How To Cook Medium Rare Steak In Oven

Mastering the art of cooking a medium rare steak in the oven is a skill that brings restaurant-quality results right to your kitchen. Whether you’re a steak enthusiast or a home cook looking to impress, understanding how to select, prepare, and cook your steak to that perfect pink center without drying it out is essential. This guide walks you through every step, from choosing the right cut to resting your steak for maximum juiciness, so you can savor a delicious, perfectly cooked medium rare steak anytime.

Choosing The Right Cut Of Steak

Not all steaks are created equal, especially when aiming for that perfect medium rare finish. For oven cooking, go for thicker cuts like ribeye, strip loin, or filet mignon, these hold up well under heat and develop rich flavors. Aim for at least 1 to 1.5 inches thick: thinner cuts can overcook quickly, leaving you with a less-than-ideal texture. Also, look for good marbling, the streaks of fat within the meat, as this fattiness bastes the steak internally, keeping it tender and juicy during cooking.

Preparing Your Steak For Cooking

Preparation is key to a flawless medium rare steak. First, bring your steak to room temperature by letting it sit out for about 30 to 45 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly. Next, pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture: a dry surface encourages a better sear. Season generously with coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides. You can also add garlic powder or herbs if you like, but simplicity often brings out the best natural flavors.

Oven Temperature And Timing Guidelines

When cooking steak in the oven, temperature control is everything. Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). This high heat ensures quick cooking and a nicely browned exterior. Timing depends on the thickness of your steak, but as a general rule, cook for about 6 to 8 minutes for a 1-inch thick steak. Thicker cuts may require closer to 10 minutes. Use these timings as starting points and always rely on temperature checks rather than clock-watching alone.

Step-By-Step Guide To Cooking Medium Rare Steak In The Oven

Follow this method to achieve a steak with a beautiful crust and tender inside:

Using The Sear-And-Bake Method For Perfect Crust

1. Heat a heavy, oven-safe skillet (like cast iron) over high heat on your stovetop until very hot.
2. Add a little high-smoke-point oil (like grapeseed or avocado oil).
3. Place the steak in the pan and sear without moving it for about 2 minutes, until a deep brown crust forms.
4. Flip and sear the other side for another 2 minutes.
5. Immediately transfer the skillet to your preheated oven.
6. Roast in the oven for 5 to 8 minutes, depending on thickness.

Monitoring Internal Temperature For Doneness

Use a reliable instant-read thermometer to check the steak’s internal temperature. For medium rare, aim for 130°F to 135°F (54°C to 57°C). Remember, the steak will continue to cook slightly during resting, so pulling it out just shy of your target temperature ensures perfect doneness.

Resting The Steak Before Serving

Resting is often overlooked but is crucial for a juicy steak. After removing your steak from the oven, transfer it to a warm plate and tent loosely with foil. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This pause allows the meat’s juices to redistribute rather than running out when you cut in, resulting in every bite being flavorful and succulent.

Tips For Enhancing Flavor And Texture

Elevate your medium rare steak experience with a few extras:

• Butter Basting: During the last minute of searing, add butter, crushed garlic, and fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the pan. Spoon the melted butter over the steak to infuse it with rich aromas.
• Rest with Compound Butter: Try melting a pat of herb or garlic compound butter over the steak while it rests.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: This ensures precision and helps avoid guesswork.
• Dry-Age at Home: If you have time, refrigerate your steak uncovered for a day uncovered before cooking to concentrate flavors and improve texture.
• Adjust Seasonings: After resting, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt to enhance the crust.

Common Mistakes To Avoid When Cooking Steak In The Oven

Avoid these pitfalls to make sure your oven-cooked steak turns out great every time:

• Skipping the Sear: Without a proper sear, your steak might lack that prized crust and flavor.
• Cooking Straight from Refrigerator: Cold steak cooks unevenly and can lead to an overcooked outside.
• Overcooking: Rely on an internal thermometer, not just timing.
• Not Resting: Cutting into a steak immediately after cooking wastes precious juices.
• Using the Wrong Pan: Avoid thin pans: use heavy cast iron or stainless steel for even heat distribution.

Conclusion

Cooking the perfect medium rare steak in your oven isn’t just about following steps, it’s about understanding the science and practices behind great steak. By selecting the right cut, prepping thoughtfully, mastering sear-and-bake techniques, and respecting resting time, you’re set to enjoy restaurant-quality results at home. With a bit of practice and attention to detail, your oven will become your go-to tool for consistently delicious, juicy steaks that impress every time.