Steak tips are a fantastic, flavorful cut of beef that cooks quickly and makes for a perfect weeknight dinner or a casual gathering treat. If you’re wondering how do you cook steak tips on the stove, you’re in the right place! This guide will walk you through the best way to get tender, juicy, and perfectly seared steak tips right on your stovetop.
What Are Steak Tips?
Steak tips are small pieces of steak, often cut from sirloin or tri-tip, that are ideal for quick cooking. Because they are bite-sized, they cook faster than whole steaks, so timing and technique are key to avoid overcooking and drying out the meat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– 1 to 1½ pounds of top sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch pieces
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper
– Creole seasoning or your favorite steak seasoning (optional)
– 1 tablespoon of high smoke point oil (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)
– 2 to 3 tablespoons of butter
– 2 teaspoons minced garlic
– Optional: Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and sliced onions for extra flavor
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Steak Tips on the Stove
1. Prep Your Steak Tips
Start by cutting your steak into evenly sized pieces about 1 to 1.5 inches each. This ensures they cook evenly. Pat the pieces dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture – this helps get a nice sear instead of steaming.
Season generously with salt, pepper, and if you like, some Creole or steak seasoning. Let the meat sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before cooking to help it cook more evenly.
2. Heat Your Pan Properly
Use a heavy skillet, ideally cast iron or stainless steel, because these retain and distribute heat well. Heat the pan over medium-high heat until it’s very hot – you want it to shimmer when you add oil but not smoke excessively.
Add a tablespoon of oil with a high smoke point. Avoid butter or extra virgin olive oil at this stage because they burn easily under high heat.
3. Sear the Steak Tips
Place the steak tips in a single layer in the hot pan. Don’t overcrowd the pan – if needed, cook in batches. Overcrowding causes the meat to steam rather than sear, which prevents a flavorful crust from forming.
Cook the steak tips for about 2 to 3 minutes on the first side without moving them. This allows a golden-brown crust to develop. Then flip and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes on the other side. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of about 130°F (54°C).
4. Add Flavor with Butter and Garlic
Once the steak tips are nearly done, push them to the side of the pan and add butter and minced garlic. Let the garlic sauté for about 30 seconds, then toss the steak tips in the melted garlic butter. You can also add Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, or sliced onions at this point for extra depth of flavor.
5. Rest Before Serving
Remove the steak tips from the pan and let them rest for 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping each bite juicy and tender.
Tips for Perfect Stove-Cooked Steak Tips
– Don’t skip drying the meat: Moisture on the surface prevents a good sear.
– Use a large enough pan: Give each piece room to brown properly.
– High heat is your friend: It locks in juices and creates a delicious crust.
– Season well: Salt and pepper are simple but essential.
– Cook in batches if needed: Avoid overcrowding to prevent steaming.
– Use a meat thermometer: For perfect doneness, check internal temperature.
– Let the meat rest: This step is crucial for juicy steak tips.
Easy Variations to Try
– Garlic Butter Steak Tips: Finish with a generous spoonful of garlic butter and fresh parsley.
– Teriyaki Steak Tips: Toss cooked tips in a homemade pineapple teriyaki sauce for a sweet and savory twist.
– Spicy Creole Steak Tips: Use Creole seasoning and add a pinch of cayenne for heat.
Serving Suggestions
Steak tips are versatile and pair wonderfully with:
– Mashed potatoes or rice
– Steamed or roasted vegetables
– A fresh green salad
– Crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce
With these simple steps, you can master cooking steak tips on the stove and enjoy a juicy, flavorful meal in under 20 minutes. Happy cooking!
Juicy, tender steak tips cooked perfectly on the stove are easier than you think – just follow these tips and enjoy every bite!