beef porterhouse steak recipe
The Best beef porterhouse steak recipe
I love this recipe because it’s versatile enough for any occasion—whether you’re grilling for a birthday or serving it up as a quick, hearty meal on a busy weeknight. The porterhouse is a crowd-pleaser, and the fact that it’s packed with protein and iron makes it a great choice for keeping everyone full and energized. Plus, it’s simple enough that even if you’re not a seasoned cook, you can pull off a restaurant-quality steak with a little practice. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent but is actually pretty straightforward, which is why I keep it in my rotation.

Perfectly Seared Beef Porterhouse Steak
A juicy, well-marbled porterhouse steak with a crispy crust and rich, flavorful sauce. Ideal for a special dinner night.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900g) bone-in porterhouse steak
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp kosher salt
- 1 tbsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp coarse sea salt
- 2 tbsp coarse black pepper
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Pat the steak dry with paper towels and season generously with kosher salt and black pepper on both sides. Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. -
2
Heat a heavy skillet over high heat until very hot. Add 1 tbsp olive oil and let it shimmer. Place the steak in the pan and sear undisturbed for 2–3 minutes until a deep brown crust forms. -
3
Flip the steak and sear for another 2–3 minutes. Increase heat to medium-high and add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Sear the steak again for 2–3 minutes on the opposite side, ensuring even browning. -
4
Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. -
5
While the steak rests, prepare the sauce by combining beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and soy sauce in a small saucepan. Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened. -
6
Slice the steak against the grain into thick strips. Spoon the warm sauce over the steak just before serving.
🔧Equipment
- Heavy skillet (cast iron preferred)
- Measuring spoons
- Tongs
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Perfectly Seared Beef Porterhouse Steak Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Perfectly Seared Beef Porterhouse Steak
How do I choose the right cut of beef for a porterhouse?
A porterhouse steak comes from the top of the sirloin, where the tenderloin and the sirloin meet. Look for a cut that’s at least 1.5 inches thick and has a deep red color with a slight marbling of fat. Avoid overly dry or pale steaks, as this often means it hasn’t been rested properly or was cooked too quickly.
What’s the ideal resting time for a porterhouse before cooking?
Resting is crucial for even cooking. After grilling or pan-searing, let the steak rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist. Don’t skip this step—it’s the difference between a dry, tough steak and one that’s tender and flavorful.
How long should I cook the porterhouse at each temperature?
For medium-rare (130–135°F internal temp), sear the porterhouse over high heat for 2–3 minutes per side for a 1.5-inch thick steak, then reduce to medium heat (375°F) and cook until it reaches the desired temp. For medium (140–145°F), add 1–2 extra minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check accuracy.
Can I reverse-sear a porterhouse, and if so, how?
Yes! Reverse-searing is ideal for thick steaks like porterhouse. First, bake at 250°F for 15–20 minutes to gently cook the exterior, then sear in a hot pan for 2–3 minutes per side to achieve a crisp crust. This method ensures even doneness while keeping the center juicy.
What’s the best way to slice a porterhouse after cooking?
Let the steak rest before slicing against the grain. For a porterhouse, this means cutting into the muscle fibers running diagonally across the steak. Use a sharp knife and slice thinly (about ¼-inch thick) to maximize tenderness and serve with your favorite toppings.
