Medium Rare Steak Temp | Chef Approved Exact Guide
You spent good money on a Steak and overcooked it by just a few degrees. That’s all it takes.
Getting the medium rare steak temp right is the difference between a buttery-soft bite and a dry, grey disappointment. Most home cooks guess by color — but color can lie. Lighting, cut, and resting time all change appearance.
In this expert guide, you’ll learn the exact internal temp for medium rare steak, when to pull it off heat, why 135°F is the sweet spot, and how to nail it using grill, pan, oven, or sous vide — every single time.
What Is Medium Rare Steak Temp?
Medium rare steak temp is 130°F to 135°F (54°C to 57°C) internal temperature after resting.
At this Temprature :
- The center is warm red
- The texture is tender and juicy
- Fat begins to properly render
- Muscle fibers stay relaxed
- Moisture loss is minimal
This range is considered the ideal balance of tenderness and flavor in professional kitchens and steakhouses.
Internal Temp for Medium Rare Steak (°F & °C)
| Doneness Level | Temp °F | Temp °C |
|---|---|---|
| Rare | 120–125°F | 49–52°C |
| Medium Rare | 130–135°F | 54–57°C |
| Medium | 140–145°F | 60–63°C |
| Medium Well | 150–155°F | 65–68°C |
| Well Done | 160°F+ | 71°C+ |
✔ Best internal temp for medium rare steak: 135°F (57°C) after resting
Why 135°F Is the Sweet Spot
At around 130–135°F:
- Proteins gently firm without squeezing out moisture
- Collagen begins to soften
- Intramuscular fat melts into the meat
- Juices stay inside instead of evaporating
Once steak crosses 140°F, moisture loss increases rapidly. That’s why just 5 degrees makes a noticeable difference in tenderness.
When to Pull Steak for Medium Rare
Pull steak at 125°F–130°F (52°C–54°C).
Because steak continues to cook after removing from heat. This is called carryover cooking.
- Temperature rises 5°F (sometimes more for thick cuts)
- Juices redistribute
- Texture stabilises
Final medium rare steak internal temp becomes 130–135°F.
Medium Rare Steak Temp on Grill
- Preheat grill to 450°F–500°F
- Cook 1-inch steak 4–5 minutes per side
- Pull at 125°F–130°F
- Use reverse sear for thick cuts
- Rest before slicing
Medium Rare Steak Temp in Oven
- Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C)
- Cook until internal temp reaches 118–120°F
- Sear in hot pan 60–90 seconds per side
- Rest 5–10 minutes
Final temperature should settle between 130–135°F.
Sous Vide Medium Rare Steak Temp
- Set water bath to 129°F–134°F (54°C–56.5°C)
- Cook for 1–3 hours
- Pat dry thoroughly
- Finish with high-heat sear
Steak Thickness vs Cooking Time
| Steak Thickness | Medium Rare Time (Grill) |
|---|---|
| 1 inch | 8–10 minutes |
| 1.5 inch | 10–14 minutes |
| 2 inch | 14–18 minutes |
Thermometer Placement Guide
- Insert probe from the side
- Aim for centre of thickest section
- Avoid bone or heavy fat
- Check multiple spots
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not using a thermometer
- Cutting steak immediately after cooking
- Cooking straight from fridge
- Guessing doneness by colour
- Over-resting until steak goes cold
- Measuring near bone
FAQs
What is the internal temp for medium rare steak?
130°F to 135°F (54°C to 57°C) after resting.
What temp should I pull steak for medium rare?
Pull at 125°F to 130°F to allow for carryover cooking.
Is 130°F steak safe?
Properly seared whole cuts are commonly served at this temp.
What temp is medium rare steak in Celsius?
54°C to 57°C after resting.
Why is my steak 140°F even though I pulled at 130°F?
Thick cuts can rise 8–10°F during resting.
Conclusion
The perfect medium rare steak temp is not guesswork. Cook to 125–130°F, rest properly, and let it rise to 130–135°F.
Use a thermometer. Respect carryover heat. Trust temperature — not color. Master this one number, and you’ll never ruin an expensive steak again. Getting the medium rare steak temp right is the secret to a juicy, tender rump steak with a warm red centre. For best results, aim for an internal temperature of 52–54°C (125–130°F) before resting.
Remember, the steak will continue cooking slightly after you remove it from the heat. Understanding the correct medium rare steak temp helps you avoid overcooking and keeps the meat soft, flavourful, and restaurant-quality. Use a reliable meat thermometer, let the steak rest properly, and slice against the grain for maximum tenderness. Once you master the ideal medium rare steak temp, cooking rump steak becomes simple, consistent, and impressive every single time.
