Determining how to reheat steak can be a bit of a challenge. When done incorrectly, the result can range from unpleasant to completely inedible, as overcooking steak can cause it to become dry, tough, and rubbery, while not heating it long enough means leftover steak that is still cold in the center.

However, with a suitable method and proper monitoring, you can successfully reheat steak and enjoy it just as much the second time. I'm talking tender, juicy steak that is just as robust and beefy as when made fresh. These methods will work on a Rib Eye, New York Strip, Filet Mignon, Tomahawk or any type of steak that you prefer.

Below you'll find several methods for reheating steak, each with pros and cons, to help you choose the best method. But before we get into how to reheat steak, we must talk about storage. The reason? Improper storage will ruin your chance of properly reheating steak, rendering even the best method useless.

How To Store Leftover Steak

First, let's cover what not to do with leftover steak. Number one is don't leave cooked steak uncovered in the refrigerator. It will dry the meat out, and the beef may absorb other flavors from the fridge. Air is the enemy of leftover storage.

Secondly, avoid storage methods like wrapping cooked steak in foil and popping it in the refrigerator. Although convenient when you want to reheat steak in the oven, foil will not and cannot provide an airtight seal, no matter how hard you try. The same goes for parchment or wax paper.

In a perfect world, we would vacuum-seal the meat. The thing is, everyone doesn't have a vacuum sealer handy, which is fine. Instead, store leftover steak in an airtight container. A food-safe zipper bag will also do as long as you squeeze the air out.

Whatever you choose, remember to store steak (and any other perishable food) within two hours if left at room temperature and within 1 hour on hot days where the temperature exceeds 90 degrees Fahrenheit. This is for food safety reasons. Going beyond this point means bacteria developing on the food and other nasty things you don't want to associate with a delicious steak.

Can I Reheat Steak Straight Out Of The Fridge?

A huge part of how to reheat steak is taking the proper steps before reheating. This way, you set yourself up for success. Allowing leftovers to come to room temperature is one of those steps because taking steak from one temperature extreme to another can easily result in overcooking. Alternatively, you may end up with a steak that is hot on the outside and cold in the center. To bring steak to room temperature, sit it on the counter for approximately 30 minutes before you reheat it.

How To Reheat Steak

Now that we've covered how to store leftover steak and why reheating it straight out of the fridge isn't a good idea, let's explore some of the best practices for reheating steak to help you get the most out of your leftovers.

Microwave

Microwaving is one of the quickest and most convenient methods of reheating steak. To microwave steak:

1. Wrap it in a damp paper towel and place it on a microwave-safe plate.
2. Microwave it on medium power in 30-second intervals, flipping the steak after each interval until it reaches an internal temperature of 110 degrees Fahrenheit. Reheating should take 1 ½ to 2 minutes. If you do not have a probe thermometer, taste it to check the temperature.

The microwave method is ideal for thinner cuts of steak, as thicker cuts may become tough and chewy in the microwave. When working with super thin cuts, set the microwave to low instead of medium to prevent drying. If you opt for this method, remember that, although an easy, quick, and convenient option, it isn't the best.

Microwave Tips

• Let the steak come to room temp before reheating so that it cooks evenly.
• Add a splash of jus or beef broth to the plate.

Air Fryer

The air fryer is another quick and convenient method with the added benefit of preserving any exterior color developed during cooking. Like the microwave, it runs the risk of drying out the meat. The air fryer has its advantages, including circulating air for even reheating. To reheat steak in an air fryer, preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Although not required, lining the basket with a parchment paper round makes for easy cleanup. Then, place the steak in the basket and air fry for 6-8 minutes. Flip the meat halfway through cook time.

Air Fryer Tips

• Bring leftover steak to room temp before reheating to help prevent overcooking.
• Avoid adding oil to the air fryer for reheating steak.

Stovetop

Reheating steak on the stovetop is an excellent option, especially for thicker cuts of steak. It's like, one of the top two methods in the how to reheat steak handbook because it gives you more control over the temperature and is easy to monitor. Moreover, steak reheated on the stove experiences less moisture loss. To reheat steak on the stove:

1. Heat a few teaspoons of oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the steak and cook, occasionally flipping, until it reaches an internal temperature of 130-135°F.

Stovetop Tips

• Cook your steak low and slow. Reheating steak too fast and at high heat will dry out your meat.
• Let steak come to room temp before reheating to avoid overcooking.
• Adding a pat of butter to the pan helps get a nice sear on your leftover steak.

Oven

Reheating steak in the oven is a good option if you have extra time and are looking for a more hands-off approach. To reheat steak in the oven:

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and loosely wrap the steak in aluminum foil.
2. Place the wrapped steak in the oven and heat for 10-15 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 130-135°F.

This method is best for larger cuts of steak, as it allows for even heating throughout. This practice is not recommended for thinner cuts because it is very easy for them to become dry and tough. The oven method also works well when trying to reheat a steak that's become a little dry. Since you're heating the steak in an enclosed foil packet, you can replace some moisture loss with a splash of water, beef broth, or stock. This trick can transform a day-old piece of beef.

Oven Tips

• Let steak come to room temp before putting in the oven.
• Place the pan in the oven to heat it up before placing the steak on the pan.
• Add some butter to your foil packet for extra moisture and flavor.

Sous Vide

Sous vide is a modern cooking technique that involves cooking food in a temperature-controlled water bath. You can perform this technique with a sous vide machine (or a pot of water), a thermometer, and a heat-safe clip. To reheat steak using a sous vide machine:

1. Preheat your water bath to 130 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Seal the steak in a vacuum-sealed bag and place it in the water bath.
3. Once submerged in the water bath, heat for 5-7 minutes.

This method works well for thick or thin cuts of steak, as it allows for precise temperature control, and that preciseness produces excellent results.

If you don't have a fancy sous vide machine (most do not), bring a pot of water with a thermometer fixed to the side. As instructed above, the water should be about 130 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, place the steak in a food-safe bag, squeeze as much air out as possible, and seal. From there, submerge it in the water, keeping the bag away from the pot's sides, and heat for 5-7 minutes.

The only disadvantage of this method is the lack of exterior color. Bagged or not, meat submerged in water isn't going to surface with a golden brown crust. Fortunately, this is an easy fix, and that fix is a quick sear. To sear a reheated steak, first, remove it from the bag and pat it dry. Then, heat a skillet over medium-high heat (add a drizzle of oil or butter if you wish), add the steak once hot and sear for 45 seconds to 1 minute per side. Super simple!

Knowing how to reheat steak correctly will bring new life to leftovers. Whether you prefer the convenience of the microwave or air fryer, the control of the stovetop, the hands-off approach of the oven or the precision of sous vide, there is a method for you (and your steak).

Here are some leftover steak ideas for once you've reheated your steak.

Learn about cooking steaks on a steak stone at home.

Find More Reheating Tips!

• How To Reheat Ham
• How To Reheat Turkey
• How To Reheat Gravy
• How To Reheat Sushi

What's the secret to reheat ham into a juicy and tender protein paradise? We know there's lots of "tried and true' tips out there. So, Dad says just don't dry it out! Grandma says use lots of foil, and your mother-in-law swears by her slow cooker. Hey, they all are right. But then, the internet wants to know if you have a city or country ham. Don't panic, we've done the work for you and made it easy. You'll get quick and simple step by step instructions for how to reheat ham leftovers. The secret to keeping leftover ham juicy is adding back moisture while warming it to keep it moist. You can use your air fryer, slow cooker or crock-pot, stove top, traditional oven or microwave. Remember if you can read, you can make it delicious!

What's The Best Way To Reheat Ham?

For all of us "non epicurean savants", first things first. What on earth is a city ham? A city ham or "already cooked" is ready to eat. Honey Baked Hams and spiral hams are examples of a "city" ham. Country hams are dry cured with spices and cooking them takes much longer than "city hams".

Whenever you want to reheat ham, these methods will turn leftovers into tasty new dishes. A dry or overcooked ham is disappointing, but you're about to discover just how easy it is to avoid this. We've put together the most practical and simple options. Your decision will most likely depend on what equipment your kitchen has, how much time you have and what results you are looking for. Rule number one, patience is your best sous chef here. Think low and slow. A tender, savory reheated ham also needs some necessary prep tips. A good cook will follow the recipe to the letter, a great cook loves what they are preparing. Hooray for the ham lovers.

How To Reheat Ham Leftovers Using

1. The Air Fryer

Using your air fryer is a smart choice because it eliminates the unnecessary fats from oils, and you won't have a greasy mess. The dry, hot air circulates around the ham yielding an even cook. This is quicker than using a traditional oven. Using the air fryer will also give you a juicier and tender ham. Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Preheating is important, so do not skip this step. Arrange ham slices individually and in a single layer on the tray or air fry basket. Cook the slices for 3-5 minutes. Remember to flip the ham halfway through. Having a timer is very handy.

If you are reheating a slightly bigger piece of ham or don't want slices, place the ham cut side down. Be sure to add a little bit of liquid to the bottom of the air fryer pan to keep the ham from drying out. Two tablespoons of any broth, or water should do the trick. Add more if desired. You may even have a homemade marinade that is delish, use it. Make a rim dish out of foil if you just have a wire basket. Cook the bigger piece of ham for 10 minutes on one side. Flip the ham and cook for another 10 minutes. For each 1 pound of ham, use ⅓ cup of water or broth. Remove the ham from the air fryer and let it rest for at least 5 full minutes or a tad more before slicing and serving. This is an important step, be a little patient here.

Reheating A Whole Ham In The Air Fryer?

You can reheat a fully cooked whole ham in your air fryer. Of course, it needs to fit in your air fryer properly. It cannot touch the heating elements. You don't want to shove a bigger ham inside because you're in a hurry. You can cut the ham into smaller pieces to make it fit properly. Preheat your air fryer to 325F for 3-5 minutes. Now here's where grandma is right; wrap your ham tightly in aluminum foil. Set the timer for 10 minutes per pound. Every Air Fryer is different, you may need to add a little extra time. Remember to turn the ham over halfway through the time selected.

Chef's Tip:

• Use heavy duty foil to reheat ham.
• Let your ham sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to take the chill off if it has been kept in the fridge. This helps the protein in the meat relax making it easier for the heat to thoroughly warm through the ham.
• Dry ham? Another problem with dry ham is that it can be overcooked, causing it to break apart and have a tough texture. If your ham is extra dry, cover the top half of the ham with additional aluminum foil to seal in more moisture.

2. Reheating Ham in a Slow Cooker or Crock Pot

A slow cooker or the Crock Pot will reheat ham just fine. Using a slow cooker, you can influence the flavor by adding spices, fruits, herbs, and condiments. Most kitchens have one and operating a slow cooker can be less intimidating. Borrowing one is easy, too.  What's the difference between the two? Because the term Crock-Pot is a registered trademark, most manufacturers use the term "slow cooker." Crock Pot is the trademark brand name of a slow cooker owned by Sunbeam.

Place cooked ham slices on a low setting. Add a liquid to yield a savory taste. Try broth, barbecue sauce, hoisin sauce, orange juice, or apple cider. Even ginger ale will do the job. Cook until heated through. It's ok to take a quick peek and taste to see if you've got it right. You may need to add a bit more liquid. Make sure the ham is kept at a minimum temperature of 140°F for safe consumption. It's a good idea to read the package for recommended directions.

3.  Reheating Ham on the Stove Top

It's the most familiar way to heat food for most, so the stove top is a popular option. Adding a cup of broth to your pot will make stove top ham softer and tender. Water is fine but ham won't be as tasty. Cover and simmer on medium for a couple of minutes until heated through. Start low and slow with your temperature. You can also reheat ham on the stove top using a skillet. Add a few slices at a time to a skillet over medium-high heat. To keep the meat moist, add up to ½ cup of chicken broth or opt for a couple of tablespoons of butter or oil to prevent drying out. Reheat ham until desired texture and taste is reached. You may add foil as a makeshift top cover to lock in much needed moisture. Remove from stove with oven mitts and prepare to serve.

4. Reheating Ham in the Microwave

In a pinch? Nuke it! Using a microwave to reheat ham is the best time saving method. Whether your ham has been smoked, roasted, cooked, or sliced, using a microwave will give it the original taste and texture. Be sure to place slices apart and in a single layer. Do not overlap or crowd your slices. Choose a microwave safe dish that is a little deep.  You will need to add a liquid like ginger ale, broth, or water. We recommend using a microwave-safe container with a lid. If you do not have a lid, place damp paper towels, preferably doused in a tasty broth, over the slices.  Yes, you can also just use a microwave safe plate. Do not skip adding liquid or wet paper towels. Zap it for 30 to 60 seconds on medium until steaming. If needed, turnover slices and zap it for another 30 seconds. After that, use intervals of 10 seconds on each side if your ham needs to be reheated more. If the ham looks like it is overheating, stop microwaving and let it remain in the microwave while it cools. Every microwave is different, and the time and power level may need adjustment here. Start low and slow first.

5. Reheating Ham in the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F. If you are reheating slices, arrange slices in a single layer on a baking pan that has parchment paper, is oiled a bit, or greased to prevent sticking. Add a couple of tablespoons of broth or water and cover with heavy-duty foil. Heat for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Be sure to turn the slices once halfway through cooking time.

If you are reheating a big piece of ham, use a large oven safe roasting dish and place ham cut side down. Add 1 cup of water or broth to the bottom of the dish. This step will add needed moisture and prevent your ham from drying out while reheating. Using heavy-duty aluminum foil, wrap it around your dish tightly. Yes, it's best not to cheap out with flimsy foil; it won't lock the moisture properly. Be sure to crimp the edges with a tight seal. Reheat ham for 20 minutes or 10 minutes per pound. Remove the foil and cook for an additional 20 minutes. Once cooked, remove the ham with oven mitts and let it sit for a few minutes. Slice and serve.

Serve Cold

Consider not reheating your ham and serving cold. Cooked hams are safe to eat cold and hams such as spiral-cut cooked hams are best served cold because reheating can dry out the meat.

Get More Reheating Tips Here!

• How To Reheat Turkey
• How to Reheat Steak
• How To Reheat Gravy
• How To Reheat Sushi
• How To Cook A Spiral Ham
• Leftover Ham Ideas

If you haven't experienced steak stones you're missing out. You can cook to the exact cut and doneness, every bite is perfectly hot, and it's an amazingly fun experience.

Have you ever wanted every bite of steak to be just as hot as the first? That was me, so after some research I discovered cooking stones, and we have loved them ever since! What we didn't expect was how much of a fun and unique dinner experience it was going to be for friends and family.

Why You'll Love Steak Stones

• Wow factor: Steak on a stone is a unique cooking experience where everyone is cooking restaurant quality steaks right at home, plus it's the best dinner party idea to impress your guests.
• Hot Stone Cooking at Home: Kids will love cooking their own food, and dad and mom will love cooking their food to their desired perfection.
• Cook your meal how you like it: The meat and other foods can be cut and cooked as you like. Seared, medium, or well done? It's your choice plus every bite of steak is just as hot as the first.
• Interactive experience: Everybody joins in on the fun and it's a lively way for everybody to be engaged.
• Versatile: Surf and turf lovers can eat steak and lobster, vegans can cook vegetables, and kids can heat up hots dogs and have fun with bean sprouts.

What Are Steak Stones Made Of?

Cooking stones, also known as lava cooking stones, are typically made of volcanic rock or thick granite. There are several household brands out there but we use Black Rock Grill Lava Stones. Initially we bought one but found that two are perfect for our family and a small party. Black Rock steak rocks are not cheap, but we have loved having them and so have our guests. These are also perfect gifts. What "hard to find a gift for dad" wouldn't love these?

How To Cook Steak With Steak Stones

1. Heat the Stone to 550°F to 650°F in the oven, grill, or BBQ.
   • Oven: 1 hour
   • Gas or Electric Hob: 30 to 40 minutes
   • BBQ Grill: 40 minutes
   • Times may vary based on the type of stone and manufacturer
2. Season your steak.
3. Prepare your sides and sauces and layout the utensils, knives, etc.
4. Once the hot stone is properly heated, transfer to the table.
5. Rub with a light coat of olive oil, vegetable oil, or cooking spray. Sea salt flakes are a great addition too.
6. Place your selected meats, fish, poultry, or vegetables on the hot stone and cook to your liking.
7. Cut and cook every bite exactly as you like.

What To Cook On A Hot Stone

Steak is the most obvious answer but there are many meats and other foods that can be cooked on a hot stone. Here are a few ideas but certainly not a complete list.

• Steak: New York, filet mignon, ribeye, tomahawk, etc.
• Fish: Salmon, halibut, swordfish, trout, seared ahi tuna steaks, fish skewers, etc.
• Shellfish: Shrimp, lobster, scallops, prawns, etc.
• Chicken, Pork, Turkey, Duck, Venison: I don't recommend cooking from rare.
• Vegetables: Tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, bean sprouts (fun for kids), etc.
• Stuffed Vegetables: Stuffed portobello mushrooms, jalapeño poppers, stuffed bell peppers
• Sausage & Hot Dogs
• Lamb
• Kebabs & Skewers

Steak Stone Tips

• Buy more than one for bigger groups. This also enables you to bring the hot stones out at different times or to reheat.
• Use 930°F heat resistant gloves or a rock pick to move the stone when hot.
• Have all your sides and sauces ready before bringing out the stones. You'll have about 30 minutes to cook your meat and you'll want to enjoy that time eating, not preparing.
• If you overload the steak board with too much cold meat it will cool quicker.
• Depending on the stone temperature, the meats will be seared in as little as 40 seconds and then can be flipped. Leave on longer depending on desired doneness.
• Fish can be cooked through from one side.
• Cut the steak into slices ahead of time to make it easier to sear.
• Do serve sauces and sides to complement and enhance the experience.
• Don't pour sauces directly on the steak stone as it may cause them to boil or splatter.
• The stones will last longer than 30 minutes but the cooking will get slower as time goes on.
• If you're starting with raw meat, use different utensils to cook than the ones you're eating with. Also, don't leave utensils on the stone.
• Never touch the hot rock with your hands and be careful to watch children.

How to Clean Steak Stones

1. Wash under warm running water with a soapy metal scourer. Do not immerse the rock in water or leave it soaking in water. Immersing the stone in water may cause it to fracture.
2. Once clean, pat dry and store in a dry area.