How To Cook Steak In Oven

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Introduction

The process of cooking steak in the oven is a technique revered for its ability to yield consistently tender and flavorful results. This method gained popularity as home cooks sought a way to achieve restaurant-quality steak without the reliance on outdoor grills or specialized equipment. The oven’s consistent heat allows for even cooking, providing control over the internal temperature, crucial for the perfect steak experience. Embracing the oven offers an accessible route to delectable steak, regardless of weather conditions or skill level.

Ingredients

The essential ingredients for oven-cooked steak are straightforward, focusing on quality and simple enhancement.

• Steak: A cut like ribeye, New York strip, or filet mignon (1-1.5 inches thick) is ideal.
• Salt: Coarse sea salt or kosher salt.
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground.
• Oil: High-heat oil such as avocado, canola, or grapeseed oil.
• Optional: Garlic cloves (smashed), fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs, butter.

Preparation Steps

Proper preparation is vital for optimal results. Begin by patting the steak completely dry with paper towels; this encourages a desirable sear. Generously season the steak on all sides with salt and pepper. The salt not only flavors the meat but also helps to draw out moisture, further promoting a good crust. Allow the steak to rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This helps the steak cook more evenly. Preheating the oven is critical to create intense heat to begin with.

How to Cook Steak in Oven

The following reverse sear method is recommended for optimal flavor and texture.

1. Preheat: Preheat the oven to 275F (135C).
2. Sear (Optional but Recommended): Heat oil in an oven-safe skillet (cast iron is ideal) over high heat until smoking hot. Sear the steak for 1-2 minutes per side, creating a rich brown crust. Add butter, garlic, and herbs to the pan during the last minute of searing, basting the steak for added flavor. If skipping the sear, coat the steak with oil before seasoning.
3. Bake: Transfer the skillet (or place the steak on a wire rack set inside a baking sheet) to the preheated oven.
4. Cook to Temperature: Bake until the steak reaches the desired internal temperature. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
   • Rare: 125-130F (52-54C)
   • Medium-Rare: 130-135F (54-57C)
   • Medium: 135-145F (57-63C)
   • Medium-Well: 145-155F (63-68C)
   • Well-Done: 155F+ (68C+) (Not recommended)
5. Final Sear: Remove the steak from the oven. Heat the skillet (if removed) back to high heat with a little oil. Sear the steak again for 1 minute per side to re-crisp the crust. If you originally skipped searing, this step is essential.
6. Rest: Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing against the grain. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.

How Long to Cook how to cook steak in oven: The cooking time depends on the thickness of the steak and the desired doneness. As a general guideline, a 1-inch thick steak will take approximately 20-25 minutes in the oven at 275F (135C) to reach medium-rare. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. Note that searing before and/or after baking will contribute to the overall cook time.

Serving Suggestions

Oven-cooked steak is a versatile dish that pairs well with numerous sides. Classic accompaniments include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables (asparagus, Brussels sprouts, carrots), or a simple green salad. A flavorful pan sauce created with the pan drippings, red wine, and shallots can elevate the steak even further. Consider serving the steak sliced over a bed of arugula with shaved Parmesan cheese and a balsamic glaze. For a heartier meal, pair with mac and cheese or creamy polenta.

Tips and Common Mistakes

• Tip: Always use a meat thermometer to accurately gauge the internal temperature of the steak.
• Tip: Do not overcrowd the pan when searing, as this will lower the temperature and prevent a good sear.
• Tip: Season the steak generously with salt well in advance of cooking.
• Mistake: Overcooking the steak. Remove the steak from the oven when it is slightly below your desired doneness, as it will continue to cook as it rests.
• Mistake: Skipping the resting period. Resting is crucial for a tender and juicy steak.
• Mistake: Using a cold skillet. The skillet must be screaming hot to achieve a proper sear.

Explore More Cooking Guides

Learning how to cook steak in the oven opens a world of culinary possibilities. The controlled cooking method ensures consistently tender and flavorful results, making it a convenient and reliable technique for any home cook. Its inherent elegance and versatility allow for endless customization to suit individual preferences and occasions. Embrace the simplicity and satisfaction of oven-cooked steak, and discover new ways to elevate your dining experiences. Explore more delectable cooking guides and expand your culinary repertoire at foodrecipestory.com, where a wealth of recipes and techniques await your discovery.