How Long To Cook Well Done Steak

ByLily

Achieving a well done steak without drying it out requires knowing both the target temperature and the cooking time for your chosen method. Most people search for how long to cook well done steak because they want a safe, fully cooked result that still tastes good. The answer depends on thickness, heat level, and whether you use a grill, pan, oven, or sous vide.

This guide gives you exact times, temperatures, and simple steps for each method. You will also learn how to keep the meat juicy even at well done.

What Well Done Actually Means

Well done steak reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) or higher. At this point, the meat has no pink inside. The juices run clear.

Many cooks avoid well done because it can turn tough. But with the right time and a short rest, it stays tender enough to enjoy.

  • Rare: 120–130°F
  • Medium rare: 130–135°F
  • Medium: 140–145°F
  • Medium well: 150–155°F
  • Well done: 160°F and above

Always use a meat thermometer. It is the only reliable way to know when your steak is done.

How Long To Cook Well Done Steak

There is no single time that works for every steak. A thin cut cooks in minutes. A thick cut takes much longer. Below are the average times for a 1-inch thick steak.

Grilling Times For Well Done Steak

Grilling gives a nice char but can dry out the meat fast. Use medium heat, not high.

  • 1-inch steak: 6–8 minutes per side
  • 1.5-inch steak: 9–11 minutes per side
  • 2-inch steak: 12–15 minutes per side

Flip only once. Move the steak to a cooler part of the grill if it starts to burn.

Pan Searing Times For Well Done Steak

A cast iron skillet works great for well done steak. Preheat the pan over medium-high heat.

  1. Add a little oil with a high smoke point.
  2. Place the steak in the pan. Do not move it.
  3. Cook 5–7 minutes per side for a 1-inch steak.
  4. For a 1.5-inch steak, cook 8–10 minutes per side.
  5. Check the temperature after the first flip.

If the outside browns too fast, lower the heat. Cover the pan with a lid for the last few minutes to help the center cook through.

Oven Times For Well Done Steak

The oven gives even heat and less mess. Sear the steak in a pan first for better flavor, then move it to a 400°F oven.

  • 1-inch steak: 8–10 minutes total in the oven
  • 1.5-inch steak: 12–15 minutes total
  • 2-inch steak: 18–22 minutes total

Flip the steak halfway through the oven time. Start checking the temperature 3 minutes before the low end of the range.

Sous Vide Times For Well Done Steak

Sous vide is the easiest way to get a juicy well done steak. You set the water bath to 160°F and let time do the work.

  • 1-inch steak: 1.5 to 2 hours
  • 1.5-inch steak: 2 to 3 hours
  • 2-inch steak: 3 to 4 hours

After the bath, pat the steak dry and sear it in a hot pan for 45–60 seconds per side. This adds a crust without overcooking the inside.

Factors That Change Cooking Time

Several things affect how long your steak takes. Keep these in mind so you can adjust.

Thickness Of The Steak

Thickness matters more than weight. A thick steak needs more time to reach 160°F in the center. A thin steak can hit well done in just a few minutes per side.

Starting Temperature

A steak straight from the fridge takes longer than one that sat at room temperature for 20–30 minutes. Let your steak rest on the counter before cooking for more even results.

Heat Level And Equipment

Higher heat browns the outside faster but can leave the center undercooked. Medium heat is safer for well done. Gas grills, charcoal grills, and stovetops all behave a little differently, so watch your steak closely the first time.

Bone In Or Boneless

Bone-in steaks take a bit longer because the bone slows heat transfer to the center. Add 2–3 minutes per side for bone-in cuts.

How To Keep Well Done Steak Juicy

Well done does not have to mean dry. A few simple habits make a big difference.

  • Use a meat thermometer instead of guessing by color.
  • Do not press down on the steak while it cooks.
  • Let the steak rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
  • Slice against the grain to make it more tender.
  • Choose a fattier cut like ribeye if you plan to cook it well done.

Fattier cuts handle high heat better. Lean cuts like sirloin dry out faster, so keep a closer eye on them.

Step By Step: Perfect Well Done Steak Every Time

  1. Take the steak out of the fridge 20–30 minutes before cooking.
  2. Pat it dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
  3. Preheat your pan, grill, or oven to medium heat (or 400°F for oven).
  4. Cook according to the times above for your method and thickness.
  5. Check the internal temperature with a thermometer. Aim for 160°F.
  6. Remove the steak and let it rest for 5–10 minutes.
  7. Slice against the grain and serve.

If the temperature reads below 160°F, put the steak back on the heat for 2 more minutes and check again. Repeat until it reaches the target.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Cooking on high heat the whole time, which burns the outside before the inside is done.
  • Skipping the rest period, which lets juices run out and leaves the meat dry.
  • Not using a thermometer, which leads to overcooked or undercooked steak.
  • Cutting into the steak right away to check doneness, which wastes juices.

Well done steak is not a punishment. With the right time and a little patience, you get a safe, flavorful meal that everyone at the table can enjoy.

Similar Posts