There’s something magical about a perfectly grilled steak. The smoky char, the juicy interior — it’s a flavor and texture you just can’t get from pan-frying or baking.
But figuring out how long to cook steaks on a grill to get them just right can be tricky. The cut of steak, its thickness, how well you want it done, and even the type of grill you’re using all play a part.
In this article, we’ll dive into recommended cooking times, easy ways to check if your steak is done to your liking, and some key differences between using a gas grill versus a charcoal grill.
Understanding Steak Doneness and Temperature
Everyone has a favorite level of doneness when it comes to steak. Use a meat thermometer to make sure your steak is cooked exactly the way you like it.
Defining Levels of Doneness
- Rare: Internal temperature of 125°F with a red center and a very soft texture.
- Medium-Rare: Internal temperature of 135°F with a warm red center and a slightly firmer texture than rare.
- Medium: Internal temperature of 145°F with a pink center and a noticeably firmer texture.
- Medium-Well: Internal temperature of 155°F with just a hint of pink in the center and a firm texture.
- Well Done: Internal temperature of 165°F with no pink and a very firm texture.
The Importance of Resting
Resting your steak after cooking is essential. Remove the steak from the grill when it’s 5 to 10 degrees below your target temperature. The temperature will continue to rise a little even after you take it off the heat.
Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, giving you a more tender and flavorful steak.
Grilling Times for Different Steak Thicknesses
The thickness of your steak will be the main factor in determining how long to cook it on the grill. Here are some general guidelines, but remember that grill temperatures vary, so use these times as a starting point and monitor your steak closely.
1-Inch Thick Steaks
- Rare: About 8 minutes total, but watch carefully.
- Medium-Rare: 9-10 minutes total. An instant-read thermometer will be your best friend.
- Medium: 10-12 minutes total. Again, temping the steak is key.
- Medium-Well: 11-12 minutes total. Be careful not to overcook it!
1.5-Inch Thick Steaks
For steaks this thick, you’ll want to use a combination of searing and indirect heat. Sear the steak over high heat first, then move it to a cooler part of the grill to finish cooking.
Add roughly 2-4 minutes to the grilling times listed above for 1-inch steaks. As always, use a meat thermometer to make sure you’re hitting your target internal temperature.
Methods for Gauging Steak Doneness
There are a few ways to tell when your steak is cooked to the doneness you’re looking for.
The Meat Thermometer: The Most Accurate Method
For a perfectly cooked steak, a meat thermometer is really the way to go.
To use it, insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, being sure to avoid touching bone. Then, check the temperature against a chart like the one above to make sure the steak is cooked to your liking.
The Thumb/Finger Test: An Alternative Approach
Some chefs use a method that involves touching the tip of the index finger to the tip of the thumb. Then, they poke the fleshy area below the thumb to get a sense of doneness.
For example, if the meat feels soft and gives easily when poked, it’s likely rare.
While this thumb/finger test can be a handy alternative to a thermometer, it takes practice to perfect.
Gas vs. charcoal grills: Does it affect cooking time?
The type of grill you use can affect not only the flavor of the steak, but also the cooking time. Here’s a breakdown of the advantages and disadvantages of each.
Charcoal grills
- Pros: A charcoal grill can impart a smoky flavor to your steak, and it can reach high searing temperatures.
- Cons: A charcoal grill is harder to control, and it can be difficult to regulate the temperature.
Gas grills
- Pros: Gas grills are convenient and easy to clean. They also offer precise temperature control.
- Cons: They might not impart the same smoky flavor as a charcoal grill.
In Conclusion
As you can see, grilling the perfect steak involves many factors, including the cut of meat, its thickness, the type of grill you have, and your personal preferences. Knowing the signs of doneness, understanding grill times, and using the right testing methods are essential.
The best advice? Experiment and practice until you discover the method that works for you. Asking your local butcher for their recommendations can also be helpful.
And to get consistently great results every time, don’t forget to use a meat thermometer!