Looking to cook a delicious and tender fillet steak in the oven? In this article, we will guide you through the steps to achieving mouthwatering results from the convenience of your kitchen. While cooking fillet steak on the stovetop or grill is a popular choice, using the oven can produce equally impressive results.
Why choose the oven?
Using the oven to cook your fillet steak allows for a more controlled cooking environment, ensuring the steak is evenly cooked to your desired level of doneness. This method also helps to lock in the juices and flavors of the steak, resulting in a tender and succulent meal.
Tip: Preheating your oven before cooking is essential for achieving the best results.
Preparing the steak
Before cooking, it is important to properly prepare your fillet steak. For the best flavor, allow the steak to come to room temperature and pat it dry with a paper towel. Season the steak generously with salt and pepper or your favorite steak seasoning, ensuring both sides are coated.
Preparation for cooking fillet steak in the oven
Before you begin cooking your fillet steak in the oven, it’s essential to properly prepare the steak to ensure it is deliciously tender and flavorful. Follow these steps to prepare your fillet steak for cooking:
1. Choose the right fillet steak:
When selecting a fillet steak, look for one that is well-marbled with fat and has a deep red color. The marbling of fat throughout the steak adds flavor and tenderness.
2. Remove the steak from the refrigerator:
Take the fillet steak out of the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will ensure even cooking and prevent the steak from drying out in the oven.
3. Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to a high temperature, around 400°F (200°C). This high heat will help to create a delicious crust on the outside of the steak while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
4. Season the steak:
Season your fillet steak generously on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. You can also add any other desired seasonings, such as herbs or spices, to enhance the flavor.
5. Let the steak rest:
Allow the seasoned steak to rest for about 10 minutes before cooking. This allows the salt and seasonings to be absorbed into the meat and enhances the overall flavor.
6. Prepare a baking dish:
Place a wire rack inside a baking dish and lightly grease it with oil or cooking spray. This will allow any excess fat or juices to drain away from the steak while it cooks.
7. Sear the steak:
Heat a skillet over high heat and add a small amount of oil. Sear the fillet steak on both sides for about 2 minutes each, until a golden-brown crust forms. This step adds extra flavor and helps to seal in the juices.
8. Transfer to the oven:
Once the steak is seared, transfer it to the prepared baking dish with the wire rack. Place the dish in the preheated oven and roast the steak for about 10-12 minutes for medium-rare, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Following these preparation steps will ensure that your fillet steak is perfectly cooked and full of flavor when cooked in the oven. Next, learn about the cooking process and how to monitor the internal temperature of the steak to achieve your desired level of doneness.
Choosing the right cut
When it comes to cooking fillet steak in the oven, choosing the right cut is key to achieving a tender and flavorful result. The fillet, also known as tenderloin, is one of the most tender cuts of beef. It is located underneath the ribs and next to the backbone of the animal.
The fillet steak is lean and has a delicate texture, making it a popular choice for many steak lovers. However, it is also one of the pricier cuts of beef due to its tenderness and premium taste. When selecting a fillet steak, look for a piece that is bright red in color and has a good amount of marbling, which refers to the thin streaks of fat running through the meat.
There are different grades of fillet steak, including prime, choice, and select. Prime-grade fillets will have the highest level of marbling and tenderness, making them the most flavorful and juicy option. Choice-grade fillets are also a good choice, as they still offer a decent amount of marbling and tenderness at a slightly lower price point.
If you’re on a budget, select-grade fillets can still provide a tasty meal when cooked properly. They may have less marbling and tenderness compared to the higher grades, but they can still be delicious when seasoned well and cooked to the right doneness.
Overall, when cooking fillet steak in the oven, choosing a high-quality cut with good marbling will ensure a delicious and tender result. Don’t be afraid to splurge on a prime or choice-grade fillet for a special occasion, but remember that even a select-grade fillet can still yield a tasty meal when prepared with care.
Seasoning the steak
Before cooking your fillet steak in the oven, it is important to season it properly. Seasoning enhances the flavor of the steak and adds depth to its taste. Here are the steps to season the steak:
Ingredients: | Quantity: |
Fillet steak | 1 piece |
Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
Sea salt | To taste |
Black pepper | To taste |
Garlic powder | ½ teaspoon |
1. Take the fillet steak out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes.
2. Preheat your oven to the desired temperature (usually around 400°F or 200°C).
3. Brush the fillet steak with olive oil to coat it evenly. Olive oil adds moisture to the steak and helps to prevent it from sticking to the pan.
4. Season the steak with sea salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Sprinkle the seasonings evenly on both sides of the steak, and gently pat them into the meat to ensure they stick.
5. Let the seasoned steak sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Now that your fillet steak is properly seasoned, it’s time to cook it in the oven. Refer to the next section for instructions on oven cooking.
Preheating the oven
Before you start cooking your fillet steak in the oven, it is important to preheat the oven to the recommended temperature. Preheating the oven ensures that the meat cooks evenly and thoroughly.
To preheat the oven, follow these steps:
1. | Turn on the oven and set the temperature to 450°F (230°C). |
2. | Allow the oven to heat up for at least 10 to 15 minutes. |
It is important to note that the exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness and desired level of doneness of the fillet steak.
Once the oven has reached the desired temperature, you can proceed to the next step of cooking your fillet steak in the oven.
Cooking techniques for fillet steak in the oven
When it comes to cooking fillet steak in the oven, there are a few important techniques to keep in mind to ensure a perfectly cooked piece of meat. Here are some tips to help you achieve delicious results:
- Preheat the oven: Before cooking the fillet steak, preheat the oven to a high temperature, such as 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the steak cooks evenly and develops a delicious crust.
- Season the steak: Generously season the fillet steak with salt and pepper, or any other desired seasonings. This will enhance the flavor of the meat and create a delicious crust during cooking.
- Sear the steak: Heat a skillet over high heat and add a small amount of oil. Sear the fillet steak on all sides, including the edges, until browned. This will help to lock in the juices and add a caramelized flavor to the meat.
- Transfer to the oven: Once the steak is seared, transfer it to a baking dish or a cast iron skillet. Place it in the preheated oven and cook for around 10-15 minutes, or until the desired level of doneness is achieved. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
- Rest the steak: Once the fillet steak is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a tender and flavorful steak.
By following these cooking techniques, you will be able to enjoy a delicious fillet steak cooked to perfection in the oven. Serve it with your favorite side dishes and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home.
Checking the doneness
Checking the doneness of your fillet steak is crucial to ensure it is cooked to your desired level of doneness. Here are some methods you can use to check the doneness of your steak:
1. Visual test: One of the simplest ways to check the doneness of your fillet steak is by visually observing the color and texture of the steak. A rare steak will have a cool, red center, while a medium-rare steak will have a warm, pink center. A medium steak will have a slightly less pink center, while a well-done steak will have no pinkness and will be brown throughout. It’s important to note that the exterior of the steak may still appear pink due to browning reactions, so it’s best to focus on the center of the steak when conducting the visual test.
2. Touch test: Another method to check the doneness of your steak is by using the touch test or finger test. By pressing the center of the steak with your finger and comparing its firmness to different parts of your hand, you can determine the level of doneness. For example, a rare steak will feel soft and spongy, while a medium-rare steak will have a slightly firmer texture. A medium steak will feel firm but still have a slight give, and a well-done steak will feel very firm and have no give. Keep in mind that this method requires practice to develop a sense of touch and accuracy.
3. Meat thermometer: The most accurate way to ensure your fillet steak is cooked to the desired degree is by using a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding any bones. The target internal temperatures for different levels of doneness are as follows: 50-52°C (125-130°F) for rare, 55-57°C (130-135°F) for medium-rare, 60-63°C (140-145°F) for medium, and 68-71°C (155-160°F) for well-done. Remember to remove the steak from the oven a few degrees before reaching the desired temperature, as the residual heat will continue to cook the steak during resting.
4. Resting: After removing your fillet steak from the oven, it’s important to let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product. Cover the steak loosely with foil and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steak.
By using these methods, you can ensure your fillet steak is cooked to perfection and enjoy a delicious, juicy steak every time.
FAQ
What is the best way to cook fillet steak in the oven?
The best way to cook fillet steak in the oven is to preheat the oven to a high temperature, sear the steak in a hot skillet, and then transfer it to the oven to finish cooking. This method ensures that the steak gets a nice sear on the outside while remaining juicy and tender on the inside.
How long should I cook fillet steak in the oven for?
The cooking time for fillet steak in the oven depends on the thickness of the steak and how well-done you want it. As a general guide, you can cook a 1-inch thick fillet steak for about 10-12 minutes for medium-rare, 12-14 minutes for medium, and 14-16 minutes for well-done.
Should I marinate fillet steak before cooking it in the oven?
While it’s not necessary to marinate fillet steak before cooking it in the oven, marinating can add extra flavor and help tenderize the meat. If you choose to marinate, you can do so for 30 minutes to overnight in the refrigerator. Just make sure to pat the steak dry before cooking to get a nice sear.
What temperature should I set my oven to when cooking fillet steak?
When cooking fillet steak in the oven, it’s best to preheat the oven to a high temperature, around 425°F (220°C) or higher. This high heat helps to sear the steak on the outside and lock in the juices, while still allowing the inside to cook to your desired level of doneness.
Can I use a different cut of steak instead of fillet steak for this oven cooking method?
Yes, you can use a different cut of steak instead of fillet steak for cooking in the oven. However, different cuts may require slight adjustments in cooking time and temperature. Thicker cuts like ribeye or sirloin may need longer cooking times, while thinner cuts like flank or skirt steak may cook faster.
What is the best way to cook fillet steak in the oven?
The best way to cook fillet steak in the oven is to start by preheating the oven to a high temperature, around 450°F (230°C). Then, season the steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. Heat a cast iron skillet on the stovetop and sear the fillet steak on each side for about 2 minutes, until a golden crust forms. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook the steak for 4-6 minutes for medium-rare, or until desired level of doneness is reached. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before serving.