Unlock the secret to mouthwatering tenderloin steak: how to pan fry perfection

The tenderloin is the most tender and flavorful cut of steak, and pan-frying it is a great way to cook it quickly and easily. With the right technique, you can create a restaurant-quality steak in the comfort of your own home.

Choosing the Perfect Tenderloin Steak

The first step to pan-frying a tenderloin steak is to choose the right cut of meat. Look for a steak that is at least 1 inch thick and has a good amount of marbling. The marbling will help to keep the steak juicy and flavorful.

Seasoning the Steak

Once you have chosen your steak, it’s time to season it. You can use a simple salt and pepper rub, or you can get more creative with your seasonings. Some popular options include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and chili powder.

Preparing the Pan

The type of pan you use will also affect the outcome of your steak. A cast-iron skillet is the best choice because it retains heat evenly and sears the steak perfectly. If you don’t have a cast-iron skillet, you can use a heavy-bottomed stainless steel skillet.

Searing the Steak

Once your pan is hot, it’s time to sear the steak. Place the steak in the pan and cook it for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it is browned and crusty.

Cooking the Steak

After the steak is seared, it’s time to cook it to your desired doneness. For a medium-rare steak, cook it for 5-7 minutes per side. For a medium steak, cook it for 7-9 minutes per side. For a well-done steak, cook it for 9-11 minutes per side.

Resting the Steak

Once the steak is cooked, it’s important to let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite.

Serving the Steak

Serve the steak with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.

Tips for Pan-Frying Tenderloin Steak

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the steak is cooked to your desired doneness.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan. If you are cooking multiple steaks, cook them in batches.
• Let the steak rest before slicing and serving. This will help to keep the juices in the steak.
• Experiment with different seasonings to find your favorite combination.

Questions We Hear a Lot

1. What is the best way to season a tenderloin steak?

There are many different ways to season a tenderloin steak. Some popular options include salt and pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and chili powder. You can also get creative with your seasonings and use a combination of different spices.

2. What is the best way to cook a tenderloin steak in a pan?

To pan-fry a tenderloin steak, first heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the steak and cook it for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it is browned and crusty. Then, reduce the heat to medium and cook the steak for 5-7 minutes per side for a medium-rare steak, 7-9 minutes per side for a medium steak, or 9-11 minutes per side for a well-done steak.

3. How long should I let a tenderloin steak rest before slicing and serving?

It is important to let a tenderloin steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite.