How To Cook Steak On The Stove And Oven

Mastering the Art of Cooking Delicious Steak on the Stove and in the Oven

There’s something incredibly satisfying about sinking your teeth into a tender, juicy steak. While grilling is a popular method for cooking steak, not everyone has access to a grill. But fear not! You can still achieve mouthwatering results by cooking steak on the stove and in the oven. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to become an expert in the art of steak cooking.

Choosing the Perfect Cut of Steak

Before you start cooking, it’s essential to select the right cut of steak. While personal preference plays a role, some cuts are better suited for stove and oven cooking. Consider opting for ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon as they tend to cook evenly and become incredibly tender.

Preparing the Steak

Follow these steps to prepare your steak before cooking:

Remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows for more even cooking.
Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps with searing and browning.
Season the steak generously with salt and pepper, or your favorite steak rub, ensuring both sides are evenly coated.
If desired, let the steak marinate for a few hours to infuse additional flavors. This step is optional, but it can enhance the overall taste.

Cooking on the Stove and in the Oven

Now it’s time to fire up the stove and oven! Follow these steps for steak perfection:

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Heat a cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pan over high heat on the stove. Add a splash of oil and let it heat until it starts to smoke.
Gently lay the steak in the hot pan, being careful not to overcrowd. For maximum flavor, sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms.
Once both sides are seared, transfer the pan to the preheated oven. Cook the steak for an additional 4-8 minutes, depending on your preferred level of doneness.
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For a medium-rare steak, aim for around 130°F (54°C).
Remove the pan from the oven and let the steak rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.

Serving and Enjoying Your Perfectly Cooked Steak

Once the resting period is over, it’s time for the moment of truth! Here’s how to savor your steak:

Cut the steak against the grain into thin slices. This ensures each bite is tender and easy to chew.
Serve your steak alongside your favorite accompaniments like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Drizzle the steak with any pan juices to add an extra burst of flavor.
Dig in and enjoy your masterpiece!

With practice, you’ll become a steak-cooking maestro, impressing your friends and family with your culinary talents. So, whether you’re grilling or using the stove and oven method, cooking steak is an art that offers endless possibilities for gastronomic satisfaction. Bon appétit!

Want to share your own techniques or discuss this article further? Join the conversation in the Cooking Techniques forum section!

FAQ:

What are the best cuts of steak to cook on the stove and oven?

When cooking steak on the stove and oven, you want to choose cuts that are suitable for both high-heat searing and gentle oven finishing. Some of the best cuts for this method include ribeye, striploin (also known as New York strip), and tenderloin (also known as filet mignon). These cuts are tender and have enough marbling to ensure a juicy and flavorful result.

How should I season the steak before cooking?

Seasoning is crucial to enhance the flavor of your steak. Before cooking, generously season both sides of the steak with salt and freshly ground black pepper. If you like, you can also add additional spices or herbs to your liking, such as garlic powder, smoked paprika, or rosemary. Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the seasoning to penetrate the meat.

What type of pan should I use for cooking steak on the stove and oven?

For this cooking method, it is best to use a heavy-duty, oven-safe skillet such as a cast-iron or stainless steel pan. These pans distribute heat evenly and retain high temperatures needed for a perfect sear. Avoid using pans with non-stick coatings as they are not optimal for achieving a good crust on the steak.

How do I achieve a perfect sear on the stove?

To achieve a perfect sear, start by preheating your pan over medium-high to high heat for a few minutes. Add a small amount of oil with a high smoke point (such as vegetable or canola oil) to the hot pan. Carefully place the steak in the pan and let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes. Flip the steak only once it easily releases from the pan, then continue cooking on the other side until a browned crust forms.

Should I cook the steak entirely on the stove or finish it in the oven?

While you can cook the steak entirely on the stove, finishing it in the oven helps to cook the steak more evenly and avoid overcooking the exterior. Once you achieve a good sear on both sides of the steak, transfer the pan to a preheated oven. Cook the steak to your desired doneness, checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. This oven finishing method is particularly beneficial for thicker cuts of steak.

How long should I cook the steak in the oven for?

The cooking time in the oven will depend on the thickness and desired doneness of the steak. As a general rule of thumb, allow the steak to cook in the oven for about 5-10 minutes per inch of thickness. It’s recommended to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For example, a medium-rare steak should reach an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C), medium around 145°F (63°C), and well-done around 160°F (71°C).

How long should I let the steak rest after cooking?

After cooking, it’s essential to let the steak rest before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful steak. Tent the cooked steak loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This resting period also helps to retain the desired level of doneness throughout the steak.

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