How to Achieve the Best Way to Cook a Steak Indoors with 17 Favorite Recipes

Craving a sizzling steak but don’t feel like braving the elements? Fear not, because achieving the perfect steak indoors is possible. This guide will unveil the secrets to the best way to cook a steak indoors, ensuring a juicy, flavorful result cooked to your desired doneness, all from the comfort of your kitchen.

Traditionally, pan-frying involves searing the steak for a short time on each side before transferring it to the oven. This method works well for thinner cuts, but thicker steaks can end up cooked – dry on the outside and undercooked in the center.

The solution? A reverse sear. This technique flips the script, starting the steak in the oven and finishing it with a pan sear. Here’s why it works wonders:

• Even Cooking: Slow-roasting the steak in the oven allows heat to penetrate the meat, ensuring the interior reaches the perfect temperature without overcooking the exterior.
• Searing Perfection: Placing the pre-cooked steak in a scorching pan creates a beautiful crust, locking in flavor and juices.

Ready to try it? Let’s get cooking!

The Perfect Oven-Cooked Steak: A Step-by-Step Guide

Preparation Time: 10 minutes Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 strip loin steaks (10-12 ounces each), 1.5 inches thick
• 2 tablespoons neutral vegetable oil (like corn oil)
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• Ground black pepper
• Pat of butter (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Place the steaks on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Rub with 1 tablespoon of oil and season with salt and pepper.
2. Roast the steaks in the center of the oven for:
   • 20 minutes for medium-rare
   • Adjust the cooking time based on your desired doneness (see chart below for reference).
3. Heat the remaining oil in a large skillet over high heat. Once the oil shimmers, carefully add the steaks and sear for about 3 minutes per side, or until browned and crispy.
4. For extra flavor, sear the sides of the steaks by holding them upright with tongs and cooking for 1 minute per side.
5. Transfer the steaks to a plate and tender them with foil. Let them rest for 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
6. Slice the steaks against the grain and serve immediately. If using, top with a pat of butter for added richness.

Doneness Guide:

• Rare: 120°F (49°C) internal temperature
• Medium-rare: 130°F (54°C) internal temperature
• Medium: 140°F (60°C) internal temperature
• Medium-well: 150°F (66°C) internal temperature
• Well-done: 160°F (71°C) internal temperature

Unlocking the Secrets of Searing:

Searing is a culinary technique that creates a flavorful browned crust on meat. Here are some key points to remember for successful searing:

• Pan Temperature is Crucial: A hot pan is essential for achieving a proper sear. The pan should be hot enough to sizzle when the meat hits it. If not, the meat will steam instead of sear.
• Pat Your Steak Dry: Excess moisture on the steak’s surface will prevent it from browning properly. Use paper towels to pat the steak dry before seasoning and cooking.
• Seasoning Matters: Salt draws out the meat’s natural flavors and helps with browning. Season your steak generously before cooking.

Equipping Yourself for Steak Success:

While you can achieve a great steak with basic cookware, having the right tools can elevate your results:

• Neutral Vegetable Oil: Opt for an oil with a high smoke point, like corn oil, which can withstand high temperatures without burning.
• Cast Iron Skillet: Cast iron skillets keep heat well, making them ideal for achieving a sizzling sear. Plus, they’re known for their even heat distribution.
• Digital Meat Thermometer: A digital meat thermometer takes the guesswork out of cooking, ensuring your steak reaches the perfect internal temperature.
• Slotted Turner: A slotted turner allows you to flip the steak without puncturing it and losing its precious juices.

17 Recipe Ideas to Complement Your Perfectly Cooked Steak:

1. Classic Steak with Spicy Thai Sauce: Sometimes, simplicity reigns supreme. A high-quality steak drizzled with a vibrant green Thai sauce creates a delightful contrast between savory and spicy.

Image by topntp26 on freepik | A premium steak topped with zesty green Thai sauce, blending savory and spicy flavors.

2. Steak with Garlic-Herb Butter and Roasted Parmesan Caulilini: This recipe elevates your steak night to a luxurious level. The garlicky herb butter adds a rich depth of flavor, while the roasted parmesan caulilini provides a satisfying and elegant accompaniment.

3. One-Pan Steak and Bok Choy with Miso Butter: This dish is a symphony of textures and tastes. Tender steak mingles with crisp bok choy, all enveloped in a luscious miso butter sauce, creating a healthy and flavorful one-pan wonder.

4. Flank Steak with Snow Pea and Radish Salad: For a lighter summer meal, consider a grilled steak salad. The cool, crisp snow peas and radishes offer a refreshing counterpoint to the juicy steak, while a zesty dressing brings everything together.

5. Anju’s Marinated Rib-Eye Steak: Planning a special occasion? Marinate your steaks overnight in a rich and aromatic blend, infusing them with flavor. Then, grill them to perfection and savor them alongside fresh summer vegetables.

6. Grilled Steak Tacos: Tacos are a crowd-pleasing option for any gathering. Top your steak tacos with pico de gallo, creamy avocado, and a squeeze of lime for a burst of freshness and vibrant flavor.

7. Flank Steak with Fresh Salsa and Avocado: Swap out the usual barbecue sauce for a vibrant salsa. This fresh and colorful topping adds a touch of sweetness and acidity, complementing the savory steak.

8. Grilled Flatiron Steak with Piquillo-Pepper Confit: Elevate your steak dinner with a touch of sophistication. Roasted piquillo peppers add a touch of smoky sweetness, while a healthy kale salad rounds out the plate with contrasting textures.

9. Grilled Steak with Spicy Cilantro Sauce: This recipe is perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight meal. The steak cooks up in 25 minutes and is paired with a zesty cilantro sauce. Serve it with a side of cauliflower “rice” and a glass of red wine for a complete and satisfying meal.

10. Garlicky Pan-Fried Steak: Sometimes, you can’t go wrong with a classic. This recipe features a simple yet delicious pan-fried strip loin steak cooked to juicy perfection and infused with a delightful garlicky aroma.

Image by viewfrommypoint on freepik | Juicy, pan-fried strip loin steak with a delightful garlicky aroma.

11. Broiled Steak and Spring Kale Caesar Salad: This dish combines the heartiness of steak with the lightness of a spring salad. Broiled steak rests atop a bed of kale and asparagus, all drizzled with a classic Caesar dressing.

12. Lemony Seared T-Bone with Red Pepper and Kale Sauté: This recipe gives a bright and zesty twist to your steak dinner. The T-bone is seasoned with a citrus and rosemary rub, creating a simple yet flavorful crust. Serve it with a vibrant kale and red pepper saute for a well-rounded meal.

13. Chili-Espresso Strip Loin Steaks: Try this recipe for a bold and adventurous flavor profile. A chili and espresso rub adds a unique kick to your steak, creating a complex and exciting taste experience.

14. Flank Steak with Tomatoes and Basil: Simplicity can be beautiful. Fresh tomatoes and basil add a touch of summery sweetness to the savory steak, creating a light and flavorful dish.

15. Steak with Fresh Corn Polenta: This recipe offers a versatile take on steak. Use leftover grilled flank steak for a delicious salad the next day.

16. Rainbow Radish Steak Salad with Honey Vinaigrette: This vibrant salad combines the richness of steak with the freshness of colorful vegetables. Tender steak meets a creamy parsnip puree and a delightful honey vinaigrette, creating a delightful symphony of textures and tastes.

Image by timolina on freepik | This vibrant salad pairs rich steak with fresh, colorful veggies.

17. Summer Steak Salad: Don’t let leftover steak go to waste! This recipe transforms leftover steak into a refreshing summer salad in 15 minutes.

With these tips and recipes, you’re now equipped to cook restaurant-quality steak indoors whenever the craving strikes. So, fire up your stove, unleash your inner chef, and enjoy a delicious steak experience in the comfort of your own kitchen!