well done steak
/ˌwel ˈdʌn steɪk/
Meaning
This refers to a steak that has been cooked thoroughly until it is completely brown throughout, with no trace of pink or red meat left inside. While some people prefer this level of doneness for safety or texture, food enthusiasts often debate it because it can make the meat dry or tough. The tone is neutral, but be aware of lighthearted culinary debates around it.
Examples
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My mom always orders a well done steak because she doesn't like seeing any pink meat.
My mom always orders a well done steak because she doesn't like seeing any pink meat.
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If you cook a high-quality cut of beef into a well done steak, it might lose its tenderness.
If you cook a high-quality cut of beef into a well done steak, it might lose its tenderness.
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The waiter asked how I wanted my meat cooked, and I requested a well done steak.
The waiter asked how I wanted my meat cooked, and I requested a well done steak.
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A well done steak takes longer to prepare than one cooked medium-rare.
A well done steak takes longer to prepare than one cooked medium-rare.
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He accidentally left the meat on the grill too long and ended up with a well done steak.
He accidentally left the meat on the grill too long and ended up with a well done steak.
Common Mistakes
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✗ I would like a good done steak, please.
✓ I would like a well done steak, please.
The standard term for fully cooked meat is 'well done' (using the adverb 'well'), not 'good done'.
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✗ She prefers her steak very well-done.
✓ She prefers her steak well done.
While 'very well done' is sometimes heard, 'well done' is already the maximum standard level of doneness. Adding 'very' can sound repetitive or imply the meat is overcooked/burnt.
Related Expressions
Practice
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He doesn't like pink meat, so he always requests a ___.
💡 A steak cooked thoroughly with no pink inside.
Show answer
well done steak
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Be careful not to overcook the beef, or you will end up with a dry, ___.
💡 Fully cooked meat that can sometimes become tough.
Show answer
well done steak