How to Achieve a Grilled Taste without a Grill

There’s nothing quite like the thrill of firing up the grill and searing a beautiful cut of meat over an open flame. The combination of charcoal, fresh meat, and rich seasoning creates a mouthwatering aroma, building anticipation for that first juicy bite. Plus — cooking outside lets you take in the sounds of nature, with the sizzling of meat in the background.

But what if it’s the middle of winter and grilling outside isn’t an option? The good news is, you don’t have to wait for warm weather to enjoy a perfectly cooked steak. Below are a few easy techniques to help you recreate the grilling experience indoors, whether you’re making a steak in the air fryer, cooking steak in the oven, or using a cast iron pan to achieve that signature sear.

1. Cast Iron: The Classic Sear

If you want to replicate the rich, smoky flavor of an outdoor grill, cast iron is your best friend. A well-seasoned cast-iron skillet retains and distributes heat evenly, creating a perfect crust on steaks, chops and burgers.

How to Cook Steak in a Cast Iron Pan:

• Preheat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s smoking hot.
• Add a touch of high-heat oil (like avocado oil) to prevent sticking.
• Sear your steak for a few minutes on each side, flipping only once for the best crust.
• Let it rest before slicing to lock in those juices.

For best results, choose high-quality beef from local farmers, which you can order straight to your door from ChopLocal.

2. Air Fryer: The Quick & Crispy Alternative

An air fryer for steak? Absolutely! Air fryers aren’t just for frozen fries — they create a surprisingly crispy, caramelized crust on your favorite cuts of meat. The circulating hot air mimics the effect of an outdoor grill, giving you juicy meat with a lightly charred exterior.

How to Cook Steak in an Air Fryer:

• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.
• Lightly coat your steak with oil and seasoning.
• Cook in a single layer, flipping halfway through.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the perfect doneness (medium-rare steak: 130-135°F, pork chops: 145°F).

Looking for farm-fresh beef, pork, and lamb to cook in your air fryer? Browse ChopLocal for top-quality cuts.

3. Broiler: Your Oven’s Hidden Grill

If you don’t have a grill, your oven’s broiler is the next best thing. Think of it as an upside-down grill, delivering high, direct heat to your meat, creating that signature char without the need for an open flame.

How to Cook a Steak in the Oven Using the Broiler:

• Set your oven to the broil setting and let it preheat.
• Place your steak on a wire rack over a baking sheet to allow airflow.
• Broil for a few minutes per side, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
• Let it rest before serving.

If you’re looking for high-quality beef for broiling, shop farm-fresh options at ChopLocal.

4. Ooni Grizzler Pan: The Pro’s Choice

If you love grilling and own an Ooni pizza oven, their cast-iron Grizzler pan is a game-changer. It gives your meat an authentic grill-marked finish while locking in flavor. The high heat from the Ooni mimics the sear of a traditional grill, making it perfect for steaks, lamb chops, and even grilled veggies.

How to Use the Ooni Grizzler Pan for Steak:

• Preheat your Ooni with the Grizzler pan inside for about 10 minutes.
• Sear your meat on the hot pan, flipping once for even grill marks.
• Remove and rest before serving.

Order farm-fresh steak, lamb, and pork chops to take your indoor grilling to the next level — available at ChopLocal.

Shop Farm-Fresh Meat for Your Next Indoor BBQ

No matter how you choose to grill indoors, starting with high-quality meat makes all the difference. Skip the grocery store and order directly from farmers who take pride in raising exceptional beef, pork, lamb, and chicken.