How to cook fillet steak in the oven
If you are a steak lover, then knowing how to cook the perfect fillet steak in the oven is a skill you’ll want to master. Oven-cooked fillet steak is a great alternative to grilling or pan-searing, and it can still give you that juicy and tender texture that you crave.
While cooking fillet steak might seem intimidating, with the right technique and a few tips, you can easily achieve restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen. So, whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just satisfying your cravings, read on to learn how to cook a delicious fillet steak in the oven.
To start, it’s important to select a good cut of fillet steak. Look for a piece that is well-marbled with fat, as this will ensure a richer flavor and more tender end result. Additionally, make sure the steak is at room temperature before cooking, as this will help it cook more evenly.
Best Method: Cooking Fillet Steak in the Oven
Preparation
Before you begin cooking fillet steak in the oven, it’s important to properly prepare the meat. Start by taking the fillet steak out of the refrigerator and allowing it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will ensure even cooking throughout the steak.
While the steak is coming to room temperature, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will give you a nice medium-rare steak. If you prefer your steak cooked differently, adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Cooking Process
To cook fillet steak in the oven, start by preheating a skillet or frying pan on medium-high heat. Season the steak with salt and pepper or your favorite steak seasoning. Then, sear the steak on both sides for about 2 minutes per side. This will give it a nice brown crust.
Once the steak is seared, transfer it to a baking dish. Cook it in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes for medium-rare. If you prefer it cooked more or less, adjust the cooking time accordingly. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak; it should read 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
While the steak is cooking, consider basting it with some butter or marinating it with your favorite flavors to enhance the taste. This step is optional, but it adds an extra layer of flavor to the steak.
After the steak is done cooking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more tender and flavorful piece of meat.
Serving
Once the fillet steak has rested, slice it against the grain into thin slices. This ensures a tender bite. Serve the steak with your favorite side dish, such as roasted potatoes or a fresh salad. For an extra touch, drizzle some steak sauce or your preferred condiment over the sliced fillet steak.
Ingredients: | Instructions: |
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– Fillet steak | 1. Allow the steak to come to room temperature for 30 minutes. 2. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). 3. Sear the steak on both sides in a skillet or frying pan. 4. Transfer the steak to a baking dish and cook in the oven for 10-15 minutes. 5. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should read 135°F (57°C). 6. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes. 7. Slice against the grain and serve. |
Preparing the Steak
Before cooking the fillet steak in the oven, it is important to properly prepare the meat. Follow these simple steps:
1. Take the fillet steak out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow it to come to room temperature.
2. Preheat the oven to the desired temperature. For a medium-rare steak, set the oven to 425°F (220°C).
3. While the oven is preheating, season the fillet steak with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add any other desired seasonings or marinades at this point.
4. Heat a large oven-safe skillet or frying pan on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil to the pan and allow it to get hot.
5. Carefully place the seasoned steak into the hot skillet and sear it for about 2-3 minutes on each side until it gets a brown crust.
6. Once the steak is seared, transfer the oven-safe skillet directly into the preheated oven. It is recommended to use oven mitts or a pot holder to handle the hot skillet.
7. Let the fillet steak cook in the oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check for the internal temperature.
8. Once cooked to your liking, remove the fillet steak from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
Now that the fillet steak is perfectly cooked, you can serve it as it is or with your favourite side dishes for a delicious and tender meal!
Seasoning and Marinating
Seasoning and marinating your fillet steak before cooking it in the oven can greatly enhance its flavor and tenderness. Here are some tips to help you achieve delicious results:
1. Seasoning:
Before you start cooking, make sure to season your steak generously with salt and black pepper. The salt will not only enhance the taste, but also help tenderize the meat. It’s best to use coarse sea salt or kosher salt for an even distribution.
Pro Tip: If you prefer, you can also add some additional dried herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to enhance the flavor even more. Sprinkle them over your steak before seasoning with salt and pepper.
2. Marinating:
If you want to take the flavor to the next level, consider marinating your fillet steak before cooking. While fillet steak is already tender and flavorsome, marinating can elevate it further. There are various marinade options you can try:
Classic Marinade: In a shallow dish, combine olive oil, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, a squeeze of lemon juice, and your choice of herbs and spices. Place the steak in the dish, turning it a few times to coat both sides evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
Red Wine Marinade: In a bowl, combine red wine, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, shallots, and a sprinkle of thyme. Place the fillet steak in a ziplock bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag tightly and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
Note: Always make sure to pat dry the marinated steak before cooking to ensure proper browning and prevent excess moisture.
By seasoning and marinating your fillet steak, you’ll add a depth of flavor that will truly elevate your dining experience. Enjoy!
Cooking and Serving Tips
Here are some helpful tips for cooking and serving fillet steak in the oven:
1. Choose the Right Cut: Look for a good quality fillet steak that is evenly shaped and marbled with fat. This will help to ensure a tender and juicy result.
2. Bring the Steak to Room Temperature: Take the steak out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about half an hour before cooking. This will help to ensure that the steak cooks evenly.
3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to a high temperature, around 425°F (220°C), to ensure a good sear on the steak.
4. Season Generously: Rub the steak with salt and pepper, or your favorite steak seasoning, just before cooking to bring out its natural flavor.
5. Use an Ovenproof Skillet: Use an ovenproof skillet, such as cast iron or stainless steel, to sear the steak on the stovetop and finish it in the oven. This will help to create a delicious crust on the steak.
6. Sear the Steak: Heat the skillet on high heat and sear the steak for 2-3 minutes on each side, until browned. This will help to lock in the juices and create a flavorful crust.
7. Finish in the Oven: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook the steak for about 6-8 minutes for medium-rare or until the desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature – it should read 135-140°F (57-60°C) for medium-rare.
8. Let it Rest: Once cooked, remove the steak from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a tender and juicy steak.
9. Slice Against the Grain: Before serving, slice the steak against the grain. This will help to ensure that each bite is tender and easy to chew.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the fillet steak with your favorite sides, such as roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your homemade oven-cooked fillet steak!