When it comes to outdoor cooking, the Blackstone griddle stands out as a versatile kitchen powerhouse. Weekend grilling doesn’t have to mean only hot dogs and burgers; you can create a gourmet experience right in your backyard. Among the myriad of dishes you can whip up, cooking steak on the Blackstone griddle is one of the most rewarding and delicious options. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how to perfectly cook steak on your Blackstone griddle, detailing everything from preparation to serving.
Why Choose a Blackstone Griddle for Cooking Steak?
The Blackstone griddle offers a unique cooking surface that excels in delivering high, even heat. This results in a beautifully seared crust while retaining the juicy tenderness of the steak. Here’s why you should choose a Blackstone griddle:
- Large Cooking Surface: The spacious cooking area allows you to cook multiple steaks at once, making it perfect for family gatherings or parties.
- Even Heat Distribution: The flat surface ensures that your steak cooks evenly, providing a consistent temperature across the entire cooking area.
Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a novice cook, mastering the Blackstone griddle opens the door to a fantastic culinary experience.
Choosing the Right Steak for Griddling
Not all steaks are created equal. The cut you choose can significantly affect the flavor and tenderness of your final dish. Here are some excellent steak choices for your Blackstone griddle:
Popular Cuts for Griddling
- Ribeye: Known for its marbled fat, ribeye steaks are incredibly flavorful and tender, making them perfect for high-heat cooking on the griddle.
- New York Strip: This cut has a good balance of flavor and tenderness, making it ideal for a quick cook on the griddle.
- Filet Mignon: This luxurious cut is lean and tender, perfect for a special occasion.
- T-Bone or Porterhouse: These cuts offer two types of steak in one and deliver robust flavor. Ideal for those who want a little variety.
Preparation: Getting Your Steak Ready
Before you fire up the griddle, it’s crucial to prepare your steak properly. Here’s how you can do that:
Ingredients Needed
For the best experience, consider the following ingredients:
- Your choice of steak
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder (optional)
- Butter
- Olive oil
- Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme, optional)
Steps for Preparation
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Bring to Room Temperature: Take your steak out of the refrigerator about 30-60 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking. Room temperature steaks will sear better than cold steaks.
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Season Generously: Pat the steak dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a better sear. Next, liberally season both sides with salt and black pepper. Feel free to add garlic powder for extra flavor.
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Apply Oil: Brush a thin layer of olive oil on the steak to aid in browning and to prevent sticking on the griddle.
Setting Up the Blackstone Griddle
Now that your steak is prepped, it’s time to set up your Blackstone griddle for optimal cooking.
Temperature Settings
Heating your griddle to the right temperature is crucial. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Preheat Your Griddle: Turn on your Blackstone griddle and preheat it to medium-high heat (around 450°F to 500°F).
- Check for Even Heat: Before adding your steak, check if the griddle surface is hot enough by sprinkling a few drops of water. They should sizzle and evaporate almost immediately.
Cooking Surface Preparation
After preheating, it’s important to prepare the cooking surface:
- Add Oil: Pour a small amount of oil onto the griddle surface and spread it evenly. This creates a non-stick surface and helps in achieving that perfect sear.
Cooking Your Steak
With your steak seasoned and the griddle prepped, let’s dive into the cooking process.
Griddling Technique
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Searing the Steak: Place your seasoned steak onto the hot griddle. You should hear a satisfying sizzle! Avoid moving the steak around; let it sit for about 3-5 minutes, depending on the thickness of your cut.
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Flipping the Steak: Once a crust forms and it easily releases from the griddle, flip the steak using tongs. Cook the other side for another 3-5 minutes.
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Butter Basting (Optional): If you want to elevate the flavor even more, you can add a couple of tablespoons of butter to the griddle towards the end of cooking. Use a spoon to baste the melted butter over the steak for added richness.
Checking for Doneness
The best way to check for doneness is to use an instant-read meat thermometer. Here are the temperatures you should aim for:
| Doneness | Internal Temperature (°F) |
|---|---|
| Rare | 125°F |
| Medium Rare | 135°F |
| Medium | 145°F |
| Medium Well | 150°F |
| Well Done | 160°F and above |
Resting Your Steak
Once your steak reaches your desired doneness level, it’s crucial to let it rest. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier, more flavorful dish.
- Remove from Griddle: Take the steak off the griddle and place it on a plate or cutting board.
- Cover Loosely: Tent it loosely with aluminum foil to retain heat.
- Rest Time: Let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Serving Your Steak
Now that your steak is perfectly cooked, it’s time to serve it!
Plate Presentation
- Slicing: If you’re serving T-bone or ribeye, slice against the grain to ensure tenderness. For filet mignon, you can serve it whole or sliced.
- Garnishing: Consider garnishing your steak with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added color and flavor.
- Side Dishes: Classic pairings include grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or mashed potatoes.
Pairing the Perfect Wine
A good steak deserves a great wine. Consider serving it with a full-bodied red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec to complement the rich flavors of the meat.
Cleaning Your Blackstone Griddle
Once you have enjoyed your meal, don’t neglect the cleaning process! Proper maintenance of your Blackstone will ensure its longevity.
- Let It Cool: Allow the griddle to cool down slightly but keep it warm enough to easily remove food particles.
- Scrape the Surface: Use a metal spatula or scraper to remove any food residue.
- Wipe Down: Use a paper towel or a soft cloth to wipe down the surface. A little hot water can help if there’s stubborn residue.
- Season the Griddle: Apply a thin layer of vegetable oil to keep the surface seasoned and protected from rust.
Conclusion
Cooking steak on the Blackstone griddle is a delightful experience that can elevate your outdoor cooking game. With careful selection of the steak, proper seasoning, and mastering the griddling technique, you can achieve mouthwatering results every time. Don’t forget to rest your steak, serve it beautifully, and enjoy the accolades! The versatile Blackstone griddle will always be your trusty companion, ready to help you impress family and friends with perfectly cooked steaks. Happy grilling!
What type of steak is best for cooking on a Blackstone griddle?
The best type of steak for cooking on a Blackstone griddle is one that is thick and has good marbling. Cuts like ribeye, New York strip, and filet mignon are ideal as they can achieve a perfect sear while maintaining a juicy interior. These cuts also benefit from the high heat of a griddle, which helps to develop a delicious crust.
Additionally, you can consider using sirloin or T-bone steaks, which are also excellent options for griddle cooking. Regardless of the cut you choose, aim for steaks that are at least 1 inch thick to ensure they cook evenly and retain moisture. Remember to bring your steak to room temperature before cooking for the best results.
How should I season my steak before cooking it on the griddle?
Seasoning your steak properly is essential to enhance its natural flavors. A simple yet effective way to season your steak is by using a generous amount of salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Apply the seasoning both on the surface and along the sides of the steak for even flavor distribution. Let the seasoned steak rest for about 30 minutes before cooking to allow the salt to penetrate the meat.
For added depth of flavor, you can experiment with other seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika. Marinating the steak for a few hours before cooking can also intensify the flavors. Just be sure not to overpower the steak; you want the seasoning to complement, not overwhelm, the meat’s natural taste.
What temperature should I set my Blackstone griddle for cooking steak?
For cooking steak on a Blackstone griddle, you should aim for a temperature of around 450°F to 500°F. This high heat is crucial for achieving a good sear, which locks in the juices and builds a flavorful crust. Preheating your griddle for at least 10–15 minutes will ensure it reaches the desired temperature before placing the steak on the cooking surface.
If your griddle has different cooking zones, consider using a hotter area for searing and a slightly cooler area for finishing the cooking process. This method allows you to achieve that perfect crust while controlling the internal temperature more effectively.
How long should I cook my steak on the Blackstone griddle?
The cooking time for steak on a Blackstone griddle can vary depending on the steak’s thickness and your desired level of doneness. As a general guideline, for a 1-inch thick steak, you can cook it for about 4 to 5 minutes on the first side, then flip it and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes for medium-rare. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure your steak reaches the desired internal temperature.
For medium doneness, you may need to add an extra minute or two on each side. Always let the steak rest for about 5 minutes after cooking; this allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and flavorful bite. Remember to adjust cooking time based on your specific preferences and steak thickness for the best results.
Can I cook vegetables alongside my steak on the griddle?
Yes, you can definitely cook vegetables alongside your steak on the Blackstone griddle! This cooking method is efficient and allows you to create a complete meal all in one place. Vegetables like bell peppers, onions, zucchini, and mushrooms complement steak well and can be grilled to add flavor and texture. Simply slice the vegetables and season them with olive oil, salt, and pepper before adding them to the griddle.
When cooking vegetables, it’s best to add them to the griddle after the steak has been seared, as they generally cook faster than the steak. You can also use the drippings from the steak to enhance the flavor of the vegetables, creating a synergistic dish that marries the tastes together beautifully.
How do I know when my steak is done cooking?
To determine when your steak is done cooking, the most reliable method is to use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of around 130°F to 135°F. For medium, look for temperatures between 140°F and 145°F, and for well-done, you should reach around 160°F or higher. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak for an accurate reading.
Another way to check doneness is by using the finger test, which involves comparing the firmness of the steak to various parts of your hand. As your steak cooks, it becomes firmer, so you can use this method as a guideline. However, using a thermometer is the most accurate and foolproof way to ensure your steak is cooked to your preferred doneness.