Want juicy, tender, perfectly cooked steak? Baking your steak in the oven is a fantastic way to achieve consistent results, especially for larger cuts. But knowing how long to cook steak in the oven depends on several factors: the thickness of your steak, your desired level of doneness, and even the oven itself. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to master oven-baked steak.
Understanding Steak Doneness
Before we dive into cooking times, let's clarify what different doneness levels mean:
- Rare: Cool red center, 125-130°F (52-54°C)
- Medium-Rare: Warm red center, 130-140°F (54-60°C)
- Medium: Slightly pink center, 140-150°F (60-66°C)
- Medium-Well: Very little pink, 150-160°F (66-71°C)
- Well-Done: No pink, 160°F (71°C) and above
How to Cook Steak in the Oven: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a general guideline for oven-baked steak. Remember that oven temperatures can vary, so using a meat thermometer is crucial for achieving your desired doneness.
1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven helps sear the steak quickly, locking in juices.
2. Prepare Your Steak: Pat your steak dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or your favorite steak rub.
3. Sear the Steak (Optional but Recommended): For a beautiful crust, sear the steak in a hot skillet with a little oil over high heat for 1-2 minutes per side before transferring it to the oven. This step isn't essential, but it significantly enhances the flavor and texture.
4. Bake the Steak: Place the seasoned steak on a baking sheet or in a roasting pan. Bake according to the following approximate cooking times:
- 1-inch thick steak: 8-10 minutes for medium-rare, 10-12 minutes for medium.
- 1.5-inch thick steak: 12-15 minutes for medium-rare, 15-18 minutes for medium.
- 2-inch thick steak: 18-22 minutes for medium-rare, 22-25 minutes for medium.
5. Use a Meat Thermometer: The most accurate way to ensure your steak is cooked to your liking is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the steak to check the internal temperature.
6. Rest the Steak: Once cooked, remove the steak from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Tips for Perfect Oven-Baked Steak
- Thickness Matters: Thicker steaks require longer cooking times. Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer, regardless of the cooking time.
- Oven Variations: Oven temperatures can vary, so adjust cooking times as needed.
- Bone-in vs. Boneless: Bone-in steaks generally take a little longer to cook than boneless steaks of the same thickness.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Give your steaks enough space in the pan to ensure even cooking.
- High-Quality Steak: Start with a good quality steak for the best results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I cook frozen steak in the oven?
A: It's not recommended. Frozen steaks will cook unevenly and may be tough. Always thaw your steak completely before cooking.
Q: What temperature should I bake a steak at?
A: 400°F (200°C) is a good general temperature for oven-baked steak.
Q: How do I know if my steak is done?
A: The best way is to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. You can also use the touch test (although less reliable), but this requires experience.
By following these tips and guidelines, you'll be well on your way to cooking delicious and perfectly cooked oven-baked steaks every time. Enjoy!
