How Long to Cook Steak in Oven at 400? : The Ultimate Guide

A steak cooked in the oven at 400 degrees fahrenheit takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Cooking steak in the oven is a convenient option for achieving a delicious and tender result.

Whether you are preparing a quick and easy weeknight meal or hosting a dinner party, knowing the ideal cooking time is essential. The oven’s high heat at 400 degrees fahrenheit is perfect for creating a flavorful crust on the outside while maintaining a juicy center.

In just 15-20 minutes, your steak will be perfectly cooked to your desired doneness. So, let’s dive into the details of how to cook a mouthwatering steak in the oven at 400 degrees fahrenheit.

Credit: www.epicurious.com

Understanding The Basics

Cooking steak in the oven at 400 degrees is a popular and convenient method for achieving a perfectly cooked steak. Understanding the basics of this cooking technique will help you achieve delicious results every time. In this section, we will explore the important role of temperature in cooking steak and why cooking steak in the oven at 400 degrees works.

The Important Role Of Temperature In Cooking Steak:

• Cooking steak to the right temperature is crucial to ensure a tender and juicy result. The internal temperature of the steak determines its doneness, and different levels of doneness require different cooking temperatures.
• When cooking steak in the oven at 400 degrees, the high heat helps to sear the outside of the steak, creating a flavorful crust while sealing in the juices. This initial sear helps to retain the tenderness and moisture of the steak.
• The 400-degree temperature allows for even cooking throughout the steak. The intense heat helps to cook the steak quickly, reducing the risk of overcooking and resulting in a tender and juicy interior.
• Cooking steak in the oven at 400 degrees also allows for flexibility in achieving different levels of doneness. For a medium-rare steak, you can cook it for a shorter period of time, while a well-done steak may require a bit longer.

Understanding the importance of temperature and the advantages of cooking steak in the oven at 400 degrees will greatly enhance your steak cooking skills. Whether you prefer a perfectly medium-rare or a well-done steak, this method provides a consistent and flavorful outcome.

So, fire up that oven, grab your favorite cut of steak, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and perfectly cooked meal.

Preparing The Steak

Selecting The Right Cut Of Steak

When it comes to cooking steak in the oven at 400 degrees, choosing the right cut of meat is crucial for a delicious end result. Here are some key points to consider:

• Opt for cuts that are evenly thick to ensure even cooking throughout.
• Popular choices for oven cooking include ribeye, new york strip, and filet mignon.
• If you prefer a leaner cut, go for sirloin or top round.
• Make sure to select well-marbled steaks for a flavorful and tender experience.

Seasoning The Steak To Enhance Flavor

Enhancing the flavor of your steak is essential to creating a mouthwatering dish. Here are a few tips for seasoning your steak before cooking:

• Liberally season both sides of the steak with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
• Consider adding other spices or herbs to complement the natural flavors of the meat, such as garlic powder, paprika, or rosemary.
• For an extra punch of flavor, create a dry rub by combining your favorite herbs and spices.
• Allow the seasoning to penetrate the meat by letting it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.

Bringing The Steak To Room Temperature Before Cooking

One mistake many home cooks make is placing cold steak directly into a hot oven. To ensure even cooking and a perfectly juicy steak, follow these steps:

• Remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes. This allows the meat to warm up slightly, promoting more even cooking.
• Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps to achieve a beautiful sear on the outside of the steak.
• While the steak is coming to room temperature, preheat your oven to 400 degrees fahrenheit.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your steak is properly prepared and ready for cooking in the oven. Selecting the right cut, seasoning it to enhance flavor, and bringing it to room temperature will set you on the path to a perfectly cooked steak every time.

Cooking Techniques

When it comes to cooking steak in the oven at 400 degrees, there are a few key techniques that can help you achieve the perfect result. From searing the steak to using a meat thermometer and allowing it to rest, each step plays a crucial role in creating a steak that is cooked to perfection.

So let’s dive into these cooking techniques and elevate your steak game!

Searing The Steak For A Perfect Crust

Searing the steak is an essential step to develop a flavorful and caramelized crust on the outside while locking in the natural juices inside. Here are a few key points to keep in mind when searing your steak:

• Preheat your oven to 400 degrees fahrenheit.
• Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat until smoking hot.
• Pat the steak dry with paper towels and season it with salt and pepper.
• Add a high smoke point oil like canola or avocado oil to the skillet.
• Place the steak in the skillet and sear it for 2-3 minutes on each side until a golden-brown crust forms.
• Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven to finish cooking the steak.

Using these searing techniques will give your steak a delicious crust that adds texture and flavor to each bite.

Using A Meat Thermometer To Ensure Ideal Doneness

To achieve the perfect level of doneness, it’s important to use a meat thermometer when cooking your steak in the oven. Here’s how to ensure your steak reaches your desired temperature:

• Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, away from any bone.
• For medium-rare doneness, cook the steak until the thermometer reads 135 degrees fahrenheit.
• For medium doneness, aim for a temperature of around 145 degrees fahrenheit.
• Remember that the steak will continue to cook while resting, so remove it from the oven a few degrees below your desired doneness.

Using a meat thermometer takes the guesswork out of cooking steak and ensures it’s cooked to perfection every time.

Resting The Steak For Juiciness And Tenderness

Resting your steak after cooking is a crucial step for ensuring juiciness and tenderness. Here’s why it’s important and how to do it properly:

• Remove the steak from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board.
• Tent the steak loosely with foil to keep it warm.
• Let the steak rest for about 5-10 minutes.
• Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak.
• During the resting period, the steak’s temperature will rise a few degrees, reaching the desired doneness.

By following these cooking techniques, you’ll be able to enjoy a perfectly cooked steak with a mouthwatering crust, ideal doneness, and incredible juiciness and tenderness. So fire up that oven and get ready to impress your family and friends with your steak-cooking skills!

Cooking Times

Medium Rare Steak: Achieving The Right Internal Temperature

Cooking the perfect medium rare steak in the oven requires precise timing and attention to detail. Achieving the desired internal temperature is crucial to getting that juicy, tender steak that melts in your mouth. Here are the key points to keep in mind:

• Internal temperature: For a medium rare steak, you want the internal temperature to be around 135°f (57°c). This ensures a warm, pink center with a nice sear on the outside.
• Use a meat thermometer: To accurately measure the internal temperature of your steak, use a digital meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the steak without touching the bone or the pan.
• Resting time: Once your steak reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute evenly throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak.
• Time and temperature: Cooking times can vary depending on the thickness of your steak and personal preference. However, as a general guideline, a 1-inch thick steak cooked at 400°f (200°c) will take approximately 10-12 minutes to reach medium-rare doneness.

Factors That Influence Cooking Time: Thickness, Meat Quality, And Oven Variations

Several factors can affect the cooking time of your steak in the oven. It’s important to consider these factors to achieve the perfect cook. Here are the key points to understand:

• Thickness: Thicker steaks will require more time to cook compared to thinner cuts. As a general rule, add an extra minute or two of cooking time per half-inch of thickness.
• Meat quality: The quality of the meat can also impact the cooking time. Higher-quality cuts tend to be more tender and may cook faster. Conversely, tougher cuts may require longer cooking times to become tender.
• Oven variations: Oven temperatures can vary, so it’s essential to monitor the cooking process closely. Use a reliable oven thermometer to ensure accuracy and make any necessary adjustments.
• Preheating the oven: Preheating the oven to the desired temperature is crucial for even and consistent cooking. Make sure to preheat your oven for at least 10-15 minutes before placing the steak inside.

Adjusting Cooking Times To Personal Preference

Cooking steak in the oven at 400°f (200°c) provides a good balance between a nicely seared exterior and a medium-rare interior. However, personal preferences for steak doneness may vary. Here are a few tips for adjusting cooking times to suit your taste:

• Rare steak: For a rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of around 125°f (52°c). Reduce the cooking time slightly, removing the steak from the oven a few minutes earlier.
• Medium steak: If you prefer a medium level of doneness, target an internal temperature of approximately 145°f (63°c). Increase the cooking time by a couple of minutes to achieve a slightly warmer center.
• Well-done steak: For a well-done steak, you’ll want an internal temperature of about 160°f (71°c). Extend the cooking time by several minutes, but keep in mind that cooking it for too long may result in a drier steak.

Remember that these are general guidelines, and individual ovens and preferences may vary. It’s always a good idea to rely on a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy and achieve the desired doneness. Happy cooking!

Tips And Tricks For Success

Using a cast iron skillet for even heat distribution:

• Preheat the oven to 400 degrees fahrenheit.
• Place a cast iron skillet in the oven while it preheats. This will ensure that the skillet is heated evenly before cooking the steak.
• Once the oven reaches the desired temperature, carefully remove the skillet from the oven using oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves.

Basting the steak with butter and herbs for extra flavor:

• Melt a generous amount of butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
• Add your preferred herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to the melted butter and let them infuse for a few minutes.
• Place the steak in the preheated cast iron skillet and sear it on each side for a few minutes.
• Use a spoon or basting brush to apply the butter and herb mixture to the steak while it cooks. This will enhance its flavor and add a delicious richness.

Letting the steak rest covered to retain moisture:

• Once the steak is cooked to your preferred doneness, remove it from the skillet and place it on a cutting board or plate.
• Cover the steak loosely with foil or a lid to trap the heat and moisture. This will ensure that the steak remains juicy and tender.
• Allow the steak to rest for at least 5 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and succulent steak.

By following these tips and tricks, you can achieve a perfectly cooked steak in the oven at 400 degrees. The cast iron skillet ensures even heat distribution, basting with butter and herbs enhances the flavor, and letting the steak rest covered retains its moisture.

Now, you’re ready to impress your friends and family with a delicious steak dinner!

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Overcooking The Steak: Signs To Look Out For

• Overcooking your steak can result in a dry and tough piece of meat. It’s important to pay attention to the signs that indicate your steak is being overcooked.
• Signs to look out for include:
• The steak becoming charred or burnt on the outside.
• A loss of juiciness and tenderness in the center of the steak.
• The steak becoming difficult to slice or chew.
• The color of the meat turning from pink or red to gray or brown.
• To avoid overcooking the steak, make sure to keep a close eye on the cooking time and temperature. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature and remove the steak from the oven once it reaches your desired level of doneness.

Not Letting The Steak Rest: Why It Matters

• Letting your cooked steak rest is a crucial step that many people overlook. It may seem tempting to cut into the steak right away, but allowing it to rest has several benefits.
• Here’s why letting the steak rest matters:
• Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak.
• It helps retain moisture by allowing some of the internal heat to dissipate, preventing the meat from drying out.
• Resting also gives the steak an opportunity to finish cooking as residual heat continues to raise its temperature.
• To let your steak rest properly, remove it from the oven and tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Ignoring Carryover Cooking And Its Effect On Doneness

• Carryover cooking is the phenomenon where food continues to cook even after it has been removed from a heat source. Ignoring carryover cooking can lead to unexpected changes in the doneness of your steak.
• Here’s what you need to know about carryover cooking:
• Carryover cooking can cause your steak to increase in internal temperature by several degrees. This means that if you cook your steak to medium-rare (135°f), it may end up being medium (145°f) or even medium-well (150°f) after resting.
• It’s important to take carryover cooking into account when determining the final cooking time and target internal temperature for your steak.
• To account for carryover cooking, it’s recommended to remove the steak from the oven when its internal temperature is a few degrees below your desired level of doneness. The residual heat will continue to cook the steak to perfection during the resting period. Remember to always use a meat thermometer for accurate temperature readings.

By understanding and avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your steak turns out perfectly cooked and delicious every time. Happy cooking!

Serving And Enjoying

Cooking steak in the oven is a great way to achieve a perfectly cooked, juicy piece of meat. But once it’s done, the question remains: how do you serve and enjoy it? In this section, we’ll explore the importance of slicing steak properly for optimal tenderness, pairing it with delicious side dishes, and appreciating the art of steak cookery.

How To Slice Steak Properly For Optimal Tenderness

• Allow the steak to rest: Before slicing into your steak, let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more tender piece of meat.
• Slice against the grain: Identify the direction of the grain, which refers to the lines of muscle fibers in the meat. To achieve optimal tenderness, slice the steak against the grain rather than with it. This helps break up the muscle fibers and makes each bite more tender.
• Use a sharp knife: A sharp knife is essential for clean and precise cuts. Dull knives can tear the meat, resulting in uneven slices and a less enjoyable eating experience.
• Cut into thin slices: Thin slices of steak are not only easier to chew, but they also allow for a more even distribution of flavors. Aim for slices that are about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.

Pairing Steak With Delicious Side Dishes

• Creamy mashed potatoes: The rich and creamy texture of mashed potatoes complements the juicy steak perfectly. Add a pat of butter or a drizzle of gravy to take it to the next level.
• Roasted vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables, such as carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers, provides a healthy and flavorful accompaniment to your steak. The caramelized edges and tender interior add a delightful contrast to the meat.
• Classic caesar salad: The crispness of romaine lettuce, the salty tang of parmesan cheese, and the creaminess of caesar dressing make for a refreshing side dish that pairs well with steak.
• Grilled asparagus: Seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper, grilled asparagus adds a touch of freshness and a pop of color to your plate. The smoky flavor pairs beautifully with the rich taste of steak.

Appreciating The Art Of Steak Cookery

• The perfect doneness: Cooking steak in the oven allows you to achieve the desired level of doneness, whether it’s rare, medium-rare, medium, or well-done. Experiment with different cooking times to find your preferred result.
• Seasoning options: While a simple salt and pepper seasoning can enhance the natural flavors of the steak, don’t be afraid to get creative with marinades or dry rubs. This adds depth and complexity to the taste.
• Customizing your cooking method: Cooking steak in the oven at 400 degrees fahrenheit offers a balance between a seared exterior and a moist interior. However, you can experiment with higher or lower temperatures based on your preferences.
• Enjoying the experience: Take the time to appreciate the flavors, textures, and aromas of your cooked steak. Savor each bite and share the experience with loved ones.

Serving and enjoying a steak cooked in the oven at 400 degrees fahrenheit is a culinary journey worth savoring. By slicing the steak properly, pairing it with delicious side dishes, and appreciating the art of steak cookery, you can create a memorable and satisfying dining experience.

So gather your friends and family, sharpen your knives, and let the feast begin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Cook Frozen Steak In The Oven?

• Yes, you can cook frozen steak in the oven, but there are a few important factors to keep in mind:
• Thawing the steak before cooking is preferred for better results, but it is not necessary.
• To cook a frozen steak in the oven, preheat the oven to 400°f (204°c).
• Place the frozen steak on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
• Cook for approximately 25-30 minutes for medium-rare or until the desired level of doneness is achieved.
• Using a meat thermometer is crucial to ensure the steak is cooked to the proper internal temperature.

What Temperature Should I Set My Oven For Well-Done Steak?

• For a well-done steak, it is recommended to set your oven to a slightly lower temperature than when cooking a medium-rare steak. Here’s a guideline:
• Preheat the oven to 375°f (190°c) for a well-done steak.
• This lower temperature allows the steak to cook evenly throughout without overcooking the exterior.

What’S The Best Way To Reheat Leftover Cooked Steak?

• Reheating leftover steak is a great way to enjoy a delicious meal again. Follow these steps to reheat your cooked steak in the oven:
• Preheat the oven to 250°f (120°c).
• Place the leftover steak on a baking sheet or oven-safe dish.
• Cover the steak loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
• Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until the steak reaches the desired temperature.
• Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature to ensure it is heated to at least 165°f (74°c).

Remember, these guidelines are meant to serve as general recommendations. The actual cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and personal preferences for doneness. Always rely on a meat thermometer to ensure your steak is cooked to your desired level of perfection.

Frequently Asked Questions Of How Long To Cook Steak In Oven At 400?

How Long Should I Cook A Steak In The Oven At 400 Degrees?

Cooking a steak in the oven at 400 degrees fahrenheit should take approximately 10-15 minutes for medium-rare, depending on the thickness. To ensure accuracy, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.

What Temperature Should I Cook Steak In The Oven?

For a perfectly cooked steak, preheat the oven to 400 degrees fahrenheit. This temperature allows for a beautiful sear on the outside while ensuring a juicy and tender interior.

Can I Cook Steak In The Oven Without Searing It First?

Yes, you can cook a steak in the oven without searing it first. While searing creates a flavorful crust, cooking it in the oven alone will still result in a delicious and evenly cooked steak. For a crust, broil the steak for a few minutes at the end.

Conclusion

To achieve the perfectly cooked steak in the oven at 400 degrees, follow these recommendations. Remember to preheat the oven for optimal results. Cooking times will vary based on the thickness of your steak, preference for doneness, and type of oven being used.

For a medium-rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°f, while a medium steak should reach 140-145°f. Gently searing the steak before placing it in the oven will enhance flavor and help to seal in the juices. After cooking, let the steak rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender and juicy bite.

Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or an experienced cook, these guidelines will help you achieve steak perfection every time. So why wait? Head to your kitchen, get that oven ready, and enjoy a mouthwatering steak cooked to perfection at 400 degrees!