Whether you prefer burgers or steak, there are a lot of options when it comes to beef flavor. Marinades aren’t the only key factors in the way this unique meat tastes. Doneness is critical too. Here is an introductory guide to levels of cooking to help you decide what to order the next time you’re at a restaurant.

Beef Cooking 101

Rare

Rare beef is cooked the least. Burgers and steaks that are rare will be largely red with slightly brown or grey outsides. These cuts should be around 125 degrees Fahrenheit on the inside and cook the fastest out of the beef doneness varieties. 

Medium 

When people ask for a medium burger or steak, they may specify that they want it medium-rare or medium-well. The former is cooked a few minutes longer than a rare option and features more pink than red but is still significantly easy to squish with a spatula or a finger. Medium meat features a temperature around 145 degrees Fahrenheit at the core and is mostly grey and brown but with a pink middle. Medium-well cuts feature no redness but do have a pink center with a firm, thoroughly cooked outside. 

Well Done

Individuals who like their steak or burgers well-done often prefer the charred exterior and enjoy the denser texture. Well-done meat has a core temperature of about 165 degrees and takes the longest to cook. It’s easy to tell if beef is well done as it will not give much when poked with a spatula or a finger.

If you’re looking to try beef a new way, head to King Street Kitchen in La Crosse County, WI, to order a burger or steak. The dine-in restaurant has been open since 2006, offering tasty diner fare from pancakes to tacos, fried cheese sticks, and spaghetti. Call the restaurant at (608) 784-9660 or visit the website for information on their menu and to peruse carry-out options.