If you’re looking to cook your steak to perfection, oven cooking is one of the best ways to achieve that perfect crust with a juicy center. While grilling is often considered the go-to method, oven cooking is actually a great option for those who want to cook their steak like a pro. With a few simple tips and tricks, you’ll be able to wow your guests with perfectly cooked steak every time. In this article, we’ll show you how to prepare and cook a steak in the oven like a pro.
The Benefits of Oven Cooking Steak Like a Pro
Steak is a classic dish that is enjoyed by many people all over the world. While grilling and pan-searing steak are popular ways of cooking it, there is another method that you might want to consider: oven cooking. In this section, we will discuss why oven cooking steak like a pro is a great idea, and what advantages it has over other cooking techniques.
Consistent and Even Cooking
When it comes to cooking steak, the biggest challenge is getting it cooked just right. If you’re not careful, you can end up with a piece of meat that is overcooked, undercooked, or unevenly cooked. Oven cooking offers a solution to this problem by providing a consistent and even cooking environment.
When you oven cook steak, the heat surrounds the meat from all sides, creating an even cooking temperature. This makes it easier to cook the steak to your desired level of doneness. Moreover, oven cooking also minimizes the risk of burning the meat, which is often a problem when grilling or pan-searing.
Reduced Cooking Time
Another advantage of oven cooking steak like a pro is that it can significantly reduce the cooking time. While grilling and pan-searing may require you to cook the steak for several minutes on each side, oven cooking allows you to cook the steak for a shorter amount of time at a higher temperature.
By oven cooking steak at a high temperature, you can create a delicious crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy. This method also reduces the amount of time you need to spend monitoring the meat, which gives you more time to prepare other parts of your meal.
The Best Cuts of Meat for Oven Cooking
When it comes to cooking steak in the oven, choosing the right cut of meat is crucial to achieving perfection. Here are some of the best cuts of meat that are well suited to oven cooking:
Ribeye
The ribeye is a high-fat cut of meat that is known for its tenderness and rich flavor. Since it contains more fat than other cuts, it can withstand high heat and is best cooked at a higher temperature to render the fat and bring out the flavor. Ribeye is best suited for baking or roasting in the oven.
Tenderloin
Tenderloin is a lean cut of meat that is known for its tenderness and mild flavor. When cooked in the oven, it should be seared first to add a crispy texture, and then baked until it reaches the desired doneness. This is a versatile cut that can be used for various dishes, including steak salads and sandwiches.
Sirloin
Sirloin is an affordable and flavorful cut of meat that is best suited for oven cooking. This cut is known for its lean texture, which makes it a healthier option than other cuts. To achieve a perfectly cooked sirloin steak, it should be seared first and then baked until it reaches the right temperature.
Regardless of the cut of meat you choose, always allow the steak to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This will help the juices to redistribute and ensure that the steak remains moist and tender.
Preparation Techniques for Oven Cooking Steak
When it comes to cooking steak, most people immediately think of grilling. However, the oven can also be an effective tool for cooking steak to perfection. In this article, we will guide you through the proper preparation techniques for oven cooking steak, which includes seasoning, marinating, and resting the meat before cooking.
Seasoning the Steak
The first step in preparing your steak for oven cooking is to season it properly. There are many different ways to season your steak, depending on your preferences. A simple method is to generously sprinkle both sides of the steak with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. You can also add other seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Generously sprinkle both sides of the steak with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Add other seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or herbs like thyme or rosemary, according to your taste.
Marinating the Steak
If you have the time, marinating your steak can add even more flavor to your dish. To prepare a marinade, simply mix together your desired ingredients, such as olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and minced garlic. Place the steak in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, making sure to coat both sides. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour, or up to 24 hours.
- Mix together your desired ingredients, such as olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and minced garlic, to prepare a marinade.
- Place the steak in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, making sure to coat both sides of the meat.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour, or up to 24 hours, to marinate the meat.
Resting the Steak
Before cooking your steak, it is essential to let it come to room temperature. Taking the steak out of the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before cooking allows it to cook more evenly. Additionally, resting the steak after cooking is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute themselves throughout the meat, making it more tender and flavorful. Let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes, covered with foil.
- Take the steak out of the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before cooking, letting it come to room temperature.
- After cooking, let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes, covered with foil, to allow the juices to redistribute themselves throughout the meat and make it more tender and flavorful.
Setting the Right Temperature and Cook Time
When it comes to oven cooking steak, understanding the optimal temperature and cook time is crucial for achieving the perfect sear and level of doneness. Here’s what you need to know for rare, medium-rare, and well-done steaks:
Rare Steak
If you prefer your steak rare, you’ll want to cook it to an internal temperature of 125-130°F (51-54°C). This will result in a deep, red center with a slightly seared exterior. Depending on the thickness of your steak, you’ll want to cook it in the oven for 6-8 minutes at 450°F (232°C).
Medium-Rare Steak
For a medium-rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of 135-140°F (57-60°C). This will give you a pink center with a browned crust. Cook your steak for 9-11 minutes in the oven at 450°F (232°C).
Well-Done Steak
If you like your steak well-done, you’ll want to cook it to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) or higher. This will result in a fully cooked, browned steak with little to no pink. Cook your steak in the oven for 13-15 minutes at 450°F (232°C).
Showstopping Oven-Cooked Steak Recipes
Who says grilling is the only way to cook steak? Oven-cooking can produce mouth-watering results too! Check out these showstopping recipes to cook steak in your oven like a pro.
Garlic Herb Steak
Elevate your steak game with this succulent garlic herb steak recipe. Start by seasoning steak with salt and pepper. Then, in a small bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, chopped thyme, rosemary, and parsley. Rub the mixture over the steak and roast in a preheated oven at 425°F for about 10-12 minutes. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing for optimum flavor. Serve with your favorite side or salad for a complete meal.
Bacon-Wrapped Tenderloin
If you’re looking for a showstopping steak dish, try this bacon-wrapped tenderloin recipe. You’ll need beef tenderloin steaks, thin-sliced bacon, garlic powder, and black pepper. Wrap each steak with bacon and sprinkle with garlic powder and black pepper. Roast in a preheated oven at 425°F for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the steak is cooked to your preferred temperature. Serve with your favorite steamed vegetables and enjoy!
Spice-Rubbed Ribeye
For a flavorful twist on a classic cut, try this spice-rubbed ribeye recipe. Mix together smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Rub the mixture onto both sides of the ribeye steak and let it marinate for about 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 450°F and roast the steak for about 15-20 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Filet Mignon with Red Wine Sauce
Elevate your dinner party game with this impressive filet mignon with red wine sauce recipe. Season the filet mignon steaks with salt and pepper and sear them over high heat on the stove until browned on both sides. Place them in a preheated oven at 400°F and cook until they reach your preferred temperature. Meanwhile, make the sauce by sautéing chopped onions and garlic in a skillet with butter until translucent. Add in red wine, beef broth, and thyme, and let the mixture simmer until it thickens. Serve the steak with the sauce drizzled over the top for a gourmet meal.
Flank Steak Fajitas
If you’re a fan of Tex-Mex cuisine, you’ll love these oven-cooked flank steak fajitas. Season a flank steak with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and salt, and place it in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 10 minutes. Remove the steak from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain. Meanwhile, sauté sliced bell peppers and onions in a skillet over medium-high heat until they’re tender and lightly browned. Serve the steak and vegetables with warm tortillas and all of your favorite toppings for a fun and festive dinner.
Tips and Tricks for Perfectly Cooked Oven Steak
When cooking steak, everyone wants to achieve that perfect level of doneness with a juicy, flavorful meat. While some might think that cooking steak in the oven is a difficult process, it can actually be just as easy and delicious as cooking it on a grill or stovetop. Here are some expert tips and tricks for achieving perfectly cooked oven steak every time.
Choose the Right Type of Meat
The first step to achieving perfectly cooked oven steak is to choose the right cut of meat. While you can technically cook any type of steak in the oven, some cuts are better suited for this cooking method. Look for thicker cuts like ribeye or sirloin, as they will hold up better in the oven and provide a more tender final product.
Season the Meat Properly
Before cooking, make sure to properly season your steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. Let the steak sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the seasoning to fully penetrate the meat.
Use a Meat Thermometer
Invest in a good meat thermometer to ensure your steak is cooked to the desired level of doneness. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak for the most accurate reading. For medium-rare steak, aim for a temperature of 130-135°F.
Baste with Butter
To add extra flavor and moisture to your oven steak, baste it with butter while cooking. Simply melt some butter in a pan and use a spoon to drizzle it over the top of the steak every few minutes during the cooking process.
Let the Meat Rest Before Slicing
One of the most important steps in cooking perfect oven steak is letting it rest before slicing. Remove the steak from the oven and let it sit for at least 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. This will help to ensure a juicy and tender final product.
Experiment with Different Cooking Methods
While the above tips are great for achieving perfectly cooked oven steak, don’t be afraid to experiment with different cooking methods to find what works best for you. For example, some people prefer to sear the steak on the stovetop before transferring it to the oven, while others cook it solely in the oven. Try different techniques until you find your favorite method for cooking the perfect steak every time.
Thanks for Reading!
We hope you enjoyed learning how to cook steak in the oven like a pro! With these tips and techniques, you can create a delicious and juicy steak without having to use a grill. Remember to rest your steak after it comes out of the oven and serve it with your favorite sides. We’re excited for you to try this at home and create your own amazing steak dinner. Don’t forget to visit us again later for more great content!
Oven Cooking Steak Like a Pro
Ingredients
- 4 steaks 6-8 ounces each
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Brush the steaks with olive oil and season them generously with salt and black pepper.
- Heat an oven-safe skillet over high heat and sear the steaks on both sides until they're browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Put the skillet in the oven and cook for 10-15 minutes or until the steaks reach the desired doneness.
- Take the skillet out of the oven and let the steaks rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
