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How Long to Cook Steak 🥩

Steak is a precision protein — the goal is internal temperature, not minutes. USDA-safe is 145°F with a 3-minute rest, but doneness is a matter of personal target temp.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What internal temperature is medium-rare steak?

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Medium-rare steak is 130–135°F (54–57°C) internal. Pull it from the heat at 125°F and let carryover cooking do the rest during a 5-minute rest.

How long do I cook a 1-inch steak on the grill?

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A 1-inch steak takes 8–10 minutes on a 450°F grill for medium-rare, flipping once at the halfway mark. Rest 5 minutes before cutting.

Should I sear steak before or after cooking?

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Both work. Traditional sear-first gives a strong crust fast. Reverse sear (oven first, then skillet) gives a more even interior — better for thick cuts over 1.5 inches.

How long should steak rest?

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Rest steak for 5 minutes per inch of thickness. This lets the juices redistribute instead of running out when you cut it.