What are High Heat Cooking Oils?
Updated: 5 hours ago
High heat cooking oils have a high smoke point, which lets you sear a steak hot without burning the oil. Here are four favorites for a crispy crust and a juicy middle.
What are high heat cooking oils?
When cooking a steak, choosing the right oil is just as important as choosing the cut. High heat cooking oils are essential for a perfect sear, because they help create a crispy crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
The key is smoke point, the temperature at which an oil starts to smoke and break down. Choosing an oil with a high smoke point helps you avoid burning the oil and leaving a burnt taste on your steak. Pre's method calls for about a tablespoon of high-heat oil in a hot pan. See it in action in how to cook steak on the stovetop.
4 of our favorite high heat cooking oils
1. Avocado oil
Avocado oil is a popular choice for high-heat cooking because of its high smoke point, roughly 375 to 520°F. It also has a neutral flavor, so it will not change the taste of the beef.
2. Grapeseed oil
Grapeseed oil has a high smoke point of around 420°F, which makes it a good fit for searing steak at high temperatures. Its mild flavor lets you focus on the natural taste of the meat.
3. Canola oil
Canola oil is a versatile, everyday option for high-heat cooking. It has a neutral flavor and a smoke point of around 400°F, so it works well for searing.
4. Clarified butter
Clarified butter, also known as ghee, is butter with the milk solids and water removed, leaving only the pure butterfat. That gives it a high smoke point of around 450°F. It has a rich, nutty flavor that complements the beef.
Type of high heat cooking oil | Approximate smoke point |
Avocado oil | 375 to 520°F |
Grapeseed oil | 420°F |
Canola oil | 400°F |
Clarified butter | 450°F |
Why use a high heat oil for steak?
A better sear. A hot pan and a stable oil build the crust that locks in the juices.
Less sticking. A thin layer of oil creates a barrier between the steak and the cooking surface.
Fewer smoke alarm moments. High heat oils can handle intense temperatures, so you can keep the pan hot without the smoke.
Smoke points vary by brand and how an oil is refined, so check the label on the oil you use. Then put it to work with how to cook the perfect steak in 20 minutes and our guide on how to cook every steak Pre sells. Experiment with different oils to find the one that complements your favorite cut.
FAQ
How much oil do I need to sear a steak?
About a tablespoon of high-heat oil in the pan is enough for a steak on the stovetop. For the grill, oil the steak and then oil the grates.
Can I use olive oil to sear steak?
Refined olive oil works as a high-heat oil. Check the label for the smoke point, because it varies by brand and how the oil was refined.
What happens if I use an oil with a low smoke point?
The oil can smoke and break down at searing temperatures, which can leave a burnt taste on your steak and set off the smoke alarm.
Where can I buy Pre 100% Grass-Fed & Finished Beef?
Pre Brands beef is a lean, High Protein, delicious way to keep dinner healthy. Use our store locator to find a store near you, browse all Pre products, or find us on Instacart.
