The Best Grilled Steak Ever!

There’s something primal about the sizzle of a steak hitting a hot grill. I remember summer evenings as a kid, the smoky aroma drifting from our backyard where my dad, a self-proclaimed grill master, would preside over the flames. The anticipation was palpable, knowing that a perfectly charred, juicy steak was soon to grace our plates. He guarded his grilling secrets closely, but this recipe, honed over years, captures that same magic – that unmistakable taste of summer, family, and the pure joy of a perfectly cooked steak.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Total Time: 33 minutes
• Servings: 2
• Dietary Type: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free (depending on seasonings)

Ingredients

• 2 (14-16 ounce) porterhouse steaks (about 1-inch thick) or (14-16 ounce) beef t-bone steaks (about 1-inch thick)
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• ½ tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• ½ tablespoon all purpose Greek seasoning, no salt included, I recommend Cavendar’s
• ⅓ tablespoon southern flavor charbroil seasoning, available from www.southernflavor.com

Equipment Needed

• Shallow pan
• Charcoal grill (gas grill acceptable)

Instructions

1. First, prepare the marinade. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, Greek seasoning, and southern flavor charbroil seasoning. Ensure the ingredients are well combined.
2. Place the steaks in a shallow pan. Pour the prepared marinade evenly over both sides of the steaks, turning to coat them thoroughly.
3. Allow the steaks to rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, and up to an hour. This step is crucial! Letting the meat come closer to room temperature allows it to relax, resulting in a more tender and juicy final product, and enables better absorption of the marinade.
4. While the steaks are resting, prepare your grill. If using a charcoal grill, pile the desired amount of charcoal in the bottom section. Squirt with lighter fluid according to the lighter fluid’s instructions. After waiting a couple of minutes, light the charcoal.
5. Let the coals heat until they reach a medium-high temperature. This should take approximately 20-25 minutes. The coals are ready when they are mostly covered in a gray ash. Spread the coals evenly across the bottom of the grill.
6. Place the marinated steaks on the preheated grill.
7. Cook for approximately 4 minutes on each side for a medium or medium-rare steak, if your steaks are about 1 to 1 1/2 inches thick. Adjust cooking time according to your preferred level of doneness:
   • For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C).
   • For medium, aim for an internal temperature of 135-145°F (57-63°C).
   • For medium-well, aim for an internal temperature of 145-155°F (63-68°C).
   • For well-done, aim for an internal temperature of 155°F+ (68°C+).
8. Use a meat thermometer to accurately check the internal temperature of the steak. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding bone.
9. Once cooked to your liking, remove the steaks from the grill and let them rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, ensuring maximum tenderness and flavor.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Don’t skip the room temperature rest: Bringing the steak to room temperature before grilling is key for even cooking.
• Pat the steak dry: Before marinating, pat the steak dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade adhere better and promotes a better sear on the grill.
• Use a meat thermometer: A reliable meat thermometer is your best friend when grilling steak. It eliminates guesswork and ensures you cook the steak to your desired doneness every time.
• Don’t overcrowd the grill: Give the steaks enough space on the grill so they can sear properly. Overcrowding the grill lowers the temperature and can result in steamed, rather than seared, steak.
• Let the steak rest: Resting the steak after grilling is just as important as the cooking process. It allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
• Smoky flavor boost: For an even smokier flavor, add hickory chips to the charcoal grill during the last few minutes of cooking and cover the grill. Soak the hickory chips in water for about 30 minutes before adding them to the coals to prevent them from burning too quickly.
• Marinade Adjustment: If you cannot locate the specific Southern Flavor Charbroil Seasoning, consider using a combination of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a touch of brown sugar to mimic the flavor profile.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the grilled steak immediately after resting. Pair it with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or grilled asparagus.

Leftover steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm the steak in a skillet over medium-low heat, or in a low oven (around 250°F or 120°C) to prevent it from drying out. Slicing the steak before reheating can help it warm more evenly. You can also use leftover steak in salads, sandwiches, or stir-fries.

It is generally not recommended to leave cooked steak at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	1121.9 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	819 kcal	73%
Total Fat	91.1 g	140%
Saturated Fat	36.2 g	181%
Cholesterol	269.9 mg	89%
Sodium	222.7 mg	9%
Total Carbohydrate	1 g	0%
Dietary Fiber	0.3 g	1%
Sugars	0.1 g	0%
Protein	69.7 g	139%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and cooking methods.

Variations & Substitutions

• Different Cuts of Steak: While the recipe calls for porterhouse or T-bone steaks, you can adapt it for other cuts like ribeye, New York strip, or flank steak. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Herb Butter Topping: For an extra layer of flavor, top the cooked steak with a pat of herb butter made with softened butter, chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, and rosemary), and a pinch of garlic.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a touch of heat.
• Citrus Infusion: Incorporate a tablespoon of fresh lemon or lime juice into the marinade for a brighter flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Portobello mushrooms, marinated in the same mixture, make a fantastic vegetarian alternative on the grill.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a gas grill instead of a charcoal grill?
A: While a charcoal grill is recommended for the best smoky flavor, a gas grill can be used. Preheat the gas grill to medium-high heat before cooking the steaks.

Q: How do I know when the steak is done?
A: The best way to determine doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding bone, and cook to your desired internal temperature.

Q: Can I marinate the steak for longer than an hour?
A: While a 30-minute to 1-hour marinade is sufficient, you can marinate the steak in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours. Longer marinating times may result in the steak becoming too soft.

Q: What if I don’t have Southern Flavor Charbroil Seasoning?
A: Substitute with a blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a touch of brown sugar to approximate the flavor.

Q: How do I prevent the steak from sticking to the grill?
A: Make sure the grill grates are clean and well-oiled before placing the steaks on the grill. You can also lightly oil the steaks themselves.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for the best-grilled steak is more than just a set of instructions; it’s a gateway to creating memorable meals and sharing moments with loved ones. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the variations and substitutions to tailor the recipe to your own taste preferences. Fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the unparalleled joy of a perfectly grilled steak. I encourage you to try this recipe and leave a comment below to share your feedback or any variations you might have tried. Pair it with a robust red wine for an unforgettable dining experience!