If you’re craving a juicy, perfectly cooked steak with a peppery kick, this Medium rare black pepper steak is the ideal dish. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, this step-by-step guide ensures a restaurant-quality steak at home. Serve it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal. Start by bringing your steaks to room temperature, which will ensure even cooking.
Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any moisture, which helps achieve a beautiful sear. Generously season both sides of the steak with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat for about 5 minutes. The skillet should be smoking hot before you begin cooking to get that perfect sear. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and let it heat until shimmering. Place the steak in the pan carefully.
Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes without moving it, ensuring the steak develops a golden-brown crust. Press the steak down slightly with tongs to ensure even contact with the pan. After flipping the steak, reduce the heat to medium-low and add the butter, minced garlic, and optional fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. Baste the steak by spooning the melted butter over the top for added flavour.
This step enriches the steak’s flavour profile and helps with the tender texture. For medium-rare perfection, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. You’re aiming for 130-135°F (54-57°C). Remove the steak from the skillet when it’s 5°F below your target temperature, as it will continue cooking while resting. Let the steak rest on a plate loosely covered with aluminium foil for 5-10 minutes. This step allows the juices to be redistributed, ensuring a tender and flavorful bite.
Slice the steak against the grain for the best texture and enjoy. Pair with your favorite sides like roasted potatoes or a green salad. Mastering this Medium Rare Black Pepper Steak brings the flavours of a steakhouse to your home. Whether for a special occasion or a weeknight treat, this juicy, peppery steak will become a go-to recipe.
Ingredients;
- 2 steaks (ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon work well)
- Freshly cracked black pepper (around 2 tsp)
- Kosher salt (to taste)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- Fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
- Meat thermometer (recommended for precision)
