How to Cook a Medium Steak (Perfect Medium Steak Temperature Guide)
A medium steak offers the perfect balance between a juicy interior and a fully cooked center. With a warm pink middle, rich beef flavor, and firm yet tender texture, medium steak is one of the most popular steak temperatures among home cooks and steakhouse guests alike.
If you prefer less red than a medium rare steak but still want a juicy bite, medium doneness may be the perfect choice.
What Is a Medium Steak?
A medium steak is cooked until the center reaches a warm pink color while the outer portions become fully cooked.
The result is a steak that remains juicy and flavorful while providing a firmer texture than rare or medium rare steaks.
Medium Steak Temperature
Remove from heat at: 135°F to 140°F
Final temperature after resting: 140°F to 145°F
A properly cooked medium steak should have a pink center with brown edges.
Why Choose Medium Steak?
Many people prefer medium steak because:
Less red center
More fully cooked appearance
Excellent flavor
Tender texture
Good balance between juiciness and doneness
Medium steak is often recommended for those transitioning from well-done steaks to more traditional steakhouse temperatures.
Best Steaks for Medium Doneness
The following cuts perform especially well when cooked medium:
Ribeye Steak
New York Strip Steak
Sirloin Steak
T-Bone Steak
Porterhouse Steak
Flat Iron Steak
Highly marbled cuts like ribeye remain especially juicy at medium temperatures.
Ingredients
1 steak (1 to 1½ inches thick)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon butter
2 garlic cloves
Fresh rosemary or thyme
Equipment Needed
Cast iron skillet
Instant-read thermometer
Tongs
Cutting board
How to Cook a Medium Steak
Step 1: Bring Steak to Room Temperature
Remove the steak from the refrigerator 30 to 45 minutes before cooking.
Pat completely dry.
Step 2: Season Generously
Rub with olive oil.
Season both sides with kosher salt and black pepper.
Step 3: Heat the Pan
Place a cast iron skillet over medium-high to high heat.
Allow the skillet to become very hot.
Step 4: Sear the Steak
Cook:
1-inch steak: 4 to 5 minutes per side
1½-inch steak: 5 to 6 minutes per side
Avoid moving the steak during searing.
Step 5: Add Butter and Herbs
During the final minute, add butter, garlic, and herbs.
Tilt the skillet and baste continuously.
Step 6: Check Temperature
Insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the steak.
Remove from heat when the steak reaches 135°F to 140°F.
Step 7: Rest
Allow the steak to rest for 5 to 10 minutes.
The internal temperature will rise to approximately 140°F to 145°F.
What Does a Medium Steak Look Like?
A properly cooked medium steak should have:
Dark brown crust
Warm pink center
Brown outer edges
Juicy interior
Firm but tender texture
The pink center will be smaller than a medium rare steak but still clearly visible.
Medium Rare vs Medium Steak
Medium Rare
Final Temperature: 130°F–135°F
Center: Warm red
Texture: Very juicy
Medium
Final Temperature: 140°F–145°F
Center: Warm pink
Texture: Slightly firmer
Medium Well
Final Temperature: 150°F–155°F
Center: Slight hint of pink
Texture: Firm
Expert Tips
Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Choose steaks at least 1 inch thick.
Allow the steak to rest before slicing.
Pat dry before cooking.
Use high heat to develop a crust.
Common Mistakes
Overcooking
A medium steak can quickly become medium well if left on the heat too long.
Skipping the Thermometer
Visual cues alone can be misleading.
Cutting Too Soon
Always rest the steak before slicing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature is a medium steak?
A medium steak finishes between 140°F and 145°F.
Is medium steak still juicy?
Yes. Medium steaks remain juicy while being more fully cooked than medium rare.
What is the most popular steak temperature?
Medium rare remains the most common steakhouse recommendation, followed closely by medium.
Can I grill a medium steak?
Absolutely. The same temperature guidelines apply on a grill.
Perfect Side Dishes
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Baked Potato
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Creamed Spinach
Caesar Salad
Grilled Asparagus
Final Thoughts
Learning how to cook a medium steak is simple when you focus on temperature rather than time alone. With a warm pink center, flavorful crust, and juicy texture, medium steak offers a delicious balance that appeals to a wide range of steak lovers.
More Steak Guides You'll Love
Steak Temperatures Guide
How to Cook a Rare Steak
How to Cook a Medium Rare Steak
Best Steak Marinades
Chimichurri Steak
Pittsburgh Style Steak