If you’ve ever wondered how to make baked steak that’s juicy, tender, and full of flavor, you’re in the right place. Baking steak in the oven is a fantastic way to achieve restaurant-quality results without firing up the grill. Whether you’re cooking a quick weeknight dinner or preparing a special meal, baked steak is surprisingly easy and delicious. Let’s dive into the best methods, tips, and a foolproof recipe to make your baked steak perfect every time.
Why Choose Baked Steak?
Baking steak in the oven is a convenient and reliable way to cook beef evenly. Unlike pan-frying alone, baking allows the steak to cook gently after a quick sear, locking in juices and tenderness. It’s perfect for thicker cuts like ribeye, sirloin, or strip steaks, and you don’t need fancy equipment—just your oven and a skillet.
What You’ll Need
– Thick steaks (about 1 to 1.5 inches thick work best)
– Olive oil or another cooking oil
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper
– Butter (for basting and finishing)
– Optional herbs like thyme, rosemary, or garlic for extra flavor
– A cast iron skillet or oven-safe pan
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Baked Steak
1. Bring the Steak to Room Temperature
Take your steaks out of the fridge about 15-30 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook evenly and prevents the outside from overcooking while the inside warms up.
2. Preheat Your Oven and Skillet
Preheat your oven to around 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 200°C). Place your cast iron skillet or oven-safe pan in the oven while it heats. This ensures the pan is hot and ready for searing.
3. Season the Steak
Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove moisture, which helps create a better crust. Rub both sides lightly with olive oil, then generously season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. You can add herbs like thyme or rosemary now or later during cooking.
4. Sear the Steak
Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven and place it on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Add a little oil if needed, then place the steak in the skillet. Sear for 1-2 minutes on each side until a golden-brown crust forms. This step locks in flavor and texture.
5. Add Butter and Herbs
After flipping the steak, add a couple of tablespoons of butter along with smashed garlic cloves and fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the pan. Spoon the melted butter over the steak for extra richness.
6. Bake the Steak
Transfer the skillet with the steak into the preheated oven. Bake for about 6-10 minutes depending on your preferred doneness:
– Rare: 4-5 minutes
– Medium-rare: 6-7 minutes
– Medium: 8-9 minutes
– Well-done: 10+ minutes
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature for accuracy (130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium).
7. Rest Before Serving
Remove the steak from the oven and transfer it to a plate or cutting board. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender.
8. Serve and Enjoy
Top with a pat of garlic butter or your favorite sauce, slice against the grain, and serve with your favorite sides.
Tips for Perfect Baked Steak Every Time
– Choose the Right Cut: Ribeye, sirloin, and strip steaks bake beautifully. For tougher cuts, consider slow baking with gravy for tenderness.
– Don’t Skip the Sear: Searing creates a flavorful crust that baking alone can’t achieve.
– Use a Meat Thermometer: This takes the guesswork out of doneness and prevents overcooking.
– Rest Your Steak: Resting is crucial for juicy results.
– Try Baked Steak in Gravy: For a homestyle touch, coat cubed or round steak in flour, brown it, then bake covered with gravy for 2-3 hours until tender.
Baked Steak in Gravy: A Classic Comfort Food
If you want a heartier baked steak, try the classic baked steak in gravy method. Coat cubed or round steak pieces in flour, season, and brown them in a skillet. Then prepare a gravy by whisking flour into the pan drippings, adding water or broth, and pouring it over the meat in a baking dish. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about 2.5 hours until the meat is fork-tender. This method is perfect for a comforting, diner-style meal.
Final Thoughts
Baked steak is an easy, versatile way to enjoy tender, juicy beef without a grill. Whether you prefer a quick sear then oven bake or a slow-cooked steak in gravy, the oven is your friend for delicious results. Try these methods and watch your steak dinners become a new favorite!
Juicy, tender baked steak is just a few simple steps away—give it a try tonight!