How to Cook Steak Tips in the Oven: Easy & Delicious Guide

Cooking steak tips in the oven is a simple way to enjoy a juicy and flavorful meal without firing up the grill. Whether you’re short on time or prefer indoor cooking, oven-cooked steak tips deliver delicious results with minimal effort.

You don’t need fancy equipment or complicated techniques to get tender, perfectly cooked steak tips. With a few easy steps and the right seasoning, you can create a mouthwatering dish that’s great for weeknights or special occasions.

Ready to master this straightforward method? Let’s dive into how to cook steak tips in the oven so you can impress your taste buds and anyone you’re sharing the meal with.

Understanding Steak Tips

Steak tips refer to small, tender pieces of steak that cook quickly and absorb flavors well. Knowing the types and cuts helps you pick the best steak tips for oven cooking.

Types of Steak Tips

Steak tips come from various beef cuts, each with distinct texture and flavor:

• Sirloin Tips: Lean with a beefy flavor; ideal for quick cooking.
• Chuck Tips: More marbled and flavorful; suitable if you want richer taste.
• Tri-Tip Tips: Tender and juicy; often chosen for grilling but oven cooking works perfectly.
• Flat Iron Tips: Very tender with consistent marbling; delivers excellent results in the oven.

Selecting the right type affects cooking time and the final texture of your steak tips.

Choosing the Right Cut

Picking a cut with some marbling balances tenderness and flavor. Look for these features when buying steak tips:

• Marbling: Fine lines of fat within the meat that melt during cooking, keeping the steak juicy.
• Thickness: Pieces about 1 to 1.5 inches thick cook evenly without drying out.
• Color: Fresh steak tips are bright red, indicating quality and freshness.
• Source: Choosing USDA Choice or Prime grades ensures higher quality and better taste.

Choosing cuts that match these criteria enhances your oven-cooked steak tips’ tenderness and taste.

Preparing Steak Tips for the Oven

Preparing steak tips properly enhances flavor and tenderness. Follow precise steps to marinate, season, and set up the oven for optimal results.

Marinating and Seasoning

Marinate steak tips for 30 to 60 minutes to intensify flavor and tenderize the meat, using mixtures with acids like vinegar or citrus juice and oil. Season steak tips with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and herbs such as rosemary or thyme for balanced taste. Pat dry before cooking to ensure even browning.

Prepping the Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) to achieve a perfect sear and thorough cooking. Use a heavy, oven-safe baking dish or cast-iron skillet to maintain heat and promote even cooking. Lightly oil the dish to prevent sticking and transfer marinated steak tips evenly spaced for optimal air circulation.

How to Cook Steak Tips in the Oven

Cooking steak tips in the oven delivers juicy, flavorful results with minimal effort. Follow precise temperature settings and techniques to get evenly cooked steak tips every time.

Optimal Oven Temperature and Timing

Set your oven temperature to 400°F (204°C) for a balance of tenderness and browning. Roast steak tips in a single layer on a preheated, lightly oiled cast-iron skillet or baking dish. Cook for 10 to 15 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure uniform doneness. Adjust cooking time based on steak tip size; smaller pieces require less time, while thicker cuts take longer.

Cooking Techniques for Best Results

Sear steak tips in the oven-safe skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat for 2 to 3 minutes per side before roasting to develop a caramelized crust. Use tongs to turn steak tips gently, preserving surface texture. Let steak tips rest 5 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute evenly, enhancing juiciness and flavor. For extra flavor, baste steak tips with melted butter and herbs like rosemary or thyme during roasting.

Using a Meat Thermometer

Insert an instant-read meat thermometer into the thickest part of a steak tip to monitor internal temperature accurately. Aim for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium, and 150°F (66°C) for medium-well. Remove steak tips from the oven 5°F below your target temperature, as carryover cooking raises internal heat slightly during resting. Using a thermometer prevents overcooking, ensuring tender, juicy steak tips consistently.

Serving and Storing Steak Tips

Serve steak tips immediately after resting to preserve their flavor and tenderness. Proper side dishes complement the rich taste, while safe storage ensures quality for later meals.

Suggested Side Dishes

Pair steak tips with these accompaniments to create a balanced meal:

• Roasted vegetables such as asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots provide a healthy, flavorful contrast.
• Mashed potatoes or garlic butter potatoes offer creamy texture and richness.
• Fresh salads including mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, or arugula add a refreshing, crisp element.
• Rice pilaf or quinoa enhance the meal with a light, nutty flavor.
• Grilled corn on the cob or sautéed mushrooms contribute sweetness and earthiness.

Storing Leftovers Safely

• Place steak tips in airtight containers or wrap tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
• Refrigerate at or below 40°F (4°C) and consume within 3 to 4 days.
• Freeze for longer storage, up to 2 to 3 months, using freezer-safe packaging to prevent freezer burn.
• Reheat leftovers to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before consuming to ensure safety and flavor retention.

Conclusion

Cooking steak tips in the oven is a simple way to enjoy a juicy and flavorful meal without the hassle of grilling. With just a few basic steps and ingredients, you can create tender steak tips that impress every time. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this method offers convenience and delicious results.

By mastering this technique, you’ll have a reliable go-to for satisfying steak dishes that fit your schedule and taste preferences. Give it a try and discover how easy it is to elevate your home-cooked meals with perfectly cooked steak tips from the oven.