Flank steak is a popular cut of beef that is known for its flavor and tenderness. It’s a versatile cut that can be cooked in a variety of ways, including grilling, pan-searing, and oven-roasting. In this article, we will focus on oven-roasting and answer the question – how long should I cook a flank steak in the oven?
The Method
Before we dive into cooking times, it’s important to understand the method of oven-roasting a flank steak. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). 2. Place the flank steak on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Rub the steak with your favorite seasonings or marinade. 4. Roast the steak in the preheated oven until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Tip: To get an even cook on your flank steak, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
Cooking Times
The cooking time for flank steak will depend on how thick your cut is and how well-done you prefer your meat. Here are some general guidelines:
- For rare: Cook for 10-12 minutes.
- For medium-rare: Cook for 12-14 minutes.
- For medium: Cook for 14-16 minutes.
- For well-done: Cook for 16-18 minutes.
Tip: Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of your flank steak. For rare, the temperature should be around 130°F (54°C), while well-done should be around 160°F (71°C).
Making Adjustments
If you’d like to add some flair to your flank steak, consider adding some veggies like onions, peppers, and mushrooms to the baking sheet. You can also baste the steak with melted butter or olive oil halfway through cooking to keep it moist and flavorful.
If your flank steak is thicker than 1 inch (2.5 cm), you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Add an extra 2-3 minutes of cooking time for every additional half-inch (1 cm) of thickness.
Conclusion
Oven-roasting a flank steak can be a delicious and easy way to enjoy this popular cut of beef. With these general guidelines for cooking times and a little experimentation with seasonings, you’ll have a perfectly cooked flank steak in no time!