How Long to Cook Flank Steak in Oven at 400°F for Perfect Doneness
Cooking flank steak in the oven at 400°F is a quick and convenient way to get a delicious meal on the table. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, knowing the right cooking time ensures your steak turns out tender and flavorful every time.
You don’t want to overcook or undercook this lean cut, so timing is key. With the right approach, you can achieve a perfect medium-rare or your preferred doneness without any guesswork. Let’s dive into how long you should cook your flank steak at 400°F for the best results.
Understanding Flank Steak
Flank steak offers a flavorful, lean cut that benefits from precise cooking. Knowing its characteristics helps you achieve perfectly cooked results in the oven.
What Is Flank Steak?
Flank steak comes from the abdominal muscles of the cow. It is long, flat, and fibrous, with noticeable muscle grain. Its low fat content means it cooks quickly but can become tough if overcooked. You need to slice it thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness. This cut responds well to high-heat cooking methods like broiling or roasting at 400°F because these methods sear the exterior while preserving juiciness inside.
Why Oven Cooking Works Well
Oven cooking provides even heat distribution essential for flank steak. Cooking at 400°F creates a strong sear that locks in flavors and moisture. It allows you to control the temperature more precisely compared to stovetop methods, reducing the risk of uneven cooking. Using the oven frees you to prepare other dishes simultaneously, making it a practical choice for weekday meals and larger gatherings. The short cooking time—typically 8-12 minutes depending on thickness and desired doneness—delivers tender, flavorful results when monitored carefully.
Preparing Flank Steak for the Oven
Proper preparation ensures your flank steak cooks evenly and develops maximum flavor. Follow these steps to get the best results when roasting at 400°F.
Seasoning and Marinating Tips
Use dry rubs or marinades to enhance flavor and tenderness. Apply a mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika at least 30 minutes before cooking. Marinate with acidic ingredients like lime juice, vinegar, or soy sauce for 1 to 4 hours to break down muscle fibers without over-tenderizing. Pat the steak dry after marinating to achieve a better sear in the oven.
Preheating the Oven Correctly
Set your oven to 400°F and allow it to reach the temperature before placing the steak inside. Preheating guarantees even cooking and proper browning. Use a rack inside a baking sheet to promote air circulation around the steak, preventing steamed spots and maintaining a crispy crust.
How Long to Cook Flank Steak in Oven at 400°F
Cooking flank steak at 400°F requires precise timing to balance tenderness and flavor. Timing varies with steak thickness and the doneness level you want.
Cooking Times Based on Thickness
Thin flank steaks, about 1/2 inch thick, cook in 6 to 8 minutes. Medium thickness, around 1 inch, takes 8 to 10 minutes. Thicker cuts, 1 1/2 inches or more, need 10 to 12 minutes. Using a wire rack on a baking sheet ensures even heat circulation and consistent cooking.
| Thickness | Cooking Time (minutes) |
|---|---|
| 1/2 inch | 6 – 8 |
| 1 inch | 8 – 10 |
| 1 1/2 inches+ | 10 – 12 |
Adjust times slightly if you marinated the steak, added sugar, or if your oven runs hotter or cooler.
Achieving Desired Doneness Levels
To reach specific doneness:
- Rare: Cook 6 to 7 minutes, internal temperature 125°F
- Medium-rare: Cook 8 to 10 minutes, internal temperature 130°F to 135°F
- Medium: Cook 10 to 12 minutes, internal temperature 140°F to 145°F
Use an instant-read meat thermometer for accuracy. Remove the steak from the oven 5°F below your target; carryover heat raises the temperature as it rests. Rest the steak for 5 to 10 minutes to redistribute juices and enhance tenderness.
Post-Cooking Tips
Proper post-cooking steps maintain the flavor and tenderness of your flank steak. Applying these techniques ensures the best eating experience.
Resting Your Flank Steak
Rest your flank steak for 5 to 10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows juices to redistribute evenly throughout the meat. Cutting into the steak too soon causes moisture loss, resulting in dryness. Tent the steak loosely with foil to keep it warm during resting without steaming the crust.
Slicing for Maximum Tenderness
Slice your flank steak thinly against the grain, which runs lengthwise along the fibers. Cutting against the grain shortens the muscle fibers, making each bite more tender and easier to chew. Aim for slices about 1/4 inch thick or thinner, depending on preference. Use a sharp knife to create clean, precise cuts that preserve the steak’s texture.
Conclusion
Cooking flank steak at 400°F in your oven is a straightforward way to get a flavorful and tender result. By paying close attention to thickness and doneness preferences, you can easily nail the perfect cook time. Remember that resting your steak and slicing against the grain are key steps to maximize juiciness and tenderness.
With this approach, you’ll consistently enjoy a delicious flank steak that’s ideal for any meal. Keep your tools ready, trust your timing, and savor the results every time you cook.
