How to Cook Thin Sandwich Steak in the Oven: A Simple and Delicious Guide
Thin sandwich steak, also known as flank steak or sandwich steak, is a lean cut of beef that’s perfect for cooking in the oven. It’s tender, flavorful, and pairs well with a variety of toppings and sauces. Cooking thin sandwich steak in the oven is a simple process that requires minimal effort, but yields a deliciously cooked steak every time.
Understanding the Basics
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to understand the basics of thin sandwich steak. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Thickness: Thin sandwich steak is typically 1/4 inch thick, making it perfect for cooking in the oven. If your steak is thicker, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Grass-fed vs. Grain-fed: Grass-fed thin sandwich steak is leaner and has a more robust flavor than grain-fed. Grain-fed thin sandwich steak may be more tender, but it can also be more prone to drying out.
- Marbling: Thin sandwich steak can have varying levels of marbling, which refers to the amount of fat within the meat. More marbling can result in a juicier steak, but it’s not essential.
Cooking Thin Sandwich Steak in the Oven: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking thin sandwich steak in the oven is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to follow:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Yes, you read that right – 400°F! Thin sandwich steak cooks quickly, and high heat is necessary to achieve a nice crust on the outside.
Step 2: Season the Steak
Sprinkle both sides of the steak with salt and pepper. You can also add any other seasonings you like, such as garlic powder, paprika, or dried oregano. Just be mindful of the amount you add, as you want the steak to be able to cook evenly.
Step 3: Sear the Steak
Heat a tablespoon of oil (such as olive, avocado, or canola oil) in an oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add the steak and sear for 1-2 minutes per side. You want to get a nice crust on the steak, but be careful not to overcook it.
Step 4: Transfer to the Oven
Transfer the steak to the preheated oven and cook for 8-12 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. The recommended internal temperature is 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium, and 150°F (65°C) for medium-well.
Step 5: Let it Rest
Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and the steak to retain its tenderness.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Slice the steak against the grain (perpendicular to the lines of muscle) and serve with your favorite toppings and sauces. Some popular options include sautéed onions, mushrooms, and bell peppers, as well as sauces like teriyaki, salsa, and au jus.
Tips and Variations
Here are some additional tips and variations to keep in mind:
- Use a meat thermometer: A meat thermometer is essential for ensuring your steak is cooked to the perfect temperature. Don’t worry if you don’t have one – you can also use the finger test, where you press the steak gently and it should feel soft and springy to the touch.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Cook the steaks one at a time to ensure they cook evenly and don’t steam instead of sear.
- Add aromatics: Add some aromatics like onions, garlic, or thyme to the skillet before searing the steak for added flavor.
- Try different marinades: Marinate the steak in your favorite sauce or seasoning blend before cooking for added flavor.
Recipe Table
Here’s a recipe table to help you keep track of the steps and ingredients:
| Step | Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Salt, pepper, oil | Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Season steak with salt and pepper. |
| 2 | Steak, oil, seasonings | Heat oil in oven-safe skillet. Sear steak for 1-2 minutes per side. |
| 3 | Steak, oven | Transfer steak to preheated oven. Cook for 8-12 minutes. |
| 4 | Steak, timer | Check internal temperature. Cook until desired level of doneness. |
| 5 | Steak, plate | Remove steak from oven. Let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice and serve. |
Conclusion
Cooking thin sandwich steak in the oven is a simple and delicious process that yields a tender and flavorful steak. By following these steps and tips, you can create a mouth-watering meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Experiment with different seasonings, sauces, and toppings to add your own twist to this classic dish. Happy cooking!