates is an essential step in preparing your electric grill for cooking steak. After preheating the grill, use a wire brush or grill stone to clean any debris or leftover food particles from the grates.

This ensures that you have a clean surface and prevents unwanted sticking of the steak during cooking. Non-stick spray or oil can also be added to prevent sticking, but make sure not to overdo it as excess oil can cause flare-ups and uneven cooking.

Adding Oil Or Non-stick Spray

To prevent your steak from sticking to the electric grill grates, it is essential to add oil or non-stick spray. This also ensures even cooking and adds flavor to the meat.

Simply brush a light coating of vegetable or olive oil onto both sides of the steak with a pastry brush, or use a non-stick spray for quick and easy application. Avoid overdoing it as too much oil can cause flare-ups and smoke.

For best results, use an oil with a high smoke point such as avocado or grapeseed oil that won’t burn at high temperatures.

Testing The Heat

Before placing the steak on the electric grill, it’s important to test the heat. A simple yet effective way of determining if the grill is fully heated is by using your hand or a thermometer.

One method involves holding your hand about five inches above the cooking grates for about 5 seconds. If you can only hold it for that time before pulling away in discomfort, then the grill has reached its highest heat level and is ready to use.

Pro Tips For Grilling The Perfect Steak On Electric Grill

Master the art of grilling steak by using these pro tips on your electric grill. From searing techniques to controlling cooking time and heat, you’ll learn how to get that perfectly grilled steak every single time.

The Searing Technique

To achieve a perfect crust on your steak, you can use the searing technique. Searing is the process of cooking meat at high temperatures to create a browned outer layer. It helps to seal in moisture and flavor while adding texture and depth to your steak’s taste.

Before searing, pat the steak dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture that may prevent it from forming a beautiful crust. Then heat your electric grill for 5-10 minutes until it reaches its highest temperature setting, usually around 500 degrees Fahrenheit.

When the grill is hot enough, place the seasoned steak directly onto the grates and let it cook undisturbed for two to three minutes before flipping it over using tongs or a spatula.

Repeat this process on both sides until all sides are evenly golden-brown.

The Direct Heat Method

Another efficient way to cook steak on an electric grill is by using the direct heat method. This method involves placing the steak directly above the heating element or burners for a quick sear and even cooking.

To do this, preheat your electric grill to high heat, around 500 degrees Fahrenheit. Using tongs, place the seasoned and marinated steak onto the hot grill grates and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes before flipping it over and repeating on the other side.

Using a meat thermometer will help you determine when your steak has reached its preferred level of doneness while using this method. For example, if you prefer medium-rare steaks that are pink in the center with slightly charred edges, take them off at an internal temperature of about 135°F.

The Indirect Heat Method

Another method to cook steak on an electric grill is the indirect heat method. This technique involves heating only one side of the grill, placing the steak on the opposite side, and then closing the lid.

The idea behind this approach is that it allows for gentle cooking, which results in a more evenly cooked steak.

To achieve this, preheat your grill to 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit before turning off one burner or setting coals on just one side of your charcoal-powered electric grill.

Place your seasoned or marinated steak over seared burners and close up shop for around 10 minutes for each inch of thickness — but be sure to check doneness using either with a meat thermometer or a touch test every few minutes after you’ve flipped it once.

Avoiding Piercing The Steak

While it may be tempting to use a fork or tongs to flip your steak during the cooking process, piercing the meat will cause it to release its precious juices and flavor. To avoid ruining your perfect cut of meat, use a spatula or even better yet, tongs with flat edges that won’t puncture the steak.

Remember also not to press down on the meat while grilling, as this too can force out flavorful juices and leave you with a dry steak. Instead, let gravity do its job by allowing the weight of the steak itself to sear those beautiful grill marks into each side without any added pressure.

Flipping The Steak Only Once

Flipping your steak too often can interfere with the cooking process, preventing it from searing properly and leading to unevenly cooked meat. That’s why the best practice is to flip your steak only once during cooking.

This allows for a beautiful crust to form on each side of the steak while retaining all its natural juices. For example, let’s say you’re grilling a 1-inch boneless sirloin steak on an electric grill: Once you put it on the grill, let it cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes before flipping it over just once and letting it cook through uninterrupted again for another 5-7 minutes until done according to your preference.

Controlling The Cooking Time And Heat

The key to grilling the perfect steak on an electric grill is controlling the cooking time and heat. One of the best ways to do this is by using a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

For medium rare, aim for around 135-140 degrees Fahrenheit, while medium steaks should be cooked to 140-150 degrees Fahrenheit.

Another important factor in controlling cooking time and heat is choosing the right thickness of the steak. Thicker cuts will take longer to cook than thinner ones, so adjust your grilling time accordingly.

And remember that letting your steak rest after grilling allows it to retain its juices and finish cooking through residual heat, giving you a perfectly tender and juicy piece of meat every time.

Checking For Doneness And Resting The Steak

To check if the steak is done, use a meat thermometer or touch test, and aim for a temperature of 145°F for medium-rare; then let it rest for three minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Using A Meat Thermometer

To ensure that your steak is cooked to perfection, using a meat thermometer can be very helpful. Insert the thermometer’s probe into the thickest part of the steak and avoid touching any bones or fat, which can give inaccurate readings.

The USDA recommends cooking steak to an internal temperature of at least 145˚F for safety reasons, but for optimal results, remove it from the heat when it reaches 5 degrees below your desired temperature since it will continue to cook as it rests.

For example, if you’re aiming for medium-rare doneness (135-140°F), take it off the grill when the thermometer reads 130°F.

Learning The Touch Test

One way to check if your steak is done to your liking is by using the touch test. This method involves pressing down on the meat with a utensil or your fingers and feeling its texture.

For rare, the steak should feel soft and squishy, while medium-rare should feel slightly firmer but still have some give.

It’s essential to keep in mind that practice makes perfect when it comes to mastering this technique. So don’t be afraid to experiment with different cuts of meat, temperatures, and cooking times until you find what works best for you.

Letting The Steak Rest For A Few Minutes

After taking your perfectly grilled steak off the electric grill, resist the temptation to dive right in. Letting your steak rest for a few minutes is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that every bite is juicy and flavorful.

During this time, cover your steak loosely with aluminum foil or a heatproof plate to keep it warm while resting. The exact amount of time needed for resting depends on how thick the steak is – generally speaking, thicker steaks require longer rest times.

A good rule of thumb is to let your steak rest for around five minutes before carving into it.

Serving And Enjoying The Perfectly Grilled Steak

Slice the steak against the grain and serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or a baked potato, and a refreshing beverage of your choice.

Slicing And Serving The Steak

Once the steak is cooked to your desired degree of doneness, it’s time to slice and serve. It’s important to remember that meat continues to cook even after being removed from heat, so let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing into it.

When slicing the steak, be sure to cut against the grain for maximum tenderness. For larger cuts of meat like filet mignon or New York strip steaks, consider cutting them into thinner slices for easier serving and sharing.

Pairing With Your Favorite Sides And Beverages

When it comes to pairing your perfectly grilled steak with sides and beverages, the options are endless. For a classic American barbecue experience, consider serving up baked potatoes topped with sour cream and chives, grilled vegetables like asparagus or zucchini, or a fresh garden salad.

As for drinks, red wine is a classic pairing for steak lovers – opt for a bold Cabernet Sauvignon or spicy Syrah to complement the rich flavors of your meat. For those who prefer beer over wine, an ice-cold lager can be refreshing alongside a juicy grilled steak.

And if you’re feeling fancy, whip up a signature cocktail – think bourbon-based Old Fashioned or gin-infused Negroni – to enjoy alongside your meal.

Sharing The Experience With Family And Friends

After grilling the perfect steak on your electric grill, it’s time to share the experience with those closest to you. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ party or enjoying an intimate meal with loved ones, serving a delicious steak can bring everyone together.

Slice the steak and serve it on a platter for everyone to enjoy.

One great thing about grilling is that anyone can do it, regardless of their cooking ability. Even beginners will find electric grills easy and straightforward to use when following simple guidelines like preheating at the right temperature and monitoring cooking times based on degrees of doneness.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to cook steak on an electric grill, it’s time to put your skills to the test! Remember to select the right cut of meat and season it well. Always preheat your grill and aim for the correct temperature.

Use pro grilling techniques like searing or indirect heating. Keep a close eye on cooking times and use a meat thermometer to ensure optimal doneness. Finally, let your steak rest before serving and enjoy with your favorite sides.