Cooking steak in the oven is a great way to achieve a deliciously tender and flavorful dish without the need for a grill or skillet. However, the key to a perfectly cooked steak lies in the cooking time and temperature. In this article, we will explore the ideal cooking time for steak in the oven at 350°F, as well as provide some valuable tips and tricks to ensure your steak turns out perfectly every time.
Understanding Steak Cooking Times
Before we dive into the specifics of cooking steak in the oven at 350°F, it’s essential to understand the different levels of doneness and how they affect the cooking time. The level of doneness refers to the internal temperature of the steak, which can range from rare to well-done.
Levels of Doneness and Internal Temperatures
- Rare: 120°F – 130°F (49°C – 54°C)
- Medium-rare: 130°F – 135°F (54°C – 57°C)
- Medium: 140°F – 145°F (60°C – 63°C)
- Medium-well: 150°F – 155°F (66°C – 68°C)
- Well-done: 160°F – 170°F (71°C – 77°C)
Cooking Steak in the Oven at 350°F
Now that we have a better understanding of the different levels of doneness, let’s explore the ideal cooking time for steak in the oven at 350°F. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the steak, as well as the level of doneness desired.
Cooking Times for Different Steak Thicknesses
| Steak Thickness | Rare | Medium-Rare | Medium | Medium-Well | Well-Done |
| ————— | —- | ———– | —— | ———– | ——— |
| 1 inch (2.5 cm) | 8-12 minutes | 10-14 minutes | 12-16 minutes | 14-18 minutes | 16-20 minutes |
| 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) | 12-16 minutes | 14-18 minutes | 16-20 minutes | 18-22 minutes | 20-24 minutes |
| 2 inches (5 cm) | 16-20 minutes | 18-22 minutes | 20-24 minutes | 22-26 minutes | 24-28 minutes |
Additional Tips for Cooking Steak in the Oven
- Use a meat thermometer: A meat thermometer is the most accurate way to ensure your steak is cooked to the desired level of doneness.
- Don’t overcrowd the oven: Cook steaks one at a time to ensure even cooking and to prevent the steaks from steaming instead of browning.
- Use a cast-iron skillet: A cast-iron skillet is ideal for cooking steak in the oven, as it retains heat well and can achieve a nice crust on the steak.
- Don’t press down on the steak: Resist the temptation to press down on the steak with your spatula, as this can squeeze out juices and make the steak tough.
Additional Factors That Affect Cooking Time
While the thickness of the steak and the level of doneness are the most significant factors in determining cooking time, there are several other factors that can affect the cooking time of your steak.
Steak Type and Marbling
Different types of steak have varying levels of marbling, which can affect the cooking time. Steaks with high marbling, such as ribeye or porterhouse, may require slightly longer cooking times due to the increased fat content.
Oven Temperature and Accuracy
Ensure your oven is at the correct temperature, as an inaccurate oven temperature can significantly affect the cooking time of your steak. Invest in an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature.
Steak Temperature Before Cooking
The temperature of the steak before cooking can also affect the cooking time. Remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to 1 hour before cooking to ensure even cooking.
Conclusion
Cooking steak in the oven at 350°F can be a great way to achieve a deliciously tender and flavorful dish. By understanding the different levels of doneness, using a meat thermometer, and following the cooking times outlined in this article, you can ensure your steak turns out perfectly every time. Remember to consider additional factors that can affect cooking time, such as steak type and marbling, oven temperature and accuracy, and steak temperature before cooking. With practice and patience, you’ll be cooking steak like a pro in no time.
What are the benefits of cooking steak in the oven at 350°F?
Cooking steak in the oven at 350°F offers several benefits. Firstly, it allows for even heat distribution, ensuring that the steak is cooked consistently throughout. This is particularly important for thicker cuts of steak, which can be challenging to cook evenly using other methods. Additionally, oven-cooking at 350°F helps to prevent the outside of the steak from burning or charring too quickly, allowing for a more controlled cooking process.
Another benefit of cooking steak in the oven at 350°F is that it allows for a high degree of precision. By using a meat thermometer, you can ensure that your steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, whether that’s rare, medium-rare, medium, or well-done. This level of control is difficult to achieve using other cooking methods, making oven-cooking at 350°F a great option for those who want to achieve perfect results.
What types of steak are best suited for oven-cooking at 350°F?
When it comes to oven-cooking steak at 350°F, some types of steak are better suited than others. Thicker cuts of steak, such as ribeye, strip loin, and porterhouse, are ideal for oven-cooking. These cuts have a higher fat content, which helps to keep them moist and flavorful during the cooking process. Additionally, their thickness allows for a nice crust to form on the outside, while the inside remains tender and juicy.
Other types of steak, such as sirloin and flank steak, can also be cooked in the oven at 350°F. However, these cuts may require slightly different cooking times and techniques to achieve the best results. It’s essential to research the specific cooking requirements for your chosen type of steak to ensure that it turns out perfectly cooked.
How do I prepare my steak for oven-cooking at 350°F?
To prepare your steak for oven-cooking at 350°F, start by bringing the steak to room temperature. This helps to ensure that the steak cooks 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, promoting even cooking and browning. If desired, you can also add some aromatics, such as onions and bell peppers, to the baking sheet to add extra flavor to the steak.
How long does it take to cook steak in the oven at 350°F?
The cooking time for steak in the oven at 350°F will depend on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness. As a general rule, a 1-inch thick steak will take around 10-15 minutes to cook to medium-rare, while a 1.5-inch thick steak will take around 20-25 minutes. It’s essential to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak, as this is the most accurate way to determine doneness.
Here are some general guidelines for cooking steak in the oven at 350°F: rare (120°F – 130°F), medium-rare (130°F – 135°F), medium (140°F – 145°F), and well-done (160°F – 170°F). Keep in mind that the steak will continue to cook a bit after it’s removed from the oven, so it’s better to err on the side of undercooking than overcooking.
Can I sear my steak in a pan before finishing it in the oven at 350°F?
Yes, you can sear your steak in a pan before finishing it in the oven at 350°F. This technique is known as the “pan-sear oven finish” method. To do this, heat a skillet or oven-safe pan over high heat and add a bit of oil. Sear the steak for 1-2 minutes per side, or until a nice crust forms. Then, transfer the pan to the preheated oven and finish cooking the steak to your desired level of doneness.
The pan-sear oven finish method allows you to achieve a nice crust on the steak, while also cooking the inside to perfection. This method is particularly useful for thicker cuts of steak, which can be challenging to cook evenly using other methods. Just be sure to use an oven-safe pan to avoid any accidents in the oven.
How do I prevent my steak from drying out in the oven at 350°F?
To prevent your steak from drying out in the oven at 350°F, it’s essential to cook it to the right temperature and avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak, and remove it from the oven when it reaches your desired level of doneness. Additionally, make sure to let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing, as this allows the juices to redistribute and the steak to retain its moisture.
Another way to prevent dryness is to use a bit of fat, such as butter or oil, to keep the steak moist. You can also add some aromatics, such as onions and bell peppers, to the baking sheet to add extra moisture to the steak. Finally, be sure to slice the steak against the grain, as this helps to break up the fibers and make the steak more tender and juicy.
Can I cook steak in the oven at 350°F ahead of time and reheat it later?
While it’s possible to cook steak in the oven at 350°F ahead of time and reheat it later, it’s not always the best option. Steak is best served immediately after cooking, as this allows the juices to flow freely and the flavors to shine through. Reheating steak can cause it to dry out and lose its tenderness.
That being said, if you need to cook steak ahead of time, it’s best to cook it to a lower temperature than you normally would, such as medium-rare instead of medium. Then, let the steak cool completely before refrigerating or freezing it. When you’re ready to reheat the steak, use a low-temperature oven (around 200°F – 250°F) to warm it through, or slice it thinly and reheat it in a pan with a bit of oil or butter.