A juicy, oven-baked steak infused with a bold garlic and balsamic marinade, offering rich flavor and a tender texture without the need for a grill.
Author:Laura
Prep Time:10 minutes (plus 30 minutes marinating)
Cook Time:12–15 minutes
Total Time:35–45 minutes
Yield:2–4 servings
Category:Main Course
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Halal
Ingredients
1 to 1½ lbs steak (sirloin, rib-eye, or flank)
¼ cup balsamic vinegar
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp dried thyme or 1 tsp fresh thyme (optional)
1 tbsp butter or caramelized onions (optional, for topping)
Instructions
Remove steaks from the refrigerator 20–30 minutes before cooking to reach room temperature.
Pat steaks dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
In a bowl, mix balsamic vinegar, garlic, olive oil, and thyme. Brush or pour over the steaks, pressing it gently into the meat.
Marinate for 30 minutes to 1 hour if time allows.
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Optionally, sear steaks in a skillet over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side until browned.
Transfer to a baking dish or oven-safe skillet and bake for 5–6 minutes per side (for 1-inch thick steaks) or until desired doneness. Use a thermometer: 130–135°F for medium-rare.
Remove from oven and rest steaks for 5–10 minutes under loose foil.
Optional: Melt butter or add caramelized onions to the pan, drizzle over the steak before serving.
Slice thinly against the grain and serve with pan juices or toppings.
Notes
Do not over-marinate; acidic marinades can alter the meat texture.
Searing enhances crust and flavor but can be skipped for a simpler prep.
Resting the steak is crucial to retain juices.
Adjust baking time for thicker cuts.
Pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or salad.
Nutrition
Serving Size:1/4 of recipe (~6 oz steak with marinade)