Best Beef Top Sirloin Steak Recipe (On Stove)

Tomahawk steak and filet mignon are delicious and something my family and I love so much, but indulging in them every day can add up to a ridiculous monthly bill. That’s why I have a soft spot for sirloin steak, which is much more budget-friendly. No need to worry about screwing it up and overcooking it like shoe leather or worse. With my foolproof top sirloin steak recipe, you can keep it juicy, tender, and flavorful that rivals restaurant quality, even on a busy weeknight. Alright, let’s get into it!

Ingredients:

• Top sirloin steak, about 1.5 inches thick
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 sprig fresh rosemary
• 4 cloves of garlic

Equipment:

• Cast iron skillet
• Kitchen thermometer
• Tongs
• Paper towels
• Aluminum foil

Is Top Sirloin a Good Cut of Steak?

Top sirloin steak is cut from the sirloin section of the cow, specifically the upper portion of the sirloin. As mentioned above, this beef cut is crispy, relatively lean, and has very little fat, making it a healthier option compared to other cuts while still delivering a rich beef flavor. It’s budget-friendly, simple to cook, and great for quick weeknight meals.

Top Sirloin vs. Sirloin vs. Ribeye

These three types of steak are often mixed up, but they each have specific differences:

• Top sirloin: Comes from the sirloin primal cut, located in the rear of the cow, which is leaner and more affordable.
• Sirloin: Can encompass the entire sirloin primal cut, which includes other cuts besides top sirloin. Basically, top sirloin is a specific type of sirloin.
• Ribeye: Is sourced from the rib area and is known for its rich marbling and tenderness, resulting in a very flavorful and fatty steak. Ribeye is typically more expensive than top sirloin.

To put it simply, ribeye is like a decadent dessert, while sirloin serves as a hearty and satisfying main course. Both are delicious, but they offer totally different experiences. For ribeye, check my sous vide ribeye recipe.

How to Check the Doneness?

Seriously, investing in a good meat thermometer is the only way to consistently cook your steak to the perfect level of doneness. Relying on finger pokes or cooking times can be misleading, as these methods can vary based on the thickness of the steak and other factors! Here’s a handy temperature chart:

How to Cook Top Sirloin Steak on Stove?

I’ve simplified the process of searing steak into just three steps so you can whip up a delicious dinner in no time while keeping it juicy and tender. You’re going to love how simple and tasty it is:

Step 1: Prepare the top sirloin steak

Pat the steak dry with paper towels. Then, generously sprinkle both sides of the steak with kosher salt and black pepper. If you want to a little extra flavor, you can also add some garlic powder and onion powder to taste, but I prefer to keep it simple.

I like to use a wireless cooking thermometer, so I insert the probe into the center of the steak. This way, I can constantly monitor the internal temperature without the risk of overcooking.

Step 2: Sear the steak

Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat and add a thin layer of olive oil, butter, and garlic cloves. Once the butter is melted, place the steak and a sprig of fresh rosemary in the pan, and you should hear a satisfying sizzle. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes per side without moving it. If it sticks, that just means it’s not ready to flip yet. The steak will fall off on its own.

When your top sirloin steak reaches the desired internal temperature (refer to the chart above), remove it from the pan. If you’re using an instant-read thermometer, check the thickest part of the steak every couple of minutes after flipping to avoid overcooking.

Step 3: Rest and slice

After removing the steak from the pan, place it on a cutting board and loosely cover it with foil. Let it rest for about 5 to 10 minutes. During this time, the internal temperature will rise by about 5 degrees, and the juices will redistribute, making the steak more tender and flavorful. Once rested, slice the steak against the grain and enjoy your delicious meal.

Are There Other Ways to Cook Top Sirloin?

Of course there are. But since we’re talking about how to prepare a quick weeknight meal, using a skillet is definitely the easiest way to go. That said, top sirloin steak is quite versatile and can be prepared in several different ways. Here are three more:

On the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the steak for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare.

In the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Sear the steak in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer the skillet to the oven and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until it reaches your desired internal temperature.

Sous vide: Vacuum seal the steak with your favorite seasonings, then put it in the water bath attached with a sous vide cooker at around 130°F for medium-rare. Cook for 1-2 hours, and finish by searing the steak in a hot skillet to create a crust.

What to Serve with Top Sirloin Steak?

I enjoy pan-seared top sirloin steak paired with vegetables. After searing the steak, don’t discard the oil. Instead, toss in quartered tomatoes, asparagus, and corn, and stir-fry them until they’re tender. Serve this colorful mix alongside the sliced steak for a healthy meal. If you want some carbs, classic sides like mashed potatoes or macaroni and cheese complement the dish perfectly.