If you’re craving a juicy, flavorful steak but don’t want to fire up the grill, cooking a Delmonico steak in the oven is a fantastic option. This thick, tender cut, known for its rich marbling and robust flavor, can be perfectly cooked indoors with just a few easy steps. Whether you’re a beginner or a steak enthusiast, this guide will walk you through how to cook a Delmonico steak in the oven to achieve that perfect crust and juicy interior every time.
What Is a Delmonico Steak?
Before we dive into cooking, let’s clarify what a Delmonico steak is. Traditionally, it’s a thick, bone-in ribeye steak, prized for its tenderness and marbling. Named after the famous Delmonico’s Restaurant in New York City, this steak is a classic choice for steak lovers who want a rich, beefy flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– 1 Delmonico steak (12-16 oz, bone-in preferred)
– Sea salt
– Freshly cracked black pepper
– Olive oil or a high smoke-point oil like grapeseed or canola
– Unsalted butter (2-3 tablespoons)
– Garlic cloves (optional)
– Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Delmonico Steak in the Oven
1. Bring the Steak to Room Temperature
Take your Delmonico steak out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps the steak cook evenly and prevents the outside from overcooking while the inside warms up.
2. Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (204°C). This temperature is perfect for finishing the steak after searing, ensuring a tender and juicy result.
3. Season Generously
Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides generously with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. You can also add a light sprinkle of garlic powder if you like.
4. Sear the Steak on the Stovetop
Heat a cast-iron or oven-safe skillet on high until it’s smoking hot. Add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil or clarified butter and swirl to coat the pan. Place the steak in the skillet and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until a beautiful golden-brown crust forms. Avoid using a fork to flip the steak to keep the juices inside.
5. Add Aromatics and Butter (Optional)
If you want to elevate the flavor, add 2-3 tablespoons of unsalted butter, along with crushed garlic cloves and fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs to the skillet. Spoon the melted butter over the steak for 1-2 minutes to infuse it with rich herb flavors.
6. Transfer the Skillet to the Oven
Move the skillet with the steak to the preheated oven. Roast the steak for 6-10 minutes depending on your preferred doneness:
– 6-7 minutes for rare to medium-rare
– 8-10 minutes for medium
– 10-12 minutes for medium-well to well-done
7. Rest the Steak
Remove the skillet from the oven and transfer the steak to a plate or cutting board. Let it rest for at least 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making every bite juicy and tender.
Tips for Perfect Oven-Cooked Delmonico Steak
– Use a cast-iron skillet: It retains heat well, giving you a great sear and even cooking.
– Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook one or two steaks at a time to maintain high heat.
– Use a meat thermometer: For precision, check internal temperature: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium.
– Slice against the grain: This makes the steak more tender and easier to eat.
– Experiment with herbs: Thyme, rosemary, and garlic add wonderful aromas and flavor during basting.
Serving Suggestions
Delmonico steak pairs beautifully with classic sides like crispy roasted potatoes, sautéed mushrooms, or charred asparagus. A glass of full-bodied red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec, complements the steak’s rich flavors perfectly.
Cooking a Delmonico steak in the oven is straightforward and yields restaurant-quality results. With a hot sear and careful roasting, you’ll enjoy a juicy, tender steak with a flavorful crust every time. Enjoy your delicious meal!