What's The Internal Temperature Of A Medium Steak? A Juicy Guide For Perfect Grilling

Norbert Boehm 14 May 2025

Listen up, steak lovers! If you've ever stood over a sizzling grill wondering, "What's the internal temperature of a medium steak?" you're in the right place. We all want that perfect balance of flavor and doneness, right? Whether you're hosting a barbecue or just cooking for yourself, knowing the ideal internal temperature is the secret to a mouthwatering steak. So, let's dive into this juicy topic and uncover the science behind that perfectly cooked medium steak.

There's nothing quite like the satisfaction of biting into a well-cooked steak. But let's face it, not everyone knows the magic number when it comes to internal temperatures. A medium steak should be tender, flavorful, and just the right shade of pink. In this guide, we'll break down everything you need to know to achieve perfection every time.

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let's talk about why internal temperature matters. Overcook it, and you end up with a dry, tough piece of meat. Undercook it, and you might be left with something less than ideal. The goal is to find that sweet spot where the steak is juicy, flavorful, and cooked just the way you like it. Ready to level up your grilling game? Let's go!

Why Internal Temperature Matters for Your Steak

Here's the deal: cooking a steak isn't just about throwing it on the grill and hoping for the best. The internal temperature is the key to unlocking the perfect texture and flavor. Different levels of doneness correspond to specific temperature ranges, and understanding these will help you avoid common cooking mistakes.

A medium steak, for example, should have an internal temperature of around 135°F to 145°F (57°C to 63°C). This range ensures that the steak is cooked through but still retains its juiciness and tenderness. If you're not paying attention to the temperature, you could end up with a steak that's either overcooked or undercooked, and no one wants that.

Using a meat thermometer is one of the best ways to ensure accuracy. Sure, you can use the "touch test" or rely on cooking times, but a thermometer takes the guesswork out of the equation. Trust me, once you start using one, you'll wonder how you ever cooked without it.

Understanding the Different Levels of Doneness

Not everyone likes their steak cooked the same way. Some prefer it rare, others like it well-done, and then there are those who swear by medium-rare or medium. Let's take a look at the different levels of doneness and their corresponding internal temperatures:

Rare: 120°F to 130°F (49°C to 54°C)
Medium-Rare: 130°F to 135°F (54°C to 57°C)
Medium: 135°F to 145°F (57°C to 63°C)
Medium-Well: 145°F to 155°F (63°C to 68°C)
Well-Done: 155°F and above (68°C and above)

As you can see, the internal temperature varies depending on how you like your steak. For a medium steak, you're aiming for that sweet spot between 135°F and 145°F. This range ensures that the steak is cooked enough to be safe to eat while still retaining its juiciness and flavor.

Tools You Need to Measure Internal Temperature

Alright, let's talk about the tools you'll need to measure the internal temperature of your steak. First and foremost, you'll need a good-quality meat thermometer. There are two main types: instant-read thermometers and leave-in thermometers. Both have their advantages, so it really depends on your preference.

Instant-Read Thermometers

Instant-read thermometers are great for quick and accurate temperature readings. They're easy to use and provide results in just a few seconds. The downside is that you need to insert them into the meat multiple times, which can lead to juice loss if you're not careful.

Leave-In Thermometers

Leave-in thermometers, on the other hand, stay in the meat while it cooks. This allows you to monitor the temperature without having to open the grill or oven repeatedly. They're especially useful for larger cuts of meat, but they work just as well for steaks.

Whichever type you choose, make sure it's calibrated correctly. A thermometer that's off by even a few degrees can make a big difference in the final result. If you're not sure how to calibrate your thermometer, a quick Google search should give you all the info you need.

How to Cook a Perfect Medium Steak

Cooking a perfect medium steak starts with preparation. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you achieve that juicy, flavorful steak every time:

Step 1: Choose the Right Cut

Not all cuts of steak are created equal. For a medium steak, you'll want to choose a cut that's tender and well-marbled. Ribeye, filet mignon, and New York strip are all great options. Just make sure the meat is fresh and of good quality.

Step 2: Season Your Steak

Seasoning is key to bringing out the flavor of your steak. A simple mix of salt, pepper, and garlic powder can work wonders. If you're feeling adventurous, you can experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own signature blend.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill or Pan

Whether you're using a grill or a pan, make sure it's nice and hot before you start cooking. This will give your steak a good sear and help lock in the juices.

Step 4: Cook to Perfection

Place your steak on the grill or in the pan and let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes. Use your meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, and flip the steak when it's close to your desired level of doneness. For a medium steak, aim for that 135°F to 145°F range.

Step 5: Let It Rest

Once your steak is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and flavorful bite every time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best chefs make mistakes sometimes. Here are a few common pitfalls to watch out for when cooking a medium steak:

Overcooking: This is probably the most common mistake. Remember, steaks continue to cook even after you remove them from the heat, so take them off the grill or pan when they're a few degrees below your desired temperature.
Undercooking: On the flip side, undercooking can leave you with a steak that's less than ideal. Use your meat thermometer to ensure you hit that perfect medium range.
Not Letting It Rest: Skipping the resting step can lead to a dry steak. Those juices need time to redistribute, so be patient and let your steak rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Medium Steak

Here are a few extra tips to help you take your steak game to the next level:

Use a cast-iron skillet for an even sear.
Let your steak come to room temperature before cooking for more even cooking.
Don't press down on the steak with a spatula; this can cause juice loss.
Experiment with different marinades and rubs to add extra flavor.

Is a Medium Steak Safe to Eat?

This is a question that comes up a lot, especially for those who are new to cooking steak. The short answer is yes, a medium steak is perfectly safe to eat. The USDA recommends cooking beef to an internal temperature of at least 145°F, which falls within the medium range. As long as you're using a meat thermometer and cooking your steak to the appropriate temperature, you can enjoy it with peace of mind.

That said, if you're cooking for someone with a compromised immune system or if you're unsure about the quality of the meat, you might want to err on the side of caution and cook it a little longer.

Recipes to Try with Your Perfect Medium Steak

Now that you know how to cook the perfect medium steak, here are a few recipes to try:

Pepper-Crusted Steak

This recipe adds a spicy kick to your steak with a peppery crust. Simply coat your steak in a mixture of coarse black pepper, salt, and a little oil before searing it in a hot pan. Serve with a side of mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli for a delicious meal.

Garlic Herb Butter Steak

What could be better than a juicy medium steak topped with garlic herb butter? Melt butter with minced garlic, fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lemon juice, then spoon it over your cooked steak for an extra burst of flavor.

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! The internal temperature of a medium steak is around 135°F to 145°F, and with the right tools and techniques, you can achieve perfection every time. Remember to use a meat thermometer, let your steak rest, and don't be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and recipes.

Now it's your turn! Try out these tips and let us know how your steaks turn out. Feel free to leave a comment or share this article with your friends. And if you're looking for more grilling tips and tricks, be sure to check out our other articles. Happy cooking, and cheers to perfectly cooked steaks!

Why Internal Temperature Matters for Your Steak
Understanding the Different Levels of Doneness
Tools You Need to Measure Internal Temperature
How to Cook a Perfect Medium Steak
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Medium Steak
Is a Medium Steak Safe to Eat?
Recipes to Try with Your Perfect Medium Steak
Conclusion

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