Photo by Neeta Lind is marked with CC BY 2.0
If you’re a steak lover, you know that cooking a porterhouse steak in the oven can be a game-changer. The porterhouse is a magnificent cut that combines the flavors of strip steak and tenderloin. While it might seem intimidating due to its size, don’t worry – with a few simple steps, you can master the art of cooking a delicious porterhouse steak in the oven.
Key Takeaways
Preparing Your Porterhouse for Oven Cooking
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s get your kitchen ready. Gather a rimmed baking sheet, a cast-iron skillet, a reliable meat thermometer, and position the oven rack in the middle. To enhance the taste, salt your steaks and let them sit at room temperature for about 45 minutes, allowing the salt to create a brine that will give your steak a crispy texture. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees and heat your skillet over high heat.
Cooking Time for Oven-Cooked Porterhouse
Cooking a porterhouse steak in the oven requires a bit more time since it’s a larger cut compared to a traditional T-bone steak. Searing it in a pan for 3-5 minutes on each side will give it a beautiful crust, and then transfer it to the oven for an additional 10-20 minutes to reach a perfect medium-rare. Including preparation and resting time, you can expect your oven-cooked porterhouse to be ready within 60-90 minutes.
Achieving the Perfect Temperature
To ensure your porterhouse steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, refer to the temperature chart below. Remove the steak from the oven when it reaches the temperature range for your preferred doneness. After resting, the final temperature should fall within the second temperature range.
| Doneness | Temperature to Remove from Oven | Final Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Medium Rare | 120-125°F | 130-135°F |
For a classic medium-rare porterhouse, start by searing the steak in a cast-iron skillet for 3-5 minutes on each side. Then, transfer it to a rimmed baking sheet and let it cook in the oven for 10-20 minutes at 350 degrees. Use a digital thermometer to check the temperature and allow the steak to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Tips for Oven Cooking a Perfect Porterhouse
To enhance your cooking experience and ensure a delicious outcome, try the following tips:
Season It First
Salt is a steak’s best friend, and the porterhouse is no exception. Generously season your steak with salt and let it sit for 45 minutes. This simple step will infuse it with flavor and help it crisp up when seared.
Sear It Before Baking
While waiting for the oven to heat up, sear your porterhouse steak in a skillet with butter or oil. This quick sear locks in the steak’s juices, adds a crispy texture to the outside, and enhances the overall flavor.
Check the Temperature
Looks can be deceiving, so use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak is cooked to perfection. Remove the steak from the oven when it reaches the first temperature range in the chart above for your desired doneness. Check the temperature again after cooking and resting to ensure it’s cooked exactly how you like it.
Choosing the Right Cut
When shopping for porterhouse steak, consider your preferences:
- Dry-aged: Aged for up to six weeks, this variety offers enhanced tenderness and flavor.
- Wet-aged: This option provides similar benefits to dry aging but in a shorter time frame, while retaining more moisture.
- USDA Prime: The top grade of steak with exceptional marbling, indicating superior quality.
- Premium Angus: A moderately marbled and more affordable option labeled as USDA Choice.
The Perfect Oven-Cooked Porterhouse Recipe
Now that you’re equipped with the knowledge and tips, let’s put it all together with a simple oven-cooked porterhouse recipe.
Serves: 2
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 porterhouse steaks
- Salt
- Pepper
- 1 tbsp oil or butter
Instructions:
- Season both sides of the steaks with salt and let them sit at room temperature for 45 minutes to brine.
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and a skillet with oil or butter over high heat. Spray a rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray and set it aside.
- Sprinkle pepper on the porterhouse steaks. Sear each side for 3-5 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms.
- Transfer the steaks to the baking sheet and cook on the middle rack in the oven for 10-20 minutes, depending on your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature at the thickest part of the meat.
- Move the steaks onto a clean plate, tent them loosely with aluminum foil, and let them rest for 5-10 minutes.
Other Ways to Cook Porterhouse
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to explore different cooking methods for porterhouse steak, here are a few alternatives to oven cooking:
- Grilled porterhouse steak
- Sous vide porterhouse steak
- Reverse-seared porterhouse steak
- Pan-seared porterhouse steak
- Slow-cooked porterhouse steak
Your Guide to Cooking an Incredible Porterhouse Steak in the Oven
Cooking a porterhouse steak in the oven allows you to enjoy this mouthwatering cut in the comfort of your own home. If you’re ready to elevate your steak game, explore the selection of porterhouse steaks from the renowned Rowdy Hog Smokin BBQ. Order online and have them delivered straight to your doorstep. With their Premium Angus and dry-aged or wet-aged USDA Prime options, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable dining experience.
