1. Marinate the Steaks (Optional):

   • Prepare the steak marinade according to your preferred recipe. Marinate the steaks for at least 3 hours, but no longer than 24 hours. The marinade adds juiciness and flavor, but if you prefer, you can simply season the steaks generously with salt and pepper and skip the marinade step.

2. Bring Steaks to Room Temperature:

   • Remove the steaks from the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking. This allows them to come to room temperature, ensuring more even cooking.

3. Pat Dry and Season:

   • Pat the steaks dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

   • Season both sides of the steaks with sea salt and black pepper.

4. Preheat the Oven and Grill Pan:

   • Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).

   • Simultaneously, preheat a cast iron grill pan on the stovetop over medium-high heat for about 3 minutes.

5. Sear the Steaks:

   • Once the oven is nearly preheated, add butter to the grill pan and heat until melted.

   • Add the steaks in a single layer to the hot pan. Sear for about 2 minutes without moving them, until browned with grill marks on the bottom.

   • Flip the steaks and sear for 1-2 minutes on the other side.

6. Transfer to the Oven:

   • Transfer the grill pan to the preheated oven.

   • Bake the steaks for 2 to 6 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness:

     • Rare: 2 minutes

     • Medium rare: 3 minutes

     • Medium: 4 minutes

     • Medium-well: 5 minutes

     • Well done: 6 minutes

   • Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy:

     • Rare: 120°F (49°C)

     • Medium rare: 130°F (54°C)

     • Medium: 140°F (60°C)

     • Medium well: 150°F (66°C)

     • Well done: 160°F (71°C)

   • Keep in mind that the steak’s temperature will increase by an additional 5 degrees during resting.

7. Rest and Slice:

   • Remove the sirloin steaks from the oven and transfer them to a plate. Do not leave them in the pan, as they may overcook.

   • Let the steaks rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender and flavorful meat.

Enjoy your perfectly cooked pan-seared sirloin steaks!

Serving size: 1 8-ounce steak