Grilling a steak on a gas grill is a classic way to enjoy a delicious meal in the great outdoors. Whether you’re a seasoned grilling pro or a beginner, it’s important to know the right techniques to achieve the perfect steak. In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know to grill steaks on a gas grill, from choosing the right cut of meat to checking for doneness.
Choosing the right steak is the first step to grilling success. You’ll want to look for a cut of meat that is well-marbled with fat, as this will help keep the steak juicy and flavorful during grilling. Some popular cuts for grilling include ribeye, sirloin, and filet mignon. Once you’ve chosen your steak, it’s important to prepare it properly before grilling. This may include seasoning the steak, bringing it to room temperature, and trimming any excess fat.
Grilling a steak on a gas grill requires a bit of finesse, but with the right technique, you can achieve a perfectly cooked steak every time. From preheating the grill to checking for doneness, we’ll cover all the steps you need to take to grill a steak to perfection. So fire up the grill, grab your tongs, and let’s get started!
Key Takeaways
- Choosing the right cut of meat is crucial for grilling success.
- Proper preparation, including seasoning and trimming, is important before grilling.
- Following the right grilling techniques, such as preheating and checking for doneness, can ensure a perfectly cooked steak.
Choosing the Right Steak
Choosing the right steak is crucial to achieving a perfectly grilled steak on a gas grill. The ideal steak for grilling is one that is at least 1 inch thick, with good marbling and a cut that suits your taste. Here are some tips to help you choose the right steak:
1. Cut
The most popular cuts for grilling are ribeye, strip steak, hanger steak, tenderloin, flank, New York strip, and filet mignon. Each cut has its own unique characteristics, so it’s important to choose one that suits your taste. Ribeye and strip steak are the most popular choices due to their marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor.
2. Thickness
The thickness of the steak is also important. A steak that is too thin will cook too quickly and be overcooked, while a steak that is too thick will take too long to cook and will be tough. The ideal thickness for grilling is between 1 and 1 1/2 inches.
3. Marbling
Marbling refers to the fat that is distributed throughout the meat. The more marbling a steak has, the more flavorful and tender it will be. Ribeye and strip steak are known for their marbling, making them ideal for grilling.
4. Grade
When choosing a steak, look for one that is USDA Choice or Prime grade. These grades indicate that the steak has good marbling and is of high quality.
5. Preparation
Before grilling your steak, allow it to come to room temperature and season or marinate it if desired. This will help to enhance the flavor of the steak and ensure that it cooks evenly.
By following these tips, you can choose the right steak for grilling on a gas grill and achieve a perfectly cooked, delicious steak.
Preparation Before Grilling
Before you start grilling your steaks on a gas grill, it is important to prepare them properly. Here are some tips to ensure you get the most flavorful and tender steaks:
Bring Steaks to Room Temperature
Take your steaks out of the refrigerator at least an hour before grilling to bring them to room temperature. This helps the steaks cook more evenly and prevents them from becoming tough.
Season the Steaks
Season your steaks generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. You can also add other seasonings of your choice, such as garlic powder or paprika. Make sure to season both sides of the steaks.
Pat Dry with Paper Towels
Use paper towels to pat dry the steaks after seasoning them. This helps to remove any excess moisture, which can prevent the steaks from getting a good sear.
Brush with Olive Oil
Brush the steaks with olive oil to prevent them from sticking to the grill grates. This also helps to create a delicious crust on the steaks.
Marinate or Use Compound Butter
Consider marinating your steaks or using compound butter to add extra flavor. Marinating can help to tenderize the steaks and infuse them with flavor. Compound butter, made by mixing butter with herbs and spices, can also add a delicious flavor to your steaks.
By following these preparation tips, you’ll be well on your way to grilling the perfect steaks on your gas grill.
Grilling the Steak
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b5ing7GNp5c&embed=true
Now that you have selected the perfect steak and prepped the grill, it’s time to grill the steak. Follow these steps to achieve a perfectly grilled steak:
-
Preheat the grill to high heat. For a gas grill, turn all burners to high and close the lid. Allow the grill to heat up for 10-15 minutes. This will ensure that the grill grates are hot enough to sear the steak and create those beautiful grill marks.
-
Season the steak with salt and pepper. Be generous with the seasoning, as some of it will fall off during the grilling process.
-
Place the steak on the grill at a 45-degree angle to the grates. This will create those classic grill marks. Close the lid and let the steak cook for 2-3 minutes.
-
After 2-3 minutes, rotate the steak 90 degrees to create cross-hatch grill marks. Close the lid and let the steak cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
-
Flip the steak and repeat steps 3 and 4. Use tongs to handle the steak, not a fork, as piercing the steak can cause it to lose its juices.
-
Check the internal temperature of the steak using a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, the temperature should be 130-135°F. For medium, the temperature should be 135-145°F. For well-done, the temperature should be 155°F or above.
-
Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak.
Remember, thicker steaks will take longer to cook than thinner steaks. If you are unsure about the doneness of your steak, use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. Also, be mindful of flare-ups caused by fat dripping onto the flames. If this happens, move the steak to a cooler part of the grill or reduce the heat.
Checking Steak Doneness
« Fast Eddy’s Pellet Grill: The Ultimate Outdoor Cooking Solution
Best Kamado Grills Under $500: Affordable Options for Delicious Grilling »
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hp4EheJNSOs&embed=true
Checking the doneness of your steak is crucial to ensure it is cooked to your liking. There are a few methods to check the doneness of your steak, including using a meat thermometer or an instant-read thermometer.
The most accurate way to check the doneness of your steak is by using a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, away from the bone, for the most accurate reading. The internal temperature of the steak will determine its doneness. Here are the temperatures you should aim for:
- Rare: 120-130°F
- Medium-rare: 130-135°F
- Medium: 135-145°F
- Medium-well: 145-155°F
- Well-done: 155°F and above
For a quick and easy way to check the doneness of your steak, use an instant-read thermometer. Simply insert the thermometer into the center of the steak, and wait for the reading. Remember to remove the steak from the grill before checking the temperature, to prevent overcooking.
If you prefer your steak medium-rare, the internal temperature should be around 130-135°F. For medium, aim for 135-145°F. If you like your steak well-done, aim for a temperature of 155°F and above.
Remember to let your steak rest for a few minutes before cutting into it, to allow the juices to redistribute. This will ensure a juicy and flavorful steak every time.
By using a meat thermometer or an instant-read thermometer, you can be confident that your steak will be cooked to perfection, every time.
Resting and Serving the Steak
Once the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, it’s important to let it rest before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, making it more juicy and flavorful. A good rule of thumb is to let the steak rest for about 5-10 minutes for every inch of thickness.
During the resting period, it’s important to keep the steak warm. You can do this by loosely covering it with foil or placing it in a warm oven (around 200°F). Avoid placing the steak on a cold surface, such as a cutting board, as this can cause the juices to drain out of the steak and onto the board.
When you’re ready to serve the steak, transfer it to a clean cutting board and slice it against the grain. This will help to break up the muscle fibers and make the steak more tender.
To prevent the steak from sticking to the cutting board, you can lightly oil the board or sprinkle it with coarse salt. You can also use a sharp knife to make clean cuts.
When serving the steak, consider pairing it with some delicious side dishes. Grilled vegetables, such as asparagus or zucchini, make a great accompaniment to steak. You can also serve it with a baked potato or a fresh salad.
Overall, resting and serving the steak is just as important as cooking it. By following these tips, you’ll be able to serve up a juicy and flavorful steak that is sure to impress your guests at your next backyard barbecue.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the recommended grilling time for a 1.5 inch steak on a gas grill?
The recommended grilling time for a 1.5 inch steak on a gas grill is about 6-8 minutes per side for medium-rare doneness. However, grilling times may vary depending on the thickness of the steak, the temperature of the grill, and personal preference. It’s important to use a meat thermometer to ensure that your steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
How do you grill a steak to medium-rare on a gas grill?
To grill a steak to medium-rare on a gas grill, preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Season your steak with salt and pepper or your favorite steak rub. Place the steak on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that your steak is cooked to the desired level of doneness.
Should the gas grill lid be open or closed when grilling steaks?
It’s recommended to keep the gas grill lid closed when grilling steaks. Closing the lid helps to trap heat and smoke, which helps to cook the steak evenly and infuse it with flavor. However, if you’re grilling a thinner cut of steak, such as a flank steak, you may want to keep the lid open to prevent overcooking.
What temperature should a gas grill be set to for grilling strip steak?
For grilling strip steak on a gas grill, preheat the grill to medium-high heat, which is about 400-450°F. This will help to sear the steak and create a nice crust on the outside while keeping the inside moist and tender.
How many times should you flip a steak on a gas grill?
It’s recommended to flip a steak only once on a gas grill. Flipping the steak too often can cause it to lose its juices and become tough. Allow the steak to cook for about 4-5 minutes per side before flipping it over.
Is there a chart available for steak grilling times on a gas grill?
Yes, there are many charts available online that provide guidelines for steak grilling times on a gas grill. However, it’s important to remember that grilling times may vary depending on the thickness of the steak, the temperature of the grill, and personal preference. It’s always best to use a meat thermometer to ensure that your steak is cooked to the desired level of doneness.
