Cooking thin sliced steak in the oven can be a bit tricky, but with the right techniques and tips, you can achieve a deliciously cooked steak that’s sure to impress. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how to cook thin sliced steak in the oven, including the benefits of oven cooking, the different types of steak that are suitable for oven cooking, and some expert tips for achieving the perfect doneness.
Benefits of Cooking Thin Sliced Steak in the Oven
Cooking thin sliced steak in the oven offers several benefits over other cooking methods. Here are a few reasons why you might want to consider oven cooking for your next steak dinner:
- Even Cooking: The oven provides a consistent and even heat that can help to cook the steak uniformly. This is especially important for thin sliced steak, which can be prone to overcooking.
- Reduced Risk of Overcooking: Because the oven heat is more gentle than a hot skillet or grill, there’s less risk of overcooking the steak. This makes it easier to achieve a perfect medium-rare or medium.
- Easy to Cook Multiple Steaks: If you’re cooking for a crowd, the oven makes it easy to cook multiple steaks at once. Simply place the steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cook until they’re done to your liking.
- Less Mess: Cooking steak in the oven is a relatively mess-free process. There’s no need to worry about splatters or spills, and the steak can be cooked on a simple baking sheet.
Choosing the Right Type of Steak
Not all types of steak are suitable for oven cooking. Here are a few types of steak that work well for oven cooking:
- Flank Steak: This is a lean cut of steak that’s perfect for oven cooking. It’s relatively thin and can be cooked to a perfect medium-rare in just a few minutes.
- Skirt Steak: This is another lean cut of steak that’s well-suited for oven cooking. It’s got a lot of flavor and can be cooked to a perfect medium-rare in just a few minutes.
- Tri-Tip Steak: This is a triangular cut of steak that’s perfect for oven cooking. It’s relatively thin and can be cooked to a perfect medium-rare in just a few minutes.
How to Prepare Thin Sliced Steak for Oven Cooking
Before you start cooking your thin sliced steak in the oven, there are a few things you’ll need to do to prepare it. Here are the steps to follow:
- Bring the Steak to Room Temperature: Remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This will help the steak cook more evenly.
- Season the Steak: Sprinkle both sides of the steak with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like.
- Add a Bit of Oil: Rub a bit of oil onto both sides of the steak. This will help the steak cook more evenly and prevent it from sticking to the baking sheet.
Cooking Thin Sliced Steak in the Oven
Now that your steak is prepared, it’s time to cook it in the oven. Here are the steps to follow:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the Steak on a Baking Sheet: Place the steak on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cook the Steak: Cook the steak in the preheated oven for 8-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness.
- Check the Steak: After 8-12 minutes, remove the steak from the oven and check its internal temperature. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. The internal temperature should be at least 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, 145°F (63°C) for medium, and 155°F (68°C) for medium-well or well-done.
How to Achieve the Perfect Doneness
Achieving the perfect doneness is key to cooking a great steak. Here are a few tips for achieving the perfect doneness:
- Use a Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer is the most accurate way to check the internal temperature of the steak.
- Don’t Overcook the Steak: It’s better to err on the side of undercooking the steak than overcooking it. You can always cook the steak a bit longer if it’s not done to your liking, but you can’t undo overcooking.
- Let the Steak Rest: Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This will help the juices redistribute and the steak to retain its tenderness.
Additional Tips for Cooking Thin Sliced Steak in the Oven
Here are a few additional tips for cooking thin sliced steak in the oven:
- Don’t Crowd the Baking Sheet: Make sure to leave a bit of space between each steak on the baking sheet. This will help the steaks cook more evenly and prevent them from steaming instead of browning.
- Use a Cast Iron Skillet: If you want to add a bit of crust to your steak, consider cooking it in a cast iron skillet instead of on a baking sheet. The cast iron skillet will help to create a crispy crust on the steak.
- Add a Bit of Flavor: Consider adding a bit of flavor to your steak by topping it with a bit of butter or a sprinkle of herbs. This will help to add a bit of flavor to the steak and make it more interesting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Thin Sliced Steak in the Oven
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when cooking thin sliced steak in the oven:
- Overcooking the Steak: This is one of the most common mistakes people make when cooking steak in the oven. Make sure to check the internal temperature of the steak regularly to avoid overcooking it.
- Not Letting the Steak Rest: Letting the steak rest is an important step in cooking a great steak. Make sure to let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing it and serving it.
- Not Using a Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer is the most accurate way to check the internal temperature of the steak. Make sure to use one to avoid overcooking or undercooking the steak.
Conclusion
Cooking thin sliced steak in the oven can be a bit tricky, but with the right techniques and tips, you can achieve a deliciously cooked steak that’s sure to impress. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can cook a perfect steak every time. Remember to choose the right type of steak, prepare it properly, cook it to the right temperature, and let it rest before serving. With a bit of practice, you’ll be a pro at cooking thin sliced steak in the oven in no time.
What is the ideal thickness for oven-cooked steak?
The ideal thickness for oven-cooked steak is between 1/4 inch and 1/2 inch. This thickness allows for even cooking and prevents the steak from becoming too well done before it reaches the desired level of doneness. Thinly sliced steaks, in particular, are best cooked in the oven as they can quickly become overcooked when pan-seared.
When selecting a steak for oven cooking, look for cuts that are naturally thin, such as sirloin, ribeye, or flank steak. You can also ask your butcher to slice a thicker steak into thinner cuts. Keep in mind that the thickness of the steak will affect the cooking time, so be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How do I prepare the steak for oven cooking?
To prepare the steak for oven cooking, start by bringing the steak to room temperature. This helps the steak cook more evenly and prevents it from cooking too quickly on the outside. Next, season the steak with your desired seasonings, such as salt, pepper, and garlic powder. You can also add a bit of oil to the steak to help it brown in the oven.
Once the steak is seasoned, place it on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet or a broiler pan. This allows air to circulate under the steak and helps it cook more evenly. If you don’t have a wire rack, you can also place the steak directly on the baking sheet. Just be sure to line the baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper to make cleanup easier.
What is the best oven temperature for cooking thin sliced steak?
The best oven temperature for cooking thin sliced steak is between 400°F and 450°F. This high heat helps to sear the steak quickly and lock in the juices. If you prefer a more well-done steak, you can reduce the oven temperature to 375°F. However, keep in mind that cooking the steak at a lower temperature may result in a less tender final product.
When cooking thin sliced steak in the oven, it’s essential to use a high heat to achieve a nice crust on the outside. This crust, also known as the Maillard reaction, is a chemical reaction that occurs when amino acids and reducing sugars are exposed to heat. The result is a flavorful, caramelized crust that adds texture and flavor to the steak.
How long does it take to cook thin sliced steak in the oven?
The cooking time for thin sliced steak in the oven will depend on the thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness. As a general rule, cook the steak for 8-12 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be at least 130°F, while medium should be at least 140°F.
Keep in mind that thin sliced steak can cook quickly, so it’s essential to check the steak frequently to avoid overcooking. You can also use the finger test to check the doneness of the steak. Press the steak gently with your finger; if it feels soft and squishy, it’s rare. If it feels firm and springy, it’s medium-rare. If it feels hard and doesn’t yield to pressure, it’s well-done.
Can I cook thin sliced steak in the oven with the broiler on?
Yes, you can cook thin sliced steak in the oven with the broiler on. In fact, using the broiler can help to achieve a nice crust on the outside of the steak. To cook the steak with the broiler on, place the steak under the broiler for an additional 1-2 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
When using the broiler, keep a close eye on the steak to avoid overcooking. The broiler can quickly go from perfectly cooked to burnt, so it’s essential to monitor the steak closely. You can also use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. If you prefer a more well-done steak, you can cook the steak for an additional 2-3 minutes per side.
How do I let the steak rest after cooking?
After cooking the steak, it’s essential to let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and the steak to retain its tenderness. To let the steak rest, remove it from the oven and place it on a wire rack or a plate. Tent the steak with aluminum foil to keep it warm and prevent it from cooling too quickly.
During the resting period, the steak will continue to cook slightly, so it’s essential to check the internal temperature again before slicing. If the steak has cooled too much, you can place it under the broiler for an additional minute to warm it up. Once the steak has rested, slice it thinly against the grain and serve immediately.
Can I cook thin sliced steak in the oven ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook thin sliced steak in the oven ahead of time, but it’s not recommended. Cooking the steak ahead of time can result in a less tender final product, as the steak will continue to cook slightly as it cools. However, if you need to cook the steak ahead of time, you can cook it to your desired level of doneness and then let it cool to room temperature.
Once the steak has cooled, you can refrigerate it for up to 24 hours or freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat the steak, place it in the oven at 300°F for 5-10 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of warmth. You can also reheat the steak in a pan on the stovetop or in the microwave. However, keep in mind that reheating the steak can result in a less tender final product.