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December 10, 2024
Cooking a steak in a pan and oven is a simple and effective method for achieving a juicy and flavorful result. This cooking technique allows you to sear the steak on the stovetop to create a crispy crust, and then finish it off in the oven to cook it to the desired doneness. With a few key steps and some patience, you can master this culinary skill and impress your guests with a perfectly cooked steak.
Step 1: Preparing the steak
Before cooking the steak, it’s important to let it come to room temperature. This ensures that the steak cooks evenly and allows for a more consistent result. Remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it sit on the counter for about 30 minutes.
Step 2: Searing the steak
To sear the steak, heat a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan over high heat. Add a small amount of oil or butter to the pan to prevent sticking. Once the pan is hot, carefully place the steak in the pan and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until a golden-brown crust forms.
Step 3: Finishing in the oven
After searing the steak, transfer it to a preheated oven set to 375°F (190°C). Place the steak on a baking sheet or oven-safe dish and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, depending on the desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature – rare is around 125°F (52°C), medium-rare is around 135°F (57°C), medium is around 145°F (63°C), and well-done is around 160°F (71°C).
Step 4: Resting and serving
Once the steak reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a more tender and flavorful steak. Slice the steak against the grain and serve it hot with your favorite side dishes.
Remember to handle steaks with care – use tongs or a spatula when flipping or transferring to avoid piercing the meat and losing its juices. Experiment with different seasonings and marinades to personalize your steak to your liking. With practice and attention to detail, you’ll be able to cook a perfect steak in a pan and oven every time.
Choosing the right steak
When it comes to cooking a steak, choosing the right cut of meat is crucial. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a steak:
1. Cut: There are several cuts of steak available, each with its own unique characteristics. Some popular cuts include ribeye, sirloin, filet mignon, and New York strip. Consider your personal preferences for tenderness and marbling when choosing a cut.
2. Grade: Steaks are graded based on their quality and tenderness. The most common grading systems are USDA Prime, Choice, and Select. Prime steaks are the highest quality and often the most expensive, while Select steaks are more affordable but may be less tender.
3. Thickness: The thickness of the steak will affect cooking time and doneness. Thicker steaks require longer cooking times to ensure a desired level of doneness, while thinner steaks may cook faster and have a different texture.
4. Aging: Some steaks are aged to enhance their flavor and tenderness. Dry aging involves hanging the meat in a controlled environment for several weeks, while wet aging is done in vacuum-sealed packaging. Consider whether you prefer the taste and tenderness of aged steak.
5. Source: The source of the steak can also impact its quality. Look for steaks from reputable suppliers or local farms that prioritize animal welfare and sustainable practices.
Ultimately, the right steak for you depends on your personal preferences and cooking style. Consider these factors when choosing a steak to ensure a delicious and satisfying meal.
Preparing the steak
To cook a perfect steak in a pan and oven, it’s important to start with a high-quality piece of meat. Choose a steak that is well-marbled and has a good amount of fat, as this will help to keep it juicy and flavorful.
Before cooking the steak, remove it from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature. This will ensure that it cooks evenly and is tender throughout.
To enhance the flavor of the steak, season it generously with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add a sprinkle of your favorite herbs and spices for additional taste.
For a tender and juicy steak, it’s important to dry it thoroughly before cooking. Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help to create a nice crust on the outside of the steak.
If desired, you can also marinate the steak to infuse it with additional flavors. Simply place the steak in a resealable bag or container, and cover it with your choice of marinade. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
Once the steak is seasoned and dry, it’s ready to be cooked in a pan and oven. Follow the next steps to achieve a perfectly cooked steak.
Seasoning the steak
Before cooking the steak, it’s important to season it properly to enhance the flavor. Here are some tips on how to season your steak:
- Pat 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.
- You can also add other seasonings to your taste, such as garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or dried herbs.
- Rub the seasonings into the steak, making sure to coat both sides evenly.
- Cover the seasoned steak with plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to penetrate into the meat.
- Alternatively, you can season the steak ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. This will result in a more intense flavor.
Remember, seasoning is a matter of personal preference, so feel free to experiment with different flavors and spices to create your own unique steak seasoning blend!
Bringing the steak to room temperature
Before cooking the steak, it is important to bring it to room temperature. This step ensures that the steak cooks evenly and results in a delicious, juicy piece of meat.
To bring the steak to room temperature, follow these steps:
- Remove the steak from the refrigerator and take it out of its packaging.
- Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
- Place the steak on a plate or a cutting board.
- Leave the steak at room temperature for about 30 minutes to 1 hour. This will allow the steak to warm up and reach room temperature.
Bringing the steak to room temperature before cooking it will help the steak cook more evenly and result in a more delicious and tender piece of meat.
Cooking the steak
Once your steak is seasoned, it’s time to cook it for that perfectly juicy and delicious result.
1. Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for the finishing step of cooking your steak.
2. Heat your pan: Heat a heavy-duty, oven-safe skillet over high heat on the stovetop. Make sure the pan is hot enough to create a sizzling sound when the steak is added.
3. Sear the steak: Place the steak in the pan and let it cook undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes, or until a golden brown crust forms. Flip the steak using tongs and sear the other side for another 2-3 minutes.
4. Transfer to the oven: Once both sides of the steak are seared, transfer the skillet with the steak to the preheated oven. Cook the steak in the oven for about 5-7 minutes for medium-rare, or adjust the time according to your desired level of doneness.
5. Check the temperature: To ensure the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, use an instant-read meat thermometer to check its internal temperature. For medium-rare, it should read around 135°F (57°C).
6. Let it rest: Remove the steak from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board for at least 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a more tender and flavorful steak.
7. Slice and serve: After resting, slice the steak against the grain and serve it as desired. Enjoy your perfectly cooked steak!
Note: Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness. Adjust accordingly.
Preheating the Pan and Oven
Before you start cooking the steak, it is important to preheat both the pan and the oven. This will ensure that the steak is evenly cooked and has a nice sear on the outside.
Preheating the Pan
Begin by placing a heavy-bottomed skillet or frying pan on the stovetop. It is recommended to use a cast-iron skillet or a stainless steel pan for the best results. Turn the heat to medium-high and let the pan heat up for about 5 minutes. Heating the pan beforehand will help to achieve a delicious crust on the steak.
Preheating the Oven
In the meantime, preheat the oven to a high temperature. Set the oven to 450°F (230°C) to ensure a quick and thorough cooking process. By preheating the oven, you will be able to transfer the steak from the pan to the oven seamlessly, allowing it to cook to your desired level of doneness.
Searing the steak in the pan
Before placing the steak in the oven, you need to sear it in a hot pan to give it a nice crust. Follow these steps to achieve a delicious sear:
- Prepare the steak by patting it dry with paper towels. Season it generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat a heavy-bottomed pan over high heat. Add a small amount of oil, such as vegetable or canola oil, and swirl it around to coat the bottom.
- Gently place the steak in the hot pan, making sure it lays flat. Let it cook undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes, or until a brown crust forms.
- Using tongs, carefully flip the steak to sear the other side. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- If you prefer a more well-done steak, you can reduce the heat to medium and cook for a few more minutes on each side.
Once the steak is properly seared, it’s ready to be transferred to the oven to finish cooking to your desired doneness.
Q&A
What temperature should I preheat the oven to?
You should preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
How long do I cook the steak in the pan before transferring it to the oven?
You should cook the steak in the pan for about 2 minutes per side to get a nice sear before transferring it to the oven.
How long do I cook the steak in the oven for medium-rare?
You should cook the steak in the oven for about 4-5 minutes for medium-rare. However, the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness, so it’s recommended to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
Can I use any type of steak for this cooking method?
You can use any type of steak for this cooking method, but it’s recommended to use thicker cuts like ribeye or strip steak as they tend to cook more evenly and retain juiciness better with this technique.