Best Way to Reheat Steak : Easily, Step-by-Step

This is a great question! Finding the best way to reheat steak without overcooking it and turning it gray and tough is the biggest challenge.

The secret is to heat it gently first, then sear it quickly.

Here are our top methods, step-by-step, from the highest quality result to the quickest.

The Overall Best Way to Reheat Steak (Oven + Pan)

This method gives you the juiciest result and the best crust, closest to when you first cooked it.

Bring to Room Temp – Take the steak out of the fridge and let it sit on the counter for 20-30 minutes. Reheating it from cold will make it cook unevenly.

Preheat Oven– Set your oven to a low temperature, around 250°F (120°C).

Warm Gently– Place the steak on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. (The rack lets the hot air circulate all around the steak). Heat it in the oven for 20-30 minutes, depending on its thickness. You’re just warming it through, not cooking it.

Get a Pan Hot: Just before taking the steak out of the oven, heat a cast-iron or heavy-bottomed skillet over high heat. Add a tiny bit of oil or butter.

Sear Quickly: Take the steak from the oven and place it in the hot pan. Sear it for just 60-90 seconds per side. You’re not trying to cook it, only to quickly reheat the outside and bring back that delicious crust.

6. Rest & Serve: Let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice and serve.

The Easiest Way (Pan Only)

This is faster than the oven method and works well, especially if your steak isn’t too thick.

Bring to Room Temp: Again, let the steak sit out for 20-30 minutes.

Heat Pan: Place a skillet over medium heat (not high!). Add a pat of butter or a little oil.

Add Steak & Liquid: Place the steak in the pan. To keep it from drying out, add a tablespoon or two of beef broth or water, then immediately cover the pan with a lid.

Steam-Heat: Let the steak steam for about 2-3 minutes, then flip it, cover, and heat for another 2-3 minutes until it’s warmed through.

Final Sear (Optional): If you want more of a crust, remove the lid, turn up the heat, and quickly sear each side for 30 seconds.

The Air Fryer

If you have an air fryer, this is a very easy and effective “hands-off” option.

Bring to Room Temp: Let the steak sit out for 20 minutes.

Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to around 300°F (150°C). You want a lower, gentle heat.

Cook: Place the steak in the basket and cook for 3-5 minutes, flipping it halfway through, until it’s just warmed to your liking.

What to Avoid : The Microwave

I would strongly advise against using the microwave unless you are in a huge hurry. It is definitely not the best way to reheat steak, as it’s the fastest way to get a rubbery, overcooked, and gray steak by steaming it from the inside out. If you must use it, set the power to 50% and heat it in 30-second bursts, flipping it each time.

Would you like tips for reheating other common leftovers, like pizza or rice?