Medium Rare Steak Temp: How to Cook a Juicy Steak Perfectly Every Time

Medium rare steak temp is the key to a juicy, flavorful steak that melts in your mouth. If you’ve ever wondered how to cook a steak just right, you’re in the right place! Cooking a steak to medium rare is super easy, and I’m going to walk you through everything you need to know. From the exact temperature to simple tips and tricks, this guide will make you a steak-cooking pro in no time. Plus, I’ll share some fun facts and answer common questions to help you nail that perfect steak every time.

So, let’s dive in and learn how to cook a steak to the perfect medium rare steak temp!

What Is Medium Rare Steak Temp?

First, let’s talk about what “medium rare” means. Medium rare is when the steak is cooked so the outside is nicely browned, but the inside stays pink and juicy. Therefore, it’s one of the most popular ways to enjoy steak because it’s tender and full of flavor.

The medium rare steak temp is 130–135°F (54–57°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. For example, you’ll want to check the temperature in the thickest part of the steak to make sure it’s just right. However, don’t worry if you don’t have a thermometer yet—I’ll share other ways to check doneness later!

Why Choose Medium Rare?

Why do so many people love medium rare steak? Well, for starters, it’s the perfect balance of juicy and cooked. The center is warm and pink, so it’s not too raw, but it’s also not tough or dry like overcooked steak. Moreover, medium rare keeps the steak’s natural flavors and tenderness, which makes every bite delicious.

Here are a few reasons why medium rare is awesome:

• Juicy texture: The steak stays moist because it’s not cooked too long.
• Great flavor: The pink center holds onto the steak’s natural taste.
• Tender bite: Medium rare steak is soft and easy to chew.

So, if you want a steak that’s full of flavor and not tough, medium rare is the way to go!

Tools You Need for Cooking Steak

Before we get into cooking, let’s talk about the tools you’ll need. Don’t worry, you probably already have most of these at home! Here’s what you’ll need to hit that perfect medium rare steak temp:

• A good pan or grill: A cast-iron skillet or a grill works best for a nice crust.
• Tongs: These help you flip the steak without poking holes in it.
• Meat thermometer: This is the easiest way to check the medium rare steak temp.
• Timer: If you don’t have a thermometer, timing your cooking helps.
• Butter and oil: These add flavor and help with cooking.
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings make the steak taste amazing.

If you’re new to cooking steak, I recommend getting a meat thermometer. It takes the guesswork out of hitting the right medium rare steak temp. You can find affordable ones online, like this digital meat thermometer from ThermoPro.

How to Cook a Steak to Medium Rare Temp

Now, let’s get to the fun part—cooking the steak! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a perfect medium rare steak in no time.

Step 1: Pick the Right Steak

First, choose a good cut of steak. Some great options for medium rare include:

• Ribeye: This cut has lots of marbling (fat) for extra flavor.
• Sirloin: A leaner option that’s still juicy and tender.
• Filet Mignon: Super tender and perfect for special occasions.

For example, ribeye is my go-to because it’s so flavorful. However, any of these cuts will work great for medium rare.

Step 2: Prep the Steak

Before cooking, take the steak out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps it cook evenly. Next, pat the steak dry with paper towels. Then, season both sides generously with salt and pepper. For instance, I like to use coarse sea salt because it sticks well to the meat.

Step 3: Heat the Pan or Grill

Now, heat your pan or grill over high heat. Add a little oil (like vegetable or avocado oil) to the pan. You want it to be super hot so the steak gets a nice crust. For example, a cast-iron skillet is awesome because it holds heat really well. If you’re using a grill, make sure the grates are clean and hot.

Step 4: Cook the Steak

Place the steak in the hot pan or on the grill. Let it sear for about 3–4 minutes on one side without moving it. This creates a yummy crust. Then, flip the steak and cook for another 2–3 minutes. For extra flavor, add a tablespoon of butter to the pan and baste the steak by spooning the melted butter over it.

Step 5: Check the Medium Rare Steak Temp

Here’s where the medium rare steak temp comes in! Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Stick it into the thickest part of the steak. You’re aiming for 130–135°F (54–57°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can use the “finger test” (I’ll explain this later).

Step 6: Rest the Steak

Once the steak hits the right temp, take it off the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. This step is super important because it lets the juices settle, so your steak stays juicy. For example, just cover it loosely with foil and wait a bit before cutting into it.

Step 7: Enjoy!

Finally, slice your steak against the grain (this makes it easier to chew) and serve it up! You can pair it with mashed potatoes, a salad, or your favorite veggies.

How to Check Medium Rare Steak Temp Without a Thermometer

What if you don’t have a meat thermometer? No problem! You can use the finger test to check if your steak is medium rare. Here’s how it works:

1. Touch your thumb to your index finger and press the fleshy part of your thumb with your other hand. This feels like a rare steak—super soft.
2. Now, touch your thumb to your middle finger. Press the same spot. This is how a medium rare steak feels—soft but a little firmer.
3. Compare this to how your steak feels when you press it with your finger.

Additionally, you can time your cooking. For a 1-inch thick steak, sear it for about 3–4 minutes per side on high heat to reach medium rare steak temp. However, timing depends on your pan, stove, and steak thickness, so the finger test is a great backup.

Tips for Nailing Medium Rare Steak Temp Every Time

Want to make sure your steak is perfect? Here are some extra tips to help you hit that medium rare steak temp:

• Use high heat: A hot pan or grill gives you a nice crust while keeping the inside pink.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook one or two steaks at a time so they sear properly.
• Season early: Salt the steak at least 30 minutes before cooking to lock in flavor.
• Let it rest: Resting the steak keeps it juicy, so don’t skip this step!
• Practice: The more you cook steak, the better you’ll get at hitting the right temp.

For more tips, check out this steak cooking guide from Serious Eats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though cooking steak is easy, there are a few mistakes that can mess up your medium rare steak temp. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Cooking a cold steak: A steak straight from the fridge won’t cook evenly. Therefore, let it sit out for 30 minutes first.
• Flipping too often: Flip the steak only once to get a good crust.
• Cutting too soon: If you slice the steak right away, the juices will spill out. So, let it rest!
• Using low heat: A low temperature won’t give you that nice sear.

By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll be much closer to a perfect medium rare steak.

Different Cooking Methods for Medium Rare Steak

You can cook a steak to medium rare steak temp in lots of ways. Here are a few popular methods:

Pan-Seared Steak

This is the method we talked about earlier. A hot cast-iron skillet gives you a great crust and juicy center. For example, it’s quick and works well in any kitchen.

Grilled Steak

Grilling adds a smoky flavor that’s perfect for summer. Preheat your grill to high heat (about 450°F) and cook for 3–4 minutes per side. Check the medium rare steak temp with a thermometer.

Sous Vide Steak

Sous vide is a fancy method where you cook the steak in a water bath at a precise temperature (like 130°F for medium rare). Then, you sear it quickly in a pan. This method guarantees the perfect medium rare steak temp. Check out this sous vide guide from Anova.

Oven-Broiled Steak

If you don’t have a grill or skillet, you can use your oven’s broiler. Place the steak on a broiler pan, cook it about 4 inches from the heat, and flip it halfway through. It takes about 5–7 minutes total.

Each method works great, so choose the one that fits your kitchen and style!

Steak Doneness Chart

To help you understand medium rare steak temp better, here’s a quick chart of steak doneness levels:

Doneness	Temperature	Description
Rare	120–125°F (49–52°C)	Cool, red center
Medium Rare	130–135°F (54–57°C)	Warm, pink center
Medium	140–145°F (60–63°C)	Pink center, less juicy
Medium Well	150–155°F (66–68°C)	Slightly pink, firmer
Well Done	160°F+ (71°C+)	No pink, tough and dry

As you can see, medium rare is the sweet spot for most steak lovers!

Fun Facts About Medium Rare Steak

Did you know these cool facts about steak and medium rare steak temp?

• Medium rare is the most popular steak doneness in restaurants, according to a survey by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association.
• The pink color in medium rare steak comes from myoglobin, a protein in the meat, not blood!
• Cooking steak to medium rare uses less energy than cooking it well done, so it’s eco-friendly.

FAQs About Medium Rare Steak Temp

Here are some common questions people ask about cooking steak to the perfect medium rare steak temp:

What is the exact medium rare steak temp?

The ideal medium rare steak temp is 130–135°F (54–57°C) when measured with a meat thermometer in the thickest part of the steak.

How long does it take to cook a steak to medium rare?

For a 1-inch thick steak, it takes about 3–4 minutes per side on high heat. However, timing depends on the heat and thickness, so a thermometer is best.

Can I cook a medium rare steak without a thermometer?

Yes! Use the finger test or time your cooking (about 3–4 minutes per side for a 1-inch steak). Check the earlier section for details.

Is medium rare steak safe to eat?

Yes, medium rare steak is safe as long as it’s handled and cooked properly. The USDA says beef is safe at 145°F, but medium rare is fine for most people if the meat is fresh.

What’s the best cut for medium rare steak?

Ribeye, sirloin, and filet mignon are great choices because they stay juicy and tender at medium rare steak temp.

Why does my steak turn out tough?

If your steak is tough, it might be overcooked, or you didn’t let it rest. Always rest the steak for 5 minutes after cooking to keep it juicy.

Conclusion

Cooking a steak to the perfect medium rare steak temp is easier than you think! With a simple thermometer, a hot pan, and a few minutes, you can make a juicy, flavorful steak that everyone will love. Just remember to aim for 130–135°F (54–57°C), let the steak rest, and season it well. Whether you’re grilling, pan-searing, or trying sous vide, these tips will help you get it right every time.

So, grab a steak, fire up your pan or grill, and enjoy a delicious medium rare masterpiece! Happy cooking!