How to Cook Steak in the Oven: Broil, Sous Vide, Reverse Sear, Slow Cook, Foil & Without Broiler Pan

I. Introduction

Are you tired of tough and dry steak that you never seem to get quite right on the stovetop or grill? Cooking steak in the oven might just be the solution you’ve been looking for. Not only is it convenient and easy, but it can also produce delectable results that will impress both yourself and your guests. In this article, we will explore six different methods for cooking steak in the oven, so you can find the one that suits your taste preferences and cooking style.

II. Start with the basics: How to Cook Steak in the Oven using broiling method

The broiling method is a classic way to cook steak in the oven, mimicking the intense heat of a grill. This method is quick and easy, but it requires careful watching to prevent overcooking or burning the steak.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat oven to broil setting and place the oven rack on the top level.
2. Prepare the steak by seasoning it with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices and herbs.
3. Place the steak on a broiler pan and place it in the oven.
4. Broil the steak for 5-6 minutes on one side, then flip it over and broil for an additional 5-6 minutes on the other side.
5. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to reach your ideal doneness: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, 150°F for medium-well, and 160°F for well-done.

Tips and tricks:

• Choose a thick cut of steak, at least 1 inch thick, for the best results.
• Make sure the steak is cooked to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
• Keep an eye on the steak while broiling to prevent burning.
• Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving to ensure maximum juiciness.

III. Perfectly Cooked Steak: How to Sous Vide and Finish in Oven

While sous vide may sound fancy and complicated, it’s actually a very effective way to cook steak to precise temperature and texture. The sous vide method involves vacuum-sealing the steak and cooking it in a water bath at a low temperature for a longer time. Then you can finish it in the oven to achieve a beautiful sear and crust.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Season the steak with salt, pepper, and any desired spices or herbs.
2. Vacuum-seal the steak and place it in a water bath that’s set to the desired temperature for your preferred doneness: 125°F for rare, 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, and 150°F for medium-well.
3. Cook the steak in the water bath for 1-4 hours, depending on the thickness of the steak.
4. Remove the steak from the bag and pat it dry with paper towels.
5. Preheat the oven to 450°F and place a cast-iron skillet on the stovetop over high heat.
6. Add a tablespoon of oil and sear the steak on both sides, about 30-60 seconds per side, to create a crispy crust.
7. Transfer the skillet to the oven and continue cooking for 2-3 minutes to finish the steak to your desired internal temperature.
8. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips and tricks:

• Use a high-quality vacuum sealer to ensure the steak is completely sealed.
• Invest in a sous-vide machine or immersion circulator to make the process easier and more precise.
• After removing the steak from the water bath, you can chill it in an ice bath to prevent overcooking, then reheat it in the oven when ready to serve.
• For extra flavor, you can add butter, garlic, rosemary, or other aromatics to the vacuum-sealed bag.

IV. Juicy & Tender: Reverse Sear Steak in the Oven

The reverse sear method is a foolproof way to cook steak that’s tender, juicy, and evenly cooked throughout. This method involves baking the steak in the oven at a low temperature first, then finishing it with a quick sear on the stovetop or in the oven.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 275°F and place the oven rack in the middle.
2. Season the steak with salt, pepper, and any desired spices or herbs.
3. Place the steak on a rack in a baking dish and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 10-15°F below your desired doneness.
4. Remove the steak from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
5. Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill pan over high heat on the stovetop or preheat the oven to broil.
6. Add a tablespoon of oil and sear the steak on both sides for 1-2 minutes, or until a crust forms.
7. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer again to reach your ideal doneness.
8. Let the steak rest for a few more minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips and tricks:

• Choose a high-quality cut of steak, such as ribeye or filet mignon, for the best results.
• Pat the steak dry before seasoning to prevent moisture from interfering with the sear.
• Use a cast-iron skillet or grill pan for the best crust formation.
• Let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing to ensure maximum juiciness.

V. Low and Slow: How to Slow Cook Steak in the Oven

If you have plenty of time and prefer a hands-off approach to cooking, the slow cooking method is perfect for you. This method involves cooking the steak at a low temperature for several hours, resulting in a tender and flavorful meat.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Season the steak with salt, pepper, and any desired spices or herbs.
2. Place the steak in a roasting pan with a rack, or on a bed of vegetables.
3. Cover the pan with foil and bake in the oven at 250°F for 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare.
4. Remove the foil and broil the steak for 1-2 minutes on each side to create a crispy crust.
5. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips and tricks:

• Use a high-quality cut of steak, such as chuck or brisket, for the best results.
• Add some liquid, such as beef broth or red wine, to the roasting pan for extra flavor and moisture.
• Add vegetables, such as onions, carrots, or potatoes, to the roasting pan to create a complete one-pot meal.
• If you don’t have a roasting pan with a rack, you can use a wire rack placed on top of a baking sheet.

VI. Flavorful and Aromatic: How to Cook Steak in Foil in the Oven

Cooking steak in foil is a simple and convenient way to infuse the meat with flavor and keep it juicy. This method involves sealing the steak in foil with herbs, spices, and other seasonings, then baking it in the oven.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Season the steak with salt, pepper, and any desired spices or herbs.
2. Place the steak on a large sheet of aluminum foil.
3. Add aromatics, such as garlic, thyme, or rosemary, around the steak.
4. Seal the foil tightly around the steak, making sure there are no leaks.
5. Bake the steak in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness.
6. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips and tricks:

• Experiment with different flavors and seasonings, such as soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, or mustard.
• You can also add vegetables, such as peppers, onions, or asparagus, to the foil packet for a complete meal.
• Check the steak occasionally to avoid overcooking or undercooking.
• If the foil packet is leaking, you can place it on a baking sheet to catch any juices.

VII. No-Fuss Steak: How to Cook Steak in the Oven without Broiler Pan

If you don’t have a broiler pan, don’t worry. You can still cook steak in the oven with a simple alternative method using a baking sheet and wire rack.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to broil setting and place the oven rack on the top level.
2. Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
3. Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet.
4. Season the steak with salt, pepper, and any desired spices or herbs.
5. Place the steak on the wire rack.
6. Broil the steak for 5-6 minutes on one side, then flip it over and broil for an additional 5-6 minutes on the other side.
7. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to reach your ideal doneness.
8. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips and tricks:

• Make sure to place the wire rack on top of the baking sheet to allow the heat to circulate around the steak.
• If you don’t have a wire rack, you can use crumpled foil or upside-down ramekins to elevate the steak.
• You can also use this method for other types of meat, such as chicken or fish.
• To avoid sticking, you can lightly oil the wire rack or spray it with cooking spray.

VIII. Conclusion

We hope that this article has inspired you to try different methods for cooking steak in the oven. Whether you prefer a quick broil, a low and slow roast, or a fancy sous vide and sear, there’s a method for every taste and occasion. Remember to choose a high-quality cut of meat, season it well, and let it rest before slicing and serving. Happy cooking!

Final tips and tricks:

• Invest in a meat thermometer to ensure accurate internal temperature and doneness.
• Experiment with different seasonings, marinades, and sauces to enhance the flavor of the steak.
• Use a sharp knife to slice the steak against the grain for maximum tenderness.
• Pair your steak with a delicious side dish, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.