[FULL GUIDE] How Long To Cook Medium Rare Steak In Oven

Cooking a medium rare steak to perfection in the oven requires precision and attention to detail. While many people often prefer grilling or pan-searing steaks, using an oven can yield equally delicious results. It’s crucial to understand the cut of the steak, its thickness, and the desired doneness to achieve the ideal level of juiciness and tenderness. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the intricacies of cooking a medium rare steak in the oven, including selecting the right cut, preparation, oven temperatures, and the cooking process.

Quick Answer: How Long To Cook Medium Rare Steak In The Oven

Cooking a medium rare steak in the oven depends on various factors like the cut of the steak, its thickness, and the desired level of doneness. A general guideline is to cook a medium rare steak for approximately 12-15 minutes in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for a 1-inch thick steak. However, these times may vary, and it’s essential to use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C) for a perfect medium rare.

Choosing Medium Rare Steak

Selecting the right cut of steak is crucial for achieving a perfect medium rare finish. While various cuts can be cooked in the oven, some are more suitable than others.

Best Cuts For Medium Rare Steak

1. Ribeye: This well-marbled cut is flavorful and tender, making it ideal for cooking in the oven.
2. Filet Mignon: Known for its tenderness, the filet mignon is a classic choice for a medium rare preparation in the oven.
3. Striploin or New York Strip: This cut offers a balance of tenderness and marbling, making it a popular choice for oven-cooked medium rare steaks.
4. Sirloin: While slightly leaner, sirloin can still be cooked to medium rare perfection in the oven with proper attention to cooking time and temperature.

Thickness Of The Steak

The thickness of the steak will greatly impact the cooking time in the oven. For a medium rare finish, aim for a steak that is at least 1 inch thick. Thicker cuts may require adjustments to the cooking time to ensure even heating and ideal doneness.

Preparing Medium Rare Steak

Properly preparing the steak before it goes into the oven is essential for achieving a succulent and flavorful result.

Seasoning

Before cooking, season the steak generously with salt and pepper. Other seasonings such as garlic powder, rosemary, or thyme can also be added to enhance the flavor. Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to ensure even cooking.

Searing

While not mandatory, a quick sear on the stovetop before transferring the steak to the oven can enhance the flavor and create a desirable crust. Sear the steak for 1-2 minutes per side in a hot, oven-safe skillet with a small amount of oil to lock in the juices.

Oven Temperature For Cooking Medium Rare Steak

The temperature of the oven plays a crucial role in achieving the desired level of doneness for a medium rare steak.

Recommended Oven Temperature

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) for a perfect medium rare finish. This temperature allows for a good balance of searing and gentle, even cooking to achieve a juicy interior with a slightly caramelized exterior.

 

Cooking a medium rare steak to perfection in the oven requires attention to detail, from selecting the right cut to determining the ideal thickness and preheating the oven to the right temperature. By following these guidelines and using a meat thermometer to gauge doneness, you can achieve a succulent and flavorful medium rare steak that is sure to impress. Whether it’s a ribeye, filet mignon, or striploin, mastering the art of cooking medium rare steak in the oven can elevate your culinary skills and delight your taste buds.

Oven Cooking Time For Cooking Medium Rare Steak

Cooking a perfectly medium rare steak can be a daunting task, especially if you are not an experienced chef. While grilling is often the go-to method for cooking steak, using the oven is a convenient alternative that can yield equally delicious results. With the right cooking techniques and temperature control, you can achieve a beautifully medium rare steak that is juicy and tender.

The cooking time for medium rare steak in the oven can vary depending on factors such as the thickness of the steak, the starting temperature of the steak, and the desired level of doneness. However, a general guideline is to cook a medium rare steak in the oven for about 10-15 minutes at a high temperature, followed by a resting period.

How to Cook Medium Rare Steak in the Oven

To cook a medium rare steak in the oven, follow these steps:

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to a high temperature. Ideally, you want to set it to 450°F (230°C) to ensure a quick sear and cooking process.
2. Prepare the steak: Remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help to ensure even cooking. Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, which can prevent a good sear.
3. Season the steak: Season the steak generously with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add other herbs and spices of your choice to enhance the flavor.
4. Sear the steak: Heat an oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan over high heat on the stovetop. Once the pan is hot, add a small amount of oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil or canola oil. Place the steak in the hot pan and sear each side for 2-3 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms. This initial sear will help to develop rich flavors and a caramelized texture.
5. Transfer to the oven: Once both sides of the steak are seared, transfer the skillet or pan to the preheated oven. If you are using an oven-safe meat thermometer, insert it into the thickest part of the steak at this stage.
6. Cook to desired doneness: Cook the steak in the oven for approximately 10-15 minutes for medium rare. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the steak. To ensure the perfect medium rare doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for a temperature of around 130°F (55°C).
7. Rest the steak: Once the steak reaches the desired doneness, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board or plate. Allow the steak to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. Resting the steak allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a more flavorful and tender result.
8. Slice and serve: After resting, slice the steak against the grain to ensure tenderness. Serve it immediately and enjoy your perfectly cooked medium rare steak.

Cooking Techniques

While the above method provides a general guideline for cooking medium rare steak in the oven, there are a few additional techniques that can help you achieve optimal results:

1. Reverse sear method: This technique involves cooking the steak at a low temperature in the oven first and then searing it in a hot skillet or grill. To use this method, preheat your oven to a low temperature (around 250°F or 120°C), cook the steak until it reaches an internal temperature of 10-15 degrees below the desired doneness, and then finish it with a quick sear on the stovetop. This method ensures a more even and gradual cooking process, resulting in a uniformly cooked and tender steak.
2. Broiling: If you prefer a quick and convenient cooking method, you can use the broil function in your oven. To broil a medium rare steak, preheat the broiler and place the steak on a broiler pan or a baking sheet lined with a wire rack. Position the steak about 4-6 inches away from the broiler element. Cook for about 4-6 minutes per side, or until the desired doneness is reached.
3. Pan-roasting: This method combines stovetop searing with oven finishing to achieve a restaurant-style steak. Start by searing the steak in a hot skillet over high heat, then transfer the skillet to the oven to finish cooking. This technique ensures a flavorful crust while allowing for gentle and controlled cooking in the oven.

Do I Need to Use Foil?

Using foil is not necessary when cooking medium rare steak in the oven. The purpose of using foil when cooking steak is to insulate the meat and prevent excess moisture loss. However, since the oven cooking method involves searing the steak first, the initial caramelization will help lock in the juices without the need for foil. Additionally, not using foil allows for better browning of the steak, which contributes to a more flavorful and visually appealing result.

Cooking a medium rare steak in the oven can yield exceptional results when done correctly. By following the steps and techniques outlined in this article, you can achieve a juicy, tender, and flavorful steak that is cooked to perfection. Remember to experiment with cooking times and temperatures based on your preferences and the thickness of the steak. With practice and attention to detail, you can become an expert at cooking medium rare steak in the oven. So, go ahead and impress your friends and family with a deliciously cooked medium rare steak right from your oven!

Cooking Times For Frozen Medium Rare Steak

Cooking steak to a perfect medium rare can be a daunting task, especially when using an oven. Achieving that juicy, pink center with a beautifully seared crust requires precise cooking times and temperatures.

If you have a frozen steak and need to cook it to a perfect medium rare in the oven, you first need to thaw it. Thawing is essential to ensure even cooking and prevent overcooking or undercooking. There are two recommended methods for thawing a frozen steak: refrigerator thawing and cold water thawing.

Refrigerator Thawing: This is the recommended method for thawing a frozen steak as it allows for a gradual and even thawing process. Simply place the frozen steak on a plate and transfer it to the refrigerator. The steak should thaw within 24 to 48 hours, depending on its size.

Cold Water Thawing: If you’re short on time, you can use the cold water thawing method. Fill a large bowl with cold water and submerge the frozen steak in it. Change the water every 30 minutes to ensure it stays cold. Thawing time will vary depending on the steak’s size, but it generally takes 30 minutes to an hour per pound.

Once the steak is thawed, it’s time to preheat the oven and get ready to cook it to medium rare perfection.

Adjusting Oven Temperature For Cooking Medium Rare Steak

To cook a medium rare steak in the oven, you’ll need to set your oven temperature to around 375°F (190°C). This allows for a gentle and consistent heat, ensuring that the steak cooks evenly while maintaining its juiciness.

Some experts recommend starting with a higher temperature, such as 425°F (220°C), initially to sear the steak and then lowering the temperature to finish cooking. However, this can result in a less even cook and potentially overcooking the steak before it reaches medium rare.

It’s important to note that oven temperatures can vary, so using an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy is highly recommended. Preheating the oven for at least 10-15 minutes before placing the steak inside is also essential to ensure consistent cooking.

Adjusting Oven Cook Times For Cooking Medium Rare Steak

The cooking time for a medium rare steak in the oven depends on various factors, including the thickness of the steak and how well-done you prefer the final result. As a general guideline, you can use the following cook times as a starting point:

For a 1-inch thick steak:

• Rare (125-130°F or 51-54°C): 4-5 minutes.
• Medium Rare (130-135°F or 54-57°C): 5-6 minutes.
• Medium (135-145°F or 57-63°C): 6-7 minutes.
• Well Done (150°F or 66°C and above): 8+ minutes.

For a 1.5-inch thick steak:

• Rare (125-130°F or 51-54°C): 6-7 minutes.
• Medium Rare (130-135°F or 54-57°C): 7-8 minutes.
• Medium (135-145°F or 57-63°C): 8-9 minutes.
• Well Done (150°F or 66°C and above): 10+ minutes.

For a 2-inch thick steak:

• Rare (125-130°F or 51-54°C): 9-10 minutes.
• Medium Rare (130-135°F or 54-57°C): 10-12 minutes.
• Medium (135-145°F or 57-63°C): 12-14 minutes.
• Well Done (150°F or 66°C and above): 15+ minutes.

These cook times are approximate and can vary depending on your oven, the starting temperature of the steak, and personal preference. It’s essential to use a meat thermometer to accurately determine the internal temperature of the steak.

To use a meat thermometer, insert it horizontally into the thickest part of the steak, making sure the tip reaches the center without touching the bone or pan. For medium rare, look for an internal temperature of around 130-135°F (54-57°C). Keep in mind that the steak’s temperature will rise a few degrees as it rests before serving.

Undercooking

While cooking a steak to medium rare is a popular choice due to its tenderness and optimal flavor, it’s important to note that undercooking steak can pose health risks. Raw or undercooked steak can harbor harmful bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella.

To ensure your steak is safe to eat while still achieving that luscious medium rare center, it’s essential to follow proper cooking guidelines. The USDA recommends cooking steak to a minimum internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and allowing it to rest for at least three minutes before slicing or consuming. This temperature will result in a medium-well to well-done steak, so adjust your desired doneness accordingly.

If you prefer a more rare steak, the USDA suggests cooking to an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C) and allowing a longer resting time of at least five minutes. This resting period allows the heat to distribute within the steak, ensuring any potential harmful bacteria are destroyed.

Cooking a medium rare steak in the oven requires precise control over both temperature and cooking times. Thawing the steak properly before cooking is crucial for even cooking and maintaining the desired level of doneness. Adjusting the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and following suggested cook times based on the thickness of the steak will help achieve a medium rare result.

Remember to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak and allow it to rest before serving. Undercooking steak can be risky due to the potential presence of harmful bacteria, so ensure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) if you prefer a medium well to well-done steak.

By following these guidelines and paying attention to your steak's doneness, you'll be able to confidently cook a mouthwatering medium rare steak in the oven that will impress even the most discerning steak lover.

Overcooking

If you’re wondering how to cook the perfect medium-rare steak in the oven, then you’re in the right place. Cooking steak in the oven is a great way to get a perfectly cooked steak with a crispy crust. However, it’s important to know exactly how long to cook a medium-rare steak in the oven in order to achieve the desired result.

One of the most common mistakes when cooking a steak in the oven is overcooking it. Overcooking a steak can result in a tough, chewy, and dry piece of meat. Ideally, you want to cook your steak to a medium-rare temperature, which is around 130-135°F (54-57°C) in the center.

If you overcook your steak, it will continue to cook even after you remove it from the oven, so it’s important to take it out a bit earlier than you think is necessary. Keep in mind that the thickness and size of your steak will also play a role in how long it takes to cook, so it’s important to monitor the temperature and not rely solely on time.

When Things Go Wrong

If things don’t go as planned and you accidentally overcook your steak, there are a few things you can do to salvage it. First, you can try slicing it thinly to make it easier to chew. You can also try marinating it in a flavorful sauce to add some moisture back into the meat.

Another option is to use the overcooked steak for a steak sandwich or salad to mask the texture and add complementary flavors. However, the best way to avoid this is to pay close attention to the cooking process and take your steak out of the oven at the right time.

Tips For Cooking Medium-Rare Steak In Oven

Here are some tips to help you achieve a perfectly cooked medium-rare steak in the oven:

1. Choose The Best Cut Of Meat

The quality of meat you choose will have a big impact on the final result. Look for a good-quality steak with nice marbling that is at least 1 inch thick. A ribeye or strip steak is a good choice for oven-cooking.

2. Let Your Steak Come To Room Temperature

Take your steak out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This will help it cook more evenly. It’s also a good time to season it with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you like.

3. Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

4. Sear Your Steak

In a cast-iron skillet, heat up some oil over high heat. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes on each side until it gets a brown crust.

5. Finish Cooking In The Oven

Place the skillet in the preheated oven and cook for another 6-8 minutes to achieve a medium-rare steak. The time will depend on the thickness of your steak, so use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.

6. Rest Your Steak

Take your steak out of the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and juicy.

7. Slice And Serve

Finally, slice your steak against the grain and serve it with your favorite sides and sauces.

Conclusion

Cooking the perfect medium-rare steak in the oven requires some attention to detail, but with these tips and tricks, you can achieve delicious results every time. Remember to choose a good-quality cut of meat, let it come to room temperature, sear it in a cast-iron skillet, finish cooking in the oven, and let it rest before slicing and serving. By following these steps, you’ll have a juicy, flavorful steak that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

FAQS

How Long Do I Cook A Medium Rare Steak In The Oven?

The cooking time for a medium rare steak in the oven varies depending on the thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness. Typically, it takes about 15-20 minutes for a 1 inch thick steak to reach medium rare.

What Temperature Should I Set My Oven To For Cooking A Medium Rare Steak?

To achieve a perfect medium rare steak, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) before placing the steak inside.

Do I Need To Marinate The Steak Before Cooking It In The Oven?

While marinating adds additional flavor to the steak, it is not required for cooking a medium rare steak in the oven. Simply season the steak with salt and pepper or any other preferred seasoning before cooking.

How Can I Ensure That My Steak Is Cooked To Medium Rare In The Oven?

The most accurate way to determine the doneness of a steak is by using a meat thermometer. For a medium rare steak, the internal temperature should read 130-135°F (54-57°C).

Should I Flip The Steak While Cooking It In The Oven?

Yes, it is recommended to flip the steak halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking. For a medium rare steak, flip the steak after 7-10 minutes of cooking.