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December 10, 2024
Steak is a delicious and versatile meat that can be cooked in a variety of ways. While many people prefer to cook their steaks on a grill or stovetop, finishing the steak in the oven can be a great way to achieve a perfectly cooked and tender piece of meat. This method of cooking allows for more control over the temperature and helps to lock in the flavors and juices.
Finishing a steak in the oven is particularly useful when cooking thicker cuts of meat, as it ensures that the inside is cooked to your desired level of doneness without overcooking the outside. It is also a great technique to use if you want to add a crust or sear to the steak after it has been cooked on the grill or stovetop.
To finish cooking a steak in the oven, you will need an oven-safe pan or skillet, as well as an oven preheated to the desired temperature. It is important to let the steak rest for a few minutes before finishing it in the oven, as this allows the juices to redistribute and the meat to become more tender. Once the steak is in the oven, you will need to monitor the internal temperature using a meat thermometer to ensure that it reaches your preferred level of doneness.
Whether you prefer a rare, medium, or well-done steak, finishing it in the oven can help you achieve the perfect level of doneness. By following these simple steps and using the right cooking equipment, you can elevate your steak cooking skills and impress your family and friends with a perfectly cooked and flavorful meal.
Preparing the steak
Before you can finish cooking your steak in the oven, it’s important to properly prepare it. Follow these steps to ensure your steak is seasoned and ready for the oven:
- Choose a high-quality steak: Look for a steak that is well-marbled and has a rich, red color. This will ensure a tender and flavorful result.
- Let the steak come to room temperature: Take the steak out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will allow the meat to cook more evenly.
- Season the steak: Generously season both sides of the steak with salt and pepper. You can also add other spices or herbs to enhance the flavor.
- Preheat your oven: Set your oven to a high temperature, such as 450°F (230°C). Preheating is essential for ensuring that the steak cooks quickly and evenly.
- Prepare a baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper to make clean-up easier. Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet to allow air to circulate around the steak.
- Place the steak on the wire rack: Transfer the seasoned steak to the wire rack on the baking sheet. Make sure there is enough space around the steak for hot air to circulate.
By following these steps, you’ll ensure that your steak is properly prepared and ready to be finished in the oven.
Seasoning the steak
Before cooking the steak in the oven, it is important to season it properly to enhance its flavor. Here are some simple steps to follow:
- Start by patting the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
- Sprinkle both sides of the steak with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This will help to bring out the natural flavors of the meat.
- Feel free to experiment with other seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary. These can add depth and complexity to the taste of the steak.
- Drizzle a small amount of olive oil on both sides of the steak and gently rub it in. This will help the seasonings adhere to the meat and create a flavorful crust when cooking.
Once you have seasoned the steak, it is ready to be cooked in the oven. Make sure to preheat the oven and choose the appropriate cooking method based on your desired level of doneness. Enjoy!
Preheating the oven
Before starting the cooking process, it is important to preheat the oven. This ensures that the steak will cook evenly and thoroughly.
To preheat the oven, begin by adjusting the temperature to the desired heat setting. For a medium-rare steak, set the oven to 400°F (200°C). If you prefer a different level of doneness, adjust the temperature accordingly.
While the oven is heating up, place an oven-safe pan or skillet in the oven. This will allow the pan to heat up as well, ensuring a good sear on the steak.
It is recommended to preheat the oven for at least 15 minutes to ensure that it has reached the desired temperature. This may vary depending on the type and size of your oven, so consult the manufacturer’s instructions for specific guidance.
Benefits of preheating the oven:
Even cooking: Preheating the oven ensures that the steak will cook evenly, resulting in a delicious and uniformly cooked piece of meat.
Sealing in the juices: By preheating the oven and searing the steak, you create a crust on the outside that helps seal in the juices, resulting in a juicy and flavorful steak.
Precautions:
Do not preheat the oven with the steak already inside. This could lead to uneven cooking and may affect the final result.
Always use oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves when handling hot pans or skillets from the oven to prevent burns.
Cooking the steak
Now that you have seared the steak, it’s time to finish cooking it in the oven. This method ensures that the steak is cooked evenly and retains its natural juices.
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the optimal temperature for cooking steak in the oven.
Step 2: Place the steak on a baking sheet
Transfer the seared steak onto a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. This will help with easy cleanup later.
Step 3: Insert a meat thermometer (optional)
If you want to ensure the perfect doneness of your steak, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the steak. The following temperatures are recommended for different levels of doneness:
- 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)
Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness.
Step 4: Bake the steak
Place the baking sheet with the steak in the preheated oven. Cook the steak for about 6-10 minutes or until it reaches the desired internal temperature.
Remember to check the temperature periodically with your meat thermometer to avoid overcooking the steak.
Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak.
Now that you know how to finish cooking steak in the oven, you can enjoy a perfectly cooked steak without the need for a grill. Serve it with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!
Checking the Doneness
Checking the doneness of your steak is crucial to ensure that it’s cooked to your desired level. Here are a few methods you can use to check the doneness:
1. Visual Test
One of the simplest ways to check if your steak is done is by visually inspecting it. You can use the following guidelines:
- Rare: The steak will have a very red interior and feel soft to the touch.
- Medium-rare: The steak will have a pinkish-red center and feel slightly firm.
- Medium: The steak will have a more pink center and feel firm to the touch.
- Well-done: The steak will have a completely brown interior and feel very firm to the touch.
2. Meat Thermometer
Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to check the doneness of your steak. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak without touching the bone. The following temperature ranges are recommended for different levels of doneness:
- Rare: 120-125°F (49-52°C)
- Medium-rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
- Well-done: 160°F (71°C) and above
Remember to remove the steak from the oven when it’s a few degrees below your desired level as it will continue to cook while resting.
Note: For thinner cuts of steak, a meat thermometer may not be necessary. You can simply rely on the visual test and the touch test.
3. Touch Test
If you’re comfortable with using your hands, you can perform a touch test to determine the doneness of your steak:
- Rare: When pressing the steak with your finger, it will feel very soft and offer little resistance.
- Medium-rare: The steak will feel soft with a slight spring when pressed.
- Medium: The steak will feel firm but still have some springiness.
- Well-done: The steak will feel very firm and won’t have much give.
Remember, with experience, you’ll develop a better sense of touch and be able to determine the doneness of your steak more accurately.
Resting and serving
Once the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, it is important to let it rest before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak.
To rest the steak, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board or a plate. Tent the steak loosely with aluminum foil to keep it warm. Let the steak rest for at least 5 to 10 minutes, or up to 15 minutes for thicker cuts. This resting period allows the proteins to relax and the juices to settle, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful steak.
Once the steak has rested, it is ready to be sliced and served. Use a sharp knife to slice the steak against the grain, which helps to further tenderize the meat. Serve the steak immediately, either on its own or with your favorite side dishes.
Remember, it is important to handle the steak carefully when resting and slicing to prevent any loss of juices. By allowing the steak to rest and serving it properly, you can ensure a delicious and tender steak every time.
Q&A
What is the best way to finish cooking steak in the oven?
The best way to finish cooking steak in the oven is by using the broil setting. Preheat the oven to the broil setting, place the steak on a broiler pan, and cook it for a few minutes on each side until it reaches the desired level of doneness.
How long should I cook steak in the oven for medium-rare?
To cook a medium-rare steak in the oven, you should cook it for about 4-5 minutes on each side. However, the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the steak, so it’s always best to use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C).
Can I finish cooking steak in the oven if I sear it on the stovetop first?
Yes, you can finish cooking steak in the oven after searing it on the stovetop. After searing the steak in a hot pan to develop a crust, transfer it to a preheated oven and continue cooking until it reaches the desired level of doneness. This method helps to lock in the juices and gives the steak a delicious flavor.
Do I need to rest the steak after cooking it in the oven?
Yes, it’s important to let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking it in the oven. This allows the juices to redistribute and the steak to become more tender. Tent the steak loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing and serving.