Are you craving a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant prices? Then look no further! This oven-baked T-bone steak recipe is your answer. It's surprisingly easy to make, delivers incredible flavor, and is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this simple yet elegant dish. This recipe delivers a perfectly cooked, juicy T-bone steak every time. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 2 (1-inch thick) T-bone steaks (about 1 pound each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary (optional, but highly recommended)
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for basting)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Steaks
Pat the T-bone steaks dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps achieve a beautiful sear. Season generously on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. If using, tuck a rosemary sprig under each steak.
Step 2: Sear the Steaks (Optional but Recommended)
For a restaurant-quality crust, heat a large oven-safe skillet (cast iron is ideal) over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Once hot, sear the steaks for 2-3 minutes per side, until a nice brown crust forms. This step isn't strictly necessary, but it adds a depth of flavor that's hard to resist.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the skillet (with the steaks) to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). If you skipped the searing step, simply place the steaks directly onto a baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes for medium-rare, 15-18 minutes for medium, or longer for your desired level of doneness. For even cooking, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 130-135°F for medium-rare, 140-145°F for medium, and 160°F for well-done.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the steaks from the oven and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. If using butter, during the last few minutes of baking, you can baste the steaks with melted butter for extra richness.
Serve your delicious oven-baked T-bone steaks immediately. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips for the Best T-Bone Steak
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If searing, make sure the steaks have enough space in the pan to sear properly.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your steak is cooked to your desired doneness.
- Let the steak rest: This is crucial for a juicy and tender steak.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your steaks and your oven.
Variations:
- Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, oregano, or sage.
- Garlic butter: Mix softened butter with minced garlic for an extra flavorful basting option.
- Spicy steak: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning for a kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: Approximately 40-50g
- Fat: Approximately 25-35g
This easy oven-baked T-bone steak recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. The homemade cooking experience elevates this delicious dish to a whole new level. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and techniques to create your perfect T-bone steak.