Porterhouse steak is a true delight for steak lovers, combining the tenderness of filet mignon with the rich flavor of a New York strip. Cooking it in the oven is a fantastic way to get a juicy, tender steak with a perfect crust without needing a grill. If you’ve ever wondered, how do I cook a porterhouse steak in the oven?, this guide will walk you through the process step-by-step with easy tips and tricks.
What Is a Porterhouse Steak?
Before cooking, it’s good to know what makes a porterhouse special. This steak cut includes both the strip loin and a sizable portion of tenderloin, separated by a T-shaped bone. It’s usually thick-at least 1.5 inches-and weighs around 2 pounds, making it perfect for sharing or a hearty solo meal.
Preparing Your Porterhouse Steak
1. Bring the Steak to Room Temperature
Take the steak out of the fridge about 30 to 60 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly and prevents the outside from overcooking while the inside warms up.
2. Season Generously
Pat the steak dry with paper towels. Sprinkle salt generously on both sides and add freshly ground black pepper. You can also add garlic powder, paprika, or your favorite steak seasoning for extra flavor.
3. Optional: Add a Flavorful Crust
Brush the steak with a mixture of olive oil, melted butter, and herbs like thyme or rosemary for a delicious crust. This step is optional but highly recommended for an extra layer of flavor.
Cooking Your Porterhouse Steak in the Oven
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pan inside the oven to heat up for 10-15 minutes. A hot pan is essential for a great sear.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven and add a tablespoon or two of oil or butter. Place the porterhouse steak in the skillet and sear for about 2-5 minutes on each side until a golden-brown crust forms. This locks in juices and builds flavor.
Step 3: Finish Cooking in the Oven
After searing, transfer the skillet with the steak back into the oven. Cook the steak for:
– 8-12 minutes for rare
– 12-15 minutes for medium-rare
– 15-18 minutes for medium
– 18-20 minutes for medium-well
– 20-25 minutes for well-done
Cooking time depends on the thickness of your steak and your preferred doneness.
Step 4: Check Internal Temperature
Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness. Insert it into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding the bone:
– Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
– Medium-rare: 135-140°F (57-60°C)
– Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
– Medium-well: 145-150°F (63-66°C)
– Well-done: 150-155°F (66-68°C)
Resting Your Steak
Once the steak reaches your desired temperature, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a plate or cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making your steak juicy and tender.
Tips for the Perfect Oven-Cooked Porterhouse
– Use a cast-iron skillet for the best sear and even heat distribution.
– Don’t skip resting-it’s key to juicy steak.
– Season well but keep it simple to let the meat shine.
– Use a meat thermometer to avoid guesswork and get your perfect doneness every time.
– Add fresh herbs or garlic to the pan during the oven finish for extra aroma and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your porterhouse steak with classic sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. A pat of herb butter on top right before serving adds richness and a gourmet touch.
Cooking a porterhouse steak in the oven is straightforward and yields restaurant-quality results. With just a few simple steps-seasoning, searing, oven-roasting, and resting-you’ll enjoy a juicy, flavorful steak that’s sure to impress. Give it a try for your next special meal!