Are you craving a mouthwatering steak but don’t have access to an outdoor grill? Don’t worry! With the right techniques, you can achieve a perfectly cooked steak right in your own kitchen. In this article, we will guide you through the process of cooking a tender and flavorful steak indoors. Plus, we’ll share 17 of our favorite steak recipes to add a variety of flavors to your dinner table.
The Perfect Oven-Cooked Steak
Preparing a steak in the oven might seem unconventional, but it can yield fantastic results. Here’s how:
Prep: 10 minutes | Total time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 strip loin steaks, 10-12 oz each, 1.5 inches thick
- 2 tbsp neutral vegetable oil (e.g., corn oil)
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- Freshly ground pepper
- Optional: a pat of butter
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) and place a rack over a baking sheet.
- Rub the steaks with 1 tbsp of oil and season them with salt and pepper.
- Roast the steaks in the center of the oven for approximately 20 minutes for a medium-rare doneness.
- Remove the steaks from the oven.
- In a medium skillet, heat the remaining oil over high heat.
- Add the steaks to the hot skillet and sear them until they develop a deep brown and crisp exterior, about 3 minutes per side.
- Hold the steaks on their sides and cook the edges for an additional 1 minute per side.
- Transfer the steaks to the rack and let them rest for 10 minutes.
- If desired, top the steaks with a pat of butter.
- Finally, slice your steak and savor every juicy bite.
Now that you know how to cook a steak to perfection, let’s delve into the secrets of achieving that enticing browned crust.
The Art of Browning Meat
Whether you’re cooking a steak or preparing minced beef, achieving the perfect sear is essential to enhance the flavor. Follow these tips for a beautifully browned steak:
- Preheat the pan: Wait until you hear a sizzling sound when adding your meat to the pan. If you don’t, it means the pan isn’t hot enough.
- Avoid cold meat in a hot pan: Let your steak sit at room temperature for at least 15 to 30 minutes before cooking. Cold meat will cook unevenly, with an overcooked exterior and undercooked interior.
- Pat your steak dry: Excess moisture prevents proper browning. Use a paper towel or clean kitchen towel to pat your meat dry before seasoning and adding it to the pan.
- Season well: Salt not only enhances the flavor but also helps create a caramelized crust. Pat your steak dry, rub it with oil, season generously with salt and pepper, and then start cooking.
- Use high heat: Don’t be afraid to crank up the heat. A hot pan is crucial for achieving a perfect sear and caramelization. Avoid cooking the meat at a low temperature, which may result in a rubbery texture.
- Choose a pan that retains heat well: Stainless steel and cast-iron pans are excellent choices as they distribute heat evenly and retain high temperatures. Cast iron, when properly seasoned, even develops a non-stick surface.
Now that you’re equipped with the knowledge of cooking a steak indoors and browning meat to perfection, let’s explore the essential tools you’ll need for the best results.
Essential Tools for Indoor Steak Cooking
To make your indoor steak-cooking experience even better, here are some must-have tools:
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Mazola Corn Oil: This neutral vegetable oil has a high smoke point, making it perfect for searing steaks in a hot pan. Start with hot oil to achieve a faster sear and finish with melted butter for added flavor.
Hook’d Up Bar and Grill -
Lodge 10-in. Cast-Iron Skillet: For an affordable introduction to cast iron, this skillet is a fantastic choice. It heats up evenly, provides a great sear, and doesn’t break the bank.
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Thermopro Digital Meat Thermometer: To ensure your steak is cooked to perfection, use a reliable meat thermometer like this one. It will help you achieve your desired level of doneness, whether it’s medium-rare or well-done.
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All-Clad Flexible Stainless Steel Slotted Turner: This versatile spatula is excellent for flipping steaks without ruining the perfectly browned crust. Its stainless steel construction ensures durability and easy cleaning.
Now that you’re ready to cook the perfect steak indoors and have the necessary tools at hand, it’s time to explore our favorite steak recipes!
Chatelaine’s Favorite Steak Recipes
- Classic Steak with Spicy Thai Sauce: Sometimes, all you need is a high-quality steak and a drizzle of flavorful green sauce. This recipe combines classic simplicity with a spicy twist.
We hope this guide has inspired you to cook a delicious steak right in your own kitchen. Remember, with the right techniques and tools, you can achieve a perfect steak every time. Enjoy exploring our favorite steak recipes and savoring the incredible flavors that await you!