Nothing beats the mouthwatering aroma and unforgettable taste of perfectly grilled steak. Whether you are a backyard griller or an experienced pit master, mastering how to grill steak at 400 degrees is essential for any barbecue chef.
With the right planning, practice, and equipment you can become a true master of the art of grilling – creating delicious steaks with each turn on your trusty charcoal or gas grill. In this blog post, we’ll discuss techniques that will help you produce prime cuts every time. Read on for my tips on how to grill a steak at 400°F like an absolute pro!
How Long to Grill Steak at 400?
When it comes to grilling steak, the time you cook your steak at 400°F will depend on the thickness of your steak.
Generally, you should grill steaks for about 4-6 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 145-160 degrees F (medium rare and medium respectively).
For thicker cuts, you can cook the steak for up to 8 minutes per side.
If you need more help with understanding how to grill a steak at 400°F, check out our guide on “How to Grill the Perfect Steak” for additional tips.
Read Also: how long to grill steak at 350?
Grill Temperatures For Steak:
When it comes to grilling steak, the most important factor is controlling the heat. While technically a steak can be cooked anywhere between 200 and 600 degrees Fahrenheit, we recommend setting your grill up for an even 400°F. This temperature will ensure that you get a nice sear on the outside of your steaks without overcooking them on the inside.
-Internal Temp of Steak:
In order to get perfectly cooked steaks, you’ll need to check the internal temperature of your steak. The USDA recommends that steaks be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F or higher for safety. To do this, use a digital instant-read thermometer and insert it into the thickest part of the meat.
Here are the temperature steak done:
- Rare (still quite red): 120 – 130 degrees
- Medium-Rare (pinkish red): 130 – 140 degrees
- Medium (pink): 140 – 145 degrees
- Medium-Well (a little pink): 145 – 155 degrees
- Well-Done (no pink): 160 degrees
Grill Times Per Type of Steak:
Whether you’re a grill master or just a novice, grilling a steak requires knowledge and technique.
First, start with some type of marinade or seasoning mix to really bring out the flavor of your steak. Grill times will depend on whether you’re using a charcoal or gas grill and the type of steak you’re cooking (beef, pork, salmon and so forth). Generally speaking, it’ll take about seven minutes for rare/medium-rare per side and eight to 10 minutes for medium/well-done per side.
-Filet Mignon:
If you’re looking for a perfect steak dinner, a 1 inch thick filet mignon is an excellent choice – and our Italian deli has the recommendation to match! According to their advice, for a medium-rare steak cook the filet mignon to an internal temperature of 140 degrees – about 4 minutes on each side – while for medium cooking that number rises to 155 degrees – up to 7 minutes per side.
-New York Strip:
When grilling a New York Strip steak that is 1 inch thick, the key to success is proper timing and temperature.
Cook it over medium-heat for 7 minutes per side and make sure to reach an internal temperature of 140 degrees for a medium-rare New York Strip.
If you like your steak cooked medium, add an additional 3 minutes per side and aim for 155 degree internal temperature before removing it from the grill.
-Ribeye:
Ribeyes are an enticing way to kick up your grilling game. Thick in size, these cuts of meat will turn out remarkable results when cooked properly.
The ideal time to cook Ribeyes for medium rare is 8 minutes per side; if you prefer them medium then aim for 10 minutes per side to reach the desired 155°F internal temperature.
-Sirloin:
The 1 1/4 inch thick sirloin should be cooked until the internal temperature is 140 degrees for a medium-rare result. For those who like their steak a bit more well done, grilling it an extra 2 minutes will ensure the Sirloin is ready with an internal temp of 155 degrees.
Overall, grilling steak at 400 degrees is a great way to get the most out of your dinner. Carefully monitor the internal temperature to ensure that you cook your steaks just right and enjoy a delicious meal every time!
How to Make My Steak Juicy and Tender:
1)Marinate your steak:
The key to getting a juicy, tender steak lies in the marinade. To make sure that your steaks turn out tender and flavorful, marinate them at least 30 minutes before grilling. Choose an oil-based marinade with either acidic elements or spices that will infuse flavor into the meat.
For acids like vinegar, citrus juices, or wine , marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours. If using spices and herbs, you can go as long as 8-12 hours for full flavor absorption.
2)Grilling Techniques:
To ensure that your steaks have an even sear and cook evenly, there are a few techniques that you should keep in mind. Always preheat your grill for at least 10 minutes before grilling steaks.
This will allow the 400°F heat to evenly distribute across the cooking grates and get those flavorful sear marks that make a steak taste so good.
When you place your steaks on the grill, try to avoid moving them around too much as this can lead to uneven cooking. Flip the steaks over once and try to avoid pressing down on them with your spatula as this can cause juices to be lost.
3)Pierce with fork (optional):
This technique is an optional one. Some pit masters swear by it, while others disagree with its effectiveness.
This method involves piercing the steak several times before grilling to allow some of the juices and fat to be released during cooking.
This can result in a juicier steak, but also means that you lose some of those flavorful oils and create more smoke.
4)Sear on both sides:
Once your steaks have been cooked to your desired temperature, it’s time to give them a good sear.
To do this, simply turn the heat up to 500°F and quickly flip the steaks over for about 20-30 seconds per side.
This will help get that delicious Maillard reaction which results in a beautiful golden brown crust.
5)Do NOT over-cook:
Once your steaks are done to your desired temperature, the most important thing you can do is not overcook them.
A great steak should be juicy on the inside and perfectly seared on the outside. When you’re grilling steaks at 400°F, you need to watch them carefully – if they stay on the heat too long they will get dry and tough.
So, as soon as your steaks have reached the right internal temperature take them off the heat and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
6)Resting Your Steak:
Once you’ve reached the desired internal temperature of your steak, it’s important to let it rest for 10 minutes before cutting into it. This allows the juices to redistribute evenly throughout the meat and keeps them from running out onto your plate once you cut into it.
So there you have it – my tips on how to grill steak at 400°F like a pro! With these techniques, you’ll be able to create delicious steaks that will
How to Prepare Steaks for the Grill?
1) Take the steak out of the refrigerator:
Before you start grilling, you should always take your steaks out of the fridge and let them come to room temperature. This helps ensure that they will cook evenly and prevents them from getting tough or dry during the cooking process.
2) Pat dry with paper towels:
Before marinating or seasoning your steaks, you should pat them dry with paper towels. This will help the seasonings and marinade stick to the steak better and prevent it from sticking to the grill.
3) Season or marinate:
Once your steaks are at room temperature, it’s time to season or marinate them. For dry seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder , paprika, etc., you only need to let the steak sit for 10-15 minutes before cooking.
4)Brush the steaks with oil of your choice before grilling:
Brushing the steaks with oil before grilling will help them sear and brown nicely on the grill. You can use a good quality olive oil, vegetable oil or even bacon fat for this step.
If you are using a wet marinade such as Worcestershire sauce, oil or butter, soy sauce, honey and herbs , you should let the steak marinate for at least 1 hour before grilling.
How to grill steak at 400 F?
1) Preheat your grill:
Preheat your gas or charcoal grill to 400°F. You want the heat to be evenly distributed throughout the grilling surface and all parts of the steak should be exposed to direct heat.
2) Place steaks on the hot grate:
Once your grill is preheated, place the steaks directly on the hot grate and close the lid. Let them cook for 4-5 minutes per side depending on thickness.
3) Piercing Method: (optional)
To keep your steaks juicy, you can try the piercing method. This serve. Enjoy!
With these techniques, you can now grill delicious steaks at 400°F like a pro! Whether you prefer dry-rubbed or marinated, you’ll be sure to impress with your perfectly cooked steak.
Just remember, don’t forget to take the steaks out of the fridge and let them come to room temperature before grilling, pat them dry with paper towels, season or marinate, brush with oil before grilling and most importantly do not overcook!
4) Flip the steaks:
Once your steaks have been cooking for 4-5 minutes on each side, it’s time to flip them over and cook for another 4-5 minutes per side. This will help get that perfect golden brown crust.
be enjoyed by everyone. Happy grilling!
5) Use a meat thermometer:
Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to check the internal temperature of your steak and ensure that it’s cooked perfectly. The ideal internal temperature for medium-rare steak is 135°F, while medium should be around 145°F.
6) Let it rest:
Once you’ve reached the desired internal temperature of your steak, it’s important to let it rest for 10 minutes before cutting into it. This allows the juices to redistribute evenly throughout the meat and keeps them from running out onto your plate once you cut into it.
7) Slice and Serve:
Finally, when you’re ready to serve, slice your steak against the grain into thin strips and serve with your favorite sides.
And that’s it – my tips on how to grill steak at 400°F like a pro! With these techniques, you’ll be able to create delicious steaks that will impress your family and friends. You can also try different marinades or seasonings to give your steak a unique flavor each time. Enjoy!
Grilling Tips and Tricks at 400°F
Before you fire up your grill, there are a few essential tips that will help you create perfectly grilled steaks every time:
1. Preheat your grill – Preheating your grill is an important step when it comes to grilling steak. Make sure your grill is preheated to 400°F and that the grate is clean before adding your steaks.
2. Season your steaks – To get the most flavor out of your steak, season it generously with salt and pepper (or whatever other spices you prefer). You can also brush on some olive oil or a flavored marinade before grilling.
3. Grill with the lid open – To get that perfect char, keep the lid of your grill open while cooking. This will help you achieve those beautiful grill marks on each side of your steak.
4. Don’t over-flip – Steaks don’t need to be constantly flipped when grilling. Stick to flipping the steak once or twice at most, and let it sit for a couple of minutes before you move onto the next side.
5. Use an instant read thermometer – Using an instant read thermometer is essential for perfect steaks every time. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of your steak and let it sit for several seconds to get an accurate internal temperature.
By following these tips and tricks, you can be sure that your steaks will turn out perfectly grilled every time. Now you have all the tools necessary to grill a juicy, tender steak that’s cooked to perfection. So go ahead and fire up your grill, and get grilling!
Common mistakes when how to grill steak at 400 F?
1. Not preheating the grill – Make sure to preheat your grill to 400°F, or else you won’t get that nice sear and char on your steak.
2. Overcooking – To avoid overcooking, use an instant read thermometer to check the internal temperature of your steak. Medium-rare should be 135°F and medium should be 145°F.
3. Not letting it rest – Resting your steak for about 10 minutes is important for allowing the juices to redistribute evenly throughout the meat. If you cut right into it, all of the juicy goodness will just run out onto your plate.
4. Not seasoning – Don’t forget to season your steak with salt and pepper (or other spices, if you prefer) before grilling. This will give your steak that extra flavor it needs.
5. Flipping too often – You don’t need to constantly flip the steak when grilling. Stick to flipping it once or twice at most, and let it sit for a few minutes before moving onto the next side.
By taking these tips into consideration, you can make sure that your steaks turn out perfectly cooked and full of flavor each time you grill. Bon appetit!
How to grill steak at 400 – Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2-3 lbs of steak (ribeye, sirloin, or strip)
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment:
- A charcoal/gas grill
- A meat thermometer
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to 400°F. Make sure the grates are clean before you begin grilling. If necessary, use a wire brush to scrub off any residue.
2. Rub the steaks with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Place the steaks on the preheated grates and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, flipping once halfway through cooking time.
4. Insert an instant-read thermometer into the center of the steak and check for doneness. Medium rare should read 135°F – 140°F, medium is 145°F – 150°F and well done is 155°F – 160°F.
5. Once the desired temperature is reached, remove the steaks from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
That’s it! You now know how to grill a steak at 400°F like a pro! Enjoy your delicious, perfectly cooked steak.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 466
- Total Carbohydrates: 0g
- Protein: 43.3g
- Fat: 33.1g
- Saturated Fat: 12.9g
- Cholesterol: 131mg
- Sodium: 231mg
Now you’re ready to serve some perfectly cooked steak that will wow your guests. With practice and patience, grilling steaks at 400°F can become second nature. Follow this guide for mouth-watering results every time!
FAQs About How long to grill steak at 400
How long does it take to grill a 1-inch steak on the grill?
It usually takes about 8-10 minutes to grill a 1-inch steak at 400°F. To get the perfect medium-rare, cook it for 4 minutes on each side. If you prefer your steak more well done, increase the cooking time by 2 minutes per side.
How can I tell when my steak is done?
The best way to tell if your steak is done is by using an instant read thermometer. Medium-rare should be 135°F and medium should be 145°F. For more well done steaks, cook them until the internal temperature reaches 155°F.
What’s the best way to get that perfect char?
The best way to get a perfect char on your steak is by grilling with the lid open. This will help you achieve those beautiful grill marks on each side of your steak. Additionally, make sure to preheat your grill and clean the grate before adding your steaks.
What should I do if my steak is too tough?
If your steak is too tough, it likely means that you cooked it for too long. To avoid this, make sure to not overcook the steak and use an instant read thermometer to check the internal temperature. Additionally, try using a marinade or seasoning with salt and pepper before grilling.
How long do you cook a steak on each side?
It usually takes about 4-6 minutes to cook a steak on each side at 400°F. However, the exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your steak and how well done you like it. For medium-rare, cook it for 4 minutes on each side; for medium, 6 minutes per side; and for well done, 8 minutes per side.
Remember to let your steak rest for at least 10 minutes after grilling before cutting into it to ensure that the juices are redistributed evenly throughout the meat. Enjoy!
Do you grill steak with the grill lid open or closed?
For the best results, grill your steak with the lid open. This will help you achieve beautiful char marks and evenly cooked steak. Additionally, the open lid will allow the heat to escape, so your steak won’t get overcooked. However, if you’re cooking thicker cuts of meat, it may be beneficial to close the lid to ensure that they cook evenly.
How hot should the grill be for steak?
The ideal temperature for grilling steak is 400°F. This will help you achieve the perfect char and juicy center for your steak.
Preheat your grill before adding your steaks, and make sure to clean the grate to avoid any sticking.
Additionally, use an instant read thermometer to check the internal temperature of your steak. Medium-rare should be 135°F and medium should be 145°F.
What types of steak are best for grilling?
The best steaks for grilling are the ones with a bit of fat marbling throughout, such as ribeye or sirloin. These cuts are ideal because they have enough fat that will help the steak stay juicy, but not so much that it will cause flare-ups on the grill.
What is the best way to cook a steak?
The best way to cook a steak is by grilling it. Grilling provides the perfect char and flavor, while also ensuring that the steak stays juicy and tender.
Follow the tips listed above for grilling steaks at 400°F: preheat your grill, clean the grate, season with salt and pepper, don’t overcook, and use an instant read thermometer to check the internal temperature. Let your steak rest after grilling for 10 minutes before cutting into it to ensure that the juices are redistributed evenly throughout the meat. Enjoy!
How Do You Know When Your Steak is Done?
The best way to tell when your steak is done is by using an instant read thermometer.
Medium-rare should be 135°F and medium should be 145°F. For more well done steaks, cook them until the internal temperature reaches 155°F.
If you don’t have a thermometer, you can also check for doneness by pressing the steak with your finger. If it is springy to the touch, it is medium-rare; if it’s firm, it’s medium; and if it feels like a soft sponge, it’s well done.
Do you need to flip steaks while grilling?
Yes, it is important to flip your steaks while grilling. This ensures that both sides of the steak cook evenly and get those beautiful char marks. To do so, use tongs or a spatula to carefully turn the steak over after 4-6 minutes (depending on the thickness).
Conclusion
How to grill steak at 400?F is fairly simple. Start by preheating your grill, then clean the grate and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 4-6 minutes per side (depending on the thickness and how well done you like it), then let the steak rest for at least 10 minutes before cutting into it.
Additionally, use an instant read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak to ensure it is cooked to perfection. Enjoy!
As a chef, Tad Johnson has always been fascinated by the way food can bring people together. He loves to experiment with new flavors and techniques in the kitchen, and he takes great pride in serving up delicious dishes that his guests will love.
Tad’s culinary career began at a young age when he started working in his family’s restaurant. He quickly fell in love with the art of cooking, and he knew that this was what he wanted to do for the rest of his life. Since then, Tad has worked at some of the most prestigious restaurants in the country, and he is now considered one of the top chefs in the industry.
When he’s not cooking in the kitchen, Tad enjoys spending time with his wife and two young children. He also likes to stay active by playing basketball and hiking outdoors.