Cooking steak in the oven without a cast iron skillet may seem daunting, but with the right preparation and internal temperature monitoring, it’s easier than you think. Here is how you can make a delicious steak dinner without the mess of using a cast iron skillet.
Preparing the Steak for Cooking
Before cooking your steak in the oven without a cast iron skillet, you need to properly prepare your steak for cooking. To begin, take your steak out of the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature. This will ensure even cooking of your steak. Once your steak has reached room temperature, pat both sides down with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Also, use a sharp knife to trim any excess fat from your steak.
Once the steak is prepped, season it with salt and pepper. You can also add other seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika, to give the steak more flavor. Make sure to season both sides of the steak, and press the seasonings into the steak with your hands. Finally, rub a small amount of oil onto the steak to help it brown and crisp up in the oven.
Choosing the Right Oven Temperature
When cooking your steak in the oven without a cast iron skillet, you want to choose an oven temperature of 500 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. This high heat will help ensure that both sides of the steak are quickly seared and sealed in juices. In addition, if you have an available convection oven fan setting, you can use the convection setting on high while cooking your steak in the oven.
When cooking steak in the oven, it is important to keep an eye on the steak to ensure that it does not overcook. Depending on the thickness of the steak, it may only need to cook for a few minutes on each side. If you are unsure, you can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak to ensure that it is cooked to your desired doneness.
Providing Adequate Heat for Cooking the Steak
When cooking your steak in the oven without a cast iron skillet, you will want to make sure you are providing ample heat for cooking your steak properly. To do this, place a rack or heatproof tray on the oven’s highest shelf. Once the oven has been preheated to the desired temperature, carefully place the steak on the rack or heatproof tray. Close the oven door and allow the steak to cook for the desired amount of time.
Checking for Doneness and Internal Temperature
When cooking your steak in the oven without a cast iron skillet, it is important to check for doneness and internal temperature. To do this, insert a thermometer into the thickest part of your steak and ensure the internal temperature reads at least 140 degrees Fahrenheit for medium-rare, 156 degrees Fahrenheit for medium, or 175 degrees Fahrenheit for well-done. Once the steak reaches your desired doneness, remove it from the oven.
Finishing with Seasonings and Toppings
Once your steak is finished cooking in the oven and has reached your desired internal temperature and doneness, you can remove it from the oven. Before serving, season the steak with desired seasonings, such as salt and pepper, garlic powder or other seasonings of your liking. If desired, top the steak with melted butter or herbs as a finishing touch.
Tips for a Perfectly Cooked Steak Every Time
To ensure perfectly cooked steak each time, use these tips when cooking your steak in the oven without a cast iron skillet:
- Always allow your steak to come to room temperature before cooking.
- Use plenty of seasonings before placing in the oven to amp up flavor.
- Utilize an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperature readings while cooking in the oven.
- Allow your steak to rest for 3-5 minutes after removing it from the oven before slicing or serving.
Possible Substitutions for a Cast Iron Skillet
If you do not have a cast iron skillet available to cook your steak in, you can substitute it with a baking sheet lined with foil, an aluminum baking pan, or a sheet tray lined with parchment paper. All of these materials will help provide even heating for cooking your steak in the oven.
Serving Suggestions for Oven-Cooked Steak
Oven-cooked steak pairs well with many sides and can be served in multiple ways. Depending on what you have available, you can serve your steak alongside roasted vegetables, potatoes au gratin, or mashed potatoes. Additionally, steaks also pair well with a variety of salads or homemade pasta dishes. Use your creativity when making up steak dishes.
Cleaning Up After Cooking
Once you are finished eating your oven-cooked steak dinner, make sure to clean up properly. Start by turning off or unplugging the oven. Once cool enough to touch, remove any racks or trays that were used while cooking and place them in hot soapy water for washing. Also wipe down the inside of your oven as needed using a cloth or sponge and hot soapy water.
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