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October 27, 2024
Flank steak is a flavorful and tender cut of beef that is perfect for cooking in the oven. While many recipes call for using a broiler to quickly cook the steak and create a nice char, not everyone has access to a broiler or wants to use one. Luckily, you can still achieve delicious results by cooking flank steak in the oven without a broiler.
One method for cooking flank steak in the oven without a broiler is to sear it on the stovetop first. Heat a skillet over high heat and add a small amount of oil. Season the flank steak with salt and pepper, then sear it in the hot skillet for a few minutes on each side until it develops a nice brown crust. This will help to lock in the juices and flavor of the steak.
After searing, transfer the flank steak to a preheated oven. Set your oven to a high temperature, around 400°F (200°C), and roast the steak for about 10-15 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. If you prefer your steak medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C) on a meat thermometer.
Remember to let the flank steak rest for a few minutes before slicing it. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a tender and juicy steak.
There are also other methods you can try for cooking flank steak in the oven without a broiler, such as using a cast iron skillet or a roasting pan. Whichever method you choose, the key is to monitor the cooking time and temperature to ensure that the steak is cooked to your liking.
With these tips and techniques, you can enjoy a delicious and perfectly cooked flank steak without a broiler. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a steak dinner, this method is sure to impress your guests or satisfy your taste buds.
Preparing the flank steak
Before cooking the flank steak in the oven, it’s important to prepare it properly. Follow these steps to ensure a delicious and tender result:
1. Season the steak: Start by seasoning both sides of the flank steak with salt and pepper. You can also add other spices or herbs of your choice, like garlic powder, paprika, or dried thyme. Massage the seasoning into the meat to ensure it’s evenly coated.
2. Marinate the steak (optional): If you have time, marinating the flank steak can add extra flavor and tenderness. You can use a simple marinade made with olive oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, and Worcestershire sauce. Place the steak in a dish or resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over it. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
3. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Make sure to remove any racks or pans that are in the oven, as you’ll be using just the oven rack. Preheating the oven ensures that it’s at the right temperature when you’re ready to cook the steak.
4. Prepare a baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. This will make the cleaning process easier and prevent any drippings from sticking to the pan.
5. Remove the steak from the marinade (if marinated): Take the flank steak out of the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off. Allow the steak to come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before placing it in the oven. This helps promote even cooking.
6. Place the steak on the baking sheet: Transfer the flank steak onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring it’s in a single layer and not folded or overlapped. You can also insert an oven-safe meat thermometer into the thickest part of the steak to monitor its internal temperature.
7. Cook the steak in the oven: Put the baking sheet with the flank steak in the preheated oven. Cook for about 8-10 minutes per side for medium-rare or until the desired doneness is reached. Remember to flip the steak halfway through cooking to ensure both sides are evenly browned.
8. Rest and slice: Once the flank steak is cooked to your desired doneness, remove it from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a tender and flavorful steak. After resting, slice the flank steak against the grain into thin strips.
Now that you’ve prepared the flank steak, it’s time to enjoy it! Serve it on its own, with roasted vegetables, or sliced over a salad for a delicious and hearty meal.
Choosing the right cut
When it comes to cooking flank steak in the oven, selecting the right cut of meat is essential for a tender and flavorful result. Flank steak is known for its long, flat shape and intense beefy flavor. It is a relatively lean cut with minimal marbling, making it a great choice for those looking for a healthier option.
Before purchasing your flank steak, consider the following factors:
Thickness:
Opt for flank steaks that are approximately 1 to 1.5 inches thick. Thinner cuts may dry out during the cooking process, whereas thicker cuts may require additional cooking time to reach the desired level of tenderness.
Color and texture:
Look for flank steaks that have a bright red color, indicating freshness. The meat should also feel firm to the touch, with minimal moisture on the surface. Avoid steaks that appear brown or have a slimy texture.
Additionally, consider the grade of beef you prefer. Prime grade flank steaks offer the highest quality and tenderness, but they can be more expensive. Choice and select grades are also good options, providing a balance between cost and quality.
By choosing the right cut of flank steak, you can ensure a delicious and satisfying meal when cooking it in the oven without a broiler.
Seasoning the steak
Before cooking the flank steak in the oven, it’s important to season it well to enhance its flavor. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Pat the steak dry: Use paper towels to pat the steak dry. Moisture on the surface can prevent the seasoning from sticking to the meat properly.
2. Rub with oil: Drizzle some oil over the steak and rub it all over the surface. This will help the seasoning adhere to the meat and also prevent it from sticking to the pan while cooking.
3. Season with salt and pepper: Sprinkle the steak generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. The salt will enhance the flavor of the meat, while the pepper will add a hint of spice.
4. Optional seasonings: If desired, you can add additional seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, or herbs like rosemary or thyme to enhance the flavor of the steak.
5. Let it marinate: If time allows, you can let the steak marinate in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours or overnight. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat further and make it even more delicious.
6. Bring it to room temperature: Before cooking, take the steak out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will ensure more even cooking.
Now that your flank steak is properly seasoned, it’s ready to be cooked in the oven without using the broiler.
Cooking the steak
Once your oven is preheated, it’s time to cook the flank steak. Here’s how:
1. Prepare the steak
Before cooking the steak, make sure to pat it dry with paper towels. This will help the steak brown better and form a delicious crust.
2. Season the steak
Next, season the flank steak with your desired spices and seasonings. You can use a simple combination of salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, or get creative with a marinade or rub. Make sure to season both sides of the steak evenly.
3. Place the steak on a rack
To promote even cooking and prevent the steak from sitting in its own juices, place it on a wire rack set inside a baking sheet. This will allow air to circulate around the steak and ensure it cooks evenly.
4. Cook the steak
Place the baking sheet with the steak in the preheated oven. Cook the flank steak for approximately 8-12 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness – medium-rare is typically around 135°F (57°C), medium is around 145°F (63°C), and medium-well is around 150°F (66°C).
5. Let the steak rest
Once the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
After the steak has rested, it’s ready to be sliced and served. Cut the flank steak against the grain into thin slices, and enjoy!
| Doneness | Temperature |
|---|---|
| Medium-rare | 135°F (57°C) |
| Medium | 145°F (63°C) |
| Medium-well | 150°F (66°C) |
Preheating the oven
Before cooking flank steak in the oven, it is important to preheat the oven to the correct temperature. Preheating ensures that the steak cooks evenly and is tender and juicy.
To preheat the oven, follow these steps:
- Remove any racks or trays from the oven to make room for the steak.
- Set the temperature dial or press the appropriate buttons to the desired temperature. For flank steak, a temperature of 400°F (200°C) is recommended for medium-rare to medium doneness.
- Allow the oven to preheat for at least 15 minutes. This will ensure that the oven reaches the desired temperature and stays consistent throughout the cooking process.
While the oven is preheating, you can prepare the flank steak by marinating it or adding your desired seasonings. Once the oven is preheated, you can proceed to cook the flank steak according to your chosen recipe or cooking method.
Remember to always use oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves when handling hot oven racks or dishes. This will prevent burns and ensure your safety.
FAQ
Can I cook flank steak in the oven without using a broiler?
Yes, you can definitely cook flank steak in the oven without using a broiler. There are alternative methods that can give you delicious results.
What temperature should I set my oven to when cooking flank steak?
The recommended temperature for cooking flank steak in the oven is 400°F (200°C). This allows the steak to cook evenly and develop a nice crust on the outside.
How long should I cook flank steak in the oven?
Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the flank steak and your desired level of doneness. As a general guideline, you can cook a 1-inch thick flank steak for about 10-12 minutes for medium-rare or 12-15 minutes for medium. It’s always a good idea to use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches your desired internal temperature.
What are some alternative methods for cooking flank steak in the oven without a broiler?
There are a few alternative methods you can try. One option is to sear the flank steak in a hot skillet on the stovetop for a couple of minutes on each side, and then transfer it to a preheated oven to finish cooking. Another option is to marinate the flank steak overnight, then place it on a baking sheet and roast it in the oven at a high temperature. You can also use a cast iron grill pan to give the steak grill-like marks and cook it in the oven.