Cooking steak in the oven might sound unconventional, especially if you’re used to grilling or pan-searing. However, it’s a surprisingly effective and easy method to achieve a delicious, perfectly cooked steak, regardless of the weather or grill availability. This guide will walk you through all the steps to master oven-cooked steak, ensuring a tender and flavorful result every time.
Why Cook Steak in the Oven?
While grilling brings a smoky char and pan-searing offers a quick, intense sear, oven cooking has its unique advantages:
- Convenience: Oven cooking is incredibly hands-off. Once you’ve seared the steak, the oven does most of the work, freeing you up to prepare side dishes or relax.
- Year-Round Cooking: No need to brave the cold or rain. You can enjoy perfectly cooked steak any time of the year, right from your kitchen.
- Consistent Results: The oven provides even heat, which helps cook the steak uniformly, especially when combined with a searing step.
- Less Smoke (Initially): Compared to grilling, oven cooking produces less initial smoke, making it a great option for indoor cooking (though searing will produce some smoke).
Ingredients You’ll Need for Oven-Baked Steak
To cook a steak in the oven, you don’t need a long list of fancy ingredients. Simple, quality components are key:
- Steak: Choose a good quality, thick-cut steak (at least 1 to 1.5 inches thick). Ideal cuts include rib-eye, New York strip, filet mignon, sirloin, or T-bone. For the best flavor and ethical considerations, opt for organic, grass-fed, and sustainably raised beef if possible.
- Oil: High-heat cooking oil is essential for searing. Avocado oil, canola oil, or grapeseed oil are excellent choices due to their high smoke points.
- Seasonings: Keep it simple or get creative! Salt, black pepper, and garlic powder are a classic and versatile combination. You can also use seasoned salt, onion powder, paprika, or your favorite steak seasoning blend. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be added at the end for extra flavor.
- Butter (Optional): A pat of butter melting over the hot steak adds richness and enhances the flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Steak in the Oven
Follow these simple steps to cook steak perfectly in your oven:
Step 1: Bring Steak to Room Temperature
This is a crucial step for even cooking. Remove your steak from the refrigerator 30-45 minutes before cooking and let it sit at room temperature. This allows the internal temperature to rise, ensuring the steak cooks more evenly from edge to center. Preheat your oven broiler during this time; you’ll need it screaming hot.
Step 2: Season Your Steak Generously
Pat the steak dry with paper towels. This removes excess moisture and helps create a better sear. Brush both sides of the steak with oil. Then, generously season both sides with your chosen seasonings. Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper – they are key to bringing out the steak’s natural flavors.
Step 3: Sear the Steak for Perfect Crust
Heat an oven-safe skillet (cast iron is ideal) over high heat on the stovetop for 6-8 minutes until it’s smoking hot. Carefully place the seasoned steak in the hot skillet. Press down gently with a spatula to ensure good contact with the pan for optimal searing. Sear for 30 seconds on one side.
Step 4: Broil in the Oven to Perfection
Flip the steak using tongs and immediately transfer the skillet to the preheated oven under the broiler. Broil for 3 minutes on the first side, then flip the steak again and broil for another 2-3 minutes, or until it reaches 5°F (3°C) below your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature at the thickest part of the steak.
Steak Doneness Temperatures (Use a Meat Thermometer):
| Doneness | Internal Temperature (Fahrenheit) | Internal Temperature (Celsius) | Remove from Oven at (Fahrenheit) | Remove from Oven at (Celsius) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rare | 125°F | 52°C | 120°F | 49°C |
| Medium-Rare | 135°F | 57°C | 130°F | 54°C |
| Medium | 145°F | 63°C | 140°F | 60°C |
| Medium-Well | 150°F | 66°C | 145°F | 63°C |
| Well-Done | 160°F | 71°C | 155°F | 68°C |
Note: The steak’s internal temperature will continue to rise slightly (carryover cooking) as it rests.
Step 5: Rest for Juiciness
Once the steak reaches the desired temperature, remove the skillet from the oven and transfer the steak to a clean plate. Brush any pan juices over the steak for added flavor. Tent loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for 3 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite.
Tips for the Best Oven-Cooked Steak
- Use a Thick-Cut Steak: Thicker steaks are more forgiving in the oven and less likely to overcook before they develop a good sear.
- Invest in a Meat Thermometer: A reliable meat thermometer is your best friend for perfectly cooked steak. It eliminates guesswork and ensures your steak is cooked to your exact preference.
- Hot Skillet is Key: Make sure your skillet is screaming hot before adding the steak to achieve a good sear.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If cooking multiple steaks, sear them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan and lowering the temperature.
- Consider Steak Marinades: For extra flavor, marinate your steak for 30 minutes to a few hours before cooking. Simple marinades with olive oil, garlic, herbs, and acids (like lemon juice or vinegar) work wonderfully.
- Manage Smoke: Searing steak can produce smoke. Ensure your kitchen is well-ventilated by turning on your exhaust fan or opening a window.
Serving Suggestions for Oven-Cooked Steak
Oven-cooked steak is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with:
- Classic Sides: Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables (asparagus, broccoli, Brussels sprouts), creamed spinach, or a simple salad.
- Hearty Options: Baked potatoes, mac and cheese, or grilled corn on the cob.
- Sauces: Chimichurri, Béarnaise sauce, red wine reduction, or a simple garlic herb butter.
Conclusion
Cooking steak in the oven is a straightforward technique that delivers impressive results. By following these simple steps and tips, you can easily cook a juicy, flavorful steak with a perfect crust, any day of the week. So, ditch the grill and embrace the oven for a delicious steak dinner tonight!
