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December 10, 2024
Steak is a classic dish that everyone loves. If you don’t have access to a grill or simply prefer using your oven, don’t worry! Cooking steak in the oven is actually quite simple and can yield delicious results. In this article, we will walk you through the steps to perfectly cook steak in the oven.
Choose the Right Cut of Steak: The first step to cooking steak in the oven is to select the right cut of steak. Look for well-marbled cuts like ribeye, New York strip, or filet mignon. These cuts have enough fat to keep the steak juicy and flavorful.
Prepare the Steak: Before cooking, make sure to bring the steak to room temperature by taking it out of the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will allow for more even cooking. Pat the steak dry with a paper towel and season it generously with salt and pepper. You can also add any other desired spices or herbs for extra flavor.
Cooking the Steak: Preheat your oven to a high temperature, around 400-450°F (200-230°C). Place the seasoned steak on a rack in a baking dish or directly on a baking sheet lined with foil. For medium-rare, cook the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) using a meat thermometer. Adjust the cooking time based on your preferred level of doneness.
Once the steak reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a tender and juicy steak. Serve your perfectly cooked steak with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!
Preparing the Steak
Before cooking the steak in the oven, it’s important to properly prepare it to optimize the flavor and tenderness. Follow these steps to prepare your steak:
1. Choose the Right Steak
Start by selecting a good cut of steak. Popular choices include ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon. Look for well-marbled steaks with a bright red color.
2. Season the Steak
Season both sides of the steak generously with salt and pepper. You can also add other herbs and spices to enhance the flavor, such as garlic powder, paprika, or rosemary. Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the seasoning to penetrate the meat.
3. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to a high temperature, around 400-450°F (200-230°C). The high heat will help to create a delicious crust on the steak.
4. Prepare a Baking Sheet
Place a wire rack on top of a baking sheet to elevate the steak and allow for even cooking. This will help the air circulate around the steak and prevent it from sitting in its own juices.
Choosing the Right Cut of Steak
When it comes to cooking steak in the oven, choosing the right cut is essential for a delicious, tender result. There are several different cuts of steak to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics and best cooking methods. Here are a few popular cuts to consider:
Ribeye: Known for its rich marbling and intense flavor, ribeye steak is highly sought after by steak lovers. It’s best prepared using dry-heat methods, such as broiling or grilling, to enhance its natural tenderness and juiciness.
New York Strip: This cut comes from the strip loin, which is known for its firm texture and excellent beefy flavor. It’s a versatile cut that can be cooked using a variety of methods, including broiling or searing in a hot oven.
Tenderloin/Filet Mignon: Considered one of the most tender cuts of beef, the tenderloin is known for its melt-in-your-mouth texture. It’s typically cooked using dry-heat methods like roasting or broiling to preserve its tenderness.
T-Bone: This steak cut includes a T-shaped bone with meat on both sides, combining the tenderloin and strip steak. It’s best cooked using dry-heat methods, such as broiling or grilling, to enhance its natural flavors and textures.
Remember, the key to cooking a perfect steak in the oven is choosing a cut that is suited for dry-heat cooking methods and matches your personal preferences for tenderness and flavor. Whether you prefer a richly marbled ribeye or a tender filet mignon, selecting the right cut will ensure a delicious result.
Seasoning the Steak
Before cooking the steak, it’s important to season it properly to enhance the flavor. Here’s how you can season your steak:
- Start by patting the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help the seasoning stick to the surface of the steak.
- Generously season both sides of the steak with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This will add the basic flavors that will complement the meat.
- If desired, you can add additional seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika to enhance the flavor of the steak.
- Gently rub the seasonings into the surface of the steak, making sure to evenly coat both sides.
- Let the seasoned steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will allow the seasoning to penetrate the meat and enhance its flavor.
By properly seasoning the steak, you’ll ensure that each bite is packed with delicious flavors.
Cooking the Steak
Once your steak has reached room temperature and you have preheated the oven, it is time to start cooking.
1. Place a cast-iron skillet or an oven-safe skillet in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes to get it nice and hot.
2. While the skillet is heating up, season your steak generously with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add any other seasonings or herbs that you prefer.
3. Remove the hot skillet from the oven using oven mitts. Place it on the stovetop over medium-high heat.
4. Add a small amount of cooking oil or butter to the hot skillet. Make sure the oil or butter covers the bottom of the skillet evenly.
5. Carefully place the seasoned steak in the hot skillet. You should hear a sizzling sound when the steak hits the hot skillet.
6. Cook the steak on one side for about 2-3 minutes, or until a dark crust forms.
7. Using tongs, flip the steak to the other side. Be careful not to pierce the steak with the tongs, as this will release its juices.
8. Place the skillet with the steak back in the preheated oven.
9. Cook the steak in the oven for about 4-6 minutes for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer a more well-done steak.
10. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, the temperature should be around 135°F (57°C).
11. Once you reach your desired doneness, remove the skillet from the oven and transfer the steak to a cutting board.
12. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and ensures a juicy steak.
13. Slice the steak against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Now you can serve your perfectly cooked steak and enjoy!
Preheating the Oven
Before you begin cooking your steak in the oven, it’s important to preheat the oven to the correct temperature. This will ensure that your steak cooks evenly and to the desired level of doneness.
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) for medium-rare to medium doneness. For medium-well to well-done, preheat the oven to 500°F (260°C).
Allow the oven to fully preheat before placing your steak inside. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes, depending on your oven. Using an oven thermometer can help ensure that your oven has reached the correct temperature.
Placing the Steak in the Oven
Once you have preheated your oven to the desired temperature, it is time to place the steak inside. Here are the steps to follow:
- Remove the steak from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. This will help to remove any excess moisture and ensure that the steak cooks evenly.
- Season the steak with your desired spices and seasonings. You can keep it simple with just salt and pepper, or get creative with a variety of herbs and spices.
- Place the steak on a baking dish or a wire rack set inside a baking dish. This will allow for even airflow and prevent the steak from sitting in its own juices.
- If using a wire rack, make sure to place a baking sheet or aluminum foil beneath it to catch any drippings. This will make cleaning up much easier.
- Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the steak. This will help you to monitor the internal temperature and ensure that the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
- Place the baking dish with the steak in the oven on the center rack. Close the oven door and let the steak cook undisturbed.
Remember to refer to your chosen recipe or cooking guide for the recommended cooking time and temperature for your specific cut of steak. Cooking times will vary depending on the thickness and desired level of doneness.
Monitoring the Steak’s Internal Temperature
Monitoring the internal temperature of your steak is crucial to achieve the desired level of doneness. There are a few methods you can use to accurately measure the steak’s temperature:
- Instant-read thermometer: This is the most precise and reliable method. Insert the probe into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding any bones. Wait a few seconds for the reading to stabilize and take note of the temperature.
- Leave-in probe thermometer: This type of thermometer is inserted into the steak before placing it in the oven. The probe is connected to a digital display that sits outside of the oven, allowing you to monitor the temperature without opening the oven door.
- Steak doneness test: If you don’t have a thermometer, you can use the steak doneness test. Gently press the center of the steak with the back of a spoon. If the steak feels very soft, it is rare. If it feels slightly springy, it is medium-rare. If it feels firm, it is well done.
Regardless of the method you choose, it is important to keep an eye on the steak’s internal temperature to ensure it reaches your desired level of doneness without overcooking or undercooking.
FAQ
What is the best cut of steak to cook in the oven?
The best cut of steak to cook in the oven is typically a ribeye or a strip steak. These cuts are tender and have good marbling, which helps to keep them moist and flavorful when cooked in the oven.
What temperature should I cook steak in the oven?
The recommended temperature to cook steak in the oven is 450°F (232°C). This high heat helps to sear the outside of the steak and create a delicious crust, while still cooking it to your desired doneness on the inside.
How long do you cook steak in the oven for medium-rare?
To cook a steak to medium-rare in the oven, you can follow this general guideline: for a 1-inch thick steak, cook it for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. However, it’s important to note that cooking times can vary depending on the thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness.
Do I need to sear the steak before cooking it in the oven?
While searing the steak before cooking it in the oven is not necessary, it can help to enhance the flavor and create a crust on the outside. If you prefer a sear, you can sear the steak quickly in a hot pan before transferring it to the oven to finish cooking.
Can I use a regular baking sheet to cook steak in the oven?
Yes, you can use a regular baking sheet to cook steak in the oven. However, it’s recommended to use a baking sheet with raised edges or a roasting pan to catch any juices that may escape from the steak during cooking.