Sirloin steak is a flavorful, lean cut that can be incredibly delicious when cooked right. If you want to learn how to cook sirloin steak in the oven, you’re in the right place! This guide will walk you through the steps to get a juicy, tender steak with a beautiful sear and perfect doneness-all from your oven.
Why Cook Sirloin Steak in the Oven?
Cooking sirloin steak in the oven is a great way to control the temperature and ensure even cooking. When combined with a quick sear on the stovetop, this method locks in juices and creates a tasty crust. Plus, it’s easy and fast-perfect for a weekday dinner or a special occasion.
What You’ll Need
– Sirloin steaks (1.5 to 2 inches thick is ideal)
– Olive oil or another high smoke point oil
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper
– Butter (optional, for extra flavor)
– Garlic cloves and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme (optional)
– A cast iron or oven-safe skillet
– Meat thermometer (highly recommended)
Step-by-Step: How to Cook Sirloin Steak in the Oven
1. Prepare Your Steak
Take the sirloin steak out of the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature. This helps it cook evenly. Pat the steak dry with paper towels-this is key for getting a good sear. Then, season generously on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. You can also rub a little olive oil on the steak to help the seasoning stick.
2. Preheat Your Oven and Skillet
Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) to 425°F (218°C), depending on your preference. At the same time, heat a cast iron skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat until it’s very hot-this usually takes about 3 minutes. A hot skillet is essential for a nice crust.
3. Sear the Steak
Add a tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. When it starts to shimmer, place the steak in the pan. Sear without moving it for about 2-3 minutes until a deep brown crust forms. Flip the steak and sear the other side for 1-2 minutes. If you like, add butter, garlic, and herbs now to melt over the steak for extra flavor.
4. Finish Cooking in the Oven
Transfer the skillet with the steak to the preheated oven. Cook for 2 to 6 minutes depending on your desired doneness and steak thickness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature:
– Rare: 120-125°F (49-52°C)
– Medium-rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
– Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
– Medium-well: 150-155°F (66-68°C)
– Well done: 160°F+ (71°C+)
For a 1.5-inch thick sirloin, 2 minutes in the oven usually yields rare, 3 minutes medium-rare, and so on.
5. Rest Your Steak
Once the steak reaches your target temperature, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a plate. Tent loosely with foil and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy steak when you cut into it.
6. Slice and Serve
Slice the steak against the grain to maximize tenderness. Serve as is or with your favorite steak sauce or compound butter.
Tips for the Perfect Oven-Cooked Sirloin Steak
– Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to avoid overcooking or undercooking your steak.
– Don’t skip the sear: Searing creates flavor and texture you can’t get from the oven alone.
– Season generously: Salt enhances flavor and helps form a crust.
– Let it rest: Patience here pays off with juicy results.
– Try aromatics: Butter, garlic, and herbs add a delicious layer of flavor during searing and oven cooking.
Bonus: Flavor Variations
– Marinate your steak for 3 to 24 hours for extra juiciness.
– Add a splash of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or balsamic vinegar to your marinade.
– Experiment with spices like smoked paprika, cumin, or chili powder for a twist.
Cooking sirloin steak in the oven is straightforward and yields restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. Give it a try, and enjoy your perfectly cooked steak!
Juicy, tender sirloin steak is just an oven away-sear, bake, rest, and savor!