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November 5, 2024
When it comes to cooking a flat iron steak, using the oven can be a great option. This cut of meat is known for its tender and flavorful qualities, and cooking it in the oven helps to retain its juiciness. But how long should you cook a flat iron steak in the oven?
The cooking time can vary depending on factors such as the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness. As a general guideline, a 1-inch thick flat iron steak cooked in the oven at a temperature of 400°F (200°C) will take about 10-14 minutes for medium-rare. However, for a steak that is 1.5 inches thick, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
It’s important to note that the cooking time can also be influenced by your personal preference. If you prefer your steak to be more well-done, you can cook it for a longer period of time. On the other hand, if you like your steak to be rare or medium-rare, you may want to reduce the cooking time slightly.
Preparation for Cooking Flat Iron Steak in Oven
Before cooking your flat iron steak in the oven, it is important to properly prepare the meat to ensure a delicious and juicy result. Follow these steps to properly prepare your flat iron steak:
1. Remove the steak from the refrigerator
Take the flat iron steak out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to ensure even cooking.
2. Season the steak
Generously season both sides of the flat iron steak with salt and pepper. You can also add other seasonings of your choice, such as garlic powder, paprika, or steak seasoning.
3. Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C) to ensure that it is hot enough to cook the steak properly.
4. Prepare a baking sheet
Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper to make cleanup easier. Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet to elevate the flat iron steak and allow air to circulate evenly around it.
5. Place the steak on the wire rack
Transfer the seasoned flat iron steak onto the wire rack, ensuring that it is positioned in the center of the rack.
6. Optional: Marinate the steak
If desired, you can marinate the flat iron steak for added flavor and tenderness. Simply place the steak in a shallow dish and pour your chosen marinade over it. Let the steak marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours before cooking.
7. Insert a meat thermometer (optional)
If you want to ensure that your flat iron steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, you can insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the steak. This will allow you to easily monitor the internal temperature as it cooks.
8. Cook the flat iron steak in the oven
Place the baking sheet with the flat iron steak in the preheated oven. Cook the steak for about 8-10 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. The internal temperature should be around 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium, and 150°F (65°C) for medium-well.
9. Rest the steak
Once the flat iron steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Now that your flat iron steak is properly prepared and cooked, you can serve it hot and enjoy its delicious flavor!
| Flat Iron Steak Doneness | Internal Temperature |
|---|---|
| Medium-rare | 130°F (54°C) |
| Medium | 140°F (60°C) |
| Medium-well | 150°F (65°C) |
Gathering your ingredients
Before you begin cooking your flat iron steak in the oven, it’s important to gather all of the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
| Flat iron steak | 1 pound |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh herbs (optional) | As desired |
Make sure you have everything on this list before you start cooking, as it will make the process much smoother. Once you have all of your ingredients, you’re ready to move on to the next step!
Preparing the steak
Before cooking the flat iron steak in the oven, it is important to properly prepare it to ensure a delicious and tender result.
Follow these steps to prepare the steak:
- Remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature. This allows for even cooking.
- Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps the steak develop a nice crust.
- Season the steak generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. You can also add other seasonings or marinades according to your preference.
- Allow the seasoned steak to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will further enhance the flavors.
Once you have properly prepared the flat iron steak, you can proceed to cook it in the oven according to your desired recipe or cooking method.
Seasoning the steak
Before cooking the flat iron steak in the oven, it is important to season it properly to enhance the flavor. Here are some seasoning options to consider:
- Salt and pepper: The simplest seasoning option is to generously season both sides of the steak with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This classic combination brings out the natural flavors of the meat.
- Garlic and herb rub: Create a flavorful rub by combining minced garlic, dried herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano), salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the steak for a fragrant and delicious result.
- Spices and marinades: For a more adventurous flavor, you can use a variety of spices and marinades to season the steak. Some popular options include paprika, chili powder, cumin, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and balsamic vinegar. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite combination.
Regardless of the seasoning option you choose, make sure to let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse. This step will help to ensure a delicious and well-marinated flat iron steak.
Cooking the steak in the oven
When cooking a flat iron steak in the oven, it is important to use high heat to achieve a tender and juicy steak.
Here are the steps to cook a flat iron steak in the oven:
- Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (218 degrees Celsius).
- Season the steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices or marinades. Allow the steak to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour to ensure even cooking.
- Heat a cast iron skillet over high heat on the stovetop. Once the skillet is hot, add some oil and sear the steak for 2-3 minutes on each side, until it forms a nice crust.
- Transfer the skillet with the seared steak to the preheated oven. Cook the steak for 5-7 minutes for medium-rare, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a more flavorful steak.
- Slice the steak against the grain and serve it hot.
Remember to always use oven mitts or pot holders when handling hot skillets or pans. Enjoy your perfectly cooked flat iron steak!
Checking the doneness of the steak
When cooking a flat iron steak in the oven, it is important to check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches the desired level of doneness. Here are a few methods to determine the doneness of your steak:
1. Meat thermometer: Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to determine the doneness of a steak. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, without touching any bones, and check the temperature. The USDA recommends the following internal temperatures for steak:
- Rare: 125°F (52°C)
- Medium rare: 135°F (57°C)
- Medium: 145°F (63°C)
- Medium well: 150°F (66°C)
- Well done: 160°F (71°C)
2. Touch method: If you don’t have a meat thermometer, you can rely on the touch method. Press the center of the steak with your index finger and compare the resistance to the following descriptions:
- Rare: Very soft and squishy
- Medium rare: Soft and yielding
- Medium: Firm but still yielding
- Medium well: Firm with some resistance
- Well done: Very firm with no give
3. Visual cues: You can also determine the doneness of the steak by visually checking the color and texture. The steak will become firmer as it cooks, and the color will change from red to pink to brown. However, this method is less accurate compared to using a thermometer or the touch method.
Note: The cooking times mentioned in the recipe are approximate and can vary depending on the thickness of your steak and the actual oven temperature. It is always best to rely on the internal temperature to ensure the steak reaches the desired doneness.
Serving and enjoying your flat iron steak
Once your flat iron steak is cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve and savor the flavors. Follow these tips to make the most of your culinary masterpiece:
1. Rest the steak: After removing the steak from the oven, let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a more flavorful and tender steak.
2. Slice and serve: Using a sharp knife, slice the cooked flat iron steak against the grain, as this will help to maximize tenderness. Serve the slices on a warmed plate or platter for an appealing presentation.
3. Season to taste: Before serving, season the flat iron steak with a sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the natural flavors. You can also consider adding a drizzle of your favorite steak sauce or a pat of herbed compound butter for an extra burst of flavor.
4. Pair with sides: Flat iron steak pairs well with a variety of delicious sides. Consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. The choice of sides depends on your personal preferences and the occasion.
5. Enjoy and savor: With the perfect combination of tenderness and flavor, take the time to enjoy each delicious bite of your homemade flat iron steak. Savor the juicy and rich taste that will surely impress your family and friends.
6. Store leftovers: If you have any leftovers, let the steak cool down completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be used for sandwiches, salads, or stir-fries.
With these tips, you can confidently serve and enjoy your flat iron steak, knowing that it has been cooked to perfection and will be a true delight for your taste buds.
Q&A
What is a flat iron steak?
Flat iron steak is a cut of beef that comes from the shoulder area of the cow. It is known for its tenderness and rich flavor.
Can I cook a flat iron steak in the oven?
Yes, you can cook a flat iron steak in the oven. It is a great option if you don’t have access to a grill or if the weather is not suitable for grilling.
How long should I cook a flat iron steak in the oven for medium-rare?
To cook a flat iron steak to medium-rare in the oven, you should preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Then, place the steak on a baking sheet and cook for about 10-12 minutes for a 1-inch thick steak. Remember to let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing.
What is the cooking time for a flat iron steak in the oven?
The cooking time for a flat iron steak in the oven will depend on the desired level of doneness and the thickness of the steak. As a general guideline, for a 1-inch thick steak, you can cook it for about 10-12 minutes for medium-rare, 12-14 minutes for medium, and 14-16 minutes for medium-well.
Is it necessary to marinate a flat iron steak before cooking it in the oven?
Marinating a flat iron steak before cooking it in the oven is not necessary, but it can enhance the flavor and tenderness of the meat. If you have the time, marinating the steak for a few hours or overnight can result in a more flavorful and juicy steak.
What is a flat iron steak?
A flat iron steak is a cut of beef that comes from the shoulder area of the cow. It is known for its tenderness and rich flavor.