Sep 07 2026
RestaurantsMcWhorter BarbecueSteak & Onion Recipe

Steak & Onion Recipe

Inspired by McWhorter Barbecue
Time40m
Serves2

Make Steak & Onion Recipe in just 40m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Steak

Method

Steak

  1. 1

    Prepare the steak

    Remove the steak from the refrigerator 20–30 minutes before cooking to bring it toward room temperature. Pat the steak dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with 1 tsp kosher salt and 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper.

  2. 2

    Sear the steak

    Heat a heavy skillet (cast iron preferred) over medium-high heat until very hot, about 3–4 minutes. Add 1 tbs olive oil and 1 tbs butter; when the butter has melted and begins to shimmer, place the steak in the pan. Sear without moving for 3–4 minutes to develop a brown crust. Flip and sear the other side 3–4 minutes for medium-rare (internal temperature ~130–135°F / 54–57°C). Adjust time for thickness and desired doneness.

  3. 3

    Rest and slice

    Transfer the steak to a cutting board and tent loosely with foil. Let rest 5–10 minutes. Slice thinly against the grain into 1/4-inch slices. Reserve any juices on the board to add back to the pan sauce.

Onions & Aromatics

  1. 4

    Cook the onions

    While the steak rests (or before cooking steak if you prefer), return the same skillet to medium heat. Add the remaining 1 tbs olive oil. Add the thinly sliced onions (about 1 cup) and sprinkle with 1 tsp salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, 8–12 minutes until softened and starting to brown.

  2. 5

    Add garlic and season

    Add the 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 tsp black pepper (and 1 tsp brown sugar if using) to the onions. Cook 1–2 more minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the onions are nicely caramelized but not burnt.

Deglaze & Finish

  1. 6

    Deglaze the pan

    With the skillet still over medium heat, pour in 1 cup beef broth and add 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up the brown fond (browned bits) from the bottom of the pan, including any juices from the resting steak. Let the liquid simmer and reduce for 2–4 minutes until slightly thickened and flavorful.

  2. 7

    Combine steak and onions

    Return the sliced steak and any collected resting juices to the skillet, mixing with the onions and pan sauce for 1–2 minutes to warm through and absorb flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.

  3. 8

    Finish and serve

    Sprinkle with 1 tbs chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve the steak and onions immediately over rice, mashed potatoes, or inside a sandwich, depending on preference.

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