Grilling the perfect steak can be tricky, and even the most experienced grillers can make mistakes. Whether it’s overcooking, under seasoning, or not using the right technique, these missteps can lead to disappointing results. Here 10 common steak mistakes and how to fix them, so you can master the art of grilling and enjoy a delicious steak every time.
1. Not Cleaning the Grill Properly
A dirty grill can affect how your steak cooks, causing sticking and adding unwanted flavors. Those grates need your attention. Start with a clean grill by preheating it on high with the lid closed for about 15 minutes. Once off and cooled, use a grill brush to scrub the grates. If residue remains, soak the grates (and side burner if needed) in hot, soapy water while you clean the rest of the grill. A clean surface ensures a perfect sear and helps your steak release easily.
2. Skipping on Quality
The quality of the beef is critical when it comes to a great steak, no matter how well it's cooked. Choosing a higher grade, like Prime or Choice, ensures better marbling, which translates to juicier, more flavorful results. While Select grade can be a budget-friendly option, it may require extra seasoning or marinades to enhance tenderness and taste.
3. Not Preheating the Grill
Starting with a cold grill can cause uneven cooking. Always preheat your grill for about 15 minutes on high to ensure it's hot enough for a perfect sear. This not only helps cook your steak evenly but also burns off leftover residue from previous grilling sessions. A properly heated grill is key to locking in those juices and getting a great crust on your steak.
4. Cooking Meat Straight from the Refrigerator
Letting your steak sit at room temperature for a short time before grilling can help it cook more evenly, but there’s no need to leave it out for hours. While some chefs suggest bringing meat fully to room temperature, extended time at room temperature can lead to bacterial growth. Instead, letting your steak rest for less than 30 minutes before cooking helps reduce the temperature gap between the surface and center, promoting even cooking without risking food safety.
5. Overusing Direct Heat
Relying only on direct heat can lead to a burnt exterior while the inside remains undercooked. For the best results, start by searing your steak over direct heat, then move it to indirect heat to finish cooking. This method ensures a beautifully charred crust while allowing the inside to reach your desired doneness without burning the outside. Some chefs like to sear their steaks in a cast iron skillet on their side burner before moving to indirect heat.
6. Flipping the Steak Too Early or Too Often
Constantly flipping your steak can prevent it from forming a nice, flavorful crust. For the best results, let the steak cook undisturbed on one side until a golden-brown crust forms. Once that’s achieved, flip it only once to finish cooking on the other side. This technique helps lock in the juices, ensures an even sear, and gives you that perfect balance of a crispy exterior and tender interior.
7. Resting Too Long
Letting your steak rest too long after cooking can do more harm than good. Extended resting can lead to overcooking from carryover heat, cooling the meat too much, and softening the crust, making it less flavorful. The fats, which should be rich and juicy, can become waxy, and any spice rubs may turn mushy. Instead of waiting too long, serve your steak hot off the grill for the best texture, flavor, and juiciness.
8. Not Using a Meat Thermometer
The most reliable way to ensure your steak is cooked to perfection is by using a meat thermometer. Relying on guesswork can easily result in over or undercooking. An instant-read thermometer helps you accurately check the internal temperature, giving you the confidence that your steak is exactly how you like it every time.
9. Running Out of Propane Mid-Cook
There’s nothing worse than running out of fuel in the middle of a cookout. To avoid interruptions, always check your propane levels before grilling. It’s also a good idea to keep a spare tank on hand just in case. With over 65,000 locations nationwide, we make it easy to find a fresh tank nearby, so you can keep the grill going and enjoy your cookout without any hassle.
10. Keeping Your Grilling Talent Hidden
Showcase your skills at a Steak Cookoff Association competition! The SCA is the world’s ultimate competition for backyard chefs. As proud sponsors, we’re excited to support their events, which include hundreds of competitions nationwide and a world championship each year. It's the perfect chance to step up, compete, and prove your grilling skills.
Published: 2025.05.20