Oven Steak Recipe: Juicy, Flavorful Perfection Every Time
Are you ready to elevate your steak game? This oven steak recipe guarantees a juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked steak every single time. Forget about the grill – your oven is about to become your new best friend for achieving restaurant-quality results at home.
Choosing Your Steak
The key to a fantastic oven-baked steak begins with choosing the right cut. Here are a few popular options:
- Ribeye: Known for its rich marbling and intense flavor, ribeye is a crowd-pleaser.
- New York Strip: Leaner than ribeye, but still incredibly flavorful with a great texture.
- Filet Mignon: The most tender cut, ideal for those who prefer a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Sirloin: A more affordable option, sirloin offers a good balance of flavor and tenderness.
Remember to choose a steak that's at least 1 inch thick for optimal results in the oven.
Preparing Your Steak for Oven Perfection
Before you even think about the oven, let's prep that steak!
Pat it Dry:
Using paper towels, thoroughly pat your steak dry. This crucial step helps achieve a beautiful sear.
Seasoning is Key:
Don't underestimate the power of seasoning! A simple blend of salt and freshly cracked black pepper is perfect, but feel free to experiment with:
- Garlic powder: Adds a savory depth of flavor.
- Onion powder: Enhances the overall savory profile.
- Paprika: Adds a touch of sweetness and smokiness.
Generously season both sides of the steak, ensuring the seasoning adheres well to the meat.
Let it Rest (Briefly):
Allow the seasoned steak to rest at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This allows for even cooking.
Baking Your Steak to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, let's get that steak cooking!
Searing (Optional but Recommended):
For a truly impressive crust, sear your steak in a hot skillet with a little oil (about 2-3 minutes per side). This step isn't strictly necessary, but it adds a delicious caramelization and texture.
Baking Time:
Place your seared (or unseared) steak on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake according to the following guideline:
- Rare: 125-130°F (52-54°C) internal temperature, approximately 8-10 minutes.
- Medium-Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C) internal temperature, approximately 10-12 minutes.
- Medium: 135-140°F (57-60°C) internal temperature, approximately 12-15 minutes.
- Medium-Well: 140-145°F (60-63°C) internal temperature, approximately 15-18 minutes.
- Well-Done: 145°F (63°C) and above, approximately 18-20 minutes.
Use a meat thermometer! This is the most accurate way to ensure your steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Resting is Crucial:
Once cooked, remove the steak from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board for at least 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Serving Suggestions
Your perfectly cooked oven steak is ready! Serve it with your favorite sides:
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Creamy mushroom sauce
- Salad
This oven steak recipe is your guide to achieving consistently delicious results. Enjoy!