Do you love a juicy ribeye steak but don’t have access to a grill or stovetop? No worries! You can still enjoy a delicious ribeye steak by cooking it in the oven. While grilling or pan-searing is the preferred method for cooking steak, using the oven can be a great alternative if you’re unable to use those methods.
In this article, we will guide you through the steps on how to cook a thin ribeye steak in the oven. By following these instructions, you can achieve a tender, flavorful steak without the need for outdoor cooking equipment or a stovetop.
To begin, preheat your oven to a high temperature of around 450°F (232°C). While the oven is preheating, prepare your ribeye steak by seasoning it with your preferred spices and herbs. Common options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, and rosemary.
Pro Tip: Letting your steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking can help it cook more evenly.
Once your steak is seasoned, place it in a baking dish or on a baking sheet. For a crispy exterior, you can also sear the steak in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes on each side before transferring it to the oven.
Preparing the Ribeye Steak
1. Choose a quality ribeye steak: Look for a ribeye steak that is well-marbled with fat and has good marbling throughout. This will ensure a tender and flavorful steak.
2. Remove the steak from the refrigerator: Take the steak out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This will help the steak cook more evenly.
3. Season the steak: Sprinkle both sides of the steak generously with salt and pepper. You can also add any other desired seasonings, such as garlic powder or steak seasoning, to enhance the flavor.
4. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure that it is hot enough to quickly sear the steak.
5. Heat a skillet: Place a skillet over medium-high heat and let it get hot. You want the skillet to be hot enough to sear the steak and create a crust on the outside.
6. Sear the steak: Add a small amount of oil to the hot skillet and carefully place the steak in the skillet. Sear each side of the steak for about 2-3 minutes, until it develops a golden-brown crust.
7. Transfer to the oven: Carefully transfer the skillet with the seared steak to the preheated oven. Let the steak cook in the oven for about 6-8 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
8. Rest the steak: Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board for about 5 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier steak.
Note: Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches the internal temperature you prefer.
Choosing the Right Steak
When it comes to cooking a thin ribeye steak in the oven, it all starts with choosing the right steak. Here are a few key factors to consider:
Thickness: Look for ribeye steaks that are around 1 inch thick. Thinner steaks tend to cook more quickly and evenly in the oven.
Marbling: Look for steaks with good marbling. Marbling refers to the small streaks of fat throughout the meat. This fat adds flavor and helps keep the steak moist during cooking.
Quality: Choose a high-quality steak. Look for ones that are labeled USDA Prime or USDA Choice. These steaks tend to be more tender and flavorful.
Freshness: Always choose a steak that is fresh. Look for steaks with a bright red color and avoid any that have a brown or gray hue.
Source: Consider the source of the steak. Local and grass-fed steaks can offer additional flavor and tenderness.
By taking these factors into account, you can ensure that you choose the right steak for cooking in the oven. This will result in a delicious and tender ribeye steak that is full of flavor.
Seasoning the Steak
Before cooking the thin ribeye steak in the oven, it is important to season it properly. This will ensure that the steak is flavorful and delicious.
Ingredients:
• 1 thin ribeye steak |
• Salt |
• Black pepper |
• Garlic powder |
• Olive oil |
1. Start by patting the steak dry with a paper towel. This will help the seasoning stick to the meat.
2. Season the steak generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Make sure to season both sides of the steak.
3. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the steak. This will help create a nice crust on the outside.
4. Rub the seasonings and oil into the steak, making sure to coat it evenly.
5. Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will allow the seasoning to penetrate the meat.
Now that the steak is properly seasoned, it is ready to be cooked in the oven.
Cooking the Steak
Once the steak is marinated and brought to room temperature, it’s time to cook it in the oven. Here’s how you can do it:
Step | Temperature | Time |
---|---|---|
1 | Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). | N/A |
2 | Season the steak with salt and pepper, or your preferred seasoning. | N/A |
3 | Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat on the stovetop. | N/A |
4 | Place the steak in the hot skillet and sear it for 1-2 minutes on each side. | N/A |
5 | Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook the steak for about 6-8 minutes for medium-rare, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. | 6-8 minutes |
6 | Remove the skillet from the oven and let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. | N/A |
Note: Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your steak and your preference for doneness.
Preheating the Oven
Before cooking your thin ribeye steak in the oven, it is important to preheat the oven. Preheating the oven will ensure that the cooking temperature is accurate and consistent throughout the cooking process.
To preheat the oven, start by setting the temperature to 450°F (232°C) and allowing it to heat up for about 15 minutes. This will give the oven enough time to reach the desired temperature.
While the oven is preheating, you can take the time to season your thin ribeye steak with your desired herbs and spices. This will enhance the flavor of the steak and add an extra dimension to the dish.
Preheating the oven is an essential step in cooking a thin ribeye steak in the oven. It ensures that the steak cooks evenly and retains its juiciness and tenderness.
Searing the Steak
Before cooking the steak in the oven, it’s important to sear it on the stovetop. This step helps to lock in the flavors and creates a delicious crust on the outside.
1. Preheat the Skillet
Start by preheating a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. A cast iron skillet is preferred for its ability to retain heat evenly.
2. Season the Steak
While the skillet is heating up, season your ribeye steak with salt and pepper. You can also add any other desired seasonings, such as garlic powder or rosemary, to enhance the flavors.
3. Add Oil to the Skillet
Once the skillet is hot, add a small amount of oil to coat the bottom. Use an oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or canola oil, to prevent it from burning.
4. Sear the Steak
Carefully place the seasoned ribeye steak onto the hot skillet. Allow it to cook undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until a golden brown crust forms.
5. Flip the Steak
Using a pair of tongs, flip the steak to the other side and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Make sure to sear all edges of the steak as well.
6. Transfer to the Oven
After searing the steak, transfer it to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). This will allow the steak to finish cooking evenly and reach the desired internal temperature.
Finishing in the Oven
After searing the thin ribeye steak on the stove, you can finish it in the oven to ensure it is cooked to perfection. Here’s how:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the seared ribeye steak on a baking sheet or in an oven-safe skillet.
- If desired, season the steak with additional herbs, spices, or marinades.
- Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the steak to monitor the internal temperature.
- Transfer the steak to the preheated oven and cook for about 6-8 minutes for medium-rare doneness, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
- Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the steak. It’s always best to rely on the meat thermometer to ensure accurate cooking.
- Once the steak reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Slice the steak against the grain and serve hot.
Finishing the thin ribeye steak in the oven helps to ensure that it is evenly cooked and deliciously tender. Enjoy your perfectly cooked steak!
Q&A
What is the best way to cook a thin ribeye steak in the oven?
The best way to cook a thin ribeye steak in the oven is to preheat the oven to a high temperature, then sear the steak in a hot skillet for a few minutes on each side. Once it has a nice brown crust, transfer the steak to a baking sheet and finish cooking it in the oven until it reaches the desired level of doneness.
How long should I cook a thin ribeye steak in the oven?
The cooking time for a thin ribeye steak in the oven will depend on the desired level of doneness. As a general guide, for a medium-rare steak, cook it in the oven for about 4-6 minutes per side. If you prefer it more well-done, you can cook it for a few minutes longer on each side.
Can I season the steak before cooking it in the oven?
Yes, it is a good idea to season the steak before cooking it in the oven. You can use a simple seasoning like salt and pepper, or you can get creative and use a steak seasoning blend or your favorite herbs and spices. Just make sure to season both sides of the steak and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Do I need to marinate the steak before cooking it in the oven?
No, you do not need to marinate the steak before cooking it in the oven. Ribeye steaks are naturally tender and flavorful, so they do not require marinades. However, if you prefer a marinated steak, you can marinate it for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator before cooking it in the oven.
What temperature should the oven be set to when cooking a thin ribeye steak?
The oven should be preheated to a high temperature, around 450°F (230°C), when cooking a thin ribeye steak. This high heat will help to quickly sear the steak and lock in the juices, resulting in a juicy and flavorful steak.
Can I cook a thin ribeye steak in the oven?
Yes, you can cook a thin ribeye steak in the oven. It is a convenient method that allows you to control the cooking temperature and achieve a consistent result.