When it comes to cooking steak, everyone has their own preferences. While some people enjoy a medium-rare or medium steak, others prefer their steak well done. If you fall into the latter category, you may be wondering how to achieve a perfectly cooked well-done steak in the oven.
Cooking steak well done in the oven requires a slightly different approach than cooking it to a medium or medium-rare doneness. It’s important to keep in mind that cooking steak well done may result in a loss of tenderness and juiciness, so it’s essential to use the right cooking techniques to ensure a delicious end result.
One of the keys to cooking a well-done steak in the oven is to use a lower temperature and a longer cooking time. This allows the steak to cook more evenly and prevents the outer edges from becoming overly charred or burnt. Additionally, using a meat thermometer can help you monitor the internal temperature of the steak and ensure that it reaches the desired level of doneness.
Remember that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the steak, so it’s essential to adjust accordingly. It’s also a good idea to let the steak rest for a few minutes after it’s done cooking to allow the juices to redistribute and ensure a tender and flavorful result. With the right techniques and a little patience, you can enjoy a perfectly cooked well-done steak right from your oven.
Prepare the steak
Before cooking the steak, it is essential to properly prepare it to ensure the best results. Follow these steps:
Gather the necessary ingredients:
To cook a well-done steak in the oven, you will need:
1 | thick-cut steak (such as sirloin or ribeye) |
2 tablespoons | olive oil |
1 tablespoon | seasoning blend (salt, pepper, garlic powder, etc.) |
Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure that it is adequately heated for cooking the steak.
Pat dry and season the steak:
Use a paper towel to pat the steak dry and remove any excess moisture. This will help with browning and searing. Next, season the steak on both sides with the seasoning blend. Ensure the seasoning is evenly spread over the surface of the steak.
Let the steak come to room temperature:
Allow the seasoned steak to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help the steak cook more evenly throughout.
Now that you have prepared the steak, you are ready to move on to the next step in cooking it well-done in the oven.
Season the steak
Before cooking the steak, it is important to properly season it to enhance its flavor. Start by patting the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
Next, generously season both sides of the steak with salt and pepper. This will help to bring out the natural flavors of the meat. For added flavor, you can also use other seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, or steak seasoning.
After seasoning, let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will allow the seasonings to penetrate the meat and enhance its taste.
If you prefer a more tender and juicy steak, you can also marinate it before cooking. Simply place the seasoned steak in a resealable plastic bag and add your desired marinade. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours for a more intense flavor.
Preheat the oven
To cook steak well done in the oven, you need to preheat the oven to a specific temperature. This ensures that the steak is cooked thoroughly and evenly. Follow these steps to preheat the oven:
- Open the oven door and locate the temperature dial.
- Turn the dial to the desired temperature for cooking the steak well done. A temperature of 400°F (200°C) or higher is recommended.
- Wait for the oven to preheat. This usually takes around 10-15 minutes, but it may vary depending on the model of your oven.
- While the oven is preheating, prepare the steak by seasoning it with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices.
Once the oven has reached the desired temperature and the steak is seasoned, you can proceed to cook the steak well done in the oven.
Cook the steak
Once the steak is ready to be cooked, there are a few different methods you can use to cook it in the oven. Here are two popular methods:
Method 1: Broiling
Preheat your oven’s broiler to high heat. Place the steak on a broiler pan or a wire rack set on top of a baking sheet. Make sure to position the steak about 2-3 inches away from the heat source.
Cook the steak under the broiler for about 4-6 minutes per side, depending on the thickness and desired level of doneness. Keep a close eye on the steak to prevent it from burning.
Once the steak is cooked to your desired doneness, carefully remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Method 2: Baking
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the steak on a wire rack set on top of a baking sheet to allow for even airflow and heat circulation.
Cook the steak in the preheated oven for about 20-30 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For well-done steak, the thermometer should read 160°F (71°C).
Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a moist and tender steak.
Check for doneness
Checking for doneness is an important step when cooking steak well done in the oven. The best way to determine if your steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness is by using a meat thermometer. This will ensure that you cook your steak to the correct temperature without overcooking it.
Insert the probe of the meat thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding any bones or fat. For a well-done steak, the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C). If the temperature is below this, you can continue cooking the steak for a few more minutes until it reaches the desired doneness.
If you don’t have a meat thermometer, you can also check for doneness by using the touch test. Gently press the center of the steak with your finger. If the steak feels firm and no longer squishy, it is likely cooked to well done. Keep in mind that this method is less accurate than using a meat thermometer, so there is a greater chance of overcooking the steak.
Once the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and the steak to become even more tender. During this resting period, the internal temperature will also continue to rise slightly.
After resting, you can serve your well-done steak and enjoy it with your favorite side dishes. Whether you prefer it cooked this way for personal preference or dietary restrictions, cooking steak well done in the oven can still result in a delicious and flavorful meal.
Serve the steak
Once the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a more tender and flavorful steak.
Slicing the steak
Before slicing the steak, use a sharp knife to carefully trim off any excess fat or gristle. Then, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. This will help to break down the muscle fibers and make the steak more tender.
Serving suggestions
There are several serving options for your well-done steak:
- Plating the steak with a side of vegetables and mashed potatoes.
- Serving the steak on a bed of mixed greens with a balsamic vinaigrette dressing.
- Pairing the steak with roasted potatoes and steamed asparagus.
- Serving the steak alongside a creamy mushroom sauce and garlic bread.
No matter how you choose to serve your well-done steak, make sure to enjoy it while it’s still hot!
FAQ
What is the best way to cook a well-done steak in the oven?
There are a few steps you can follow to cook a well-done steak in the oven. First, preheat the oven to a high temperature, around 450-500°F. Next, season the steak with salt and pepper, or any other desired herbs and spices. Place the steak on a wire rack over a baking sheet to ensure even cooking. Cook the steak in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
What temperature should I set my oven to cook a well-done steak?
To cook a well-done steak in the oven, you should set the temperature to around 450-500°F. This high temperature will help to achieve a nicely seared exterior while still cooking the steak all the way through.
How long should I cook a well-done steak in the oven?
The cooking time for a well-done steak in the oven can vary depending on the thickness of the steak. As a general guideline, you can cook the steak for about 20-25 minutes at a high temperature of around 450-500°F. However, it’s always best to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The steak should reach an internal temperature of 160°F for a well-done result.
Can I still get a tender well-done steak when cooking it in the oven?
Cooking a steak to well done often results in a less tender texture compared to rarer cooking levels. However, there are a few techniques you can use to help make the steak more tender when cooking it in the oven. One method is to marinate the steak in a tenderizing marinade before cooking. Another technique is to choose a more tender cut of steak, such as a filet mignon or ribeye, which can help improve the overall tenderness even when cooked well done. Proper resting and slicing the steak against the grain can also make a difference in the perceived tenderness.
Is it possible to cook a well-done steak in the oven and still have it juicy?
While cooking a well-done steak in the oven can reduce its natural juiciness compared to rarer cooking levels, there are a few tips to help retain some juiciness. One method is to marinate the steak before cooking to help add moisture. Basting the steak with melted butter or a sauce during the cooking process can also help keep it moist. Additionally, letting the cooked steak rest for a few minutes before serving can help redistribute the juices and make it more tender and juicy.
What is the best way to cook steak well done in the oven?
The best way to cook steak well done in the oven is to preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the steak on a baking sheet. Cook the steak for about 20-30 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.