How to Cook a Well Done Steak (Perfect Well Done Steak Temperature Guide)
A well done steak is cooked completely through with no pink remaining in the center. While many steak enthusiasts prefer rare or medium rare temperatures, a properly cooked well done steak can still be flavorful, tender, and satisfying when prepared correctly.
The secret is choosing the right cut of beef, using proper cooking techniques, and avoiding overcooking.
What Is a Well Done Steak?
A well done steak is cooked until the entire interior reaches a fully brown color.
Unlike medium or medium well steaks, there is no pink remaining in the center.
Well Done Steak Temperature
Remove from heat at: 155°F to 160°F
Final temperature after resting: 160°F and above
A properly cooked well done steak should be fully cooked throughout while still retaining some moisture.
Can a Well Done Steak Be Juicy?
Yes.
The biggest misconception about well done steak is that it must be dry.
A juicy well done steak starts with:
A thick steak
A well-marbled cut
Proper cooking temperature
Butter basting
Adequate resting time
Best Steaks for Well Done
Certain cuts handle higher cooking temperatures much better than others.
The best choices include:
Ribeye Steak
New York Strip Steak
Porterhouse Steak
T-Bone Steak
Chuck Eye Steak
Ribeye is often considered the best well done steak because its marbling helps keep the meat moist.
Ingredients
1 thick-cut ribeye steak
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons butter
2 garlic cloves
Fresh rosemary or thyme
Equipment Needed
Cast iron skillet
Instant-read thermometer
Tongs
Cutting board
How to Cook a Well Done 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
Rub the steak with olive oil.
Season generously with kosher salt and black pepper.
Step 3: Sear the Steak
Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear the steak for 3 to 4 minutes per side until a dark crust develops.
Step 4: Lower the Heat
Reduce heat to medium.
Continue cooking:
1-inch steak: 4 to 5 additional minutes per side
1½-inch steak: 5 to 7 additional minutes per side
Step 5: Butter Baste
Add butter, garlic, and herbs.
Continuously spoon the melted butter over the steak.
This helps maintain moisture and adds flavor.
Step 6: Check Temperature
Use an instant-read thermometer.
Remove the steak when it reaches 155°F to 160°F.
Step 7: Rest
Allow the steak to rest for 5 to 10 minutes.
The internal temperature will continue rising slightly.
What Does a Well Done Steak Look Like?
A properly cooked well done steak should have:
Dark brown crust
Fully brown center
No visible pink
Firm texture
Rich beef flavor
The center should be completely cooked through.
Medium Well vs Well Done
Medium Well
Final Temperature: 150°F–155°F
Center: Slight pink
Well Done
Final Temperature: 160°F+
Center: No pink
Well done steak is the most thoroughly cooked steak temperature.
Expert Tips
Choose ribeye whenever possible.
Use a thermometer.
Avoid excessively high heat after searing.
Butter baste generously.
Let the steak rest before slicing.
Start with a thicker steak.
Common Mistakes
Using Lean Cuts
Lean steaks become dry much faster when cooked well done.
Cooking Over High Heat Too Long
This can burn the outside before the interior reaches temperature.
Skipping Butter Basting
Butter helps replace moisture lost during cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature is a well done steak?
A well done steak finishes at 160°F or higher.
Is well done steak safe?
Yes. The steak is fully cooked throughout.
What is the best steak for well done?
Ribeye is typically the best choice because of its marbling.
How do restaurants cook juicy well done steaks?
They often use thicker cuts, butter basting, and careful temperature monitoring.
Perfect Side Dishes
Loaded Baked Potato
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Mac and Cheese
Creamed Spinach
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Grilled Asparagus
More Steak Guides You'll Love
Steak Temperatures Guide
How to Cook a Rare Steak
How to Cook a Medium Rare Steak
How to Cook a Medium Steak
How to Cook a Medium Well Steak
Best Steak Marinades
Final Thoughts
Learning how to cook a well done steak is about controlling temperature and preserving moisture. When prepared properly, a well done steak can still deliver rich flavor, a satisfying texture, and a delicious steakhouse experience without any pink in the center.