Reheating steak in a toaster oven is a simple and effective way to maintain its flavor and texture. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Preheat the toaster oven: Set your toaster oven to a low to medium temperature, typically around 250-350°F (120-175°C). Preheating ensures even and consistent reheating.
Prepare the steak: Take the leftover steak out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-30 minutes. This helps the steak to heat more evenly during the reheating process. You can also pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which can aid in achieving a crispy exterior.
Use an oven-safe dish or foil: Place the steak on an oven-safe dish or wrap it loosely in aluminum foil. If you wrap it in foil, make sure to leave a small opening to allow steam to escape, which can help prevent the steak from becoming too soggy.
Reheat the steak: Put the steak in the preheated toaster oven and let it warm up. The exact reheating time will depend on the thickness of the steak and your preferred level of doneness. Typically, it takes around 10-20 minutes to reheat the steak thoroughly.
Check the internal temperature: To ensure the steak is adequately reheated, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for about 130-135°F (54-57°C), and for medium, aim for 135-145°F (57-63°C). Avoid overcooking, as it can make the steak dry and tough.
Rest before serving: Once the steak reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the toaster oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a more tender and flavorful steak.
Optional: Sear the steak: If you want to restore some of the crustiness on the outside, you can sear the steak quickly in a hot skillet with a little oil or butter after reheating it in the toaster oven. This step is entirely optional but can add some extra texture and flavor.
Reheating steak in a toaster oven is generally a better option than using a microwave, as it helps preserve the steak's texture and taste. However, be mindful not to overcook the steak during the reheating process to keep it tender and enjoyable.