Barbecuing a delicious sirloin steak requires a few simple steps and some key tips to ensure it turns out juicy and flavorful every time. With the right preparation, seasoning, and cooking technique, you can master grilling this hearty cut of beef.
Selecting and Preparing the Steak
Choosing a High-Quality Cut
When selecting a sirloin steak for the grill, choose a cut that is 1-1.5 inches thick for the best results. Look for steaks that are well-marbled with fat throughout as this keeps the meat tender and moist during cooking. The bone-in top sirloin steak has the most flavor, but the boneless sirloin is easier to cook evenly.
Proper Seasoning is Key
Season the steak generously with salt and pepper before cooking. For extra flavor, you can rub the steaks with a mixture of minced garlic, rosemary, olive oil, and Dijon mustard. Allow the steaks to stand at room temperature for 30 minutes before grilling to ensure even cooking.
Get the Grill Ready
Heat your charcoal or gas grill to high heat. Use a grill brush to clean the grates. Then oil the grates by rubbing them with a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil. This prevents the steak from sticking. If using charcoal, let the coals turn gray before cooking.
Grilling Techniques for Perfectly Cooked Sirloin
Searing the Steak
Place the steaks on the hot grill and sear each side for 2-3 minutes. This caramelizes the outside creating tons of flavor. Resist the urge to move the steaks too soon or you won’t get a good sear.
Finding the Hot Spots
If using charcoal, the coals create hot spots so you’ll need to move the steaks around occasionally to prevent burning. With gas, you can lower the heat on one side to create warm and hot zones. Move steaks between them for even cooking.
Flipping Just Once
Aim to flip the steaks just once during cooking. Flip them gently using tongs rather than a fork which punctures the meat, losing moisture. Cook the steaks to your desired doneness, about 5 minutes per side for medium-rare.
Letting It Rest
After grilling, transfer the steaks to a plate and tent them loosely with foil. Letting them rest for 5-10 minutes allows the juices to redistribute evenly throughout the meat for a tender, juicy steak.
Adding Extra Flavor
Consider adding smoked sea salt, garlic butter, or caramelized onions on top of the steak before serving for extra flavor. You can also deglaze the grill by scrubbing with a wet brush to pick up browned bits, then brushing the steaks with the juices.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t Cook it Straight from the Fridge
Letting the steak reach room temp before cooking prevents cold spots and promotes even cooking. Don’t ice a hot steak either or it will toughen the meat.
Don’t Flip Repeatedly
Flipping too much causes moisture loss so stick to once or twice only. Use tongs, not a fork, for flipping.
Don’t Press the Steak
Pressing squeezes out the flavorful juices. Use tongs to turn instead. Also don’t poke steaks as they cook.
Don’t Overcook
It’s easy to go past medium-rare to medium or well-done. Use an instant-read thermometer to test doneness instead of cutting into the steak.
Don’t Forget to Tent and Rest
Letting the steak rest after cooking allows the juices to redistribute for a tender, juicy steak. Tent lightly with foil to keep warm.
Tips for Grilling the Perfect Sirloin Steak
- Pat the steaks dry before seasoning so spices stick properly.
- Choose thicker steaks, at least 1 – 1.5 inches, for grilling.
- Use tongs and grill baskets for easy flipping rather than a fork.
- Create sear marks by placing steaks diagonally to the grates when laying them down.
- Adjust temperature zones by turning off burners on a gas grill.
- Infuse flavor by adding fresh herbs, spice rubs or marinades.
- Monitor temperature using an instant-read thermometer for accuracy.
- Let steak rest before slicing to prevent juices from running out.
- Don’t press, poke or prod steak as it cooks. Just flip once.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best cut of sirloin for grilling?
The top sirloin steak with the bone still attached has the most flavor for grilling. The boneless sirloin steak can also be used for more even cooking.
What temperature should I cook sirloin steak to?
For medium-rare aim for 130-135 ̊F internally. For medium 140-145 ̊F and for well done cook to around 155 ̊F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
How long do you grill sirloin steak?
Cook for around 5 minutes per side for a steak 1-inch thick. Thicker steaks take longer, about 7 minutes per side. Check internal temp to be sure.
What is the best way to grill a sirloin steak?
Use direct high heat. Preheat grill properly, oil the grates, and sear the steaks 2-3 minutes per side for caramelization. Flip once only and use tongs instead of a fork.
Can you grill sirloin steak frozen?
It’s best to thaw steaks overnight in the fridge before grilling. Frozen steaks cooked directly on a hot grill will burn on the outside before cooking through.
Conclusion
Grilling sirloin steak requires paying attention to a few key steps like selecting a quality cut, proper seasoning and searing, adjusting grill temperature zones, and letting the steak rest before serving. With the right techniques, you can achieve a perfectly cooked grilled sirloin steak that is crusty on the outside, juicy on the inside with tons of great flavor. Use an instant-read thermometer and avoid common grilling mistakes. In no time, you can confidently barbecue flavorful sirloin that is sure to satisfy any steak lover.