Cooking flank steak in the oven is a simple and effective way to achieve a flavorful and tender result. Flank steak is a lean cut of beef that is known for its bold flavor and relatively low cost. When cooked properly, flank steak can be just as delicious as more expensive cuts of beef.
One of the benefits of cooking flank steak in the oven is that it is a relatively hands-off method. Once you have seasoned the steak and placed it in the oven, you can largely ignore it until it is cooked to your desired doneness. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or when you are entertaining guests.
Another benefit of cooking flank steak in the oven is that it allows you to achieve a more even cook than you would be able to achieve on the stovetop. This is because the oven’s heat circulates around the steak, ensuring that it is cooked evenly on all sides.
If you are looking for a simple and delicious way to cook flank steak, cooking it in the oven is a great option. With just a few simple steps, you can achieve a flavorful and tender steak that will be sure to impress your family and friends.
How to Cook Flank Steak in Oven
Cooking flank steak in the oven is a simple and effective way to achieve a flavorful and tender result. There are nine key aspects to consider when cooking flank steak in the oven:
- Preheat the oven: This helps to ensure that the steak cooks evenly.
- Season the steak: This helps to enhance the flavor of the steak.
- Sear the steak: This helps to create a flavorful crust on the steak.
- Roast the steak: This helps to cook the steak to the desired doneness.
- Rest the steak: This helps to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more tender and juicy steak.
- Slice the steak: This helps to ensure that the steak is easy to eat.
- Serve the steak: This is the final step in the cooking process, and it is important to serve the steak immediately so that it can be enjoyed at its best.
By following these nine key aspects, you can cook a flank steak in the oven that is flavorful, tender, and juicy. Here are some additional tips for cooking flank steak in the oven:
- Use a sharp knife to slice the steak against the grain. This will help to make the steak more tender.
- Let the steak rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This will help to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more tender and juicy steak.
- Serve the steak with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a green salad.
Preheat the oven
When cooking flank steak in the oven, it is important to preheat the oven to the correct temperature before placing the steak in the oven. This helps to ensure that the steak cooks evenly throughout. If the oven is not preheated, the steak may not cook evenly, resulting in a steak that is overcooked on the outside and undercooked on the inside.
The temperature at which you preheat the oven will depend on the thickness of the steak. For a 1-inch thick steak, preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. For a 1 1/2-inch thick steak, preheat the oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
Once the oven is preheated, place the steak on a baking sheet and cook for the desired amount of time. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness.
By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your flank steak cooks evenly and to the desired level of doneness.
Season the steak
Seasoning the steak is an important step in cooking flank steak in the oven, as it helps to enhance the flavor of the steak and make it more enjoyable to eat. There are many different ways to season a steak, but some of the most common methods include:
- Dry rubs: A dry rub is a mixture of spices and herbs that is rubbed onto the surface of the steak. Dry rubs are a great way to add flavor to the steak without adding any additional moisture.
- Marinades: A marinade is a liquid that the steak is soaked in for a period of time. Marinades help to tenderize the steak and add flavor.
- Salt and pepper: Salt and pepper are two of the most basic seasonings that can be used on a steak. Salt helps to enhance the flavor of the steak, while pepper adds a bit of spice.
Once the steak has been seasoned, it is important to let it rest for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will allow the seasonings to penetrate the steak and develop their full flavor.
Seasoning the steak is an important step in cooking flank steak in the oven, as it helps to enhance the flavor of the steak and make it more enjoyable to eat. By following the tips above, you can season your steak perfectly every time.
Sear the steak
Searing the steak is an important step in cooking flank steak in the oven, as it helps to create a flavorful crust on the steak. This crust is what gives the steak its characteristic smoky flavor and helps to lock in the juices. Without searing the steak, the steak would be bland and dry.
To sear the steak, heat a large skillet over high heat. Add the steak to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until a golden brown crust forms. Once the steak is seared, remove it from the skillet and place it on a baking sheet.
Searing the steak is a simple but important step in cooking flank steak in the oven. By following the steps above, you can create a flavorful and juicy steak that your family and friends will love.
Roast the steak
Roasting the steak is an important step in cooking flank steak in the oven, as it helps to cook the steak to the desired doneness. The desired doneness of a steak is a matter of personal preference, but there are some general guidelines that can be followed.
For a rare steak, roast the steak for 10-12 minutes per pound. For a medium-rare steak, roast the steak for 12-14 minutes per pound. For a medium steak, roast the steak for 14-16 minutes per pound. For a medium-well steak, roast the steak for 16-18 minutes per pound. For a well-done steak, roast the steak for 18-20 minutes per pound.
Once the steak has been roasted to the desired doneness, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more tender and juicy steak.
Roasting the steak is an important step in cooking flank steak in the oven, as it helps to cook the steak to the desired doneness. By following the guidelines above, you can achieve a perfectly cooked steak every time.
Rest the steak
Resting the steak is an important step in cooking flank steak in the oven, as it helps to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more tender and juicy steak. When steak is cooked, the juices are pushed to the center of the steak. If the steak is cut immediately after cooking, the juices will run out and the steak will be dry. However, if the steak is allowed to rest for a few minutes, the juices will have time to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more tender and juicy steak.
The amount of time that the steak should rest will depend on the thickness of the steak. For a 1-inch thick steak, 10 minutes of resting time is sufficient. For a 1 1/2-inch thick steak, 15 minutes of resting time is recommended.
Resting the steak is a simple but important step in cooking flank steak in the oven. By following this step, you can ensure that your steak is tender and juicy.
Slice the steak
Slicing the steak is an important step in cooking flank steak in the oven, as it helps to ensure that the steak is easy to eat. Flank steak is a relatively tough cut of meat, so slicing it against the grain helps to break down the tough fibers and make the steak more tender and easier to chew.
- Presentation: Slicing the steak thinly and evenly helps to create a more visually appealing dish. Thinly sliced steak is also easier to arrange on a plate and makes it easier to eat.
- Flavor: Slicing the steak against the grain helps to release the steak’s natural flavors. When the steak is cut against the grain, the muscle fibers are broken down, which allows the steak’s juices to flow out more easily.
- Texture: Slicing the steak against the grain helps to create a more tender and juicy steak. When the steak is cut against the grain, the muscle fibers are broken down, which makes the steak more tender and easier to chew.
- Convenience: Slicing the steak thinly makes it easier to eat, especially when eating with a fork and knife. Thinly sliced steak is also easier to share with others.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your flank steak is sliced perfectly every time. This will help you to create a delicious and enjoyable meal that your family and friends will love.
Serve the steak
Serving the steak is the final step in the cooking process, and it is important to do so immediately so that the steak can be enjoyed at its best. There are a few reasons why it is important to serve the steak immediately.
- The steak will be more tender. When steak is cooked, the muscle fibers contract and become tough. However, if the steak is allowed to rest for a few minutes before serving, the muscle fibers will relax and the steak will become more tender.
- The steak will be more juicy. When steak is cooked, the juices are pushed to the center of the steak. If the steak is allowed to rest for a few minutes before serving, the juices will have time to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more juicy steak.
- The steak will have a better flavor. When steak is cooked, the flavors of the steak are released. If the steak is allowed to rest for a few minutes before serving, the flavors will have time to develop and become more intense.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your steak is served at its best. This will help you to create a delicious and enjoyable meal that your family and friends will love.
Use a sharp knife to slice the steak against the grain. This will help to make the steak more tender.
When cooking flank steak in the oven, it is important to use a sharp knife to slice the steak against the grain. This will help to make the steak more tender and easier to chew. Flank steak is a relatively tough cut of meat, so slicing it against the grain helps to break down the tough fibers and make the steak more enjoyable to eat.
To slice the steak against the grain, simply hold the knife perpendicular to the grain of the meat and slice downward. You can identify the grain of the meat by looking at the direction of the muscle fibers. Once you have sliced the steak against the grain, you can cook it in the oven using your preferred method.
Slicing the steak against the grain is a simple but important step that can make a big difference in the tenderness of your flank steak. By following this tip, you can ensure that your steak is cooked to perfection and enjoyed by all.
Let the steak rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This will help to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more tender and juicy steak.
Resting the steak before slicing and serving is an essential step in the cooking process, as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and juicy steak. When steak is cooked, the muscle fibers contract and the juices are pushed to the center of the steak. If the steak is sliced immediately after cooking, the juices will run out and the steak will be dry and tough.
- Tenderness: Resting the steak allows the muscle fibers to relax and the juices to redistribute, which makes the steak more tender.
- Juiciness: Resting the steak allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, which makes the steak more juicy.
- Flavor: Resting the steak allows the flavors to develop and become more intense.
The amount of time that you rest the steak will depend on the thickness of the steak. For a 1-inch thick steak, 10 minutes of resting time is sufficient. For a thicker steak, you may want to rest it for 15-20 minutes.
Resting the steak is a simple but important step in the cooking process that can make a big difference in the quality of your steak. By following this tip, you can ensure that your steak is juicy, tender, and flavorful.
Serve the steak with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a green salad.
When cooking flank steak in the oven, it is important to consider what sides to serve with it. The right sides can help to enhance the flavor of the steak and make it a more satisfying meal. Some popular side dishes for flank steak include:
- Roasted vegetables: Roasted vegetables are a great way to add some color and flavor to your plate. They are also a healthy option, as they are packed with vitamins and minerals. Some good vegetables to roast with flank steak include broccoli, carrots, potatoes, and onions.
- Mashed potatoes: Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that goes well with just about any type of meat. They are creamy and comforting, and they can be easily flavored with herbs, spices, or cheese.
- Green salad: A green salad is a light and refreshing side dish that can help to balance out the richness of the steak. It is also a good way to add some extra vegetables to your meal.
These are just a few ideas for side dishes that you can serve with flank steak. Ultimately, the best side dishes are the ones that you enjoy the most. So experiment with different sides until you find the ones that you like best.
FAQs about How to Cook Flank Steak in Oven
Cooking flank steak in the oven is a simple and delicious way to prepare this flavorful cut of beef. However, there are a few common questions that people have about this cooking method. Here are the answers to six of the most frequently asked questions about how to cook flank steak in the oven:
Question 1: What is the best way to season flank steak before cooking it in the oven?
Answer:There are many different ways to season flank steak, but some of the most popular options include using a dry rub, a marinade, or a simple combination of salt and pepper. For a dry rub, you can combine spices such as paprika, cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder. For a marinade, you can use a combination of olive oil, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. No matter which method you choose, be sure to let the steak rest for at least 30 minutes before cooking it, so that the flavors have time to penetrate the meat.
Question 2: What is the best temperature to cook flank steak in the oven?
Answer:The best temperature to cook flank steak in the oven is 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This high temperature will help to sear the steak and lock in its juices, resulting in a tender and flavorful steak.
Question 3: How long should I cook flank steak in the oven?
Answer:The cooking time for flank steak in the oven will vary depending on the thickness of the steak. For a 1-inch thick steak, cook for 10-12 minutes per side. For a 1 1/2-inch thick steak, cook for 12-14 minutes per side.
Question 4: Should I rest the steak before slicing and serving it?
Answer:Yes, it is important to rest the steak for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving it. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more tender and juicy steak.
Question 5: What are some good side dishes to serve with flank steak?
Answer:There are many different side dishes that can be served with flank steak, but some of the most popular options include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and green salad.
Question 6: Can I cook flank steak in the oven without searing it first?
Answer:Yes, you can cook flank steak in the oven without searing it first. However, searing the steak first will help to create a flavorful crust and lock in the juices. If you choose not to sear the steak, be sure to cook it at a lower temperature (375 degrees Fahrenheit) for a longer period of time (15-18 minutes per side for a 1-inch thick steak).
By following these tips, you can cook a delicious and flavorful flank steak in the oven. Experiment with different seasonings and side dishes to find the combination that you enjoy the most.
Next Article Section: Grilling Flank Steak: Tips and Techniques
Tips for Cooking Flank Steak in the Oven
Cooking flank steak in the oven is a simple and delicious way to prepare this flavorful cut of beef. Here are five tips to help you achieve the best results:
Tip 1: Choose a high-quality steak. The quality of the steak will have a significant impact on the final dish. Look for a steak that is well-marbled and has a deep red color. Avoid steaks that are thin or have a lot of connective tissue.
Tip 2: Marinate the steak. Marinating the steak in a flavorful marinade will help to tenderize the meat and enhance the flavor. There are many different marinade recipes available, but a simple combination of olive oil, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce is always a good choice.
Tip 3: Season the steak generously. Before cooking the steak, be sure to season it generously with salt and pepper. This will help to enhance the flavor of the meat and create a delicious crust.
Tip 4: Cook the steak at a high temperature. Flank steak should be cooked at a high temperature in order to achieve a flavorful crust and a tender interior. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and cook the steak for 10-12 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Tip 5: Let the steak rest before slicing and serving. Once the steak is cooked, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and juicy steak.
By following these tips, you can cook a delicious and flavorful flank steak in the oven. Experiment with different marinades and seasonings to find the combination that you enjoy the most.
Conclusion
Cooking flank steak in the oven is a simple and delicious way to prepare this flavorful cut of beef. By following the tips above, you can achieve a tender and juicy steak that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Conclusion
Cooking flank steak in the oven is a simple and delicious way to prepare this flavorful cut of beef. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this article, you can achieve a tender and juicy steak that is sure to impress your family and friends.
When cooking flank steak in the oven, it is important to choose a high-quality steak, marinate the steak, season the steak generously, cook the steak at a high temperature, and let the steak rest before slicing and serving. By following these steps, you can ensure that your steak is cooked to perfection and enjoyed by all.
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