Are you in the mood for a juicy, perfectly grilled steak? Wondering how long it takes to achieve that delectable medium-rare goodness on the grill? Well, you’ve come to the right place. In this blog post, we’ll explore the answer to the burning question: “How long to grill steak at 400?” Armed with the right knowledge and a sizzling grill, you’ll soon be enjoying a mouthwatering steak that will make your taste buds dance with delight. So, let’s get grilling!
Understanding the Basics of Grilling Steak
Explanation of grilling at 400 degrees Fahrenheit
Grilling at 400 degrees Fahrenheit is considered high heat, perfect for a delicious steak. This temperature allows for a nice char on the outside while ensuring the center is perfectly cooked. It balances searing the steak quickly and retaining the desired tenderness.
Pros and cons of grilling at high temperatures
Grilling at high temperatures, such as 400 degrees Fahrenheit, offers several advantages. Firstly, it ensures the steak has a nice crust outside, sealing the juices and creating a flavorful outer layer. Secondly, it reduces the cooking time, allowing you to enjoy your steak in a shorter period. However, grilling at high temperatures requires careful attention to prevent overcooking, and it may not be suitable for thicker cuts of steak that require more time to cook evenly.
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Guidelines for Grilling Steak at 400°F
Approximate cooking times when grill your steak at 400 degrees Fahrenheit? It’s an important detail to get right if you want that perfectly cooked steak. So, let’s dive in.
- Rare steaks: When grilling your steak at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for a rare result, cook it for about 4-5 minutes per side. This will give you a beautifully pink center and a slightly charred crust. Remember to use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches around 125-130 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Medium-rare steaks: For those who prefer their steaks to be medium-rare, aim for a cooking time of around 5-6 minutes per side at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This will give you a pink-colored center with a nice sear on the outside. The internal temperature should reach 135-140 degrees Fahrenheit for the perfect medium-rare doneness.
- Medium steaks: If you like your steaks cooked to medium doneness, grill them for approximately 6-7 minutes per side at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This will give you a slightly pink center with more caramelization on the exterior. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of around 145-155 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Well-done steaks: For those who prefer their steaks well-done, you’ll want to grill them for about 8-9 minutes per side at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This longer cooking time will result in a fully cooked steak with little to no pinkness. The internal temperature should reach about 160-165 degrees Fahrenheit to achieve that desired well-done texture.
Remember, these cooking times are approximate, and it’s essential to use a meat thermometer to get your steak just right. Also, always allow your steak to rest for a few minutes before slicing into it, which helps retain its juicy goodness.

Hey there, it’s Maura Braun from Maura’s Kitchen of Millbrook! If you love all things BBQ and grilling, my blog is the perfect place for you. But my passion for food doesn’t stop at the restaurant. I also love sharing my smoker, grilling, and BBQ experiences on my blog. From juicy brisket to perfectly smoked ribs, I’m always experimenting with new techniques and flavor combinations.
Can I use a gas grill to cook steak at 400°F, or is it better with charcoal?
Gas grills are great for convenience and amateur-friendly grilling, making them a good choice if ease and convenience are your primary concerns. However, if you prefer a smoky flavor, charcoal is the way to go.