Coffee Rubbed Steak
Experience a steakhouse-quality meal at home with this Coffee Rubbed Steak. A bold, aromatic crust of finely ground coffee, smoked paprika, and brown sugar seals in the juices, creating a tender, flavorful steak with a surprisingly complex, smoky-sweet finish. Perfect for grilling, this recipe transforms a simple steak into a memorable main course.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Steaks (30-40 minutes)
- b.Remove the steaks from the refrigerator 30-40 minutes before cooking.
- c.Pat them completely dry with paper towels. A dry surface is essential for a good sear.
- d.Allowing the steaks to come to room temperature ensures they cook more evenly.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Create the Coffee Rub (2 minutes)
- b.In a small bowl, combine the finely ground coffee, packed brown sugar, smoked paprika, kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, freshly ground black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- c.Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Season the Steaks (3 minutes)
- b.Lightly coat all sides of each steak with olive oil. This will act as a binder for the rub.
- c.Generously sprinkle the coffee rub mixture over all surfaces of the steaks.
- d.Gently press the rub into the meat with your hands to ensure it adheres well.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Grill the Steaks (8-12 minutes)
- b.Preheat your grill to high heat, aiming for a temperature of 450-500°F (230-260°C).
- c.Clean the grill grates well to prevent sticking.
- d.Place the seasoned steaks directly over the high heat.
- e.Grill for 4-6 minutes per side for a medium-rare finish. For a perfect crust, avoid moving the steaks too much.
- f.Use an instant-read thermometer for accuracy: 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare, 140-145°F (60-63°C) for medium.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Rest, Slice, and Serve (10 minutes)
- b.Transfer the grilled steaks to a cutting board or platter.
- c.Tent them loosely with aluminum foil and let them rest for 10 minutes. This critical step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
- d.After resting, slice the steak against the grain into thick strips and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best crust, use coffee that is finely ground, similar to an espresso grind. Avoid instant coffee.
- 2A digital meat thermometer is your best tool for achieving the perfect level of doneness without guesswork.
- 3If you don't have a grill, you can achieve excellent results by pan-searing the steak in a very hot cast-iron skillet with a bit of high-smoke-point oil for 3-5 minutes per side.
- 4Ensure your grill is fully preheated before adding the steaks. A hot surface is key to getting a beautiful, dark crust.
- 5This steak pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, grilled asparagus, or a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spice it up
Add 1 teaspoon of ancho chili powder or chipotle powder to the rub for a deeper, smokier heat.
Different CutsDifferent Cuts
This rub works well on other cuts of beef like New York strip, sirloin, or flank steak. Adjust cooking times based on the thickness of the cut.
Sweet & SavorySweet & Savory
Add 1/2 teaspoon of cocoa powder to the rub to enhance the deep, rich flavors and complement the coffee.
Herbaceous NotesHerbaceous Notes
Incorporate 1 teaspoon of dried oregano or thyme into the rub for a subtle herby background note.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
Beef is a complete protein, providing all the essential amino acids your body needs for muscle growth, tissue repair, and overall bodily function.
Rich in Heme Iron
This steak provides heme iron, a form that is more easily absorbed by the body than iron from plant sources. Iron is crucial for forming hemoglobin, which transports oxygen in the blood.
Packed with B Vitamins
Steak is a great source of essential B vitamins, including B12, niacin, and B6, which are vital for energy metabolism, brain function, and the formation of red blood cells.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of Coffee Rubbed Steak (approximately one 10 oz steak before cooking) contains around 890 calories, primarily from the steak itself and the olive oil.