How Long to Cook Steak in Oven for Perfect Results
To cook a perfect steak in the oven, start by bringing it to room temperature. This helps the steak cook evenly. Next, preheat your oven to 400°F to get it nice and hot.
Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side. This locks in the juices and gives you that beautiful crust.
Then, roast it in the oven for about 10-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of your steak.
Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for 135°F if you want it medium-rare.
Remember to take the steak out a little before it hits that temperature because it will continue cooking while resting.
Rest your steak for 5-10 minutes. This step is key for juiciness and tenderness.
Keep reading to discover more tips for flawless steak results!
Optimal Cooking Times and Temperatures for Oven-Steak

Although oven cooking times vary based on thickness and desired doneness, you can expect a 1-inch steak at 400°F to take between 10 and 20 minutes. To get it just right, use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature: 125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, and 145°F for medium.
Thicker steaks, around 1.5 to 2 inches, need an extra 5 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven. Remember to remove your steak about 5°F below your target temperature, as it will continue cooking while resting.
Resting for 5 to 10 minutes lets the juices redistribute, enhancing tenderness and flavor. Before the oven, searing the steak can help lock in those juices, but timing and temperature remain key for perfect doneness.
Techniques and Tips for Perfect Oven-Cooked Steak

When you want a perfectly cooked oven steak, start by bringing it to room temperature and preheating your oven to 400°F. Sear the steak in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side to create a flavorful crust before transferring it to an oven-safe pan.
Oven cooking time depends on the thickness of the steak and your desired internal temperature. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness—aim for about 125°F for rare or 135°F for medium-rare, removing the steak from the oven 5°F below your target.
For a 1.5-inch thick steak, expect 8-10 minutes in the oven after searing. Finally, rest the steak for 5-10 minutes to let the juices redistribute, ensuring tenderness and flavor in every bite.
Conclusion
Now that you know the ideal times and temperatures, you might wonder if finishing steak in the oven really makes it better than just pan-searing. The truth? Oven cooking offers even heat, ensuring your steak cooks perfectly throughout without burning the outside.
By combining searing and oven time, you get that irresistible crust and juicy interior every time. So, trust the process—you’ll consistently achieve steakhouse-quality results right at home.
When you cook steak in the oven, it’s easier to control the temperature and achieve perfect doneness. Whether you prefer rare, medium, or well-done, finishing your steak in the oven helps lock in flavor and juices. This method is ideal for thicker cuts that need gentle, even cooking after a quick sear.
In short, cooking steak in the oven after searing guarantees a tender, flavorful steak with a beautiful crust. For perfect results every time, use the right oven temperature and cooking time, and you’ll enjoy a steakhouse-worthy meal without leaving your kitchen.