There are many ways to grill a steak, but what is the best temperature to grill a steak? There are a few things to consider when trying to answer this question. The first is the type of steak you are grilling. The second is the thickness of the steak. And finally, you need to consider your own preferences for how you like your steak cooked.
What is the best temperature to grill steak?
Generally speaking, grilling at a low temperature of 250 – 275 degrees to high temperatures of 450°F to 530°F which is best for thicker cuts of steak. But, you can grill your meat at whatever temperature you prefer based on how thick the steak is and how well done you like your steaks.
Steps to Cook a steak at optimal temperature of 450 to 530 F
- 1. Be sure to have your grill or stove ready for grilling at a medium heat before starting.
- 2. Pat the steak dry with paper towels and season it with salt and pepper on both sides, about a quarter of a teaspoon of each should do the trick. It is best to let your steak rest out of the fridge for about 10 or 15 minutes before grilling.
- 3. Place the steak on the grill and cover it with a lid to lock in moisture and flavor.
- 4. Grill each side of the steak for 4-5 minutes (for medium rare) or 8-10 minutes per side (for well done).
- 5. Once you are done with cooking the meat, place it on a plate or cutting board to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing into it.
- 6. Finally, enjoy your perfectly grilled steak!
What is the steak temperature medium rare
For a steak that is medium rare, you can grill it somewhere between 130°F and 170°F. The exact temperature will depend on the thickness of the meat as well as your personal preferences for how done you like your steak cooked.
Pork grill temperature: What temperature to grill pork?
According to the United States Department of Agriculture, you should grill pork at temperatures between 145°F and 160°F. The exact temperature will vary depending on the thickness of your meat as well as your personal preferences for how well done you like it cooked.
Flank steak grill temperature
Flank steak should be grilled at a medium high heat and between 445°F and 575°F. The exact temperature will depend on the thickness of your meat as well as personal preferences for how done you like it cooked.
Steak temperature before grilling to grill steak
It is best to pat your steak dry with paper towels, have it room temperature, season it with salt and pepper on both sides, about a quarter of a teaspoon of each should do the trick. You can let your steak rest out of the fridge for 10 or 15 minutes before grilling if you would like.
Factors that determine the temperature to grill
Type of Steak
The first thing to consider when trying to determine the best temperature to grill steak is the type of steak. For instance, New York strip steak is a good choice for grilling. It has a nice marbling throughout that ensures it will remain juicy and full of flavor after cooking. Other good choices for grilling are top sirloin, fillet mignon, or tenderloin.
Thickness of the Steak
The second consideration when choosing the best temperature to grill steak is the thickness of your steak. For instance, if you are grilling a thin cut of meat, then it does not matter what temperature you use because it will not take long to cook. However, if you are grilling a thicker cut of meat, such as one inch or more, then it is best to grill at a low heat between 250-275 degrees Fahrenheit.
Personal Preference
Lastly, the best temperature for grilling steak depends on your personal preference for how you like your steak cooked. For instance, if you like your steaks cooked medium rare, then a good temperature to grill your meat is 250 degrees Fahrenheit. However, if you prefer your steak well done then 275-300 degrees Fahrenheit will work best for grilling.

Alex Kinoti is a New Mexico native with 6 years of professional barbecuing experience and three years working at Home Depot. He is the editor here at Lucky Bull Grill and when he is not testing and reviewing grills, smokies, and other kitchen appliances, he runs his own hotel consulting business. Having graduated from the Culinary Institue of America, he spends a significant amount of time providing best-in-class advisory to clients looking to set up hotel businesses. At home, Alex likes spending time with his small family of two boys and a loving wife. With his extensive experience as a chef and as a top-notch hotel industry consultant, Alex brings his knowledge and skills to provide readers with the best guides and reviews of the best grills and smokers.
You can reach Alex for consulting services using his email, alex@luckybullgrill.com.