Cooking a top sirloin steak in the oven is a fantastic way to enjoy a juicy, flavorful steak without needing a grill. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving a hearty meal, this method is easy to master and delivers restaurant-quality results right in your kitchen. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you cook the perfect top sirloin steak in the oven.
Why Choose Top Sirloin Steak?
Top sirloin is a popular cut because it strikes a great balance between tenderness and flavor. It’s leaner than ribeye but still has enough marbling to keep it juicy and tasty. This cut is also versatile and budget-friendly, making it an excellent choice for oven cooking.
Preparing Your Top Sirloin Steak
1. Select the Right Steak
Look for a top sirloin steak that is about 1 to 1.5 inches thick. Thickness helps you control cooking time better and ensures the steak cooks evenly. Also, check for good marbling-the little streaks of fat within the meat-which adds flavor and tenderness.
2. Bring to Room Temperature
Take the steak out of the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking. Allowing it to come to room temperature helps it cook more evenly and prevents the outside from overcooking while the inside warms up.
3. Season Generously
Pat your steak dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. This step is crucial to getting a good sear. Season both sides liberally with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. You can also add garlic powder, rosemary, or thyme if you like, but simple salt and pepper work beautifully.
Cooking Your Top Sirloin Steak in the Oven
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Skillet
Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). At the same time, place an oven-safe skillet-preferably cast iron-on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Let it get very hot, about 3 to 5 minutes, so it’s ready to sear the steak properly.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
Add a small amount of high smoke point oil (like avocado or canola oil) to the hot skillet. When the oil starts to shimmer, place the steak in the skillet. Sear without moving it for about 2 to 3 minutes until a rich brown crust forms. Flip and sear the other side for 1 to 2 minutes.
For extra flavor, you can add a tablespoon of butter, garlic cloves, and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the skillet during searing. Spoon the melted butter over the steak to infuse it with aroma.
Step 3: Transfer to the Oven
Once both sides are seared, transfer the skillet directly into the preheated oven. Roast the steak for 2 to 6 minutes depending on your preferred doneness and the steak’s thickness. Here’s a handy guide for a 1.5-inch thick steak:
– Rare: 2 minutes (120°F / 49°C)
– Medium-rare: 3 minutes (130°F / 54°C)
– Medium: 4 minutes (140°F / 60°C)
– Medium-well: 5 minutes (150°F / 66°C)
– Well done: 6 minutes (160°F / 71°C)
Use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the steak to check the temperature accurately. Remember, the steak will continue to cook slightly while resting.
Step 4: Rest Your Steak
Remove the skillet from the oven and transfer the steak to a cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a tender and juicy steak.
Tips for Perfect Oven-Cooked Top Sirloin Steak
– Don’t skip the sear: Searing locks in flavor and creates a beautiful crust.
– Use a cast iron skillet: It retains heat well and helps achieve an even sear.
– Season well: Salt is your friend for enhancing the steak’s natural flavor.
– Use a thermometer: This takes the guesswork out of cooking times.
– Let it rest: Cutting too soon will cause the juices to run out.
Serving Suggestions
Top sirloin steak pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. For an extra touch, drizzle some pan juices or melted herb butter over the steak before serving.
Cooking top sirloin steak in the oven is straightforward and yields a delicious, juicy steak every time. With a hot skillet, a quick sear, and a few minutes in the oven, you can enjoy a perfectly cooked steak without any fuss. Give it a try and impress yourself and your guests with your steakhouse skills at home!