Are you ready to transform an ordinary cut of beef into a restaurant-worthy masterpiece? Our pan-seared chuck steak recipe is about to revolutionize your home cooking experience! Forget expensive cuts and complicated techniques - this simple yet mouth-watering method will have you serving up tender, juicy steaks that will make your family and friends think you've secretly trained as a professional chef.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 chuck steaks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, smashed
- Fresh thyme or rosemary
Instructions
- Begin by removing the chuck steaks from the refrigerator and allowing them to come to room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This ensures even cooking.
- While the steaks are resting, prepare your ingredients. Smash the garlic cloves with the flat side of a knife, and gather your fresh thyme or rosemary.
- Pat the chuck steaks dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps achieve a nice sear.
- Season both sides of the steaks generously with salt and pepper. Make sure to rub the seasoning into the meat for better flavor.
- In a large skillet, preferably cast iron, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers but does not smoke.
- Carefully place the seasoned chuck steaks in the hot skillet. Avoid overcrowding the pan; if necessary, cook them one at a time.
- Let the steaks sear without moving them for about 4-5 minutes, or until a golden-brown crust forms on the bottom.
- Flip the steaks using tongs, and add the smashed garlic and fresh herbs to the skillet.
- Continue cooking the steaks for another 4-5 minutes for medium-rare, or adjust the time based on your preferred doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
- While the steaks are cooking, spoon some of the hot oil and juices from the skillet over the top of the steaks for added flavor and moisture.
- Once the steaks are cooked to your liking, remove them from the skillet and place them on a cutting board. Tent loosely with aluminum foil and let them rest for about 5 minutes.
- After resting, slice the chuck steaks against the grain for maximum tenderness. Serve immediately, garnished with the cooked garlic and herbs from the skillet.
- Enjoy your pan-seared chuck steaks with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let your steaks rest at room temperature before cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
- Moisture Matters: Pat your steaks completely dry before seasoning to achieve that coveted golden-brown crust.
- Don't Overcrowd: Cook steaks in batches if necessary to maintain high pan temperature and prevent steaming.
- Use a Cast Iron Skillet: These retain heat best and provide the most even, beautiful sear.
- Invest in a Meat Thermometer: This is the most reliable way to check doneness without cutting into the meat.
- Let It Rest: Allowing steaks to rest after cooking helps redistribute juices, ensuring a more tender and flavorful bite.
- Slice Against the Grain: This breaks up muscle fibers and makes your steak more tender and easier to chew.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
