How Long To Cook Steak In Oven At 400

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Introduction

Cooking steak in the oven at 400F (200C) is a popular method for achieving a perfectly cooked, evenly browned steak without the need for constant attention on the stovetop. This method gained traction as home cooks sought a reliable way to replicate restaurant-quality results. Its appeal lies in the consistent heat and hands-off approach, allowing for flexibility and ease in meal preparation. The even cooking provided by the oven helps to retain moisture, resulting in a tender and flavorful steak.

Ingredients

The main ingredient is, of course, the steak. Choose steaks that are at least 1 inch thick for best results. Recommended cuts include ribeye, New York strip, sirloin, or filet mignon. Other essential ingredients include: Salt and freshly ground black pepper: For seasoning. Olive oil or other high-heat cooking oil: To sear the steak. Optional: Garlic cloves, fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs, butter.

Preparation Steps

Proper preparation is crucial for a delicious steak. Start by patting the steak dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve a better sear. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. Allowing the steak to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking helps it cook more evenly. This allows the steak to relax, resulting in a more tender final product. If using garlic or herbs, prepare them by crushing the garlic cloves and washing the herbs.

Cooking Instructions

Here’s a step-by-step guide on “how long to cook steak in oven at 400”:

1. Preheat the oven to 400F (200C).
2. Heat a cast-iron skillet or oven-safe skillet over high heat until it’s very hot. Add olive oil or your preferred cooking oil to the skillet.
3. Sear the steak: Carefully place the steak in the hot skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until a deep brown crust forms. If using garlic and herbs, add them to the skillet during the last minute of searing to infuse the steak with flavor.
4. Transfer to oven: Place the skillet with the seared steak into the preheated oven.
5. How Long to Cook Steak in Oven at 400: The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate results. Here’s a general guide: Rare: 125F (52C) Approximately 4-6 minutes in the oven. Medium-Rare: 130-135F (54-57C) Approximately 5-7 minutes in the oven. Medium: 135-145F (57-63C) Approximately 7-9 minutes in the oven. Medium-Well: 145-155F (63-68C) Approximately 9-11 minutes in the oven. Well-Done: 155F+ (68C+) Approximately 11-13 minutes in the oven.
6. Rest the steak: Remove the skillet from the oven and place the steak on a cutting board. Tent loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.

Serving Suggestions

Steak cooked in the oven at 400F is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Classic accompaniments include roasted potatoes, mashed potatoes, asparagus, green beans, or a simple salad. For a more elaborate meal, consider adding a sauce, such as a red wine reduction, barnaise sauce, or chimichurri. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an elegant presentation.

Tips and Common Mistakes

To enhance flavor and texture, consider these tips: Use a meat thermometer: Avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature. Don’t overcrowd the skillet: If cooking multiple steaks, sear them in batches to ensure proper browning. Use an oven-safe skillet: A cast-iron skillet is ideal, but any oven-safe skillet will work. Rest the steak: Resting is essential for a tender and juicy steak. Don’t skip this step! A common mistake is not preheating the skillet adequately, which results in a poor sear. Another is overcooking the steak, leading to a dry and tough texture. Always use a meat thermometer and follow the recommended cooking times for your desired level of doneness. Skimping on the salt is another common error. Salt enhances the flavor of the steak significantly.

Explore More Cooking Guides

Mastering how long to cook steak in oven at 400 opens up a world of culinary possibilities. The oven method provides a reliable and relatively hands-off way to achieve a perfectly cooked steak. Its universal appeal transcends cultures, and the ease of execution makes it a go-to for home cooks of all levels. From elegant dinner parties to weeknight meals, cooking steak in the oven is a simple way to impress. Why not try this method at home and tailor it to your taste? Check out foodrecipestory.com for more cooking guides, tips, and inspiration!