Steaks have long been a beloved dish for meat lovers around the world. Whether enjoyed during a special occasion or as a casual weekend meal, nothing beats the sizzle of a perfectly grilled steak. With the rising popularity of griddles, especially the Blackstone griddle, many home cooks are eager to discover the secrets of achieving that perfect steak right in their backyard. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through every step of grilling steaks on a Blackstone griddle, ensuring you get superb results every time.
Understanding the Blackstone Griddle
The Blackstone griddle is a versatile, flat-top cooking appliance that offers ample cooking space, making it easier to grill multiple steaks simultaneously. Its large cooking surface heats evenly, allowing for restaurant-quality results at home.
Benefits of Grilling Steaks on a Blackstone Griddle
Grilling on a Blackstone griddle comes with several advantages:
- Temperature Control: The griddle provides even heat distribution, which helps in achieving the desired level of doneness.
- Versatility: Aside from steaks, you can also cook vegetables, seafood, and breakfast items simultaneously.
Choosing the Perfect Steak
The first step to delicious grilled steaks is choosing the right cut. Here are some of the best cuts to use on a Blackstone griddle:
Popular Cuts for Grilling
- Ribeye: Known for its marbling and rich flavor, it remains tender and juicy.
- Sirloin: A lean cut that provides great flavor and is less fatty than ribeye.
- Filet Mignon: Renowned for tenderness; it is an excellent choice for a special occasion.
- New York Strip: A balance of tenderness and flavor, making it a favorite for many steak lovers.
Choosing steaks with good marbling enhances flavor and tenderness. But don’t forget to get steaks that are at least ¾ to 1 inch thick for proper grilling.
Essential Tools and Ingredients
To grill steaks like a pro, you’ll need the right tools and ingredients.
Grilling Tools
- Blackstone Griddle: The star of the show, providing a large and flat cooking surface.
- Tongs: For flipping and removing steaks without piercing the meat.
- Spatula: For pressing down and ensuring an even sear.
- Instant-Read Meat Thermometer: To check the internal temperature of your steaks.
Ingredients
- Steaks: Choose your preferred cut.
- Salt and Pepper: The classic seasoning duo.
- Olive Oil or Butter: Helps to create a non-stick surface and adds flavor.
- Optional Marinades or Rubs: Customize flavors based on your preference.
Preparation: Getting Ready to Grill
Now that you have your steak and tools ready, it’s time to prepare both.
Step 1: Bring the Steak to Room Temperature
Take the steaks out of the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before grilling. Allowing them to come to room temperature ensures even cooking.
Step 2: Seasoning Your Steaks
Generously season each steak with salt and pepper. These basic seasonings enhance the natural flavors of the meat. If you prefer, you can also add your favorite rub or marinade—just make sure to do it at least an hour before grilling to enhance the absorption of flavors.
Preheating the Blackstone Griddle
Preheating is essential for a good sear. Here’s how to do it properly:
Step 1: Turning on the Griddle
- Turn on your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat.
- Allow it to preheat for about 10 to 15 minutes. You can check if it’s ready by sprinkling a few drops of water on the surface; they should sizzle and evaporate quickly.
Step 2: Adding Oil or Butter
Once the griddle is hot, add a tablespoon of olive oil or a couple of tablespoons of butter to the surface. This step helps to prevent sticking and enhances flavor.
The Grilling Process
Now comes the most exciting part—grilling your steaks.
Step 1: Placing Your Steaks on the Griddle
Carefully place the steaks on the hot griddle. You should hear a satisfying sizzle as they hit the surface.
Step 2: Searing the Steaks
For optimal results:
– Don’t move the steaks around for the first few minutes. Allow them to develop a crust.
– Grill for about 4-5 minutes on the first side, depending on thickness and how well-done you prefer your steak.
Step 3: Flipping the Steaks
Using your tongs, flip the steaks gently. If they stick, give them a bit more time before attempting to flip again.
Step 4: Cooking to Desired Doneness
Continue grilling on the second side for an additional 4-5 minutes or until they reach your desired internal temperature, as follows:
- Rare: 120-125°F
- Medium Rare: 130-135°F
- Medium: 140-145°F
- Medium Well: 150-155°F
- Well Done: 160°F and above
For accurate readings, insert the instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the steak.
Step 5: Resting the Steak
Once your steaks have reached the desired temperature, remove them from the griddle and let them rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. Resting is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, leading to a juicier steak.
Serving Suggestions
After letting your steaks rest, it’s time to serve and enjoy!
Pairing Ideas
Consider pairing your grilled steaks with the following:
– Grilled vegetables (like asparagus or bell peppers)
– A fresh salad
– A baked potato or garlic mashed potatoes
– Your favorite sauce (like chimichurri or béarnaise)
Maintenance and Care of Your Blackstone Griddle
Proper care of your griddle not only extends its lifespan but also ensures optimal cooking conditions for your steaks.
Cleaning Tips
- Allow the griddle to cool slightly after cooking (but not completely).
- Use a spatula to scrape off any food particles while the surface is still warm.
- Wipe it down with a paper towel or cloth. For tougher stains, use a little warm water.
- Apply a thin layer of cooking oil to help season the surface and prevent rust.
Final Tips for Grilling Steaks on a Blackstone Griddle
- Always use high-quality ingredients. The better the meat, the better the result.
- Experiment with different seasonings and marinades to find your favorite flavor combinations.
- Practice makes perfect; don’t be afraid to try and adjust cooking times based on your personal preferences.
In conclusion, grilling steaks on a Blackstone griddle is a rewarding experience that can lead to astonishingly delicious results. With the proper preparation, the right tools, and a little know-how, you can impress family and friends with mouthwatering steaks grilled to perfection.
Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy indoor dinner, using a Blackstone griddle to grill steaks will undoubtedly elevate your culinary skills, helping you become the hit of the cookout! So fire up your griddle and get ready for a delicious steak feast!
What type of steak is best for grilling on a Blackstone griddle?
When grilling steaks on a Blackstone griddle, cuts such as ribeye, sirloin, and filet mignon are ideal choices. Ribeye is known for its marbling and rich flavor, making it a popular option. Sirloin is a leaner cut with a good balance of tenderness and flavor, while filet mignon is the most tender cut and is prized for its buttery texture.
Another great option to consider is the New York strip, which offers a nice combination of tenderness and flavor as well. Regardless of the cut you choose, try to select steaks that are at least 1 inch thick for optimal grilling, as thicker cuts tend to retain moisture and cook more evenly.
How do I prepare the steak before grilling?
Preparation is key to achieving the best flavor and texture when grilling steaks. Start by taking the steak out of the refrigerator and letting it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows for more even cooking. Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps in achieving a nice sear.
Next, season the steak generously with salt and pepper or your favorite steak rub. The simple seasoning of salt and pepper enhances the natural flavors without overpowering them. For a little extra flavor, you might also consider marinating the steak for a short time or brushing it with olive oil before grilling.
What temperature should the Blackstone griddle be set at?
Setting the right temperature is crucial for grilling steaks to perfection. Preheat your Blackstone griddle to around 450°F to 500°F. A hot cooking surface will create a nice sear on the steak, locking in juices and flavor. Use an infrared thermometer or instant-read thermometer to ensure that the griddle reaches the desired temperature before placing the steaks on it.
It’s important to maintain this high heat throughout the cooking process. This helps to create that caramelized crust on the outside while keeping the interior juicy. If the temperature drops too low when you add the steaks, it can lead to steaming rather than grilling, resulting in less desirable textures.
How long should I grill the steaks?
The cooking time for steaks will depend on the thickness of the cut and your desired level of doneness. As a general rule, a 1-inch thick steak should typically be grilled for about 4-5 minutes on one side before flipping. After flipping, continue to grill for another 3-4 minutes for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer it more well done.
To ensure accuracy, using a meat thermometer can help. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of about 130°F to 135°F, while medium is around 140°F to 145°F. Once the desired temperature is reached, remove the steak from the griddle and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing, allowing the juices to redistribute.
Should I use oil on the griddle when grilling steaks?
Yes, using a small amount of oil on the griddle can enhance the grilling process. Although Blackstone griddles are designed to be non-stick, adding a bit of oil helps to achieve a better sear on the steak. Olive oil, avocado oil, or other high smoke point oils work well. Brush a thin layer of oil onto the griddle just before placing the steaks.
However, avoid over-oiling, as too much oil can lead to flare-ups and can make the steaks greasy. A light coating will help in achieving that caramelized crust without excessive residue or smoke. It also adds flavor to the exterior of the steak.
What should I do after grilling the steaks?
After grilling your steaks, it’s important to let them rest for at least 5-10 minutes before serving. Resting allows the juices inside the steak to redistribute and settle, resulting in a more flavorful and tender cut. If you cut into the steak immediately, those juices will run out, leaving you with a drier texture.
While the steak is resting, you can take a moment to prepare any sides or sauces you plan to serve. This is also a good time to reflect on the grilling process and plan for adjustments next time, whether it’s seasoning, cooking time, or thickness of your steak for even better results in the future.
Can I grill vegetables along with the steaks on a Blackstone griddle?
Absolutely! Grilling vegetables alongside steaks on the Blackstone griddle is a great way to create a complete meal. Many vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, asparagus, and mushrooms, grill beautifully on this type of surface. Just be sure to cut the vegetables into even-sized pieces for consistent cooking.
You can add the vegetables to the griddle while the steak is resting, or you can cook them side by side if space allows. Toss them in a bit of olive oil, along with salt and pepper for seasoning. Keep an eye on the vegetables as they will typically cook faster than the steaks, ensuring everything is ready to serve at the same time.