5 Simple Steps for Perfectly Grilled Steak on the Homestead

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5 Simple Steps for Perfectly Grilled Steak on the Homestead

Hello friends and welcome back to ASW Homestead! Summer evenings here on the homestead often mean the grill is sizzling, the air is rich with smoky goodness, and the kids are running around while dinner comes together. There’s just something about a perfectly grilled steak that feels like a celebration—whether it’s marking a special occasion or simply soaking in the season. Over the years, we’ve learned that a few simple steps can turn an ordinary cut of meat into a melt-in-your-mouth meal that has everyone coming back for seconds.

Before you fire up your grill, consider these five basics for cooking a chef-worthy steak:

1. Prepare Your Cut

Taste preferences (and prices) may differ among sirloins, ribeyes, T-bones, and more, but preparation is key no matter the cut. Trim steaks to about 1/2-1 inch thick for even cooking, and set the meat out ahead of time to come to room temperature. Placing refrigerator-cold meat on hot grates chills your grill and slows down cooking inside the steak.

2. Add Some Salt

A great steak doesn’t need an elaborate seasoning mix—just a pinch of salt can be all it takes. Salt the steak 30 minutes to a few hours before grilling to help retain moisture and deepen the flavor.

3. Aim for High Heat

Perfect steak isn’t about keeping the flames roaring; it’s about control. Use a two-zone fire—one side hot for direct heat, the other cooler for indirect heat. This lets you sear first, then finish cooking without burning.

4. Sear and Slide

For the perfect sear, grill each side over direct heat for 1-2 minutes. Then, check the temperature and, if needed, move the steak to indirect heat until it reaches your desired doneness.

Temperature guide:

120-125°F: Rare
130-135°F: Medium-rare
140-145°F: Medium
150-155°F: Medium-well
160-175°F: Well done

5. Let Rest

As tempting as it is to dig in right away, give your steak 5-10 minutes to rest. This step helps redistribute the juices and lock in flavor, ensuring every bite is tender and satisfying.

Bringing It to the Table

There you have it, friends—five simple steps to help you grill a steak that’s full of flavor and cooked just the way you like it. Out here on the homestead, it’s not just about the food on the plate, but the memories made while we prepare and share it. So fire up that grill, gather your loved ones, and savor the sights, smells, and tastes of summer. Because a good steak isn’t just a meal—it’s a moment worth enjoying together.

If you try this method for your next cookout, we’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your favorite grilling tips or a photo of your sizzling steak in the comments below, and be sure to check out more homestead recipes here.