Tenderloin Steaks Oven Recipe: The Ultimate Guide To A Perfectly Juicy And Delicious Steak

Before diving into the cooking process, it is essential to clean and prepare your tenderloin steaks correctly. Here is a step-by-step guide:

1. Remove the steaks from their packaging and pat them dry using paper towels. This will remove any excess moisture on the surface, allowing for a better sear during cooking.

2. Sprinkle a generous amount of kosher salt on both sides of each steak. This will help to enhance the flavor and bring out the natural juiciness of the meat. Let the steaks rest at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes to allow the salt to penetrate the meat.

Mastering the Oven Cooking Technique

Now that your steaks are prepped and ready to go, it’s time to achieve that picture-perfect medium-rare steak using your oven. Follow these instructions for a foolproof cooking method:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and adjust the rack to the center position.

2. Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat on the stovetop until it is smoking hot. This will ensure a beautiful sear on your steaks.

3. Carefully place your tenderloin steaks into the hot skillet. Sear each side for approximately 2 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms.

4. Once seared, transfer the skillet with the steaks to the preheated oven. Allow the steaks to cook for about 5-7 minutes for medium-rare or until a meat thermometer reads 130°F (54°C). Adjust the cooking time according to your desired level of doneness.

5. Remove the skillet from the oven and transfer the steaks to a cutting board. Allow them to rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.

Doneness Checks: Gauging the Perfect Cook

Achieving the desired level of doneness is essential to catering to individual preferences. Here are some visual cues and temperature guidelines to keep in mind:

1. Medium-Rare: A perfectly cooked medium-rare steak will have a warm pink center and a slightly browned crust. The internal temperature should read around 130°F (54°C).

2. Medium: For a medium steak, aim for a warm, pink-to-lightly pink center, with an internal temperature of approximately 140°F (60°C).

3. Medium-Well: If you prefer a medium-well steak, the center should be light pink, while the internal temperature should reach about 150°F (66°C).

4. Well-Done: A well-done steak will have no pink in the center and should reach an internal temperature of around 160°F (71°C). However, keep in mind that cooking a tenderloin steak past medium may result in a loss of tenderness.

Tips and Techniques for Flavorful Tenderloin Steaks

To elevate your tenderloin steaks to new heights, consider incorporating these expert tips and techniques:

1. Marinades and Rubs: Enhance the flavor profile of your steaks by marinating them overnight or applying a dry rub before cooking. Experiment with ingredients such as garlic, herbs, spices, soy sauce, or red wine for a tantalizing taste sensation.

2. Compound Butter: Elevate your steak’s richness and flavor by topping it with a pat of compound butter infused with herbs, spices, or garlic. As the butter melts over the hot steak, it adds an extra layer of luxuriousness.

3. Resting Time: Always allow your cooked steaks to rest before slicing. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender, juicy meat.

Variations and Flavor Combinations

While a perfectly cooked, simple tenderloin steak is a delight in itself, you can push the boundaries of flavor by exploring unique variations and complementary ingredients. Consider these suggestions:

1. Blue Cheese Crust: Top your cooked steak with a decadent blue cheese crust for an indulgent twist. Mix crumbled blue cheese, breadcrumbs, and a touch of black pepper, then broil until bubbly and golden brown.

2. Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a rich balsamic glaze over your steak to add a tangy sweetness. Simmer balsamic vinegar with a touch of honey until it thickens, then generously pour it over the steak before serving.

3. Herb Butter: Create an herbaceous twist by incorporating finely chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary, into your compound butter. The aromatic butter will infuse the steak with delightful flavors.

Recipe: Juicy and Flavorful Tenderloin Steaks

Enough talking – it’s time to put your newfound knowledge into practice. Follow this delicious tenderloin steaks oven recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 tenderloin steaks, approximately 1-2 inches thick

• Kosher salt, to taste

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• Olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Pat dry the tenderloin steaks with paper towels and season generously with kosher salt and black pepper on both sides.

3. Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat on the stovetop. Add a drizzle of olive oil to the hot skillet.

4. Carefully place the seasoned steaks into the skillet and sear each side for approximately 2 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms.

5. Transfer the skillet with the steaks to the preheated oven and cook for 5-7 minutes for medium-rare, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C), adjusting the cooking time to desired doneness.

6. Remove the skillet from the oven and transfer the steaks to a cutting board. Let them rest for 5 minutes.

7. Slice the steaks against the grain into thick, juicy portions, and serve immediately.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have now become well-versed in the art of cooking tenderloin steaks in the oven. With this comprehensive guide, you possess the knowledge and techniques needed to prepare a succulent, flavorful steak that will leave your taste buds singing. Whether for a special occasion or a delightful weeknight treat, your perfectly cooked tenderloin steaks are sure to impress both friends and family alike. So go ahead, fire up your oven, and indulge in the ultimate steak experience!

Sources

FAQS On Tenderloin Steaks Oven Recipe

What Cut Of Meat Is Typically Used For Tenderloin Steaks?

Tenderloin steaks are typically made from the beef tenderloin, which is a long and narrow muscle located near the spine of the cow.

How Should I Prepare The Tenderloin Steaks Before Cooking?

It is recommended to let the steaks sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking, and then pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.

What Temperature Should The Oven Be Set At For Cooking Tenderloin Steaks?

The oven should be preheated to a high temperature, usually around 450 degrees Fahrenheit, to ensure a perfectly seared exterior and a juicy interior.

How Long Should I Cook The Tenderloin Steaks In The Oven?

The cooking time for tenderloin steaks will vary depending on the thickness of the steaks and the desired level of doneness. A general guideline is 6-8 minutes for medium-rare, 8-10 minutes for medium, and 10-12 minutes for well done.

How Can I Tell When The Tenderloin Steaks Are Done Cooking?

The best way to determine the doneness of the steaks is by using a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be 135-140 degrees Fahrenheit, for medium it should be 145-150 degrees Fahrenheit, and for well done it should reach 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Let the steaks rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.