Achieving Medium-Rare Perfection: Timing Your Steak's Oven Journey
How Long Does It Take to Cook a Medium Rare Steak in the Oven?
Grilling a steak is a classic cooking method, but what if you don't have a grill or the weather isn't cooperating? No worries! You can still enjoy a juicy and flavorful medium-rare steak cooked in your oven.
Gathering the Necessary Ingredients and Equipment
Before you start cooking, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients and equipment:
- Steak: Choose a 1-inch thick steak, such as a strip steak, rib eye, or tenderloin.
- Salt and Pepper: Use coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper to season the steak.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps to keep the steak moist and flavorful.
- Baking Sheet: Use a rimmed baking sheet to catch any juices from the steak.
- Oven Thermometer: An oven thermometer ensures accurate temperature control.
Preparing the Steak
- Season the Steak: Generously season both sides of the steak with salt and pepper.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat thoroughly.
Cooking the Steak
- Sear the Steak: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the steak and sear it for 2-3 minutes per side. This will create a nice crust and help seal in the juices.
- Transfer the Steak to the Oven: Place the seared steak on a baking sheet and transfer it to the preheated oven.
Determining the Cooking Time
The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your steak and how rare you want it to be. As a general guideline:
For a 1-inch thick steak:
- Medium-rare: Cook for 10-12 minutes.
- Medium: Cook for 12-15 minutes.
- Medium-well: Cook for 15-18 minutes.
For a 1.5-inch thick steak:
- Medium-rare: Cook for 12-15 minutes.
- Medium: Cook for 15-18 minutes.
- Medium-well: Cook for 18-20 minutes.
For a 2-inch thick steak:
- Medium-rare: Cook for 15-18 minutes.
- Medium: Cook for 18-20 minutes.
- Medium-well: Cook for 20-23 minutes.
Checking the Internal Temperature
To ensure that your steak is cooked to your desired doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding any bones.
- Medium-rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 135-145°F (57-63°C)
- Medium-well: 145-155°F (63-68°C)
Resting the Steak
Once the steak is cooked, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more tender and flavorful experience.
Slicing and Serving
- Slice the Steak: Cut the steak against the grain into thin slices.
- Serve the Steak: Serve the steak immediately with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Conclusion
Cooking a medium-rare steak in the oven is a simple and effective method that yields delicious and juicy results. By following these steps, you can enjoy a perfectly cooked steak in the comfort of your own home.
FAQs
- Can I cook a steak in the oven without searing it first?
Yes, you can cook a steak in the oven without searing it first. However, searing the steak first helps to create a nice crust and seal in the juices, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak.
- How do I know when my steak is cooked to my desired doneness?
The best way to determine the doneness of your steak is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding any bones. The internal temperature will tell you how cooked the steak is.
- What is the best way to rest a steak?
The best way to rest a steak is to place it on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak without making it soggy.
- What are some good sides to serve with a medium-rare steak?
Some good sides to serve with a medium-rare steak include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or grilled asparagus.
- Can I cook a steak in the oven if it's frozen?
Yes, you can cook a steak in the oven if it's frozen. However, you will need to increase the cooking time by about 50%.
