How to Cook Wagyu Steak on a Gas Grill?

Wagyu steak is a premium cut of meat known for its unmatched flavor and tenderness. While many people think it’s best prepared by a professional chef, the truth is you can cook it perfectly on your own gas grill. In this article, I’ll share some essential tips and techniques to help you achieve a delicious Wagyu steak every time.

Key Takeaways:

• Cooking Wagyu steak on a gas grill can be done at home with the right techniques
• Properly preparing the steak, setting up the grill, and grilling techniques are key to achieving a perfect steak
• Searing and resting your Wagyu steak properly can make a significant difference in taste and tenderness

Preparing the Wagyu Steak

Before you start grilling, it is crucial to properly prepare the Wagyu steak. Here are the necessary steps to ensure your steak is ready for the grill:

Thawing

If you’re using frozen Wagyu steak, make sure to thaw it properly beforehand. The best way to thaw is to place the steak in the refrigerator overnight. If you don’t have that much time, you can also put the steak in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for faster thawing. Do not use hot water or a microwave to defrost the steak, as this can damage the meat’s texture and flavor.

Seasoning

Seasoning the Wagyu steak is essential to bring out its natural flavor. Use a generous amount of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides of the steak. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or herbs, depending on your personal preference.

Bringing to Room Temperature

Before placing the steak on the grill, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help the steak cook more evenly and prevent it from becoming dry. Make sure to cover the steak with plastic wrap during this time to avoid any contamination.

Gas Grill Steak Recipes

Here are some delicious gas grill steak recipes you can try with your Wagyu steak:

• Classic Garlic Butter Steak – Mix softened butter with minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Spread the mixture over the steak before grilling, and baste with more butter as it cooks.
• Asian-inspired Teriyaki Steak – Marinate the steak in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil for at least 2 hours before grilling. Brush with more marinade while cooking.
• Mushroom and Blue Cheese Steak – Sauté sliced mushrooms and garlic in butter and olive oil. Crumble blue cheese on top of the steak before grilling, and add the sautéed mushrooms and garlic on top when serving.

Setting Up the Gas Grill

Before you start grilling your Wagyu steak, it’s essential to make sure your gas grill is properly set up. A well-prepared grill will ensure even heat distribution and prevent any flare-ups or hot spots that could ruin your steak. Follow these gas grill cooking techniques to set up your grill for optimal cooking:

Step 1 – Clean the Grill Grates:

Start by cleaning the grill grates with a wire brush to remove any debris and residue from previous cooking sessions. This will ensure your steak doesn’t stick to the grates and will prevent any unwanted flavors from transferring to your steak.

Step 2 – Preheat the Grill:

Before cooking, preheat the grill to the desired temperature. For Wagyu steaks, it’s recommended to set the grill to medium-high heat, around 400-450°F. This will allow for a quick sear and give the steak a delicious crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

Step 3 – Create Heat Zones:

Create heat zones by turning one side of the grill to high heat and leaving the other side on low heat. This allows you to have both direct and indirect heat zones to cook the steak properly. Start by searing the steak on the high heat zone and move it to the low-heat zone for indirect cooking until it reaches your desired level of doneness.

Step 4 – Ensure Even Heat Distribution:

Ensure even heat distribution by closing the lid of the grill during cooking. This will help maintain the temperature and allow for even cooking of the steak. Also, avoid opening the grill lid too frequently, as this can cause heat loss and affect cooking time.

By following these gas grill cooking techniques, you’ll be able to set up your grill to cook the perfect Wagyu steak. With a well-prepared grill, you’ll achieve even heat distribution, maintain consistent temperature, and prevent any unwanted flare-ups or hot spots.

Grilling the Wagyu Steak

Now that you have prepared the Wagyu steak and set up the gas grill, it’s time to start grilling. Grilling a Wagyu steak on a gas grill requires proper technique to achieve the perfect result. Follow the steps below to grill your Wagyu steak to perfection.

Direct Grilling Method

The direct grilling method involves cooking the steak directly over the heat source. It’s best suited for thin cuts of Wagyu steak, up to 1 inch thick.

Remember to flip the steak only once during cooking to achieve even grill marks. Use a meat thermometer to test for doneness and remove the steak from the grill 5°F below your desired temperature, as the steak will continue to cook while resting.

Indirect Grilling Method

The indirect grilling method involves cooking the steak away from the heat source. It’s best suited for thicker cuts of Wagyu steak, over 1 inch thick.

In the indirect grilling method, place the Wagyu steak on the cooler side of the grill and close the lid. This will create an oven-like environment and allow the steak to cook more evenly. Use a meat thermometer to test for doneness and remove the steak from the grill 5°F below your desired temperature.

Whichever method you choose, remember to let the steak rest for five minutes to allow the juices to redistribute and ensure maximum tenderness before serving.

Searing the Wagyu Steak

Searing is a crucial step in achieving the perfect Wagyu steak on a gas grill. This technique involves cooking the steak at high heat to create a flavorful crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

Before searing, make sure your gas grill is preheated to high heat for at least 10-15 minutes. This ensures the grill grates are hot enough to sear the steak properly.

Once the grill is hot, carefully place the seasoned Wagyu steak on the grill grates, directly over the heat source. Don’t move the steak around too much during the searing process, as this can prevent a nice crust from forming.

The length of time you should sear the steak depends on the steak’s thickness and your desired level of doneness. As a general rule, sear the steak for two to three minutes per side for rare, three to four minutes per side for medium, and four to five minutes per side for well-done.

Use tongs to flip the steak and sear the other side for the same amount of time. For an even sear, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak, ensuring it reaches your desired level of doneness.

Once the steak is properly seared, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and the steak to become more tender.

Mastering the art of searing on a gas grill takes practice, so don’t be discouraged if it doesn’t turn out perfect on your first try. With time and experience, you’ll be able to achieve the perfect sear on your Wagyu steak every time.

Resting and Serving the Wagyu Steak

Properly resting and serving your Wagyu steak is just as important as the grilling process itself. Not only does this allow the steak to reach its full flavor potential, but it also ensures that it remains moist and tender. Follow these simple steps to guarantee an unforgettable dining experience:

1. Remove the steak from the grill and place it on a cutting board. Tent it loosely with aluminum foil.
2. Allow the steak to rest for at least 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute and settle. This will ensure that every bite is juicy and flavorful.
3. Once the steak has rested, it’s time to slice and serve. To achieve the perfect cut, use a sharp knife and slice against the grain. This will result in a tender and easy-to-chew piece.
4. Arrange the slices on a platter or individual plates and serve immediately. You can garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil to enhance the flavor.

Remember, a perfectly cooked Wagyu steak is a delicate and precious thing. By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to enjoy a steak that is juicy, flavorful, and tender – the ultimate grilling experience.

Conclusion

Cooking Wagyu steak on a gas grill may seem daunting, but with the right techniques, you can achieve a perfectly cooked steak that will impress your guests. By following the step-by-step guide in this article, you’ll be able to elevate your BBQ prowess and enjoy the unmatched flavor and tenderness of Wagyu steak in the comfort of your own backyard.

Remember, preparing the steak is just as important as grilling it. Thaw the steak properly, season it generously, and bring it to room temperature before grilling. And don’t forget to set up your gas grill correctly, preheating it and adjusting the heat zones for even cooking.

When it comes to grilling the steak, use direct and indirect methods based on the thickness of your steak, and keep an eye on the cooking time to achieve your desired level of doneness. Searing adds flavor and a delicious crust, so be sure to follow the searing tips for a beautiful finish.

Finally, resting and serving the steak correctly can make all the difference. Allow the steak to rest for a few minutes after grilling, and slice it against the grain for maximum tenderness.

With these tips, you’ll be able to achieve a perfect Wagyu steak every time. Happy grilling, and enjoy your perfectly cooked Wagyu steak!

FAQ

Q: How long should I preheat the gas grill before cooking the Wagyu steak?

A: It is recommended to preheat the gas grill for at least 10-15 minutes to ensure it reaches the desired cooking temperature.

Q: Should I season the Wagyu steak before or after grilling?

A: It is best to season the Wagyu steak before grilling. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat while it cooks.

Q: How do I know when the Wagyu steak is done cooking?

A: The best way to determine the doneness of the Wagyu steak is by using a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should reach 130-135°F (54-57°C).

Q: Do I need to let the Wagyu steak rest after grilling?

A: Yes, it is crucial to let the Wagyu steak rest for about 5-10 minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a tender and flavorful steak.

Q: Can I freeze the Wagyu steak before grilling?

A: Yes, you can freeze the Wagyu steak before grilling. However, make sure to thaw it properly in the refrigerator before cooking to ensure even cooking.

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Michael Davis

Founder at Grill Gusto

I'm Michael R. Davis, the grilling fanatic behind GrillGusto.com. After getting my first grill in college 15 years ago, I was hooked and have been perfecting my barbecue skills ever since. When I'm not developing new recipes for the site, you can find me in my backyard grilling up juicy steaks, smoking tender ribs, and experimenting with rubs and grill setups. I created GrillGusto to share my passion for the art of grilling. Let's get grillin'!

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