I love cooking shell steak when I want a simple, hearty meal that really highlights the flavor of the beef. With just a few basic seasonings and the right cooking method, this steak turns out juicy, tender, and incredibly satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I enjoy this recipe because it’s straightforward and lets the natural flavor of the steak shine. I don’t need a long ingredient list or complicated steps, and it cooks quickly. It’s perfect for nights when I want a restaurant-style steak at home without much effort.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
shell steak
olive oil or butter
salt
black pepper
garlic powder
fresh herbs
Directions
I start by taking the shell steak out of the refrigerator and letting it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps it cook more evenly.
I season the steak generously on both sides with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. I heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil or butter.
Once the pan is hot, I place the steak in the skillet and let it sear without moving it. I cook it until a deep crust forms, then flip it and cook the other side until it reaches my desired doneness. During the last minute, I like to add butter and fresh herbs to the pan and spoon it over the steak.
I remove the steak from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Servings and Timing
I usually get 1 to 2 servings from one shell steak, depending on size.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 8–12 minutes
Resting time: 5 minutes
Total time: about 20 minutes
Variations
I sometimes marinate the steak briefly with olive oil, garlic, and herbs for extra flavor. When I want a smoky taste, I grill the steak instead of pan-searing it. I also enjoy finishing it with a pat of herb butter on top.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, I warm it gently in a skillet or enjoy it cold sliced over a salad. I avoid microwaving it so it doesn’t dry out.
FAQs
What is shell steak?
I know shell steak as a bone-in cut from the short loin, similar to a strip steak with extra flavor from the bone.
How do I know when the steak is done?
I usually check doneness by touch or use a meat thermometer to get the result I want.
Can I cook shell steak in the oven?
I can sear it first on the stovetop, then finish it in the oven if the steak is thick.
Should I trim the fat?
I leave most of the fat on since it adds flavor, trimming only excess pieces if needed.
What sides go well with shell steak?
I like serving it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
Conclusion
I enjoy making shell steak because it’s simple, flavorful, and satisfying without being complicated. It’s a classic dish I rely on when I want a great steak cooked just the way I like it.
PrintShell Steak
A simple, hearty shell steak cooked to perfection with minimal seasoning, allowing the rich, natural beef flavor to shine through for a juicy, restaurant-style meal at home.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8–12 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 1–2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop / Searing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 1 shell steak (about 12–16 oz)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder
- 1–2 sprigs fresh herbs (thyme or rosemary)
Instructions
- Remove the shell steak from the refrigerator and let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil or butter.
- Once hot, place the steak in the skillet and sear without moving for 4–6 minutes until a deep crust forms.
- Flip the steak and cook for another 4–6 minutes, depending on thickness and desired doneness.
- Add butter and fresh herbs during the last minute and spoon the melted butter over the steak.
- Remove steak from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Letting the steak rest helps retain juices.
- Use a meat thermometer for precise doneness.
- Grilling is a great alternative for a smoky flavor.
- Finish with herb butter for extra richness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 38 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 42 g
- Cholesterol: 135 mg
