What Makes Dishwasher Sous Vide Steak So Special
Dishwasher Sous Vide Steak method works like a charm. It’s one of those clever kitchen hacks that turns an appliance we use daily into a tool for perfectly tender, juicy steak. The gentle heat from the dishwasher mimics a sous vide machine, cooking the steak low and slow until it’s just the right shade of pink inside. Whether you’re short on time or just love trying unconventional techniques, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal fuss.
My favorite part? The look on friends’ faces when I tell them their steak was cooked in the dishwasher! Pair it with my grilled sweet potato wedges or a simple salad, and you’ve got a meal that feels fancy without the stress. Just be sure to use a good-quality resealable bag—trust me, you don’t want leaks mid-cycle!
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy.
Ingredients for Dishwasher Sous Vide Steak
For the steak
- Ribeye Steak – Go for a cut that’s about 1 1/2 inches thick for the perfect balance of tenderness and flavor.
- Kosher Salt – Don’t skimp on this; it’s essential for seasoning the steak properly.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Freshly ground makes all the difference here.
For searing
- Olive Oil – Just enough to coat the pan for that beautiful sear.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and helps create a gorgeous golden crust.
For sous vide
- Large Resealable Gallon-Sized Plastic Bag – Double-bagging is a smart move to avoid any leaks during the dishwasher cook.
Cook Time for Dishwasher Steak
Now, I know what you’re thinking—can a dishwasher really cook a steak? Absolutely! The beauty of this method is how hands-off it is. You’ll spend just 10 minutes prepping the steak before letting the dishwasher do the heavy lifting for about 60 minutes. A quick sear at the end brings it all together in under 5 minutes. All told, you’re looking at around 70 minutes from start to finish, with most of that time being completely hands-off. While your steak cooks, whip up a quick side like my black bean succotash for a complete meal.
How to Make Dishwasher Sous Vide Steak
Step 1: Prep Your Dishwasher
Preheat your dishwasher to the hottest wash cycle, ensuring no detergent is used. This will create the necessary heat for the sous vide cooking method.
Step 2: Season the Steak
Season the ribeye steak evenly on both sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, ensuring full coverage. This simple seasoning lets the beef’s natural flavor shine.
Step 3: Bag the Steak
Place the seasoned steak into a large resealable gallon-sized plastic bag. Press out as much air as possible before sealing the bag tightly. For added security, place the bagged steak into a second resealable bag to prevent leaks during cooking.
Step 4: Cook in Dishwasher
Place the sealed bag on the top rack of the dishwasher. Close the dishwasher and run the hottest wash cycle without detergent, allowing the steak to cook for approximately 60 minutes.
Step 5: Sear the Steak
Heat a heavy skillet, preferably cast iron, over high heat on the stovetop. Add the olive oil and let it heat until shimmering, about 1 minute. Remove the steak from the plastic bag and pat it dry with paper towels.
Step 6: Finish with Butter
Sear the steak in the hot skillet for 1 minute on each side, or until a golden-brown crust forms. Add the unsalted butter during the last 30 seconds of searing, tilting the pan to baste the steak with the melted butter.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice the steak against the grain, ensuring it has a crispy exterior and a tender, juicy, medium-rare interior. Serve immediately.
Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks
After making this Dishwasher Sous Vide Steak more times than I can count, I’ve picked up a few tricks to make it even better:
- Flavor boost: Add a sprig of rosemary or thyme to the bag with the steak for an herby aroma that infuses beautifully during cooking.
- Leaner option: Try this method with filet mignon or sirloin for a lower-fat version—just adjust the searing time since thinner cuts cook faster. Pair it with my zucchini fries for a lighter meal.
- Crispier crust: Pat the steak extra dry before searing, and make sure your skillet is smoking hot for that perfect caramelization.
- Leftover magic: Store any extra steak in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Thinly slice it cold for salads or gently reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth to keep it moist. Try it in my BBQ steak pasta for a delicious next-day meal.
Dishwasher Sous Vide Steak
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds ribeye steak about 1 1/2 inches thick
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large resealable gallon-sized plastic bag
Method
- Preheat your dishwasher to the hottest wash cycle without detergent. This will serve as the heat source for the sous vide process.
- Season the steak generously on both sides with kosher salt and black pepper, ensuring it is evenly coated.
- Place the seasoned steak into a large resealable plastic bag, squeezing out as much air as possible before sealing it tightly. For extra security, double-bag the steak to prevent leaks.
- Put the sealed bag directly onto the top rack of the dishwasher. Close the dishwasher and run it on the hottest wash cycle without detergent. Let the steak cook for the duration of the cycle, approximately 60 minutes.
- Heat a heavy skillet (preferably cast iron) over high heat on the stovetop. Add the olive oil and let it shimmer, about 1 minute.
- Carefully remove the steak from the plastic bag and pat it dry with paper towels. Place the steak in the hot skillet and sear for 1 minute on each side, or until a golden-brown crust forms. Add the butter to the skillet during the last 30 seconds of searing, tilting the pan to baste the steak with the melted butter.
- Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. The steak should be medium-rare with a crispy, caramelized exterior and a tender, juicy interior. Slice against the grain and serve immediately.
Nutrition
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Nutrition and Health Benefits
Now, let’s talk about what makes this Dishwasher Sous Vide Steak not just delicious but also a pretty smart choice for your health. A ribeye steak, like the one we’re using here, is packed with protein—about 23 grams per 3-ounce serving—which helps keep your muscles strong and your energy levels steady. Plus, it’s a great source of iron, zinc, and B vitamins, all of which are essential for keeping your body running smoothly. And since we’re cooking it low and slow, you’re preserving more of those nutrients compared to high-heat methods.
If you’re watching your fat intake, you can always opt for a leaner cut like sirloin or filet mignon. Pair it with my healthy guacamole or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. For more insights on how sous vide cooking retains nutrients, check out this Sous Vide Cooking in Dishwasher guide from Food & Wine.
A Lighter Version of Dishwasher Sous Vide Steak
If you’re looking to lighten things up a bit, there are plenty of ways to tweak this recipe without sacrificing flavor. Swap the ribeye for a leaner cut like sirloin or filet mignon—just remember to adjust the searing time since these cuts are thinner. You can also skip the butter during the searing process and use a bit of olive oil spray instead for a lower-fat option.
For sides, try my zucchini fries or a refreshing black bean succotash. These pair beautifully with the steak and keep the meal light and satisfying.
Thoughtful Tips for Special Diets
If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, don’t worry—this Dishwasher Sous Vide Steak can easily be adapted to fit a variety of needs. For those who are sugar-conscious or diabetic-friendly, the recipe is already low in sugar, but you can make it even more blood sugar friendly by pairing it with low glycemic index sides like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
For a natural sugar alternative, consider adding a touch of stevia or xylitol to any marinades or sauces you might use. And if you’re watching your sodium intake, simply reduce the amount of kosher salt used in the seasoning step. Remember, the key is to make small adjustments that work for you and your loved ones—because good food should be enjoyed by everyone.
How to Serve Dishwasher Sous Vide Steak
One of my favorite memories of serving this Dishwasher Sous Vide Steak was during a family gathering last summer. I’ll never forget the look on my cousin’s face when I told her the steak was cooked in the dishwasher—she couldn’t believe it! But once she took that first bite, she was hooked. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love cooking so much—it’s not just about the food, but the joy it brings to the people around the table.
When it comes to serving, I love pairing this steak with my grilled sweet potato wedges or a simple green salad. A glass of red wine or a cold beer complements the rich flavors perfectly. And don’t forget to slice the steak against the grain—it makes all the difference in ensuring each bite is tender and juicy.
Mistakes to Avoid
Now, let’s talk about some common pitfalls when making Dishwasher Sous Vide Steak. I’ve been there, and trust me, a little know-how can save you from a kitchen disaster. First, don’t skip sealing the steak properly in the bag. If water gets in, it’ll ruin the texture. I learned this the hard way during a family dinner—thankfully, I had a backup steak ready!
Another mistake is overcooking during the searing process. Since the steak is already perfectly cooked from the dishwasher, you only need a quick sear to get that golden crust. If you leave it too long, it’ll dry out. And finally, avoid using too much salt in the seasoning. The sous vide process intensifies flavors, so a little goes a long way. For more tips on perfecting your technique, check out this Sous Vide Cooking in Dishwasher guide from Food & Wine.
If you’re looking for more steak inspiration, try my BBQ Steak Pasta or Pan-Seared Mahi Mahi for a seafood twist. Remember, cooking is all about learning and having fun—so don’t stress over the small stuff!
How to Store Dishwasher Sous Vide Steak
One of my favorite things about this Dishwasher Sous Vide Steak is how well it stores. I often make extra for busy weeknights, and it’s a lifesaver. To store, let the steak cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days or freeze it for up to three months.
When reheating, I recommend using a skillet on low heat to preserve the juiciness. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too—just cover the steak with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. For more storage tips and meal prep ideas, check out my Smoked Trout recipe or Easy Grilled Chicken Breast guide.
Try This Dishwasher Sous Vide Steak Yourself
I’ll never forget the first time I served this Dishwasher Sous Vide Steak to my best friend. She was skeptical at first, but one bite in, she was hooked. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love sharing recipes—it’s not just about the food, but the joy it brings to the people around the table.
So, why not give it a try? Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress. Pair it with my Grilled Sweet Potato Wedges or Healthy BBQ Sauce for a complete meal. And if you’re feeling adventurous, explore my Chicken Burgers or Spinach and Feta Turkey Burgers for more dinner inspiration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you sous vide in the dishwasher?
Yes, you can! The dishwasher provides a consistent low-temperature environment, perfect for sous vide cooking. Just make sure to seal your steak properly in a vacuum-sealed bag.
What is a dishwasher steak?
A dishwasher steak is a steak cooked using the sous vide method in a dishwasher. It’s a unique and surprisingly effective way to achieve perfectly tender and juicy results.
What is the 333 rule for steaks?
The 333 rule refers to cooking a steak for 3 minutes on each side at 3 different temperatures. However, for dishwasher sous vide steak, the low and slow method replaces this technique.
Can you cook steak in the dishwasher?
Absolutely! Cooking steak in the dishwasher using the sous vide method is a fun and effective way to achieve restaurant-quality results at home.
