Introduction

Nothing beats the aroma and taste of a perfectly cooked steak. Baking a steak is a fantastic way to ensure it’s seared on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside. Follow these steps to learn how to bake a steak like a pro and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills.

Preparation: Choosing the Right Cut

1. Choose a high-quality cut of meat: When it comes to baking a steak, you’ll want to select a premium cut such as ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon. These cuts have just the right amount of marbling (fat) to create a mouthwatering flavor.

2. Bring the steak to room temperature: Remove the steak from the refrigerator about 30-45 minutes prior to cooking, as this will allow it to cook more evenly.

3. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 400°F (204°C) and allow it to preheat while you prepare the steak.

4. Prepare the seasoning: Season both sides of the steak generously with salt and pepper. You can also opt for other herbs and spices such as garlic powder, rosemary, or thyme for added depth of flavor.

Baking Your Steak

1. Sear the steak: In an oven-safe skillet or pan, heat 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil or butter on medium-high heat until it is shimmering but not smoking. Add the seasoned steak and sear each side for approximately 2-3 minutes or until it develops a beautiful brown crust.

2. Bake in the oven: Transfer your skillet from the stovetop directly into your preheated oven (use an oven mitt!) If you do not have an oven-safe skillet, transfer the seared steak carefully onto a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper.

3. Bake to your desired doneness: Allow your steak to bake for the following durations according to your preference:

– Rare: 4-6 minutes (approximately 125°F / 52°C internal temperature)

– Medium rare: 6-8 minutes (approximately 135°F / 57°C internal temperature)

– Medium: 8-10 minutes (approximately 145°F / 63°C internal temperature)

– Medium well: 10-12 minutes (approximately 150°F / 66°C internal temperatures)

4. Rest and serve: Once your steak has reached the desired level of doneness, remove it from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board for at least five minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring maximum tenderness.

Conclusion

By following these simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality baked steak right in your own kitchen. Pair it with your favorite side dish and enjoy a delicious, perfectly cooked meal that will dazzle your tastebuds!