When it comes to cooking thin cut steak in the oven, timing is everything. Too long and you risk ending up with a tough and overcooked piece of meat. Too short and you’ll have a steak that’s underwhelming and lacking in flavor. So, how long should you cook thin cut steak in the oven?
The exact cooking time will depend on a few factors, such as the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness. However, a general rule of thumb is to cook thin cut steak in the oven for about 6-8 minutes per side at a high heat. This will give you a perfectly cooked steak that is juicy and tender.
It’s important to note that thin cut steaks cook quite quickly, so keep a close eye on them to avoid overcooking. To ensure even cooking, it’s also recommended to flip the steak halfway through the cooking time. If you prefer your steak to be more well-done, you can cook it for a couple of minutes longer on each side.
Tip: For an extra boost of flavor, you can marinate the steak before cooking or season it with your favorite herbs and spices. This will add depth and complexity to the dish.
Once the steak is done cooking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into it. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak. Serve it with your choice of sides and enjoy!
Preparation
Before cooking your thin cut steak in the oven, there are a few steps you need to take to ensure it turns out delicious.
1. Start by preheating your oven to the desired temperature. For thin cut steaks, a high heat setting of around 425°F (220°C) works best.
2. Remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature. This will allow for more even cooking.
3. Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help the steak sear better and develop a nice crust.
4. Season the steak with salt and pepper, or any other desired seasonings. You can also marinate the steak for added flavor. Make sure to evenly coat both sides.
5. Place a large oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan over high heat. Add a small amount of oil or butter to the pan and allow it to heat up.
6. Once the pan is hot, carefully place the steak in the pan and sear it for about 2 minutes per side. This will help lock in the juices and give the steak a nice brown crust.
7. Transfer the skillet or pan to the preheated oven and continue cooking the steak for an additional 4-6 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
8. Remove the steak from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak.
Now that your thin cut steak is properly prepared, you can enjoy it as is or use it as a base for other dishes such as steak salads, sandwiches, or stir-fries. Bon appétit!
Temperature | Time |
---|---|
Medium-rare | 135°F (57°C) |
Medium | 145°F (63°C) |
Medium-well | 150°F (66°C) |
Well done | 160°F (71°C) |
Seasoning
Before cooking your thin cut steak in the oven, it’s important to season it properly to enhance its flavor. Here are some seasoning options you can try:
- Salt and pepper: This classic combination is simple yet effective. Season both sides of the steak with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Garlic powder and onion powder: Sprinkle some garlic powder and onion powder on both sides of the steak to add a savory taste.
- Steak seasoning: Use a pre-made steak seasoning blend that typically includes a mix of herbs, spices, and sometimes even sugar or paprika. Rub it onto both sides of the steak for an extra kick of flavor.
- Herbs and spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices such as rosemary, thyme, oregano, or cayenne pepper to add a unique flavor profile to your steak.
- Marinade: Consider marinating your thin cut steak for a few hours or overnight in your favorite marinade. This will not only add flavor but also help tenderize the meat.
Once you have seasoned your steak, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. This will result in a delicious and well-seasoned thin cut steak when cooked in the oven.
Cooking Time
When cooking thin cut steak in the oven, it is essential to keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure the desired level of doneness. Cooking time can vary depending on the thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness, such as rare, medium-rare, medium, or well done.
Recommended Cooking Times
Here are the recommended cooking times for thin cut steak in the oven:
Level of Doneness | Cooking Time |
---|---|
Rare | 3-4 minutes per side |
Medium-Rare | 4-5 minutes per side |
Medium | 5-6 minutes per side |
Well Done | 6-7 minutes per side |
Keep in mind that these cooking times are approximate and may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and personal preference. It’s always recommended to use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches the desired internal temperature.
Tips for Cooking Thin Cut Steak in the Oven
Here are some tips to cook thin cut steak in the oven:
- Preheat the oven to a high temperature, around 450°F (230°C), to ensure a crispy crust.
- Season the steak with salt, pepper, and any desired spices or herbs.
- Place the steak on a baking sheet or a wire rack set inside a baking sheet to allow for air circulation.
- Cook the steak for the recommended cooking time based on the desired level of doneness, flipping it halfway through the cooking process.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, especially if you’re unsure about the steak’s doneness.
- Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Following these tips and paying attention to the cooking time will help you achieve a delicious and perfectly cooked thin cut steak in the oven.
Temperature
When cooking thin cut steak in the oven, it is important to preheat the oven to a high temperature to ensure that the steak cooks quickly and evenly. A temperature of 450°F (230°C) is recommended for thin cut steaks.
By cooking the steak at a high temperature, you can achieve a nicely browned exterior while keeping the interior juicy and tender. This high heat allows for a quick cooking time, typically around 6 to 8 minutes per side.
Using a meat thermometer to measure the internal temperature of the steak is also recommended. For medium-rare steak, the internal temperature should be around 130°F (54°C). Remember to remove the steak from the oven a few degrees below the desired temperature, as it will continue to cook while resting.
It is important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and personal preference for doneness. Thinner steaks may require slightly less cooking time, while thicker steaks may require slightly more.
When the steak reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and the steak to become even more tender.
Remember to use oven mitts or tongs to handle hot cookware and always exercise caution when working with high temperatures in the kitchen.
Resting the steak
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.
Place the cooked steak on a cutting board and loosely cover it with foil. Let it rest for about 5 to 10 minutes. This resting period allows the muscle fibers to relax and the juices to evenly distribute, ensuring a juicy and delicious steak.
During the resting period, avoid cutting into the steak or piercing it with a fork, as this can cause the juices to escape and result in a dry steak. Instead, let it rest undisturbed and use this time to prepare any accompanying side dishes or sauces.
Once the steak has finished resting, remove the foil and transfer it to a serving platter. Cut against the grain into thin slices and serve immediately. Enjoy!
Serving
Once your steak is cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve and enjoy! Here are some tips on how to serve thin cut steak:
1. Rest the steak
Before serving, it’s important to let the steak rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and helps to ensure that the steak remains juicy and tender.
2. Slice the steak
Using a sharp knife, slice the steak against the grain. This helps to ensure that the steak is tender and easy to chew.
Thin-cut steaks are often served whole, but you can also slice them into strips or bite-sized pieces depending on your preference.
If you’re serving the steak as part of a larger meal or a steak sandwich, you might want to slice it thin and evenly to make it easier to eat.
3. Garnish and serve
You can garnish your thin cut steak with various toppings and sauces to enhance its flavor. Some popular options include:
• Chimichurri sauce: A flavorful sauce made with fresh herbs, garlic, vinegar, and oil.
• Blue cheese sauce: Creamy and tangy, this sauce pairs well with steak and adds a rich flavor.
• Mushroom sauce: Earthy and savory, this sauce adds depth and richness to your steak.
Additionally, you can serve your steak with a side of vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad to complete your meal.
Remember to present your steak beautifully on a plate and enjoy it while it’s still hot!
Q&A
What is the best temperature to cook thin cut steak in the oven?
The best temperature to cook thin cut steak in the oven is 400°F (200°C). This will help to sear the steak and lock in the juices, resulting in a tender and flavorful steak.
Can I cook thin cut steak in the oven without searing it?
Yes, you can cook thin cut steak in the oven without searing it. However, searing the steak before cooking it in the oven helps to enhance the flavor and create a nice crust on the outside of the steak.
How long should I cook a thin cut steak in the oven for medium doneness?
To cook a thin cut steak to medium doneness in the oven, you should cook it for approximately 6-8 minutes. It is important to monitor the internal temperature of the steak using a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 145°F (63°C), which is the recommended temperature for medium doneness.
Can I use a broiler to cook thin cut steak in the oven?
Yes, you can use a broiler to cook thin cut steak in the oven. Preheat the broiler and place the steak on a broiler pan or a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Cook the steak for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side, or until it reaches the desired level of doneness.
How long should I cook a thin cut steak in the oven for well done?
To cook a thin cut steak to well done in the oven, you should cook it for approximately 10-12 minutes. It is important to monitor the internal temperature of the steak using a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 160°F (71°C), which is the recommended temperature for well done.