Steak Cooking Temperatures Guide

Achieve Perfect Steaks Every Time

At Pillsbury, we believe in creating delicious and memorable moments around the dinner table, and nothing draws family together quite like a perfectly cooked steak. Whether you prefer it rare, medium, or well-done with no pink in sight, understanding how to precisely control the steak cooking temperature is key to mastering the art of this meal. This comprehensive guide will help both beginner chefs and seasoned home cooks learn how long to cook steak based on the desired doneness while maintaining ideal flavor and texture. Plus, we’ll walk you through the correct internal steak temperatures to ensure each bite is as safe as it is satisfying.

Why Does Steak Cooking Temperature Matter?

Cooking steak to the right internal temperature matters for two important reasons: safety and taste. The USDA sets specific guidelines for beef preparation to help prevent foodborne illnesses caused by harmful bacteria. But beyond safety, reaching just the right temperature is essential for getting that perfect, tender texture. Overcooking can result in a dry, tough steak, while undercooking might leave you with raw sections that diminish flavor and pose risks.

Grilling, pan-searing, or oven baked? No matter your cooking method, this guide paired with a reliable food thermometer will steer you toward steak perfection with confidence and ease.

Safe and Recommended Steak Temperatures

Here’s a breakdown of steak cooking temperatures and doneness levels. These are based on USDA guidelines and recommendations for safely enjoying your steak:

Rare (Cool Red Center): 120-130°F Not USDA-recommended for safety
Medium-Rare (Warm Red Center): 130-135°F
Medium (Warm Pink Center): 135-145°F
(145°F is the minimum safe internal temperature according to the USDA)
Medium-Well (Slight Pink Center): 145-155°F
Well-Done (Little to No Pink): 155°F+

The USDA suggests a minimal internal temperature of 145°F with a rest time of 3 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. While temperatures below this guideline—such as rare or medium-rare—can provide a juicy, tender experience, it's essential that you know it is not recommended as there may be safety risks involved.

Keep a trusty food thermometer on hand to avoid guesswork allowing you to check these temperatures accurately. Insert it into the thickest part of the steak, steering clear of bone, fat, or gristle to get an accurate reading.

How Long to Cook Steak

Timing will vary depending on both the thickness of your steak, the cut you've chosen, and the level of doneness you're aiming for. Use this guide for a 1-inch-thick bone free steak cooked on medium-high heat with a skillet or grill.

Medium-Rare (130-135°F): 4-5 minutes per side
Medium (135-145°F): 6-7 minutes per side
(Remember, the USDA advises a minimum of 145°F for a safe internal temperature)
Medium-Well (145-155°F): 7-8 minutes per side
Well-Done (155°F+): 9+ minutes per side

Remember to always double-check with a meat thermometer to ensure the correct internal temperature. If your steak is thicker than 1 inch, adjust cooking times accordingly. And most importantly, once your steak reaches the desired temperature, don’t forget to let it rest for at least 3 minutes.

Cooking Methods for Steak

Achieving the right temperature is easier when you choose the best cooking technique. Whether you prefer the classic sear or the smoky goodness from the grill, these methods will help you master steak preparation in no time.

Sear and Finish in the Oven

For steakhouse-level steaks, try this combination. First, sear the steak on a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side to lock in those succulent juices. Then, transfer it to a preheated oven at 400°F and cook until the steak reaches your desired internal temperature. Be sure the pan you're using on the stove is oven safe so it can immediately transfer into the oven after you've seared the steak.

Grill

There's a reason grilling is a steak fan’s go-to. Preheat your grill to 450-500°F and cook according to the doneness guide above. You'll find that the slight char from grilling adds a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible with steak.

Pan-Fry

This is another excellent method to give your steak crispy edges and tender insides. Use butter and fresh herbs like rosemary and garlic for added flavor. While using the cook times above, you'll want to spoon butter over the top of your steak occasionally as it cooks.

Oven

Oven baking steak is best when you opt for a wet marinade and want to help yourself with an easy clean up method. Preheat your oven to 400°F and place your steak on an oven safe pan with high walls to avoid spillage. Bake until the steak reaches your desired internal temperature as outlined above. You may opt to flip the steak half-way through baking.

Steak Dinner Inspiration

Main Steak Dishes

Grilled steak on a barbecue grill with metal tongs, showing grill marks and slight charring.

Classic Grilled Marinated Steak recipes are easy to find, but this one is unbeatable! With flavor and simplicity (along with this guide) your steaks will grill to perfection every time.

Sliced steak with bell peppers and onions on a sheet pan, served with tortillas, lime wedges, and salsa on the side.

Sheet Pan Fajitas provide an easy, all-in-one dinner solution. We’ve created the perfect balance of protein and veggies, all roasted to perfection on the same tray. Simple, delicious, and minimal clean-up—what’s not to love?

Two skewers with grilled shrimp and beef cubes, garnished with sesame seeds and a slice of lime.

Beef and Shrimp Kabobs offer a simple and scrumptious surf and turf option your family will love to disassemble and devour.

Pillsbury and Steak

Sliced savory pastry braid filled with meat and vegetables on a white plate, garnished with sliced tomatoes and herbs.

Cheesesteak Crescent Braids literally weave together a delicious combination of savory steak and flaky dough. The only challenge you'll find with this dish is not serving yourself the largest slice while no one's looking!

Beef and cheese melt with green peppers and mushrooms on foil tray, served on buns on square plates.

Sheet Pan Philly Cheesesteaks are the fastest and easiest way to serve up this hearty classic. Using Grands Buttermilk Biscuits your sheet pan steak is simply scooped onto a fresh biscuit bun.

Side Dishes for Steak

A bowl of mashed potatoes topped with melting butter and a sprinkle of black pepper, placed on a table.

Homemade Mashed Potatoes offer a delicious and classic side to elevate your perfectly cooked steaks.

Roasted asparagus spears sprinkled with salt and pepper on a white plate, drizzled with olive oil.

Lemon Pepper Asparagus is another classic pairing! This recipe is bright and simple so that even the kiddos will enjoy it.

Baked pastry swirls topped with herbs on a tray, with small bowls of dipping sauce at the back.

Garlic Butter Crescent Pinwheels offer a grabbable side dish perfect for sopping up any juices or sauces that linger on your plate.

French fries and a cup of tomato sauce placed on a white plate.

Air Fryer French Fries are an undeniably popular side that goes with just about anything, and just about everybody loves French fries.

Mastering the perfect steak is all about reaching the perfect cooking temperature and it takes practice. But, with the right guidance and tools—like your food thermometer and this step-by-step guide—you’re well on your way to epic mealtime moments. By following USDA safety recommendations and learning how to balance flavor and doneness, you’ll soon be cooking steaks that impress family and friends alike.