How Long To Cook A Flank Steak In The Oven?

How Long To Cook A Flank Steak In The Oven?

Cooking a flank steak in the oven typically takes 15-25 minutes, depending on the desired doneness and the oven temperature, which significantly impacts how long to cook a flank steak in the oven.

Understanding Flank Steak

Flank steak, a lean and flavorful cut from the abdominal muscles of the cow, is prized for its affordability and versatility. However, its inherent toughness necessitates careful preparation and cooking to unlock its potential. Knowing how long to cook a flank steak in the oven is crucial to achieve a tender and juicy result.

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The Benefits of Oven-Cooking Flank Steak

While grilling and pan-searing are popular choices, oven-cooking flank steak offers several advantages:

• Consistent Temperature Control: Ovens provide a stable and even heat source, minimizing the risk of overcooking certain areas.
• Hands-Off Cooking: Once the steak is in the oven, you have more time to prepare side dishes or relax.
• Tender Result: Proper oven-cooking, combined with the right temperature and timing, results in a tender and flavorful steak.
• Flavor Enhancement: You can easily infuse the steak with aromatic herbs and spices during the baking process.

Step-by-Step Oven-Cooking Process

Here’s a breakdown of how long to cook a flank steak in the oven and the steps involved:

1. Preparation:

   • Pat the flank steak dry with paper towels. This promotes better searing and browning.
   • Trim away any excess fat or silver skin.
   • Score the surface of the steak in a diamond pattern. This helps tenderize the meat and allows marinades to penetrate deeper.

2. Marination (Optional but Recommended):

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   • Marinate the flank steak for at least 30 minutes (and up to overnight) in the refrigerator. A good marinade might include:
     • Soy sauce
     • Worcestershire sauce
     • Olive oil
     • Garlic
     • Lemon juice or vinegar
     • Herbs (e.g., rosemary, thyme)

3. Searing (Optional but Enhances Flavor):

   • Preheat a large oven-safe skillet (cast iron is ideal) over high heat until smoking hot.
   • Add a tablespoon of oil with a high smoke point (e.g., avocado oil, canola oil).
   • Sear the flank steak for 2-3 minutes per side until deeply browned.

4. Oven-Cooking:

   • Place the skillet with the seared flank steak (or a baking sheet if you skipped searing) in a preheated oven. The optimal oven temperature is typically between 375°F (190°C) and 400°F (200°C).
   • How long to cook a flank steak in the oven? Refer to the time guidelines below based on desired doneness.
   • Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature.

5. Resting:

   • Remove the flank steak from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board.
   • Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.

6. Slicing and Serving:

   • Slice the flank steak thinly against the grain. This is crucial for tenderness.
   • Serve immediately.

Cooking Time Guidelines

These are general guidelines; always use a meat thermometer for accuracy. The exact time will vary based on the thickness of the steak and your oven’s calibration. Understanding how long to cook a flank steak in the oven is key.

Doneness	Internal Temperature	Approximate Cooking Time (at 375°F/190°C)
Rare	125-130°F (52-54°C)	12-15 minutes
Medium-Rare	130-135°F (54-57°C)	15-18 minutes
Medium	135-145°F (57-63°C)	18-22 minutes
Medium-Well	145-155°F (63-68°C)	22-25 minutes
Well-Done	155°F+ (68°C+)	Not Recommended

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking: Flank steak becomes tough and dry when overcooked. Use a meat thermometer!
• Not Slicing Against the Grain: This is essential for tenderizing the steak.
• Skipping the Resting Period: Allowing the steak to rest is crucial for moisture retention.
• Not Marinating (or Insufficient Marinating): Marinating helps tenderize the meat and adds flavor.
• Using Too Low of an Oven Temperature: A lower temperature requires a longer cooking time, which can dry out the steak.
• Ignoring the Thickness of the Steak: Thicker steaks require more cooking time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best oven temperature for flank steak?

The ideal oven temperature for cooking flank steak is typically between 375°F (190°C) and 400°F (200°C). This allows for even cooking without drying out the meat.

Can I cook flank steak straight from the refrigerator?

It’s best to let the flank steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This allows for more even cooking and prevents the outside from overcooking while the inside remains cold.

How do I know when the flank steak is done?

The most reliable way to determine doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding bone or fat. Refer to the temperature guidelines above for desired doneness.

Is searing the flank steak necessary before oven-cooking?

Searing is optional but highly recommended. Searing creates a flavorful crust on the outside of the steak, enhancing the overall taste and texture. It’s a step that adds a lot of value.

Can I cook flank steak in a slow cooker?

While possible, a slow cooker isn’t ideal for flank steak. The long, slow cooking process can result in a less desirable texture compared to oven-cooking. However, it can be done with proper liquid and monitoring.

What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?

If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can sear the flank steak in a regular skillet and then transfer it to a baking sheet to finish cooking in the oven.

How should I slice the flank steak after cooking?

Always slice the flank steak against the grain. This means cutting perpendicular to the direction of the muscle fibers. Slicing against the grain dramatically improves the tenderness of the steak.

What are some good side dishes to serve with flank steak?

Flank steak pairs well with a variety of side dishes, including:

• Roasted vegetables (e.g., potatoes, carrots, broccoli)
• Mashed potatoes
• Salad
• Rice
• Grilled corn

Can I use a marinade with sugar in it when searing?

Marinades containing sugar can burn easily during searing. If using a sugary marinade, pat the steak dry before searing to minimize burning.

What’s the difference between flank steak and skirt steak?

Flank steak and skirt steak are both thin, flavorful cuts, but they come from different parts of the cow. Skirt steak is thinner and has a more intense flavor than flank steak. Both benefit from marinating and slicing against the grain.

How long will cooked flank steak last in the refrigerator?

Cooked flank steak can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container.

Can I freeze cooked flank steak?

Yes, you can freeze cooked flank steak. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. How long to cook a flank steak in the oven is still relevant if you choose to reheat!