You're cooking steak wrong, according to J. Kenji López-Alt
You're cooking steak wrong, according to J. Kenji López-Alt is a easy American recipe that serves 2. 600 calories per serving. Recipe by TEDx Talks on YouTube.
Prep: 10 min | Cook: 50 min | Total: 1 hr 15 min
Cost: $18.04 total, $9.02 per serving
Ingredients
- 8 oz Beef Ribeye Steak (1‑inch thick, room temperature before cooking)
- 1 tsp Kosher Salt (for seasoning)
- 0.5 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper (for seasoning)
- 1 tbsp Canola Oil (high smoke‑point oil for searing)
- 1 tbsp Unsalted Butter (optional, for finishing sear)
Instructions
Prepare the 130°F water bath
Fill the cooler with enough water to fully submerge the steak bag. Use a thermometer to bring the water to exactly 130°F (54°C).
Time: PT5M
Temperature: 130°F
Season and bag the steak
Pat the steak dry, season both sides with salt and pepper, then place it in a zip‑top bag. Use the water‑displacement method to remove air and seal the bag tightly.
Time: PT5M
Cook the steak in the water bath
Submerge the sealed bag in the 130°F water bath. Let it cook for 45 minutes (or up to 4 hours without overcooking).
Time: PT45M
Temperature: 130°F
Dry the steak before searing
Remove the bag, take the steak out, and pat it completely dry with paper towels.
Time: PT5M
Sear the steak
Heat the cast‑iron skillet over high heat until very hot. Add oil, then sear the steak 1‑2 minutes per side until a deep brown crust forms. Add butter at the end and baste briefly.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: 400°F
Rest and serve
Transfer the steak to a cutting board, let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice against the grain and serve.
Time: PT5M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 600
- Protein
- 45g
- Carbohydrates
- 0g
- Fat
- 45g
- Fiber
- 0g
Dietary info: Gluten-Free, Keto, Paleo
Allergens: Dairy
Last updated: April 6, 2026






