How to cook a porterhouse steak on the grill? - Chef's Resource (2024)

Grilling a perfectly cooked porterhouse steak can be a culinary delight and a great way to impress your guests. This article will guide you through the steps to achieve a tender and juicy steak with a flavorful crust. So, without further ado, let’s explore the process of cooking a porterhouse steak on the grill.

Preparing the Porterhouse Steak

Before you begin grilling, it is crucial to prepare the porterhouse steak properly. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Choose a good quality porterhouse steak: Look for a steak that has good marbling and a bright red color.

2. Get the steak to room temperature: Take the steak out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This ensures even cooking.

3. Season the steak: Generously season both sides of the steak with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. You can also add other seasonings of your choice, such as garlic powder or herbs.

Grilling the Porterhouse Steak

Now that the steak is ready, it’s time to fire up the grill and start cooking. Follow these steps for a perfectly grilled porterhouse steak:

4. Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill to high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking.

5. Start with a sear: Place the porterhouse steak directly over the hot grill grates. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes to create a nice crust.

6. Lower the heat: Reduce the heat to medium or move the steak to a cooler part of the grill to avoid burning the exterior while ensuring thorough cooking.

7. Cook to desired doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For a medium-rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C). Cook longer for a more well-done steak.

8. Let it rest: Once the steak reaches your desired doneness, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier steak.

9. Slice and serve: After resting, slice the porterhouse steak against the grain and serve it hot. Pair it with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables or a buttery baked potato.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long does it take to grill a porterhouse steak?

The cooking time varies depending on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness. As a general guideline, it takes about 10-15 minutes in total.

2. Can I marinate the porterhouse steak before grilling?

Yes, marinating the steak can add flavor and tenderness. However, due to the steak’s thickness, a marinade may not penetrate deeply. It’s best to use a marinade for a few hours or overnight if you prefer.

3. Should I oil the steak before grilling?

No, you don’t need to oil the steak before grilling. Oiling the grates is sufficient to prevent sticking.

4. Can I use a gas grill for cooking a porterhouse steak?

Absolutely! A gas grill works just as well as a charcoal grill for cooking porterhouse steaks. Preheat the gas grill to high heat and follow the same cooking instructions.

5. What should I do if I don’t have a meat thermometer?

If you don’t have a meat thermometer, you can gauge the steak’s doneness by using the finger test method or by following cooking time guidelines based on the thickness of the steak.

6. Can I cook a frozen porterhouse steak on the grill?

It’s best to thaw the steak before grilling to ensure even cooking. However, if grilling from frozen, adjust the cooking time and be mindful of the steak’s internal temperature throughout the process.

7. How do I clean the grill after cooking the steak?

Allow the grill grates to cool down, then scrub them with a grill brush to remove any residue. Wipe the grates with a cloth soaked in vegetable oil to prevent rusting.

8. Can I cook a porterhouse steak to well-done without drying it out?

To prevent the steak from drying out while achieving a well-done level of doneness, you can try using indirect grilling methods or sear-roasting in the oven and finishing on the grill.

9. What is the best way to reheat leftover porterhouse steak?

To reheat leftover porterhouse steak, preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C), wrap the steak in foil, and heat it in the oven until it reaches your desired temperature. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the steak tough.

10. Can I grill a porterhouse steak using a pan instead?

While grilling on a pan is not the traditional method, you can sear the steak on a stovetop pan and finish cooking it in the oven. This technique is known as “pan-roasting.”

11. What are some delicious sauces to serve with porterhouse steak?

Common sauces that complement porterhouse steak include chimichurri, peppercorn sauce, blue cheese sauce, or a classic béarnaise sauce.

12. How can I ensure a smoky flavor when grilling a porterhouse steak?

To add a smoky flavor, use hardwood chips or chunks on a charcoal grill or a smoker box on a gas grill. Soaking the wood chips in water for about 30 minutes before grilling will enhance the smoke production.