How to Cook Steak in Toaster Oven: A Delicious and Efficient Cooking Method
How to Cook Steak in Toaster Oven?
To cook steak in a toaster oven, start by letting the steak come to room temperature.
Season it generously with olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
For thick cuts, use a hot skillet to sear one side of the steak before transferring it to a preheated 450° oven.
Cook for approximately 10 minutes.
Thinner cuts can be broiled for about 6 minutes per side.
After cooking, let the steak rest before slicing it against the grain to ensure tenderness.
Key Points:
- Let the steak come to room temperature before cooking
- Season the steak with olive oil, salt, and black pepper
- Sear one side of the steak in a hot skillet, then transfer to a preheated oven (450°) for thick cuts
- Cook for approximately 10 minutes
- Broil thinner cuts for about 6 minutes per side
- Allow the cooked steak to rest before slicing against the grain for tenderness.
Did You Know?
1. Did you know that the toaster oven was actually invented in the 1920s by a scientist named Charles Strite? It was initially designed to make toast in a more efficient way, but its versatility later led to its usage in cooking other dishes, such as steak!
2. To achieve the perfect juicy and tender steak in a toaster oven, try using the reverse sear method. This technique involves cooking the steak at a low temperature first, and then finishing it off with a quick sear at high heat to achieve a delicious crust.
3. Contrary to popular belief, using a toaster oven to cook steak can actually be more energy-efficient than using a conventional oven. Since toaster ovens are smaller, they require less time and energy to preheat and cook the steak, which can save you on your electricity bill.
4. Toasters and toaster ovens emit a unique smell called the “Maillard reaction” when cooking steak or other meat. This aroma is a result of the chemical reaction between amino acids and sugars in the meat, creating a rich and savory scent that has been known to make people’s mouths water.
5. If you’re looking to add an extra layer of flavor to your steak cooked in a toaster oven, consider adding a slice of compound butter on top while it cooks. Compound butter is a mixture of butter and various herbs, spices, or other ingredients, which melts onto the steak as it cooks, enhancing its taste and juiciness.
1. Types Of Steak For Toaster Oven Cooking
When it comes to cooking steak in a toaster oven, several cuts work exceptionally well. Whether you prefer a skirt steak, flank steak, ribeye, or filet mignon, the toaster oven can handle them all. Each cut of steak offers its own unique flavor and texture, providing a delightful culinary experience.
- Skirt and flank steaks, known for their intense beefy flavor, are perfect choices for toaster oven cooking. They are often longer and thinner, which means they can cook evenly in the oven’s heat.
- On the other hand, ribeye steaks offer a generous marbling of fat, resulting in a tender and juicy piece of meat.
- Filet mignon, widely regarded as the most tender cut, is also suitable for toaster oven cooking.
Whichever cut you choose, rest assured that the toaster oven will deliver satisfying results.
2. Cooking Times For Thick And Thin Cuts
The cooking time for steak in a toaster oven may vary depending on the thickness and desired level of doneness. For thick cuts of meat, such as a hearty ribeye or filet mignon, it is recommended to sear the steak on the stovetop first. This will create a beautiful crust and lock in the juices. Afterward, transfer the seared steak to the toaster oven preheated to 450°. Cooking for approximately 10 minutes will result in a medium-rare steak.
If you prefer thinner cuts of steak, like a skirt or flank steak, the broiler function of the toaster oven will be your go-to. Place the seasoned thin steak directly under the broiler and cook for about 6 minutes per side for medium-rare. Be sure to keep a close eye on the steak during this process to prevent overcooking.
3. Importance Of Room Temperature And Searing
Before cooking the steak in the toaster oven, it is crucial to allow it to come to room temperature. Allowing the steak to rest for 30 minutes outside of the refrigerator will ensure even cooking throughout. This step is important because cooking a cold steak straight from the fridge can result in uneven cooking, leaving you with a dry exterior and undercooked center.
To achieve a beautiful sear and caramelized crust on thicker cuts of steak, it is recommended to use a hot skillet. Heat the skillet until it’s smoking hot, then add some oil and carefully place the seasoned steak in the pan. Sear one side for a few minutes until it develops a deep brown crust, and then flip it over to sear the other side. This quick searing step will not only enhance the flavor but also add an appealing texture to the final result.
4. Seasoning And Preparing The Steak
Before cooking the steak in the toaster oven, it’s important to season it generously with olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. The olive oil helps to create a flavorful crust while the salt and pepper enhance the natural taste of the steak. For added flavor, you can also incorporate other seasoning blends or spices of your choice.
To ensure the best results, allow the seasoned steak to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors. This step allows the seasoning to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more robust and well-balanced taste.
5. Proper Steps For Cooking In Toaster Oven
Once the steak has been seasoned and brought to room temperature, it’s time to cook it in the toaster oven. For thicker cuts, preheat the oven to 450° and start by searing the steak in a hot skillet, as mentioned earlier. After the sear, transfer the steak to the preheated toaster oven and continue cooking for approximately 10 minutes for a medium-rare result. However, it is essential to keep an eye on the steak’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer to achieve your desired level of doneness.
For thinner cuts of steak, preheat the toaster oven’s broiler function and place the seasoned steak directly under it. Cook for about 6 minutes per side for medium-rare, ensuring you watch it closely to prevent overcooking.
6. Essential Tips For Resting And Slicing Steak
After cooking the steak in the toaster oven, it is imperative to let it rest before slicing. Resting allows the steak’s juices to redistribute and settle, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy final product. Leave the cooked steak to rest on a cutting board for at least 5 minutes. If you cover it loosely with aluminum foil, the steak will retain heat and stay warm while resting.
When it’s time to slice the steak, remember to cut against the grain for maximum tenderness. The “grain” refers to the direction that the muscle fibers run within the meat. Slicing against the grain severs these fibers, resulting in a more tender eating experience. Take your time and make clean, thin slices to showcase the steak’s deliciousness.
Important: Cooking steak in a toaster oven is a convenient and efficient option for delicious results. Whether you prefer thicker cuts that require searing or thinner cuts that can be quickly broiled, the toaster oven can handle it all.
- By following the steps outlined in this article, and considering factors like room temperature, searing, seasoning, and resting, you’ll be able to cook the perfect steak in your toaster oven every time.
- Enjoy your tender, juicy, and flavorful masterpiece!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you cook a steak in a convection toaster oven?
To cook a steak in a convection toaster oven, start by preheating the oven to 500° F on the Broil setting and activating the Speed Convection feature. Once heated, place the steaks on a baking tray and slide it into the oven. Cook for approximately 8 minutes before using tongs to flip the steaks over. Continue cooking for another 8 minutes or until the desired level of doneness is achieved. Remember to monitor the steaks closely to ensure they cook evenly and avoid overcooking.
At what temperature to cook steak in oven?
To cook steak in the oven, it is advisable to let it come to room temperature outside of the fridge for approximately 30 minutes. For thicker cuts such as ribeye or filet mignon, a temperature of 450°F is recommended for optimal results. However, for thinner steaks like flank and skirt, it is suggested to utilize the broiler instead of the oven. Alternatively, if you prefer to use a skillet, ensure that it is heated to a high temperature for a delicious sear.
How do you cook in a toaster oven without burning it?
To cook in a toaster oven without burning it, there are a few key steps to follow. Firstly, set your toaster oven to its lowest temperature setting, ideally between 120 and 150 degrees Fahrenheit. If your oven has a convection fan, make sure to switch it on as it helps with even dehydration. To prevent burning, it is essential to occasionally flip your food during the cooking process, ensuring all sides are cooked evenly. Additionally, keeping a close eye on the temperature is crucial, and if it starts to spike, you can open the door briefly to let out some heat. By following these steps, you can successfully cook in a toaster oven without burning your food.
Can you put foil in a convection toaster oven?
Yes, it is safe to use foil in a convection toaster oven as long as it does not come into direct contact with the heating elements. However, using parchment paper, disposable aluminum containers, and various types of metal bakeware are recommended alternatives. These options ensure efficient cooking and prevent any potential risks associated with direct contact between foil and heating elements.