Are you tired of cooking steaks on the stovetop or grill? Cooking steaks in the oven is a great alternative that produces tender, juicy steaks with a crispy exterior. In this article, we will provide you with the best way to cook steaks in the oven, from preparing the steak to serving it on your plate.
Preparing the Steak
The first step in cooking a delicious steak is choosing the right cut. Some of the best cuts for cooking in the oven include ribeye, sirloin, and filet mignon. When selecting your steak, look for one that is at least one inch thick with a good amount of marbling.
Once you have chosen your steak, it’s time to marinate it for added flavor. Marinades can be as simple as olive oil, salt, and pepper, or you can get creative with your favorite herbs, spices, and acids. To ensure the steak absorbs the marinade, let it sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.
Before cooking, make sure to bring the steak to room temperature. This allows for more even cooking, resulting in a juicier and more tender steak. Simply take the steak out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes before cooking.
Now that your steak is ready to go, it’s time to prepare the oven. Preheat the oven to 450°F, which is the ideal temperature for cooking steaks in the oven. While the oven is preheating, choose the right cooking rack based on the thickness of your steak. For thinner steaks, use the top rack, and for thicker steaks, use the bottom rack.
Next, prepare the baking sheet or roasting pan. For an easy cleanup, line the baking sheet or roasting pan with aluminum foil. You can also add vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, or onions to the baking sheet or roasting pan for added flavor and a complete meal.
Setting Up the Oven
Now that your oven is preheated, it’s time to start cooking your steak. Place the steak onto the prepared baking sheet or roasting pan and put it in the oven. For a medium-rare steak, cook it for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F. For a medium steak, cook it for about 8-10 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak is cooked to your desired temperature.
Cooking the Steak
For added flavor and texture, sear the steak before cooking it in the oven. Heat a skillet over high heat and add a small amount of oil. Once the skillet is hot, add the steak and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until a crust forms. Then, transfer the steak to the prepared baking sheet or roasting pan and cook it in the oven to your desired temperature.
Once the steak is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and juicy steak. While the steak is resting, you can add a pat of butter or your favorite sauce to enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Now that your steak is cooked to perfection, it’s time to enjoy it! For a complete meal, pair the steak with the right sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You can also add your favorite sauce or seasoning such as chimichurri, garlic butter, or a sprinkle of sea salt.
When serving your steak, make sure to cut it against the grain to ensure maximum tenderness. This means cutting perpendicular to the lines in the meat. And don’t forget to enjoy every bite of your perfectly cooked steak!
Serving Suggestions
Now that your steak is cooked to perfection, it’s time to think about serving suggestions. Pairing the steak with the right sides can elevate your meal to the next level. Some classic steak sides include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad. For a more unique pairing, consider serving your steak with a side of garlic butter mushrooms or a quinoa and roasted vegetable salad.
In addition to sides, you can also experiment with different sauces and seasonings to add flavor to your steak. Classic steak sauces include béarnaise, hollandaise, or chimichurri. For a simpler option, try seasoning your steak with garlic, rosemary, or thyme.
When it comes to serving temperatures, it’s important to let your steak rest for at least five minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. For rare to medium-rare steaks, aim for an internal temperature of 130-140°F. For medium to well-done steaks, aim for an internal temperature of 145-160°F.
Conclusion
Cooking steaks in the oven is a simple and delicious way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. By following our best practices, you can achieve a tender and juicy steak with a crispy exterior. Remember to choose the right cut of steak, marinate it for added flavor, and bring it to room temperature before cooking. Preheat the oven to 450°F and use the right cooking rack and baking sheet or roasting pan. Finally, pair your steak with the right sides, seasonings, and sauces, and serve it at the right temperature. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cooking methods and ingredients to find your perfect steak recipe!
