How To Keep Steak From Sticking To Your Grill, According To LongHorn Steakhouse

It may be hard for a meat lover to gaze at the picture above without succumbing to a Homer Simpson-esque case of the slobbers. If only your screen came equipped with the ability to scratch and sniff. Yes, few things are more enticing than the aroma of steak on the grill. But not all barbecued beef is created equal. Grilling a steak to perfection takes practice and involves mastering some key tricks. 

Thankfully, the folks at LongHorn Steakhouse have been willing to share some of their trade secrets, better enabling you to become the go-to grillmaster at your next neighborhood BBQ. While you may be tempted to stock up on steak when it's on special and keep it in the freezer for a future event, LongHorn Steakhouse Master Chef Michael Senich told us that this is a big no-no. Sharing the steakhouse secrets only the experts know, Senich explained that freezing a steak sacrifices its quality and can make it tough to cook to perfection. He also advised not to flip your steak too soon, letting it cook for three to four minutes before changing sides so you get that coveted charred perfection.

But what if your beautiful cut of beef keeps trying to adhere itself to the grill? Is there a way to prevent steak from sticking? According to the pros, this problem is preventable. 

There's nothing more frustrating than tossing an expensive cut of steak onto the grill and watching it glue itself to the grates. Sometimes, pulling your filet or New York strip free with your tongs (while keeping it intact) feels impossible. Much to every steak fan's relief, there's a way to avoid this culinary disaster. 

According to the experts at LongHorn Steakhouse, it is important to oil your grill. Senich told The Daily Meal that after cleaning your grill by brushing the grates, you should season it with canola oil. You can do this by dipping a clean rag into the oil, then using tongs to glide it along the grates while the grill gets hot. Another Grill Master for the company, Jeff Jackson, told WJHL that you can also squirt oil onto the grill using a spray bottle. 

Once your grill is seasoned, it's important to make sure it's sufficiently hot before you start cooking your steak. Otherwise, it will stick, as folks from the LongHorn Steakhouse "Steak Master Series" warned the Orlando Sentinel. What is hot enough? According to manager Janet Dickey, 550 degrees is best, so you'd better be generous with the charcoal. If you're using a propane barbecue, leave it on for about 10 minutes before putting the food on the grill, per the Austin American-Statesman. 

Now you're well-versed on how to keep your steaks from sticking. Thankfully, these steps are relatively easy — much simpler than prying a stubborn porterhouse from the unforgiving grates.