Cooking the Perfect Medium Well Steak: Time, Temperature & Tips

Cooking the perfect medium well steak is all about finding the right balance between a nicely browned outside and a firm, flavorful center. A medium well steak has only a small amount of pink remaining, making it a popular choice for people who prefer their steak more thoroughly cooked.

The good news is that you do not need a professional kitchen or expensive equipment to cook a great medium well steak. With the right heat, cooking time, and a reliable meat thermometer, you can get consistent results at home.

Whether you are cooking steak in a skillet, on a grill, or under a broiler, understanding temperature is the key. Once you know what to look for, preparing a juicy medium well steak becomes much easier.

What Is a Medium Well Steak?

A medium well steak is cooked more thoroughly than a medium steak but still retains some moisture and tenderness. The center is usually mostly brown or gray with a small amount of pink.

The exact appearance can vary depending on the cut of steak and cooking method. A thick steak may show a little more color in the center even when it has reached the correct internal temperature.

Medium well is often chosen by people who enjoy a firmer texture but do not want their steak completely well done. It offers more doneness while still allowing some of the steak’s natural juices and flavor to remain.

The most reliable way to identify medium well doneness is by checking the internal temperature rather than judging the steak by its color alone.

Medium Well vs. Other Steak Doneness Levels

Steak doneness ranges from very rare to well done. Each level has a different internal temperature and texture.

Rare steak has a cool, red center, while medium rare has a warm red-to-pink center. Medium steak has more pink and a firmer texture.

Medium well has only a small amount of pink and is noticeably firmer. Well-done steak has little to no pink and is cooked to a higher internal temperature.

These differences can be subtle, especially when you are cooking steak for the first time. A thermometer takes much of the guesswork out of the process.

The Best Steaks for Cooking Medium Well

Almost any suitable steak can be cooked medium well, but some cuts handle this level of doneness better than others.

Ribeye is a popular option because it contains plenty of marbling. The fat melts as the steak cooks, helping the meat remain flavorful and relatively juicy.

New York strip is another excellent choice. It has a good balance of tenderness and beefy flavor and works well in a skillet or on a grill.

Sirloin is usually leaner and more affordable. It can make a good medium well steak when cooked carefully and not left on the heat longer than necessary.

Tenderloin or filet mignon can also be cooked medium well, although many people prefer these naturally tender cuts at lower levels of doneness.

For medium well cooking, a steak with some natural fat and good thickness can be more forgiving than a very thin, lean cut.

Preparing the Steak Before Cooking

Good steak starts with proper preparation. Take the steak out of its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels.

Removing excess moisture helps the surface brown more effectively. A dry surface is particularly important when using a skillet because moisture can interfere with the development of a deep crust.

Season the steak generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. You can also add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or dried herbs if you prefer more seasoning.

For a simple steak, however, salt and pepper are often enough. A good-quality steak does not need a complicated seasoning mixture to taste delicious.

Allow the steak to sit for a short period while you prepare your cooking equipment. If you choose to bring it closer to room temperature, do not leave raw meat sitting out for an extended period.

How Thick Should a Steak Be?

Steak thickness has a major effect on cooking time. A steak that is one inch thick will cook much faster than a steak that is two inches thick.

Thicker steaks are often easier to cook evenly because you have more time to develop a crust before the center becomes overcooked.

Very thin steaks can quickly move from medium to medium well or well done. They require closer attention and shorter cooking times.

If you are learning how to cook medium well steak, a steak around 1 to 1½ inches thick is a practical choice. It gives you enough time to brown the outside while monitoring the center.

Remember that cooking time is only a guideline. Thickness, starting temperature, pan type, grill temperature, and the cut of meat can all affect the result.

What Temperature Is Medium Well Steak?

The internal temperature for a medium well steak is generally around 150°F to 155°F (66°C to 68°C). If you are following U.S. food-safety guidance, whole cuts of beef should reach at least 145°F (63°C) and rest for at least three minutes.

Because steak continues cooking slightly after it is removed from the heat, you can take it off a little before your desired final temperature and allow carryover cooking to finish the job.

For a medium well result, many home cooks remove the steak around 145°F to 150°F and allow it to rest. The final temperature can rise as the steak rests.

A meat thermometer is the best way to achieve the result you want. Insert it into the thickest part of the steak from the side for a more accurate reading, especially with thinner steaks.

How Long Does It Take to Cook a Medium Well Steak?

There is no single cooking time that works for every steak. A one-inch steak and a two-inch steak can require very different cooking times.

The cooking method also matters. A hot skillet may brown the steak quickly, while a grill can have different heat zones that affect the cooking process.

The following table gives approximate starting points for a steak around 1 to 1½ inches thick. Use temperature as your final guide.

These times can change based on steak thickness and heat intensity. Start checking the temperature before the estimated cooking time is complete.

If your steak is thicker than 1½ inches, it may need a different approach. Searing it first and then finishing it over lower heat can help the center cook without burning the outside.

Cooking the Perfect Medium Well Steak

The best way to cook the perfect medium well steak is to sear it over high heat to create a flavorful crust, then continue cooking over moderate heat until the center reaches approximately 150°F to 155°F (66°C to 68°C).

For food safety, whole cuts of beef should reach at least 145°F (63°C) and rest for at least three minutes. A thermometer helps you monitor both safety and your preferred level of doneness.

Start with a dry, well-seasoned steak and a properly preheated cooking surface. Sear both sides until a deep brown crust develops.

If the outside is browning too quickly, reduce the heat and continue cooking more gently. For a thick steak, moving it to indirect heat after searing can produce a more even result.

Remove the steak slightly before it reaches your desired final temperature because the internal temperature can continue to rise during resting.

Finally, let the steak rest before slicing. This gives the juices time to redistribute and can make the finished steak more enjoyable.

How to Cook a Medium Well Steak in a Skillet

A heavy skillet is one of the easiest tools for cooking steak at home. Cast iron is especially useful because it holds heat well and creates a strong sear.

Place the skillet over medium-high to high heat and allow it to become properly hot. Add a small amount of high-heat cooking oil.

Place the dry, seasoned steak into the pan. You should hear an immediate sizzle when the meat touches the surface.

Allow the steak to sear without moving it constantly. After several minutes, turn it and sear the other side.

For additional flavor, add butter, garlic, and fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme during the final stage of cooking. Spoon the melted butter over the steak as it finishes.

Check the internal temperature with a thermometer. Remove the steak when it is close to your desired final temperature, then let it rest.

How to Grill a Medium Well Steak

Grilling gives steak a smoky flavor and attractive grill marks. Before cooking, preheat the grill so the cooking grates are hot.

Clean the grates and lightly oil them if necessary. Pat the steak dry and season it before placing it on the grill.

Place the steak over direct heat to create a crust. Depending on thickness, cook it for several minutes before turning it.

If the outside becomes dark while the center still needs more time, move the steak to an indirect heat zone. Close the lid and allow the steak to finish cooking.

Use a meat thermometer to check the center. This is particularly important with thicker steaks because the outside can look finished well before the center reaches your preferred temperature.

Once the steak reaches the appropriate temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest before serving.

How to Cook a Medium Well Steak in the Oven

The oven can be useful when cooking a thick steak. One effective method is to sear the steak in a hot skillet first and then transfer it to a preheated oven.

This approach allows you to create a flavorful crust before using gentle oven heat to finish the center.

For a very thick steak, you can also cook it in the oven first and sear it afterward. This is similar to a reverse-searing technique and can provide excellent control over the internal temperature.

Use an oven-safe skillet whenever possible so you can move the steak directly from the stovetop to the oven.

A thermometer remains essential. Oven cooking times vary, so check the steak rather than relying entirely on a timer.

How to Get a Perfect Steak Crust

A deep brown crust adds flavor and texture to steak. The first step toward a good crust is making sure the surface is dry.

Pat the steak thoroughly with paper towels before seasoning. Excess moisture can cause steaming instead of searing.

A properly heated pan or grill is also essential. If the cooking surface is not hot enough, the steak may take too long to brown.

Avoid overcrowding the skillet. If you are cooking multiple steaks, give each one enough space so heat can reach the surface properly.

Do not flip the steak every few seconds. Let each side spend enough time against the hot cooking surface to develop color.

You can turn the steak more than once if needed, but the main goal is consistent contact with the hot surface.

When Should You Add Butter?

Butter is excellent for adding richness to steak, but it should usually be added toward the end of cooking.

If butter is placed in a very hot skillet too early, it can burn before the steak is finished.

Once the steak has developed a crust and the heat is lowered, add a small amount of butter along with garlic and herbs.

Tilt the pan slightly and spoon the melted butter over the steak. This adds flavor and gives the surface a glossy finish.

You can also use compound butter after cooking. Place a small slice on the hot steak and allow it to melt naturally while the meat rests.

Why Resting Steak Matters

Resting steak is a simple step that can make a noticeable difference. When meat comes off a hot pan or grill, its juices are still moving through the steak.

If you immediately cut into it, some of those juices can escape onto the plate or cutting board.

Let the steak rest for at least three minutes, with thicker steaks often benefiting from a longer rest. A loose covering of foil can help retain warmth.

Avoid wrapping the steak tightly because trapped steam can soften the crust.

Resting also gives carryover cooking time to finish. This means the internal temperature may rise slightly after the steak leaves the heat.

Common Mistakes When Cooking Medium Well Steak

Even a simple steak can become dry or tough if it is handled incorrectly. Avoiding a few common mistakes can make the cooking process much easier.

Starting with a wet steak: Moisture prevents good browning. Pat the steak dry before seasoning.

Using a cold pan: A properly heated pan helps create a strong crust quickly.

Cooking only by time: Cooking times vary. Always check the internal temperature.

Using excessive heat for too long: High heat is useful for searing but can burn the exterior if maintained throughout cooking.

Cutting the steak immediately: Resting helps retain moisture and allows carryover cooking.

Adding butter too early: Butter can burn at high temperatures. Add it toward the end.

Ignoring steak thickness: Thick and thin steaks require different cooking strategies.

How to Keep Medium Well Steak Juicy

Medium well steak is cooked to a higher temperature than medium rare, so careful cooking is important if you want to preserve moisture.

Start with a steak that has some marbling. Fat can provide additional flavor and help the meat remain more enjoyable as it cooks.

Do not leave the steak on the heat simply to achieve a darker crust. Once the surface has browned, lower the heat if the center still needs additional cooking.

Use a thermometer and remove the steak at the right stage. Overcooking is one of the main reasons steak becomes dry.

Resting is also important. Give the steak enough time before slicing, then cut it against the grain when possible.

Slicing a Medium Well Steak

How you slice your steak can affect how tender it feels. Once the steak has rested, identify the direction in which the muscle fibers run.

Cut across those fibers rather than parallel to them. Shortening the muscle fibers can make each bite easier to chew.

Use a sharp knife and make smooth cuts rather than pressing down aggressively.

For larger steaks, slicing the meat before serving can make it easier for everyone to enjoy evenly sized portions.

If you are serving a steak individually, you can also leave it whole and allow each person to cut it at the table.

Best Seasonings for Medium Well Steak

Classic seasoning is often the best choice for steak. Salt and black pepper provide a simple base that allows the beef’s natural flavor to stand out.

For more flavor, try garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, rosemary, or a small amount of chili powder.

You can also use a steak seasoning blend, but check its salt content before adding extra salt.

Fresh herbs and garlic work particularly well when combined with butter during the final stage of cooking.

For a different flavor profile, serve the finished steak with chimichurri, peppercorn sauce, mushroom sauce, or a simple herb butter.

What to Serve With Medium Well Steak

A medium well steak can be paired with many classic side dishes. Mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, grilled vegetables, and green beans are easy choices.

For a richer meal, creamy mushrooms, macaroni and cheese, or a baked potato can complement the steak.

A fresh salad can provide a lighter contrast to the richness of the meat. Tomatoes, leafy greens, cucumber, and a simple vinaigrette work especially well.

Sauce is optional, especially when the steak has been well seasoned. However, garlic butter, pepper sauce, mushroom sauce, or chimichurri can add another layer of flavor.

How to Store Leftover Steak

If you have leftover steak, allow it to cool appropriately before storing it in a covered container in the refrigerator.

Slice the steak before reheating if you plan to use it in sandwiches, wraps, salads, or rice dishes.

When reheating, use gentle heat rather than cooking the steak at a very high temperature for an extended period. Excessive heat can make an already cooked steak dry.

Leftover medium well steak can also be served cold or at room temperature in salads, depending on your preference.

For the best texture, avoid repeatedly reheating the same portion. Heat only the amount you plan to eat.

Simple Tips for Better Medium Well Steak

A few straightforward habits can improve your results every time you cook steak.

• Pat the steak dry before seasoning.
• Use a properly heated skillet or grill.
• Choose a steak with good thickness and some marbling.
• Season evenly with salt and pepper.
• Sear the steak to create a brown crust.
• Lower the heat if the outside is cooking too quickly.
• Use a meat thermometer to check the center.
• Add butter and herbs near the end.
• Remove the steak slightly before the final target temperature.
• Let the steak rest before slicing.
• Cut across the grain for a more tender bite.

The most important lesson is to use cooking time as a guide rather than an absolute rule. Your thermometer provides much more useful information.

Summary

Cooking the perfect medium well steak does not require complicated equipment or advanced cooking skills. The most important factors are steak thickness, cooking temperature, internal temperature, and resting time.

For a medium well result, aim for an internal temperature of approximately 150°F to 155°F (66°C to 68°C). For food safety, whole cuts of beef should reach at least 145°F (63°C) and rest for three minutes.

A hot skillet or grill can create the flavorful crust that makes steak so appealing. After searing, reduce the heat when necessary so the center can finish cooking without burning the outside.

Most importantly, use a meat thermometer instead of relying only on cooking time. Let the steak rest before slicing, and cut against the grain when possible.

With these simple techniques, you can consistently prepare a flavorful medium well steak with a golden crust and a firm but enjoyable center.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

A 1 to 1½-inch steak may take around 4–6 minutes per side in a hot skillet or on a grill, depending on the heat and cut.

These times are only estimates. Use a meat thermometer to determine when the steak has reached your desired internal temperature.

What temperature is a medium well steak?

Medium well steak is generally around 150°F to 155°F (66°C to 68°C) internally. The center should have only a small amount of pink remaining.

For food safety, whole cuts of beef should reach at least 145°F (63°C) and rest for at least three minutes.

Can I cook a medium well steak on the grill?

Yes, grilling is an excellent way to cook medium well steak. Start over direct heat to create a crust, then move a thick steak to indirect heat if the outside is browning too quickly.

Use a thermometer to check the center before removing the steak from the grill.

How do I keep a medium well steak from becoming dry?

Avoid overcooking the steak and monitor its internal temperature carefully. A steak with some marbling can also provide better flavor and moisture.

Remove it from the heat near the desired temperature and allow it to rest before slicing.

Should I use butter when cooking steak?

Butter can add excellent flavor, especially when combined with garlic and fresh herbs. However, it is best added near the end because butter can burn at very high temperatures.

After the steak has developed a crust, reduce the heat and spoon the melted butter over the meat.

Should I rest a medium well steak?

Yes, resting is recommended. Allow the steak to rest for at least three minutes after cooking so the juices can settle and the temperature can finish rising slightly.

Thicker steaks may benefit from a longer resting period. Avoid wrapping the steak tightly in foil.

What is the best steak cut for medium well?

Ribeye, New York strip, and sirloin can all work well for medium well cooking. Ribeye is particularly flavorful because its marbling provides additional fat.

Choose a steak with enough thickness to give you time to develop a crust without overcooking the center.

Can I cook a thick steak medium well?

Yes, but thick steaks often benefit from a two-stage cooking method. Sear the outside over high heat, then finish the steak over lower or indirect heat.

This gives the center more time to reach the desired temperature without burning the crust.

Should steak be at room temperature before cooking?

Allowing steak to sit briefly before cooking can help reduce the temperature difference between the surface and center, but it is not necessary to leave raw meat out for a long time.

The more important steps are drying the surface, preheating the cooking equipment, and monitoring the internal temperature.

How do I know when my medium well steak is done?

The most reliable method is to use a meat thermometer. Aim for approximately 150°F to 155°F (66°C to 68°C) for medium well.

Do not rely only on the steak’s color because appearance can vary between cuts and cooking methods.