Making a restaurant-quality steak at home is easier than you might think, especially when using the oven. This guide will show you exactly How Long To Cook Steak In Oven to achieve your desired level of doneness, ensuring a juicy, tender, and caramelized steak every time. We’ll walk you through the simple steps of pan-searing and oven-finishing, a method that delivers consistently perfect results.
Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a delicious weeknight dinner, mastering oven-cooked steak is a game-changer. Pair it with a flavorful garlic herb butter and classic sides like roasted red potatoes for an unforgettable meal right in your own kitchen.
Why Cook Steak in the Oven?
While grilling and pan-frying are popular steak cooking methods, the oven offers unique advantages. Cooking steak in the oven allows for more even heat distribution, especially for thicker cuts. This two-step method, starting with a sear on the stovetop and finishing in the oven, creates a beautifully caramelized crust while maintaining a tender and juicy interior.
Oven cooking also simplifies the process, making it less hands-on than constant pan-frying. This method is perfect for busy home cooks who want to achieve professional results with minimal fuss. Plus, it’s versatile enough for various steak cuts and doneness preferences.
Key Ingredients for Oven-Baked Steak
Before you start, gather these simple yet essential ingredients:
- Steak: For this recipe, ribeye or top sirloin are excellent choices due to their marbling and flavor. Filet mignon is another fantastic option for ultimate tenderness. Choose steaks that are about 1-inch thick for optimal cooking time.
- Olive Oil: A good quality extra-virgin olive oil is recommended for searing and flavor. You can also use canola or avocado oil, which have higher smoke points.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning is key to enhancing the natural flavor of the beef. Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper are ideal.
- Butter (Optional): A pat of unsalted butter or garlic herb butter added at the end elevates the steak with richness and flavor.
- Fresh Herbs (Optional): Thyme or rosemary sprigs for garnish add a touch of freshness and aroma.
For specific measurements, please refer to the recipe card at the end of this article.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Cook Steak in the Oven
Follow these easy steps to learn how long to cook steak in the oven and achieve your desired doneness.
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Season and Prepare the Steak: Begin by taking your steaks out of the refrigerator 15 to 30 minutes before cooking. This allows them to come to room temperature, which helps them cook more evenly. Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Rub both sides of each steak with olive oil, then season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning!
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Sear the Steak: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Place a large, oven-safe skillet, preferably cast iron, in the oven while it preheats. Once the oven is hot, carefully remove the skillet using oven mitts and place it on the stovetop over high heat. Let the skillet get screaming hot. Add the seasoned steaks to the hot skillet. Sear each side for 1 minute to develop a flavorful, brown crust. Searing creates the Maillard reaction, which significantly enhances the steak’s taste.
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Bake in the Oven: After searing both sides, immediately transfer the skillet with the steaks into the preheated oven. Bake for 4-6 minutes for rare, 6-8 minutes for medium-rare, and 8-10 minutes for medium. For medium-well to well-done, you’ll need to bake longer (see detailed timing chart below). Flip the steaks halfway through the baking time for even cooking. Remember that cooking times can vary depending on your oven and the thickness of the steak. It’s best to use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
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Rest and Serve: Once the steak reaches your desired internal temperature (refer to the steak temperature chart below), remove the skillet from the oven. Transfer the steaks to a cutting board and let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Resting is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product. Top each steak with a pat of butter or garlic herb butter while resting, if desired. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.
Steak Temperature Doneness Guide
Knowing how long to cook steak in oven is essential, but understanding steak temperatures is crucial for achieving your preferred level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer for the most accurate results. Remember to remove the steak from the oven when it’s about 5°F (3°C) below your target temperature, as it will continue to cook while resting.
| Doneness | Internal Temperature (after resting) | Color | Approximate Baking Time (at 450°F) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rare | 125°F (52°C) | Red | 4-6 minutes per side |
| Medium-Rare | 130°F (54°C) | Deep Pink | 6-8 minutes per side |
| Medium | 140°F (60°C) | Light Pink | 8-10 minutes per side |
| Medium-Well | 150°F (66°C) | Slightly Pink Center | 10-12 minutes per side |
| Well-Done | 160°F+ (71°C+) | Little to No Pink | 12-14+ minutes per side |
Note: These times are guidelines. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak is cooked to your liking. For a visual guide, you can refer to online steak doneness charts.
Expert Tips for Perfect Oven-Baked Steak
- Choose the Right Cut: While this method works for various cuts, ribeye, sirloin, and filet mignon are highly recommended for their flavor and tenderness. Consider the thickness of your steak when determining cooking time.
- Cast Iron Skillet is Your Friend: A cast iron skillet is ideal for searing and oven-baking steak because it distributes heat evenly and retains high temperatures, creating a perfect crust. However, any oven-safe skillet will work.
- Don’t Skimp on Seasoning: Generously season your steak with salt and pepper. Consider using a steak rub for added flavor complexity. Some seasoning will be lost during searing, so using a generous amount ensures a flavorful result.
- Bring Steak to Room Temperature: Allowing the steak to come to room temperature before cooking ensures more even cooking throughout and reduces the risk of overcooking the outside while the inside remains cold.
- Rest is Best: Resist the temptation to slice into your steak immediately after it comes out of the oven. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a much more tender and juicy steak.
Frequently Asked Questions About Oven-Cooking Steak
Is it better to bake or broil steak in the oven?
Baking and broiling are both oven methods, but they use different types of heat. Baking uses convection heat, circulating hot air around the food, while broiling uses direct infrared heat from above. Baking is generally more forgiving and provides more even cooking, making it slightly more “fail-proof” for steak, especially for beginners. Broiling can be faster and create a more charred exterior, but it requires closer attention to prevent burning.
What is the best temperature to cook steak in the oven?
For thicker steaks, 450°F (232°C) is an excellent temperature. This high heat helps to create a nice sear while still allowing the inside to cook to your desired doneness without drying out.
How long does it take to cook steak in the oven?
How long to cook steak in oven at 450°F depends on the desired doneness and thickness of the steak. For a 1-inch thick steak, it typically takes about 8-10 minutes in the oven for medium doneness, after searing. Refer to the temperature chart for specific times for different levels of doneness.
How long to cook steaks in oven at 400°F?
If you prefer to cook at 400°F (200°C), you’ll need to adjust the cooking times:
- Medium-rare: 10-12 minutes
- Medium: 12-15 minutes
- Well-done: 15-18 minutes
Remember to sear the steak before baking, even at this lower temperature.
Can I cook a steak in oven without searing it?
While searing is highly recommended for flavor and texture, you can cook steak in the oven without searing. It will take a bit longer to cook fully. For thinner steaks, like flank steak, you could consider broiling for a minute or two at the end to achieve some browning if you skip searing.
How to store leftover steak?
Store leftover cooked steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently or enjoy cold in salads or sandwiches. Leftover steak is also fantastic for steak fajitas or Philly cheesesteaks!
Perfect Side Dishes for Steak
Steak pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider these classic and delicious options:
- Roasted Red Potatoes
- Mashed Potatoes
- Baked Potatoes
- Green Beans
- Asparagus
- Mixed Vegetables
- Creamed Spinach
- Mac and Cheese
How to Cook Steak in the Oven Recipe
## How to Cook Steak in the Oven
**Yields:** 4 servings
**Prep time:** 5 minutes
**Cook time:** 15 minutes
**Total time:** 20 minutes
### Ingredients
* 2 (1-inch thick) ribeye beef steaks (any cut will do)
* 1-2 Tablespoons oil (olive oil, canola, or avocado oil)
* Kosher salt, to taste
* Ground black pepper, to taste
* 1-2 Tablespoons unsalted butter or garlic herb butter (for finishing)
* Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs for serving (optional)
### Equipment
* Oven-safe skillet (cast iron recommended)
* Meat thermometer
* Tongs
* Cutting board
### Instructions
1. Remove steaks from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature for 15-30 minutes. Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C). Place skillet in the oven while preheating.
2. Remove hot skillet from oven and place on stovetop over high heat. Pat steaks dry with paper towels. Rub steaks with oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
3. Once the skillet is very hot, add steaks and sear for 1-2 minutes per side until browned.
4. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 4 minutes. Flip steaks and cook for another 4-6 minutes, depending on desired doneness (use meat thermometer for accuracy).
5. Remove skillet from oven and transfer steaks to a cutting board. Top with butter and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
### Notes
* **Steak Doneness Temperatures (after resting):**
* Rare: 125°F (52°C)
* Medium Rare: 130°F (54°C)
* Medium: 140°F (60°C)
* Medium Well: 150°F (66°C)
* Well Done: 160°F+ (71°C+)
* For extra flavor, use garlic herb butter.
### Nutrition (Estimate per serving)
* Calories: 215kcal
* Carbohydrates: 1g
* Protein: 18g
* Fat: 16g
*Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients.*
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: AmericanEnjoy your perfectly cooked oven steak!
Author: Jamielyn Nye – Recipe Creator at How.edu.vn (Adapted from original work at I Heart Naptime)
Jamielyn Nye is a passionate recipe developer dedicated to creating easy, family-friendly meals and desserts. Find more delicious recipes and cooking tips at how.edu.vn.
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This recipe is adapted and enhanced from an original recipe by Jamielyn Nye at I Heart Naptime. All efforts have been made to maintain the integrity and spirit of the original recipe while optimizing it for SEO and providing enhanced information for our readers.
