Are you craving a juicy and tender steak but don’t want to spend hours marinating? Look no further than the best easy steak in a bag recipe! This simple and foolproof cooking method will have you savoring a perfectly cooked steak in just a few steps.
To start, gather your ingredients: a high-quality steak of your choice (such as ribeye or filet mignon), salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a large resealable bag. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Season your steak generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides. Place the seasoned steak in the resealable bag and seal it tightly, making sure to remove any excess air. This will help to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor infusion.
Next, fill a large pot or basin with warm water (not boiling) and submerge the sealed bag containing the steak. Allow the bag to rest in the water bath for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour for a thicker cut of steak. This process, known as sous vide cooking, gently cooks the steak to your desired level of doneness while retaining its moisture and tenderness.
After the steak has finished marinating in the water bath, remove it from the bag and pat it dry with paper towels. Preheat a skillet over high heat and add a small amount of oil. Sear the steak for about 1-2 minutes on each side until a beautiful crust forms.
Transfer the seared steak to a baking sheet and finish cooking it in the preheated oven for 5-10 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness. Remember to use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches your preferred internal temperature.
Now, your mouthwatering steak is ready to be served! Pair it with your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes or grilled vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
FAQs:
1. Can I use any type of steak for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any cut of steak you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. Can I marinate the steak for longer than 1 hour?
Yes, you can marinate the steak for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. However, the sous vide cooking time may need to be adjusted.
3. Can I reuse the marinade bag?
It is not recommended to reuse the marinade bag due to potential cross-contamination. It is best to use a new bag each time.
4. What internal temperature should I cook the steak to?
For a medium-rare steak, aim for 135°F (57°C). Adjust the temperature based on your preferred level of doneness.
5. Can I cook the steak entirely in the oven?
Yes, you can skip the searing step and cook the steak solely in the oven. However, searing adds extra flavor and texture.
6. Can I use a different cooking method instead of sous vide?
If you don’t have a water bath, you can replicate the sous vide effect by cooking the sealed bag in a pot of hot water on the stovetop, maintaining a constant temperature.
7. Can I freeze the steak after marinating?
Yes, you can freeze the steak in the marinade bag. Thaw it in the refrigerator before cooking.
8. Can I use a different seasoning?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices to customize the flavor.
9. Can I use this recipe for grilling?
While this recipe is primarily designed for the oven, you can finish the steak on a grill for a charred and smoky flavor.
10. Should I let the steak rest before serving?
Yes, it is recommended to let the steak rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute before slicing.
11. Can I cook multiple steaks in one bag?
If the steaks are similar in size and thickness, you can cook multiple steaks in a single bag. Just make sure they have enough space to cook evenly.