Steak Timer
From rare to well done
Times are per side for a 1-inch thick steak on high heat. Adjust for thickness.
Timers for cooking eggs
Steak rare
2 min
Internal temperature 50-52°C (122-126°F)
Temperature: 50-52°C / 122-126°F
Tip: 1 minute per side on high heat
Steak medium rare
3 min
Internal temperature 55-57°C (131-135°F)
Temperature: 55-57°C / 131-135°F
Tip: 1.5 minutes per side
Steak medium
4 min
Internal temperature 60-63°C (140-145°F)
Temperature: 60-63°C / 140-145°F
Tip: 2 minutes per side
Steak medium well
5 min
Internal temperature 65-68°C (149-154°F)
Temperature: 65-68°C / 149-154°F
Tip: 2.5 minutes per side
Steak well done
6 min
Internal temperature 70°C+ (158°F+)
Temperature: 70°C+ / 158°F+
Tip: 3 minutes per side
Steak Cooking Times
I ruined a lot of expensive steaks before I got this right. The times below are for a 1-inch thick steak that's been sitting out for 30 minutes. If yours is thicker, add time. Thinner, subtract. And honestly? Get a meat thermometer - it takes the guesswork out completely.
| Doneness | Time/Side | Internal Temp | Center Color |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rare | 1-2 min | 125°F / 52°C | Red, cool center |
| Medium Rare | 3-4 min | 130-135°F / 55-57°C | Red, warm center |
| Medium | 4-5 min | 135-145°F / 57-63°C | Pink center |
| Medium Well | 5-6 min | 145-155°F / 63-68°C | Slightly pink |
| Well Done | 6+ min | 155°F+ / 68°C+ | No pink |
How to Cook a Perfect Steak
Bring to Room Temp
Take the steak out of the fridge 30-45 minutes before cooking. A cold center means uneven cooking.
Pat Dry & Season
Pat the steak completely dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper. Dry surface = better sear.
High Heat
Get your pan or grill screaming hot. Add oil with a high smoke point (avocado, vegetable). The steak should sizzle immediately.
Don't Touch It
Place the steak and leave it alone until it's time to flip. Moving it prevents a good crust from forming.
Rest Before Cutting
Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking. This lets the juices redistribute. Skip this and your plate becomes a puddle.
Thickness Adjustments
½ inch
Subtract 1 min per side
1 inch (standard)
Use times as listed
1.5+ inch
Add 1-2 min per side, or finish in oven