How to Cook a Perfect Steak in the Oven

Are you craving a juicy, melt-in-your-mouth steak but don’t have access to a grill or outdoor space? Fear not, cooking a steak in the oven is just as delicious and easy to achieve! In this guide, we’ll take you through the step-by-step process of cooking the perfect steak in the oven. Plus, you’ll learn tips and tricks to ensure your steak is cooked to perfection every time.

Choosing the Right Steak

The first step to making a great steak is choosing the right cut. Generally, the best cuts for oven cooking are ones that are thick and have more fat content, as they retain their juiciness better. Some great options include ribeye, sirloin, and NY strip. Choose a steak that is at least 1 inch thick for optimal cooking results.

Preparing the Steak

1. Take your steak out of the fridge and let it come to room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This will help it cook evenly.

2. Preheat your oven to 400°F.

3. Pat your steak dry with a paper towel to remove any moisture. This helps to achieve a crispy exterior.

4. Brush the steak with a tablespoon of olive oil and season it with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add other seasonings, such as garlic powder or rosemary, if desired.

Cooking the Steak

1. Place a cast-iron skillet in the oven and let it heat up for 5-10 minutes, until it’s very hot.

2. Remove the skillet from the oven and place it on the stovetop over high heat.

3. Place the steak in the skillet and use tongs to sear it on one side for 2-3 minutes, until a crust forms.

4. Flip the steak using tongs and sear it on the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes.

5. Once the steak is seared on both sides, place the skillet back in the oven.

6. Cook the steak for an additional 6-10 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness.

Checking the Steak for Doneness

Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. Here are the recommended temperatures for each level of doneness:

– Rare: 125°F
– Medium rare: 135°F
– Medium: 145°F
– Medium well: 150°F
– Well done: 160°F

Resting the Steak

Once the steak reaches your desired level of doneness, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and ensures a tender steak.

Serving the Steak

After the steak has rested, transfer it to a cutting board and slice it against the grain. This helps to make the steak more tender. Serve the steak with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.

Tips and Tricks

– For a more flavorful steak, marinate it for at least 1 hour before cooking.

– Use an oven-safe meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature of the steak during cooking for more precise results.

– Letting the steak come to room temperature before cooking helps to promote even cooking and prevent the steak from becoming tough.

– Always use tongs to handle the steak, not a fork, to prevent juices from escaping.

– For a restaurant-quality sear, add a tablespoon of butter to the skillet before searing the steak.

FAQs

Q: Can I use other types of pans to cook the steak in the oven?
A: While a cast-iron skillet is preferred for optimal results, you can also use an oven-safe skillet or a baking dish.

Q: Can I cook the steak without searing it first?
A: Yes, you can skip the searing step and simply cook the steak in the oven. However, searing helps to create a flavorful crust and is recommended for optimal results.

Q: How do I know when the steak is done cooking?
A: Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. The temperature will vary based on the desired level of doneness.

Q: Can I use other types of seasoning besides salt and pepper?
A: Yes, you can use any type of seasoning you like, such as garlic powder or rosemary.