A Comprehensive Guide To Preparing A Perfect Medium-Well Steak In The Oven
If you’re a steak lover, then you understand the importance of getting the perfect doneness level. For some, this can be a daunting task, but with the right recipe and cooking technique, you can easily achieve a juicy and flavorful medium-well steak right in your oven. In this guide, we’ll cover all of the important aspects of preparing a medium-well steak in the oven. From selecting the right cut to checking for doneness, you’ll find everything you need to know to create a delicious steak dinner.
Choosing the Right Steak Cut
The first step in cooking the perfect medium-well steak is selecting the right cut of meat. For this level of doneness, we recommend choosing a cut with a moderate marbling level that will cook up tender and juicy. Some popular cuts for medium-well steak include:
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Ribeye
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New York strip
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Top sirloin
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T-bone
These cuts are all readily available at most grocery stores or butcher shops and are perfect for oven cooking. When selecting your steak, keep in mind that the thicker the cut, the longer it will take to cook, so plan accordingly.
Cleaning and Preparing Your Steak
Before cooking, it’s important to properly clean and prepare your steak. Start by removing any excess fat or connective tissue, as this can affect the flavor and texture of the meat. Then, pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
Next, season your steak with your favorite spices and herbs. Some popular options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, rosemary, and thyme. Make sure to rub the seasoning into the meat on both sides for an even flavor.
Let the steak rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This will help it cook more evenly and ensure a juicy and tender result.
Preheating the Oven
While your steak is resting, preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). This temperature is perfect for achieving a medium-well doneness level and will cook your steak to a tender and juicy consistency.
Cooking Your Steak in the Oven
To cook your steak in the oven, start by placing it on a baking sheet or in a cast-iron skillet. If using a skillet, make sure it’s oven-safe and not coated with non-stick material, as this can melt in the oven.
Cook your steak for about 8-10 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the cut and your desired doneness level. For medium-well, aim for an internal temperature of 150°F (65°C) when using a meat thermometer.
Once the internal temperature has been achieved, remove the steak from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat for a more tender and juicy result.
Tips and Variations
There are several tips and variations you can use to make your medium-well steak even more delicious. Here are a few to consider:
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Use a marinade: Marinating your steak before cooking can add extra flavor and tenderness. Try using a mixture of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and garlic for a delicious marinade option.
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Add butter: For an extra rich and indulgent result, add a pat of butter to the top of your steak right before serving.
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Experiment with spices: Don’t be afraid to mix up your spice blend for a unique flavor profile. Try using chili powder, cumin, or paprika for a little extra kick.
Checking for Doneness
Checking for doneness is an important part of cooking any steak, and medium-well is no exception. The best way to check for doneness is by using a meat thermometer. This will give you an accurate temperature reading and ensure that your steak is cooked perfectly.
If you don’t have a meat thermometer, you can use the touch test method. Simply press the center of the steak with your finger. If it feels firm but still gives a little, then it’s likely medium-well. If it feels very firm or hard, then it’s likely well-done, while a soft or squishy steak is likely undercooked.
Overcooking and Undercooking
Overcooking or undercooking your steak can be a common mistake when cooking in the oven. To avoid overcooking, make sure to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature regularly. If the temperature rises too quickly, lower the oven temperature or cover the steak with foil to prevent it from drying out.
Undercooking can also be a problem, especially if you’re not checking for doneness regularly. If your steak is undercooked, simply place it back in the oven for a few minutes until it reaches the desired temperature.
Medium-Well Steak Oven Recipe
To recap, here’s a comprehensive recipe for cooking a delicious medium-well steak in the oven:
Ingredients
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1-inch thick steak (ribeye, New York strip, top sirloin)
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Salt and pepper
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Garlic powder
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Rosemary
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Olive oil
Directions
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Remove excess fat and tissue from the steak, then pat dry with paper towels.
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Season the steak on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and rosemary.
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Let the steak rest at room temperature for 30 minutes.
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
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Place the steak on a baking sheet or in an oven-safe skillet.
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Cook for 8-10 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 150°F (65°C).
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Remove the steak from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes.
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Slice and serve with your favorite side dishes.
Conclusion
Cooking the perfect medium-well steak in the oven is all about selecting the right cut, preparing it properly, and checking for doneness regularly. With the tips and step-by-step recipe provided in this guide, you’ll be able to create a savory and juicy steak that’s perfect for any occasion. So fire up your oven and get ready to impress your friends and family with your steak cooking skills.
Sources
FAQS On Medium Well Steak Oven Recipe
What Temperature Should The Oven Be Set To For Cooking A Medium Well Steak?
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure an even cooking temperature for your medium well steak.
How Long Should I Cook A Medium Well Steak In The Oven?
Depending on the thickness of the steak, you should cook it for approximately 10-12 minutes for a medium well doneness. However, it’s always best to use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches an internal temperature of 150-155°F (65-68°C).
Should I Season The Steak Before Cooking It In The Oven?
Yes, it’s recommended to season the steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices before placing it in the oven. This will help enhance the flavor of the steak as it cooks.
Do I Need To Let The Steak Rest After Cooking It In The Oven?
Yes, it’s important to let the steak rest for about 5-10 minutes after taking it out of the oven. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful steak.
What Is The Best Way To Check If The Steak Is Done Cooking In The Oven?
The most accurate way to check if the steak is done is by using a meat thermometer. For a medium well steak, the internal temperature should reach 150-155°F (65-68°C). This ensures that the steak is cooked to the desired doneness without being overcooked.