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December 10, 2024
Flat iron steak is a tender and flavorful cut of beef that can be cooked to perfection in the oven. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or wanting to impress your guests with a delicious meal, cooking a flat iron steak in the oven is a foolproof method that yields juicy and tender results every time.
To begin, it’s important to start with a good quality flat iron steak. Look for a steak that is marbled with fat and has a deep red color. This will ensure that the steak is tender and full of flavor. Make sure to bring the steak to room temperature before cooking to promote even cooking and prevent the steak from drying out.
Preheat your oven to a high temperature, around 450 degrees Fahrenheit (230 degrees Celsius). While the oven is preheating, season the flat iron steak generously with salt and pepper. You can also add additional spices or herbs to enhance the flavor of the steak. For an extra kick, try adding some minced garlic or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
Next, heat a cast iron skillet over high heat on the stovetop. Once the skillet is hot, place the seasoned flat iron steak in the skillet and sear it on each side for about 2 minutes, or until a golden brown crust forms. This will help to lock in the juices and create a flavorful crust on the steak.
Once both sides of the steak are seared, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Cook the flat iron steak for about 6-8 minutes for medium-rare, or until the internal temperature reaches 130 degrees Fahrenheit (54 degrees Celsius). Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
After the steak has finished cooking, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board. Allow the steak to rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute and the steak to become even more tender. Finally, slice the flat iron steak against the grain and serve it with your favorite sides for a delicious and satisfying meal.
With these simple steps, you can easily cook a flat iron steak in the oven to perfection. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this method is sure to impress and satisfy your taste buds. So go ahead, give it a try and enjoy a juicy and flavorful steak that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Preparing the Flat Iron Steak
1. Choose a high-quality flat iron steak: Look for a well-marbled steak with a deep red color. It should be at least 1 inch thick for better cooking results.
2. Season the steak: Sprinkle both sides of the steak generously with salt and pepper. You can also add other spices or a dry rub of your choice to enhance the flavor.
3. Let the steak sit at room temperature: Allow the seasoned steak to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help it cook more evenly.
4. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will give you a good balance of cooking the steak while maintaining its tenderness.
5. Heat a cast-iron skillet: Place a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat on the stovetop. Let it heat up for a few minutes until it is hot but not smoking.
6. Add oil to the skillet: Drizzle some oil into the hot skillet and swirl it around to coat the bottom evenly. Use an oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or canola oil.
7. Sear the steak: Carefully place the flat iron steak into the hot skillet. Let it sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until a golden-brown crust forms.
8. Transfer to the oven: Once both sides of the steak are seared, transfer the skillet with the steak to the preheated oven. Cook for about 6-8 minutes for medium-rare, or adjust the cooking time according to your desired level of doneness.
9. Rest the steak: Remove the skillet from the oven and transfer the steak to a cutting board. Let it rest for about 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
10. Slice and serve: After the resting period, slice the flat iron steak against the grain to ensure tenderness. Serve it hot and enjoy!
Choosing the right cut
When it comes to cooking a flat iron steak in the oven, choosing the right cut of meat is crucial. The flat iron steak is a flavorful and tender cut that comes from the shoulder of the cow. It is also known as a top blade steak.
When selecting a flat iron steak, look for one that is well-marbled with fat. This marbling is what gives the steak its rich and juicy flavor. Avoid steaks that are too lean, as they can be tougher and lack flavor.
Another important factor to consider when choosing a flat iron steak is the thickness. A steak that is about 1 inch thick is ideal for cooking in the oven. Thicker steaks may require longer cooking times, while thinner steaks may cook too quickly and become overcooked.
Lastly, make sure to choose a steak that has been properly aged. Aging helps to tenderize the meat and develop its flavor. Look for steaks that have been aged for at least two weeks.
Tenderizing the meat
Before cooking a flat iron steak in the oven, it is important to tenderize the meat. Tenderizing helps to break down the meat’s fibers, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
One popular method of tenderizing a flat iron steak is by using a meat mallet. To do this, place the steak on a cutting board and use the textured side of the meat mallet to gently pound the steak. Be sure to use even and consistent pressure to avoid tearing the meat.
Another option for tenderizing is to use a meat tenderizer, which is a tool with small, sharp blades that pierce the steak. Simply press the meat tenderizer firmly into the steak, making sure to cover both sides of the meat. This method helps to break down the connective tissue, resulting in a more tender steak.
Marinating the steak is also a great way to tenderize it. A marinade is a mixture of acidic ingredients, such as vinegar or citrus juice, along with various seasonings and spices. To marinate the flat iron steak, place it in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over the meat. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for maximum flavor and tenderness.
Lastly, scoring the steak can also help to tenderize it. Using a sharp knife, make shallow cuts in a diamond pattern on both sides of the steak. This allows the marinade or seasoning to penetrate deeper into the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
By tenderizing the flat iron steak before cooking it in the oven, you can ensure that the meat is juicy, tender, and full of flavor when it’s time to eat.
Cooking the Flat Iron Steak
Once you have marinated your flat iron steak, it’s time to cook it in the oven. Follow these simple steps to achieve a deliciously tender and flavorful steak:
1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Prepare the steak: Remove the marinated flat iron steak from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will ensure even cooking.
3. Season the steak: Remove any excess marinade from the steak and season it with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add additional herbs and spices according to your preference.
4. Heat a cast-iron skillet: Place a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat on the stovetop until it gets hot. Make sure the skillet is oven-safe since it will go into the oven later.
5. Sear the steak: Once the skillet is hot, carefully add the flat iron steak and sear it for about 2-3 minutes on each side. This will help to develop a nice crust on the outside of the steak.
6. Transfer to the oven: After searing, transfer the skillet with the steak into the preheated oven. Cook the steak for about 8-10 minutes or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
7. Let it rest: Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the flat iron steak rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a tender and juicy steak.
8. Slice and serve: Finally, slice the flat iron steak against the grain to maximize tenderness. Serve it hot and enjoy!
By following these steps, you can easily cook a delicious flat iron steak in the oven. The result will be a juicy and flavorful steak that you and your family will love.
Preparing the oven
Before you start cooking your flat iron steak in the oven, you need to properly prepare the oven to ensure even and consistent cooking. Follow these steps to prepare your oven:
- Preheat the oven: Turn on your oven and set it to the desired cooking temperature. Preheating is important to ensure the steak cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- Adjust the oven rack: Place the oven rack in the center position. This will allow for even heat distribution and ensure that the steak is cooked to perfection.
- Place a roasting pan or baking sheet: To catch any drippings and prevent a mess in your oven, place a roasting pan or baking sheet on the lower rack. This will also make it easier to clean up afterwards.
- Prep the steak: While the oven is preheating, take your flat iron steak out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature. This will help the steak cook more evenly and retain its juiciness.
- Season the steak: Generously season both sides of the steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. This will enhance the flavor of the steak.
- Optional: Let the steak marinate: If you have time, you can marinate the steak for extra flavor. Simply place the seasoned steak in a resealable plastic bag and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
Once you have prepared the oven and the steak, you are ready to start cooking your flat iron steak in the oven!
Q&A
What is a flat iron steak?
A flat iron steak is a tender and flavorful cut of beef that comes from the shoulder area of the cow. It is called a flat iron steak because of its shape, which resembles a flat iron used for clothing.
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 method for cooking this cut of meat, especially if you want to achieve a consistent and even cooking temperature.
How do I season a flat iron steak before cooking?
You can season a flat iron steak with a variety of spices and seasonings. A simple seasoning of salt, pepper, and garlic powder works well, or you can try a marinade or dry rub for added flavor.
What is the best temperature to cook a flat iron steak in the oven?
The best temperature to cook a flat iron steak in the oven is 425°F (220°C). This allows the steak to cook evenly and develop a nice crust on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside.
How long should I cook a flat iron steak in the oven?
The cooking time for a flat iron steak in the oven depends on the thickness of the steak and how well-done you like it. As a general rule, you can cook a 1-inch thick steak for about 12-15 minutes for medium-rare, or 15-18 minutes for medium. It’s best to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.