How Long to Cook Steak in Oven at 400: A Clear Guide to Perfectly Cooked Steak
Table of Contents
Preparing the Steak
When it comes to cooking steak in the oven at 400 degrees, the preparation of the steak is just as important as the cooking time. Here are a few key steps to ensure your steak is prepared properly:
Choosing the Right Cut
The first step in preparing a steak is choosing the right cut. Different cuts of steak require different cooking times and methods. Some popular cuts of steak include filet mignon, flank, skirt, porterhouse, T-bone, sirloin, and hanger. Each of these cuts has its own unique characteristics and flavor profile. Choose a cut that best fits your taste preferences and cooking style.
Bringing the Steak to Room Temperature
Before cooking the steak, it’s important to bring it to room temperature. This helps the steak cook more evenly and results in a more tender and juicy steak. Simply take the steak out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking.
Seasoning the Steak
Seasoning the steak is an important step in preparing it for cooking. You can use a simple combination of salt and black pepper, or you can use a steak seasoning blend. Be sure to season both sides of the steak evenly and generously. Use kosher salt for a more flavorful seasoning.
Here’s a table showing the recommended seasoning amounts for different cuts of steak:
| Cut of Steak | Salt (per side) | Black Pepper (per side) |
|---|---|---|
| Filet Mignon | 1/4 tsp | 1/8 tsp |
| Flank | 1/2 tsp | 1/4 tsp |
| Skirt | 1/2 tsp | 1/4 tsp |
| Porterhouse | 1/2 tsp | 1/4 tsp |
| T-Bone | 1/2 tsp | 1/4 tsp |
| Sirloin | 1/2 tsp | 1/4 tsp |
| Hanger | 1/2 tsp | 1/4 tsp |
Once you’ve seasoned the steak, you’re ready to cook it in the oven at 400 degrees.
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Cooking the Steak
When it comes to cooking steak in the oven, there are a few key steps to ensure a delicious and perfectly cooked result. In this section, I will guide you through the process of cooking steak in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Preheating the Oven
Before you start cooking, it’s important to preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that the oven is at the correct temperature when you put the steak in, allowing it to cook evenly and thoroughly.
Searing the Steak
Searing the steak before cooking it in the oven can help to lock in flavor and create a delicious crust. To sear the steak, heat a cast-iron skillet or other oven-safe skillet over high heat. Add a small amount of oil to the skillet and let it heat up. Once the skillet is hot, add the steak and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, until a brown crust forms.
Finishing in the Oven
Once the steak is seared, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Cook the steak for 6-10 minutes, depending on the desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For a medium-rare steak, the internal temperature should be 135 degrees Fahrenheit. For a medium steak, the internal temperature should be 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
Here’s a quick summary of the cooking time for steak in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit:
| Desired Doneness | Cooking Time |
|---|---|
| Medium-rare | 6-8 minutes |
| Medium | 8-10 minutes |
Remember to let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a tender and juicy steak.
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Resting and Serving the Steak
Resting the Steak
Once the steak has finished cooking, it is important to let it rest before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and flavorful. I recommend resting the steak for about 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the cut.
To rest the steak, simply remove it from the oven and place it on a cutting board. Cover it loosely with foil to keep it warm. During this time, resist the urge to cut into the steak or poke it with a fork, as this will release the juices and make the meat dry.
Slicing the Steak
When it comes to slicing the steak, it is important to cut against the grain. This means cutting perpendicular to the lines of muscle fibers, which will result in more tender pieces of meat. I recommend using a sharp knife and slicing the steak into 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick pieces.
Serving Suggestions
Now that your steak is cooked and sliced, it’s time to serve it up! Here are some serving suggestions to make your meal even more delicious:
- Add a pat of butter on top of the steak while it’s still hot to add extra richness and flavor.
- Serve the steak with a side of mashed potatoes, which will complement the meat’s savory flavors.
- For a rare steak, cook for about 8 minutes at 400°F and let it rest for 5 to 7 minutes before slicing.
- When choosing sides for your steak, consider pairing it with roasted vegetables, a side salad, or a baked potato.
- Don’t forget to season the steak with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance its natural flavors.
Overall, cooking steak in the oven at 400°F is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this classic dish. By following these tips for resting and slicing your steak, you’ll be able to enjoy a perfectly cooked and flavorful meal every time.
Nutritional Information
Caloric Content
When cooking steak in the oven at 400°F, the caloric content of the steak will depend on the type of steak and the size of the portion. As a general rule, a 3-ounce serving of steak cooked in the oven at 400°F will contain approximately 150-200 calories. However, this can vary depending on the cut of steak and the cooking method used.
Nutritional Content
Steak is a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue. A 3-ounce serving of steak cooked in the oven at 400°F contains approximately 25-30 grams of protein. Additionally, steak contains varying amounts of fat, depending on the cut of meat. For example, a 3-ounce serving of sirloin steak cooked in the oven at 400°F contains approximately 10-12 grams of fat, while a 3-ounce serving of filet mignon cooked in the oven at 400°F contains approximately 5-6 grams of fat.
It is important to note that some cuts of steak are higher in saturated fat and cholesterol than others. For example, a 3-ounce serving of ribeye steak cooked in the oven at 400°F contains approximately 7-8 grams of saturated fat and 70 milligrams of cholesterol, while a 3-ounce serving of flank steak cooked in the oven at 400°F contains approximately 2-3 grams of saturated fat and 40 milligrams of cholesterol.
In terms of other nutrients, steak is not a significant source of carbohydrates, fiber, sodium, calcium, or potassium. However, it is important to note that steak can be a good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.
Overall, when cooking steak in the oven at 400°F, it is important to be mindful of portion sizes and to choose leaner cuts of meat when possible. Additionally, incorporating a variety of protein sources into your diet can help ensure that you are getting a balanced mix of nutrients.
Additional Cooking Methods
Grilling the Steak
Grilling steak is a popular cooking method that can be done on a variety of grills, including gas, charcoal, and electric grills. To grill a steak, preheat your grill to high heat and brush the grates with oil. Season your steak with salt and pepper or your favorite seasoning and place it on the grill. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side for a medium-rare steak, or adjust the cooking time to your desired level of doneness.
Broiling the Steak
Broiling is a cooking method that uses high heat from the broiler element in your oven to cook the steak. To broil a steak, preheat your broiler and place the steak on a broiler pan. Season the steak with salt and pepper or your favorite seasoning and place it under the broiler. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side for a medium-rare steak, or adjust the cooking time to your desired level of doneness.
Air Frying the Steak
Air frying is a newer cooking method that uses hot air to cook food, similar to a convection oven. To air fry a steak, preheat your air fryer to 400°F and season your steak with salt and pepper or your favorite seasoning. Place the steak in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a medium-rare steak. Adjust the cooking time to your desired level of doneness.
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