Steaks are the perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Whether you’re craving a ribeye, NY Strip steak, top sirloin, or a succulent filet mignon, learning how to cook steaks in the oven will open up a world of possibilities. With no need for a grill, making steak at home is quick, easy, and oh-so-satisfying.
The Magic of Cooking Steaks
The secret to a sensational steak lies in the preparation. Before you embark on your steak-cooking adventure, remember that the quality of the meat is what truly sets your dish apart. The rest is all about the technique.
Choosing the Perfect Cut
The first step to planning a delicious steak dinner is selecting your favorite cut of beef. Each member of my family has their own preference, but one thing we all agree on is the importance of marbling. Look for fine lines of fat running throughout the meat. This marbling enhances the juiciness and tenderness of your steaks. Don’t be afraid to ask your butcher for thicker cuts to ensure a hearty and satisfying meal.
Types of Steaks to Savor
When it comes to cooking a simple, flavorful steak in the oven or on the grill, go for prime cuts. These steaks are so naturally delicious that they don’t require excessive seasoning or sauces. Let the quality of the meat shine through and serve it with your favorite sides.
The Steakhouse Method
To achieve the perfect steakhouse flavor and texture, follow the tried-and-true “Steakhouse Method.” This technique involves searing the steaks in a hot skillet on the stovetop and then transferring them to a preheated oven to finish cooking. If you don’t have access to both the stovetop and oven, fear not. You can still create mouthwatering pan-seared steaks on the stovetop alone.
Preparing the Steaks
Before you embark on your steak-cooking journey, remove the steaks from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows the meat to warm up gradually, preventing it from seizing when exposed to high heat.
Once the steaks have warmed up, pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure a perfect sear. Season the steaks generously with salt and pepper on all sides. For those seeking precise temperature control, insert a leave-in thermometer probe into the thickest part of the steak.
Cooking to Perfection
Now it’s time to unleash the flavors by searing the steaks. Heat a well-seasoned cast iron skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat for a few minutes, adding a touch of oil to the bottom. Place the steaks in the hot skillet and sear them for about 45-60 seconds on each side. Flip the steaks and sear for an additional 20-30 seconds before transferring the skillet to the oven.
Move the steaks to the preheated oven, taking care to protect your hands with oven mitts. Cook the steaks until they’re about 5 degrees away from your desired temperature. Then, remove them from the skillet and let them rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes. While resting, add a couple of thin slices of butter to each steak for an extra burst of flavor.
Steak Temperatures:
- Rare: 125°F (51°C)
- Medium Rare: 135°F (57°C)
- Medium: 145°F (63°C)
- Medium Well: 155°F (68°C)
- Well Done: 160°F (71°C)
Recipe FAQs:
Q: How long does it take to cook steaks?
The cooking time will vary depending on factors such as the steak’s thickness and desired doneness. It can range from as quick as 5-6 minutes to as long as 15 minutes. Trust your instincts and refer to a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Q: Can I try other steak recipes?
Absolutely! If you’re eager to explore more steak recipes, why not give these a try:
- Bacon Beef Brisket in the Oven
- Philly Cheesesteak
- Surf and Turf
- Beef Tenderloin with Red Wine Sauce
If you’ve enjoyed cooking steaks using my recipe and found valuable information here, please leave a star rating and let me know how you liked it in the comments below. Happy steak cooking!
Originally published on Will Cook For Smiles on June 7th, 2019.
