If you’re a steak enthusiast or just curious about portion sizes, you might have asked yourself: How big is a 20 oz steak? Whether you’re ordering at a restaurant, shopping at a butcher, or planning your next backyard grill session, understanding what a 20-ounce steak looks like can help you make the best choice for your appetite and occasion.
Let’s dive into what a 20 oz steak really means in size, thickness, and eating experience.
What Does 20 Ounces Mean in Steak Terms?
When we talk about a 20 oz steak, we’re referring to the weight of the raw cut before cooking. Twenty ounces equals 1.25 pounds or about 567 grams. That’s a hefty portion of beef, often considered a large serving for one person or even enough to share for two, depending on appetite.
This size is popular for cuts like ribeye, sirloin, and cowboy steaks, which are known for their rich marbling and flavor. For example, a 20 oz bone-in ribeye or sirloin steak is a common offering at steakhouses and premium meat markets.
Visualizing the Size of a 20 oz Steak
To picture a 20 oz steak, imagine a thick, juicy slab of beef roughly the size of a small dinner plate. Thickness often ranges between 1 to 1.5 inches, but can vary by butcher and cut style.
For instance, a 20 oz ribeye steak typically measures about 8 to 10 inches in length and 5 to 6 inches in width, with a thickness that gives it a satisfying heft on the plate. Some steaks, like the cowboy cut ribeye, come bone-in, which adds to the overall size and visual appeal.
Thickness and Cut Variations
The exact dimensions of a 20 oz steak can differ based on the cut and how the butcher slices it:
– Bone-in Ribeye: The bone adds weight and takes up some space, so the meat portion might be slightly smaller in surface area but thicker overall.
– Boneless Ribeye: Usually a bit larger in surface area since there’s no bone, but thickness remains similar.
– Sirloin: Often leaner and can be cut thinner or thicker depending on preference.
– Cowboy Cut: Known for being thick and hearty, often around 1.5 inches thick or more.
Butchers may also trim fat differently, which affects the steak’s final weight and size.
How Does Cooking Affect the Size?
Keep in mind that cooking a 20 oz steak will reduce its weight and size due to moisture and fat loss. On average, a steak loses about 25% of its weight during cooking, so a 20 oz raw steak might yield around 15 oz of cooked meat.
This shrinkage also affects thickness and juiciness. Thicker steaks tend to retain more juiciness, making a 20 oz cut a great choice for grilling or pan-searing to your preferred doneness.
Is a 20 oz Steak Enough for One Person?
A 20 oz steak is generally considered a large portion for a single meal. For most adults, a 6 to 8 oz cooked steak is a standard serving size, so a 20 oz raw steak (about 15 oz cooked) is quite generous.
If you have a big appetite or want to indulge, it’s perfect. Otherwise, it can be shared between two people, especially when paired with sides like vegetables, potatoes, or salad.
Why Choose a 20 oz Steak?
– Flavor: Larger steaks often have better marbling and thickness, which means more flavor and juiciness.
– Cooking Flexibility: Thick cuts allow for a nice sear on the outside while keeping a tender, juicy inside.
– Presentation: A 20 oz steak makes an impressive plate, ideal for special occasions or steakhouse experiences.
Tips for Enjoying a 20 oz Steak
– Rest Your Steak: Let it rest 5-10 minutes after cooking to redistribute juices.
– Season Well: Simple salt and pepper work wonders, but marinades or rubs can enhance flavor.
– Pair Thoughtfully: Balance the richness with fresh sides like grilled veggies or a crisp salad.
– Use the Right Cut: Choose bone-in for more flavor or boneless for easier slicing.
A 20 oz steak is a substantial, satisfying portion that offers a delicious and hearty meal experience. Whether you’re grilling at home or ordering out, knowing its size helps you plan your meal perfectly.
Enjoy your steak adventure!
A 20 oz steak is a large, thick cut roughly the size of a small dinner plate, perfect for those who want a hearty, flavorful meal or to share with a friend.