Pan-Seared Flat Iron Steak with Mushroom Pan Sauce
Pan-seared flat iron steak with mushroom pan sauce is my answer to a steakhouse craving on a weeknight. Flat iron is one of the most underrated cuts at the butcher counter — tender, beefy, evenly cut, and so much cheaper than a ribeye. Sear it hard, baste it in butter, then use the same skillet to build a glossy red wine and mushroom sauce while the steak rests. Dinner for two, one pan, under an hour.
8oz (227g)whole baby bella mushrooms, stems removed, caps cleaned and very thinly sliced
1largeshallot,finely diced
Kosher salt
½cup (120ml)red wine —something good enough to drink
1Tbsp (15g)beef or veal demi-glace(note: if needed, verify this is gluten-free)
1tsp (5g)Dijon mustard
Instructions
Season the steak. Bring the steak to room temperature about 20 minutes prior to cooking. Season generously on both sides with kosher salt and black pepper.
Sear the steak. Heat a large cast-iron or stainless steel skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 Tbsp (30ml) neutral oil. When just beginning to smoke, add the steak and cook undisturbed for 4 minutes, or until a deep crust forms. Carefully flip the steak(s), add 2 Tbsp (28g) of unsalted butter, then cook for another 3-4 minutes for medium-rare while basting with a spoon. Transfer to a plate, then rest for 10 minutes. Reduce the heat to medium.
Tip: If you have kitchen weights or a press, you can place one or two of them on top of the steak as it sears on the first side. This helps it to brown evenly.
Internal temperature guide: Note that the temperature will continue to rise as the steak rests, so I recommend removing it before the desired doneness is reached. Once rested, the final temperature should read: 125°F (52°C) for rare, 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, or 135°F (57°C) for medium.
Make the sauce. To the pan, add (227g) sliced mushrooms, then cook, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown, about 4-6 minutes. Add diced shallot and ½ tsp kosher salt, stir, then cook for about 1-2 minutes more. Deglaze with ½ cup (120ml) red wine. Use a spatula to scrape up any bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a boil, cook for a minute, then stir in 1 Tbsp (15g) demi-glace and 1 tsp (5g) Dijon mustard. Allow this to simmer and reduce for 1-2 minutes, then taste and adjust seasoning. Remove from the heat.
Serve! Slice the steaks against the grain, then transfer to individual plates or a large platter. Spoon the mushroom pan sauce all around the steak, then finish by sprinkling with thinly sliced chives and flaky sea salt. Enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition facts calculated with a 10oz steak and exclude garnishes.
Make-ahead: the mushroom sauce can be made 2 days ahead and gently rewarmed with a splash of stock or water. The steak is best cooked and served fresh. Store leftover steak and sauce separately.
Freezing: The sauce freezes well for up to 2 months. I don't recommend freezing cooked steak.
Steak swaps: Hanger, sirloin, or NY strip; adjust timing for thickness and use a thermometer.