Baking sirloin steak in the oven is a straightforward process that can result in a juicy and delicious dish. Here's a basic recipe to guide you through the steps:
Ingredients:
- Sirloin steak(s)
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper (or your preferred steak seasoning)
- Optional: minced garlic, dried herbs (such as rosemary or thyme)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to allow it to heat up while you prepare the steak.
Prepare the steak: Remove the sirloin steak(s) from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to ensure even cooking. This step is essential to avoid overcooking the outer layers while the center remains cold.
Season the steak: Rub both sides of the steak(s) with olive oil, ensuring they are lightly coated. Season generously with salt and pepper or your preferred steak seasoning. For added flavor, you can also rub minced garlic or sprinkle dried herbs on both sides.
Use a baking dish: Place the seasoned sirloin steak(s) on a baking dish or a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. If you want, you can use a wire rack on the baking sheet to elevate the steak, allowing heat to circulate all around.
Bake the steak: Insert the baking dish or baking sheet into the preheated oven. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your steak and your desired level of doneness. As a general guideline, bake the steak for:
- 8-12 minutes for medium-rare (internal temperature of 135°F to 140°F or 57°C to 60°C)
- 12-16 minutes for medium (internal temperature of 145°F to 155°F or 63°C to 68°C)
- Adjust the time according to your preference and the thickness of the steak.
Check the internal temperature: The most accurate way to determine the doneness of the steak is by using an instant-read meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the steak to check its internal temperature.
Rest the steak: Once the steak reaches your desired doneness, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak.
Serve and enjoy: Slice the sirloin steak against the grain (to shorten the muscle fibers) to ensure maximum tenderness. You can serve it as is or with your favorite side dishes.
Remember that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness and starting temperature of the steak, so it's always best to use a meat thermometer to achieve your desired level of doneness accurately. Enjoy your deliciously baked sirloin steak!