Savoring the Last Grilling Days of Summer: The Perfect Steak by a Grill-Master Realtor

Summer in Chicagoland always feels like it goes by too quickly. Before we know it, the cooler evenings will settle in, leaves will start changing, and backyard grilling will be replaced by crockpots and ovens. That’s why now is the perfect time to fire up the grill and enjoy every last bite of the season.

And if there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s this: nothing brings family and friends together quite like a perfectly cooked steak.

My Favorite Way to Cook Steak

I’ve tried just about every method under the sun, but here’s my personal go-to for making a steak that’s juicy, flavorful, and unforgettable:

Dry Brine Overnight – I start by dry brining the steak in the fridge. This simple step helps lock in flavor and gives me that tender, steakhouse quality bite.
Black Garlic Magic – Before cooking, I rub the steak with black garlic. Its natural sweetness and depth of flavor elevate the beef beautifully—it’s a secret weapon I love.
Simple Seasoning – I keep it classic with just salt and pepper. When the steak itself is good, you don’t need much more.
Reverse Sear Technique – I sear it first in a hot pan with just a touch of neutral oil. Then, I baste the steak with butter, garlic, thyme, or whatever fresh herbs I have on hand until I get that rich, golden crust.
Low and Slow on Charcoal – Finally, I transfer it to my charcoal grill, cooking low and slow until it reaches around 125–149°F—depending on how you like it.

For me, this method never fails. But here’s the truth: there’s no “wrong way” to grill a steak. If it tastes great and puts a smile on your face, that’s all that matters.

Real Estate and Real Grilling

Now, you may be wondering—what does steak have to do with real estate? Quite a bit, actually.

For many homeowners, the grill isn’t just a way to cook dinner—it’s the centerpiece of summer gatherings, backyard celebrations, and creating memories with family and friends. When I help people buy or sell a home, I don’t just think about square footage and property lines. I think about the lifestyle a home offers—the yard where you’ll grill your first steak, the patio where you’ll host friends, or the kitchen where you’ll prep your favorite meals.

As both a realtor and a grill enthusiast, I know that a great home and a great steak have one thing in common: it’s all about getting the details right.

So while summer is still with us, light up the grill, savor the flavor, and enjoy every last moment outdoors. And if you or someone you know is looking for a home with the perfect backyard for barbecues, I’d be honored to help make that happen.

Frank Campobasso – Realtor® & Grill Enthusiast
Century 21 Circle
📞 773-425-6265