Cooking a sirloin steak in the oven is a fantastic way to achieve a juicy, flavorful steak without needing a grill. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home cook, this method delivers a tender, perfectly cooked steak with a delicious crust. Here’s a friendly, step-by-step guide on how to cook sirloin steak in the oven that will make your next steak dinner a hit.
What You’ll Need
– Sirloin steaks (1½ to 2 inches thick)
– Olive oil or another high smoke point oil (like avocado or vegetable oil)
– Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
– Butter
– Optional: garlic cloves, fresh rosemary or thyme for extra flavor
– A cast iron skillet or oven-safe pan
– Meat thermometer (highly recommended)
Step 1: Prepare Your Steak
Start by taking your sirloin steak out of the fridge about 30 to 45 minutes before cooking. Letting it come to room temperature helps it cook more evenly. Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture – this helps get a better sear later on.
Season both sides generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. If you like, you can also marinate your steak for a few hours beforehand, but simple salt and pepper work beautifully to bring out the natural beef flavor.
Step 2: Preheat Your Oven and Skillet
Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). At the same time, place a cast iron skillet on the stove over medium-high heat. You want the skillet to be very hot before adding the steak – this is key to getting a nice crust.
Step 3: Sear the Steak on the Stove
Add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter to the hot skillet. Once shimmering, place the steak in the pan. Let it sear without moving for about 2 to 3 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms. Flip and sear the other side for 1 to 2 minutes.
For extra flavor, you can add a knob of butter, garlic cloves, and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme on top of the steak just before transferring it to the oven. The butter will melt and infuse the steak as it cooks.
Step 4: Finish Cooking in the Oven
Transfer the skillet with the steak directly into the preheated oven. Cook for 5 to 10 minutes depending on your preferred doneness and the thickness of the steak. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature:
– Rare: 120°F (49°C)
– Medium-rare: 130°F (54°C)
– Medium: 140°F (60°C)
– Medium-well: 150°F (66°C)
– Well-done: 160°F (71°C)
Remember, the steak will continue to cook slightly after you remove it from the oven during resting, so it’s best to take it out a few degrees before your target temperature.
Step 5: Rest Your Steak
Remove the steak from the oven and transfer it to a plate or cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for about 5 to 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making every bite juicy and tender.
Tips for Perfect Sirloin Steak in the Oven
– Use a cast iron skillet: It holds heat well and helps create a great sear.
– Don’t skip the resting: It’s crucial for juicy steak.
– Pat dry before seasoning: Moisture on the steak surface prevents browning.
– Use a thermometer: This ensures your steak is cooked exactly how you like it.
– Add flavor with butter and herbs: Butter melting over the steak in the oven adds richness and aroma.
Quick Time and Temperature Guide for Oven Cooking Sirloin (at 400°F)
| Doneness | Oven Time (minutes) | Internal Temp to Remove (°F) | Final Temp After Rest (°F) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rare | 2-3 | 115-120 | 120-125 |
| Medium-Rare | 3-5 | 125-130 | 130-135 |
| Medium | 5-7 | 135-140 | 140-145 |
| Medium-Well | 7-9 | 140-145 | 150-155 |
| Well-Done | 9-10 | 150-155 | 160+ |
Adjust times if your steak is thicker or thinner, and always rely on a thermometer for best results.
Cooking sirloin steak in the oven is easy and yields restaurant-quality results. With a good sear, oven finish, and proper resting, you’ll enjoy a juicy, flavorful steak every time. Give it a try and impress your family or guests with your steak-cooking skills!