Oven Baked Steak Recipe

There is something truly special about an Oven Baked Steak Recipe that brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your own kitchen. This method captures the perfect balance of a beautifully caramelized crust with a tender, juicy interior that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy meal for two, this recipe is simple yet delivers impressive results. It’s a dinner that feels indulgent without the hassle, showcasing how just a few essential ingredients come together to create an unforgettable steak experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Oven Baked Steak Recipe, the ingredient list is refreshingly straightforward. Each item plays a crucial role—from the rich ribeye that provides intense flavor and marbling, to the aromatic thyme that brings a subtle herbal note. Let’s dive into these simple essentials that pack so much punch.

• Boneless ribeye steaks (24 ounces): Choose 1-inch thick steaks for even cooking and that signature juicy texture.
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps create a crisp crust and prevents the steak from sticking to the pan.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning, enhancing the steak’s natural flavors perfectly.
• Fresh thyme sprigs (2-4): Optional, but adds a fragrant, earthy aroma that complements the richness of the beef.
• Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons, plus more for serving): Melts into a luscious finish, enriching both the pan sauce and the steak itself.

How to Make Oven Baked Steak Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Season Your Steaks

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F to ensure it’s hot and ready for the finish. While it’s warming up, rub each steak generously with olive oil on both sides. This simple step helps the seasoning stick and creates a beautiful crust during searing. Now season liberally with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper—the basic duo that brings out the steak’s natural flavor like nothing else.

Step 2: Sear to Perfection

Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high until it’s smoking hot—this is key to forming that perfect crust everyone raves about. Place the steaks in the pan and sear without moving them for 1 to 2 minutes until they develop a rich brown crust. Flip and sear the other side for another 1 to 2 minutes. The cast iron does all the heavy lifting here, delivering that restaurant-grade, caramelized exterior you want.

Step 3: Butter and Thyme for Flavor

Once your steaks are seared, remove the pan from heat. Immediately top each steak with a tablespoon of unsalted butter, letting it melt down slowly. Add fresh thyme sprigs into the pan—it will infuse the butter and steak with a subtle, herby aroma as it bakes.

Step 4: Oven Baking Magic

Transfer the skillet directly into your preheated oven and bake the steaks for 10 to 15 minutes. The exact time depends on how you like your steak cooked—use a meat thermometer if you want to be precise (130°F for medium-rare is a great target). This step gently finishes the cooking, locking in juices and tenderness.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

After taking your skillet out of the oven, patiently let the steaks rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to reabsorb into the meat, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful. Brush on some extra butter before plating to amp up that melt-in-your-mouth experience.

How to Serve Oven Baked Steak Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a drizzle of warm herb butter can elevate your steak. Letting fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs rest alongside for presentation keeps the plate inviting. A zest of lemon on the side adds a fresh, bright contrast as well.

Side Dishes

This Oven Baked Steak Recipe pairs wonderfully with classic sides like roasted garlic mashed potatoes, crispy asparagus, or a vibrant arugula salad. For a more indulgent meal, creamy polenta or sautéed mushrooms are fantastic companions that soak up steak juices beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive presentation, slice the steak thinly against the grain and fan the pieces on a warmed platter. Drizzle leftover pan juices and a pat of herb butter over the slices. For a rustic vibe, serve whole steaks on wooden boards paired with colorful grilled vegetables. Either way, your guests will be wowed.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover steak tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator where it will keep well for up to 3 days. Enjoy it cold or warmed up for lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

If you want to freeze your steak, wrap it securely in freezer paper or heavy-duty foil before placing it in a freezer bag. It can last up to 3 months frozen. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, avoid the microwave when possible as it can dry out the meat. Instead, warm your steak gently in a skillet over low heat with a dash of butter or in a low oven to preserve juiciness. You can also slice it thinly and toss it quickly in a hot pan to revive its flavor and texture.

FAQs

What is the best cut of steak for this Oven Baked Steak Recipe?

Boneless ribeye is ideal because of its marbling and tenderness, but other cuts like New York strip or filet mignon also work beautifully depending on your preference.

Can I use this method for thicker or thinner steaks?

Yes! Thicker steaks will need a longer time in the oven, while thinner steaks require less. Adjust cooking times accordingly and consider using a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.

Is it necessary to sear the steak before baking?

Searing creates the delicious crust and locks in juices, so it’s a highly recommended step for flavor and texture enhancement, though you can skip if you’re short on time.

How do I know when the steak is done?

Using a meat thermometer is the best way: 120°F for rare, 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, and so on. The steak will continue cooking slightly as it rests.

Can I add other herbs or spices in this recipe?

Absolutely! Rosemary, garlic cloves, or smoked paprika can all be added for unique flavor twists to this classic oven baked steak recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Oven Baked Steak Recipe is truly one of those dishes that makes you feel like a gourmet chef with minimal effort. Its simplicity is its charm, delivering rich flavors and perfect textures that everyone will love. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own go-to steak night favorite!

Oven Baked Steak Recipe

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This Oven Baked Ribeye Steak recipe offers a perfect blend of a seared crust and tender, juicy interior. Using simple ingredients like olive oil, butter, and fresh thyme, this method guarantees a flavorful steak cooked evenly in the oven after a quick pan sear. Ideal for an easy yet impressive steak dinner.

• Author: Paula
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Steak and seasoning:

• 24 ounces boneless ribeye steaks (2 steaks, 1-inch thick each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Kosher salt (to taste)
• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 2–4 sprigs fresh thyme (optional)

Butter:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (¼ stick), plus more for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (204°C) to warm up while preparing the steaks, ensuring it’s ready for baking after searing.
2. Season the steaks: Rub both sides of each ribeye with olive oil to help the seasoning adhere and promote a nice sear. Generously season each side with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper for balanced flavor.
3. Sear the steaks: Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it is very hot. Add the steaks to the skillet and sear for 1-2 minutes until a rich, golden-brown crust forms. Flip the steaks and sear the other side for another 1-2 minutes.
4. Add butter and thyme: Remove the skillet from heat. Top each steak with a tablespoon of unsalted butter and add the fresh thyme sprigs to the pan to infuse aromatic flavor during baking.
5. Bake the steaks: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, depending on your preferred level of doneness. This step finishes cooking the steaks evenly inside.
6. Rest the steaks: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the steaks rest for 5-10 minutes. Resting allows juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicy, tender steak. Serve with additional butter if desired.

Notes

• For medium-rare steaks, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F during baking.
• Use a meat thermometer to check doneness to avoid overcooking.
• Letting the steak rest is critical for juicy results.
• Fresh thyme is optional but adds wonderful aroma and flavor.
• A cast iron skillet is preferable for the best sear and heat retention.
• Allow steaks to come to room temperature before cooking for even cooking.