Steak lovers know that the perfect steak isn’t just about the cut—it’s all about how it’s cooked. From a cool, red center to a fully cooked bite, everyone has their own favorite level of doneness.
Take a look at the five steaks in the image and ask yourself:
Which one would you choose?
A rare steak is seared on the outside while the center remains cool and bright red.
Internal Temperature: 120–125°F (49–52°C)
Best For:
Tender cuts like filet mignon
Those who enjoy a very soft, juicy texture
Often considered the sweet spot by many chefs, medium-rare steak has a warm, red center with excellent tenderness and flavor.
Internal Temperature: 130–135°F (54–57°C)
Why People Love It:
Juicy and flavorful
Tender with a perfect balance of texture and moisture
Great for ribeye, New York strip, and sirloin
A medium steak has a warm pink center with less juice than medium rare but still remains tender.
Internal Temperature: 140–145°F (60–63°C)
Perfect For:
People who enjoy a little pink without too much redness
A balanced texture and flavor
Only a small hint of pink remains in the center.
Internal Temperature: 150–155°F (66–68°C)
Characteristics:
Firmer texture
Less juicy than medium
Rich, browned flavor
Cooked all the way through with no pink remaining.
Internal Temperature: 160°F (71°C) or higher
Best For:
Those who prefer a fully cooked steak
Pairing with sauces, garlic butter, or mushrooms for extra moisture
1. Choose a Quality Cut
Popular choices include:
Ribeye
New York Strip
Filet Mignon
T-Bone
Sirloin
2. Bring It to Room Temperature
Let the steak rest for 20–30 minutes before cooking for more even results.
3. Season Simply
A generous sprinkle of:
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
is often all you need.
4. Use High Heat
Cook in a hot cast-iron skillet or on a preheated grill to create a flavorful crust.
5. Flip Only Once
Allow the steak to develop a deep, golden-brown sear before turning it.
6. Rest Before Slicing
Let the steak rest for 5–10 minutes after cooking so the juices can redistribute.
Serve your steak with:
Garlic butter
Roasted potatoes
Grilled asparagus
Sautéed mushrooms
Caesar salad
Creamy mashed potatoes
Peppercorn or mushroom sauce
Everyone has their own preference when it comes to steak.
There’s no right or wrong answer—just the way you enjoy it! Share your choice in the comments and see which doneness is the most popular. 