Discover how to cook the ultimate Wagyu steak with this foolproof recipe! Achieve restaurant-quality results at home—tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for special occasions or gourmet nights in.
Yields: 1 serving
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 5-10 minutes (depending on thickness and desired doneness)
Ingredients:
- 1 (8-12 ounce) high-grade Wagyu beef steak, preferably ribeye, striploin, or tenderloin, about 1-1.5 inches thick. Look for good marbling (BMS score of 6 or higher).
- Coarse sea salt or kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon high-heat cooking oil (grapeseed, avocado, or clarified butter are excellent choices)
- 1-2 cloves fresh garlic, smashed (optional, for aromatics)
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary or thyme (optional, for aromatics)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional, for basting)
Equipment:
- Heavy-bottomed skillet, preferably cast iron
- Kitchen tongs
- Meat thermometer
Step-by-Step Instructions with Pictures:
Step 1: Prepare the Steak (At Least 30 Minutes Before Cooking)
- Remove the Wagyu steak from the refrigerator at least 30 minutes, and up to an hour, before cooking. This allows the steak to come to room temperature, which helps it cook more evenly.
Step 2: Season Generously
- Pat the steak dry with paper towels. This helps create a beautiful scene. Season both sides generously with coarse sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy with the salt – it enhances the flavor and helps draw out moisture, leading to a better crust.
Step 3: Heat the Skillet
- Place your heavy-bottomed skillet, preferably cast iron, over high heat. Allow it to heat up for several minutes until it is smoking slightly. A properly heated pan is crucial for achieving a good sear.
Step 4: Add the Oil and Optional Aromatics
- Once the pan is very hot, add the cooking oil. It should shimmer almost immediately. If using garlic and herbs, add them to the pan now. They will infuse the oil with their aroma as the steak cooks. Be careful not to burn them; you can remove them after a minute or so if they start to brown too quickly.
Step 5: Sear the First Side
- Carefully place the seasoned Wagyu steak in the hot skillet. Avoid overcrowding the pan if cooking multiple steaks. Let it sear undisturbed for 2-4 minutes, depending on the thickness and desired crust, until a deep brown and crispy crust has formed.
Step 6: Sear the Second Side and Baste (Optional)
- Using tongs, flip the steak carefully and sear the other side for another 2-4 minutes until a similar crust forms.
- If you’re basting, add the unsalted butter to the skillet once you’ve flipped the steak. As the butter melts, tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to continuously baste the steak with the hot, flavorful butter. This adds richness and promotes even cooking.
Step 7: Check for Doneness
The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your steak and your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the steak (avoiding bone) to check the internal temperature:
- Rare: 120-130°F (49-54°C)
- Medium-Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C) – Recommended for Wagyu to appreciate its tenderness
- Medium: 135-145°F (57-63°C)
- Medium-Well: 145-155°F (63-68°C)
- Well-Done: 155°F+ (68°C+) – Generally not recommended for high-quality Wagyu as it can become dry.
Step 8: Rest the Steak
- Once the steak reaches your desired internal temperature, immediately transfer it to a clean cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Step 9: Slice and Serve
- After resting, slice the Wagyu steak against the grain. This will further enhance its tenderness. Serve immediately and savor the incredible flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture of this ultimate steak.
Enjoy your truly exceptional Wagyu beef steak!
Optional Serving Suggestions (Keep it Simple to Let the Steak Shine):
- A sprinkle of flaky sea salt after slicing.
- A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
- Served alongside simple roasted asparagus or a light salad.
Enjoy the indulgence!
