Pittsburgh Style Steak is one of the most iconic steakhouse preparations in America. Known for its heavily charred exterior and cool, juicy center, this cooking method creates a dramatic contrast in texture and flavor that steak lovers can't resist.
Unlike traditional grilling methods that slowly cook the steak throughout, Pittsburgh Style Steak is cooked at extremely high heat for a short period of time. The outside develops a dark, flavorful crust while the inside remains rare or medium-rare.
Whether you're recreating a classic steakhouse experience or simply looking for a new way to prepare steak, this Pittsburgh Style Steak Recipe delivers bold flavor and restaurant-quality results.
What Is Pittsburgh Style Steak?
Pittsburgh Style Steak, sometimes called "Black and Blue Steak," originated in the steel mills of Pittsburgh. According to popular legend, steelworkers would place steaks on extremely hot metal surfaces during breaks, quickly charring the exterior while leaving the center rare.
The result was a steak with a smoky, crispy crust and a tender, juicy interior.
Today, many steakhouses continue serving Pittsburgh Style Steak as a specialty preparation.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Steakhouse-quality results
Deep, flavorful crust
Tender, juicy center
Ready in under 15 minutes
Perfect for ribeye, strip steak, or filet mignon
Easy to make at home
Ingredients
For the Steak
2 ribeye steaks (1½ inches thick)
1 tablespoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon high-heat oil (avocado oil or canola oil)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves, smashed
2 sprigs fresh rosemary
Equipment Needed
Cast iron skillet
Tongs
Instant-read thermometer
Paper towels
How to Make Pittsburgh Style Steak
Step 1: Bring Steak to Room Temperature
Remove steaks from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking.
Pat completely dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Season
Season generously with kosher salt and black pepper on all sides.
Step 3: Heat the Skillet
Place a cast iron skillet over high heat.
Allow it to become extremely hot until lightly smoking.
Add the oil.
Step 4: Sear the Steak
Carefully place steaks into the skillet.
Cook for:
2 minutes per side for rare
3 minutes per side for medium-rare
The outside should become deeply charred.
Step 5: Add Butter
Reduce heat slightly.
Add butter, garlic, and rosemary.
Tilt the pan and spoon the melted butter over the steaks for 1 minute.
Step 6: Rest
Remove steaks and let rest for 5 minutes.
Serve immediately.
Internal Temperatures
Rare: 120-125°F
Medium Rare: 130-135°F
Medium: 140-145°F
Traditional Pittsburgh Style Steak is usually served rare or medium-rare.
What Does Pittsburgh Style Steak Taste Like?
The intense heat creates a smoky, crispy crust packed with flavor while the center stays juicy and tender.
The contrast between the charred exterior and buttery interior is what makes Pittsburgh Style Steak so unique.
Expert Tips
Use thick-cut steaks only.
Pat steaks completely dry.
Don't move the steak while searing.
Use cast iron for maximum crust.
Let the steak rest before slicing.
What to Serve with Pittsburgh Style Steak
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Loaded Baked Potato
Creamed Spinach
Roasted Asparagus
Mac and Cheese
Caesar Salad
Grilled Mushrooms
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called Pittsburgh Style Steak?
The cooking method is believed to have originated with Pittsburgh steelworkers who cooked steaks on extremely hot steel surfaces.
Is Pittsburgh Style Steak burned?
No. The exterior is intentionally charred, but the inside remains tender and juicy.
What steak is best?
Ribeye, New York Strip, and Filet Mignon work best.
Can I grill Pittsburgh Style Steak?
Yes. Use the hottest section of the grill and cook quickly to achieve the same charred exterior.
Nutrition Information
Serving Size: 1 steak
Calories: 620
Protein: 48g
Fat: 45g
Carbohydrates: 1g
Perfect Drink Pairings
Cabernet Sauvignon
Old Fashioned
Bourbon Smash
Sweet Tea
Sparkling Water with Lemon
More Steak Recipes You'll Love
Asiago Steak Recipe
Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Cowboy Steak Recipe
Reverse Seared Ribeye
Steakhouse Filet Mignon
Final Thoughts
This Pittsburgh Style Steak Recipe delivers everything steak lovers crave: a bold, charred crust, juicy center, and steakhouse-quality flavor. With just a few ingredients and a blazing-hot skillet, you can recreate this legendary steakhouse favorite right at home.