The Best Way To Reheat Steak

Jan 10, 2025

I’m a Food Scientist and I’m going to share the best way to reheat steak (and what to avoid!) so that it stays as delicious as the first time you served it.

Instant pot steak on a plate with mashed potatoes.

What Is The Best Way to Reheat Steak?

The best way to reheat steak depends on your goal—whether you want a juicy, tender result or a crispy sear.

Stovetop Steam: Best for retaining moisture, especially for thin cuts.
Stovetop Sear: Adds a fresh crust and boosts flavor.
Microwave: Quick and convenient but can dry out the steak if not done carefully.
Oven + Sear: Even reheating with a great crust—ideal for thicker steaks.

Want a QUICK ANSWER? The stovetop reheat is my favorite. It’s quick like a microwave but with better (and more control over) results.

Let’s dive into the details.

A Few Ways To Reheat Steak

There are a couple of ways to reheat steak leftovers: it can be done viva stovetop steam, stovetop sear, microwave, or warming in the oven followed by a sear on the stove.

Each method has pros and cons. Here is the breakdown to see which one fits your steak-reheating needs!

Steak Reheating Method: Stovetop Steam

Stovetop steam is a gentle method suitable for thinner cuts of steak. Here’s how to do it:

Preparation: Place a heatproof plate or steaming basket over a pot of simmering water. Make sure the plate doesn’t touch the water.
Reheating: Put the steak on the plate or in the steaming basket. Cover the pot with a lid to trap the steam, and let the steak warm through for a few minutes.
Finishing touch: Once heated, remove the steak and pat it dry. Optionally, sear it briefly in a hot pan with oil or butter for added flavor and texture.

This method preserves the steak’s moisture, preventing it from becoming dry inside and out.

Steak Reheating Method: Stovetop Sear

Searing on the stovetop revitalizes the steak, giving it a fresh, crispy exterior. Follow these steps:

Preheat: Heat a cast iron skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil or butter.
Reheating: Place the steak in the pan and sear each side for 1-2 minutes until heated through and a golden-brown crust forms.
Rest and serve: Remove the steak from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

This method enhances the steak’s flavor and texture, bringing back your freshly cooked steak.

A grain bowl with sliced steak and cherry tomatoes with dressing on the side.

Steak Reheating Method: Microwave

While the microwave is convenient, it requires careful attention to prevent overcooking. Here’s what to do:

Preparation: Place the steak on a microwave-safe dish and cover it loosely with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture.
Reheating: Microwave the steak on medium power in short bursts, frequently checking to prevent overheating. Stop when the steak reaches the desired temperature. (See: Best Temperature To Grill Steak (for Perfect Steak Every Time!)
Rest and check: Let the steak rest for a minute or two before serving. Check for even heating throughout.

Although quick, this method can result in uneven reheating and loss of moisture if not monitored closely.

Steak Reheating Method: Warm in the Oven, Sear on the Stove

Combining oven warming with stovetop searing ensures even reheating and a good crust.

Here’s how:

Preheat: Preheat the oven to a low temperature, around 250°F (120°C). Place the steak on a baking sheet.
Reheating: Warm the steak in the oven until it reaches the desired internal temperature, usually around 10-15 minutes depending on thickness.
Finishing touch: Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat. Sear the steak for 1-2 minutes on each side until a crust forms.
Rest and serve: Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving to allow the juices to redistribute evenly.

This method ensures the steak is heated through while preserving its moisture and flavor, with a perfect seared crust for added texture.

Top Tips To Reheat Steak

Check out my pro tips for perfectly reheated steak:

Use thinly sliced portions: If possible, slice the steak thinly before reheating. Thinner slices warm up more evenly and quickly. This also minimizes the risk of overcooking.
Cover to retain moisture: When reheating steak, cover it with a lid, foil, or a damp paper towel to help trap moisture. This prevents the steak from drying out during the reheating process.
Avoid overheating: Whether using a microwave or stovetop method, avoid overheating the steak. Check it frequently to prevent it from becoming tough or dry.
Let it rest: Allow the reheated steak to rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute evenly throughout the meat.
Add moisture if necessary: If the steak seems dry after reheating, you can add a splash of broth, sauce, or melted butter before serving to enhance moisture and flavor.
Start with room temperature meat: This helps reheat the beef steak quicker than if its starting point is fridge temperature.
Reheat in small batches: If reheating a large quantity of steak, it’s often better to reheat it in smaller batches to maintain control over the process and ensure even heating.
Monitor temperature: Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature of the steak as it reheats. Aim for a safe internal temperature while avoiding overcooking.
Utilize resting time: While the steak is reheating, use the time to prepare accompanying side dishes or set the table. This helps ensure that everything is ready to serve once the steak is done reheating.