How to Cook Beef Strip Loin Steak in the Oven for Perfect Results Every Time

Beef strip loin steak, also known as New York strip steak is one of the most popular cuts of steak around. It’s tender juicy, and full of flavor when cooked just right. While grilling or pan searing are common cooking methods, the oven can also be a great way to cook strip loin steak.

Cooking strip loin steak in the oven helps ensure even cooking throughout and makes it easy to get the perfect level of doneness from edge to edge When using the oven, a two-step process of searing followed by roasting gives you a nicely browned crust on the outside and a tender, juicy interior

Here is a complete guide to cooking flawless beef strip loin steaks in the oven every time.

Benefits of Cooking Strip Loin Steak in the Oven

There are a few key benefits to using the oven rather than grilling or pan searing when cooking beef strip loin steaks:

• Consistent results: The oven distributes heat evenly around the entire steak, preventing cold spots and ensuring even cooking. This makes it easier to get consistent results with the interior doneness.

• Easy temperature control Setting the oven to a specific temperature gives you precise control over the cooking process. This makes it straightforward to cook the steak to your desired doneness, whether you prefer rare, medium-rare, or well-done

• Intense sear: Searing in a hot skillet before roasting in the oven gives the steak a flavorful, caramelized crust. The hot skillet ensures an intense sear.

• Moist and tender interior: The two-step process means you get the benefit of a seared exterior along with a tender, juicy interior. The oven roasting cooks the steak gently after searing to keep it moist.

• Hands-free: Once the steak goes into the oven, no flipping or checking is required during roasting. This gives you time to focus on side dishes.

Step-By-Step Instructions for Oven-Cooked Strip Loin Steak

Follow these simple steps for perfect oven-cooked strip loin steaks every time.

1. Choose High-Quality Steaks

Success starts with great ingredient selection. Look for USDA Prime or Choice strip loin steaks that are 1-1 1/2 inches thick for the most tender and flavorful results. Dry-aged steaks also have more concentrated flavor than wet-aged options.

2. Preheat Oven and Skillet

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Also preheat a heavy ovenproof skillet (cast iron works well) over high heat. The hot skillet is essential for getting a nice sear before roasting.

3. Season the Steaks

Season both sides of the steaks generously with salt and pepper while the oven preheats. Kosher or sea salt and fresh cracked black pepper are best. Rub the seasonings into the meat.

4. Sear the Steaks

Add just enough high heat oil or butter to lightly coat the preheated skillet. Carefully lay the steaks in the skillet and sear undisturbed for 2-3 minutes per side. The steak should develop a nice brown crust. Use tongs to flip the steaks rather than a fork to avoid losing juices.

5. Roast in the Oven

Transfer the skillet from stove to oven. Roast for 6-10 minutes, flipping the steaks halfway through, until they reach 5°F below your desired doneness level. Use an instant-read thermometer to check doneness.

6. Finish with a Rest

Let the steaks rest for 5-10 minutes after removing them from the oven. The temperature will rise slightly and juices will redistribute through the meat, ensuring a tender, juicy steak. Lightly tent with foil while resting.

Choosing the Right Thickness and Doneness Level

Two factors that impact cooking strip loin steak in the oven are thickness and desired doneness. Here are some guidelines:

• For a 1-inch thick strip steak, roast for about 8-10 minutes total for medium-rare doneness.

• A 1 1/2-inch thick steak will need 10-14 minutes total cooking time in a 400°F oven for medium-rare.

• Allow a few extra minutes if you prefer your steak more well-done. Check with a thermometer for your desired temperature.

• Rotate the steaks halfway through roasting to prevent uneven cooking.

Handy Temperature Guide for Oven-Cooked Strip Loin Steak

Use this temperature guide to determine when your strip loin steaks are done to your desired level of doneness while roasting in the oven:

• Rare: 120-125°F (finish at 130°F after resting)

• Medium-Rare: 130-135°F (finish at 140°F after resting)

• Medium: 140-145°F (finish at 150°F after resting)

• Medium-Well: 150-155°F (finish at 160°F after resting)

• Well Done: 160°F+ (finish at 165°F+ after resting)

Always allow the steak to rest after cooking for the most accurate reading. Check temperature with an instant-read meat thermometer in the thickest portion.

Tips for the Best Oven-Cooked Strip Loin Steak

Follow these tips for standout strip loin steaks made in the oven:

• Bring steaks to room temperature before cooking for more even cooking. Take them out of the fridge 30-60 minutes ahead.

• Pat the steaks dry thoroughly before searing to help get a good crust.

• Use a meat mallet to gently pound the steaks to an even thickness if needed. This prevents uneven cooking.

• Rotate the steaks halfway through oven roasting to prevent overcooking on one side.

• For ultimate flavor, rub steaks with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme before cooking.

Sample Oven-Cooked Strip Loin Steak Recipe

Try this simple recipe for oven-roasted strip loin steaks at home.

Ingredients:

• 2 strip loin steaks, 1 – 1 1/2 inches thick (about 8-12 oz each)
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tsp olive oil or butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 sprig fresh rosemary

Instructions:

1. Remove steaks from fridge and season generously with salt and pepper. Allow to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 400°F. Heat a cast iron or ovenproof skillet over high heat.
3. Add oil or butter to preheated skillet. When hot, add steaks and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until well browned.
4. Transfer skillet to oven and roast for 6-10 minutes until steaks reach 5°F below desired doneness, flipping halfway through.
5. Remove steaks from oven, tent with foil and allow to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

For a flavor boost, try adding minced garlic and a sprig of fresh rosemary to the skillet when searing the steaks. Enjoy your perfectly oven-roasted strip loin steaks!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cooking Strip Loin Steak in the Oven

Still have some questions about cooking strip loin steaks in the oven? Here are answers to some common questions.

How long does it take to cook strip loin steak in the oven?

Cooking time can range from 6-14 minutes for a 1-1 1/2 inch thick steak at 400°F, depending on desired doneness. A medium-rare 1-inch steak takes about 8-10 minutes total.

Should you sear strip loin steak before roasting?

Searing before roasting is highly recommended. It provides flavorful browning and ensures juiciness during oven roasting. Use a very hot skillet for 1-2 minutes per side.

What temperature do you cook strip loin steak to?

The most common target doneness temperatures are 130-135°F for medium-rare and 140-145°F for medium. Use a meat thermometer to check temperature.

How can you tell when strip loin steak is done without a thermometer?

The best way is to use an instant-read thermometer, but you can also check by feel. A rare steak will feel soft, medium-rare will be lightly firm, and well-done will be hard.

Should you rest strip loin steak after oven roasting?

Yes, resting for 5-10 minutes after cooking allows juices to redistribute through the steak for a moist, tender result. The temperature rises slightly during resting as well.

The Perfect Oven-Cooked Strip Loin Steak is Just Minutes Away

Cooking beef strip loin steaks in the oven makes it simple to achieve tender, juicy results every time. With the right thickness steak, a hot sear, and proper oven roasting time, you can enjoy restaurant-quality steak from the comfort of home. Pay attention to temperature guidelines for your ideal doneness level