Delmonico steak recipe oven style—learn to cook it juicy and tender in just 7 steps! Perfect for a steakhouse dinner at home.
Introduction
Delmonico steak is a classic American cut that’s rich in flavor, known for its tenderness and marbling. When cooked in the oven, it can turn into a juicy, mouthwatering dish perfect for weeknights or special occasions. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover how to prepare Delmonico steak in the oven with step-by-step tips, seasoning secrets, cooking methods, and plating suggestions. Whether you’re new to cooking steak or want to elevate your skills, this guide covers it all. Don’t miss our guide on steak doneness levels to pair with your technique!
Ingredients with Measurements (Serves 2)
Main Ingredients:
- 2 Delmonico steaks (Ribeye or Chuck Eye), 1.25–1.5 inches thick (each about 10–12 oz)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil, for high-heat searing)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, smashed
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme
Optional Marinade (if not dry brining):
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (for a bit of tang)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Compound Butter (for serving):
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon chopped parsley
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of lemon zest (optional, for brightness)
Suggested Side Dishes (Optional):
- 1 lb Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and quartered (for mashed potatoes)
- ½ cup whole milk or heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 lb asparagus or Brussels sprouts, trimmed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Choosing the Right Cut for Oven Cooking
Ribeye vs. Chuck Eye: Which is Better?
When you’re aiming for the perfect Delmonico steak recipe oven style, the cut you choose can make or break your dish. Traditionally, the Delmonico steak comes from either the ribeye or chuck eye area, depending on regional preferences and butcher interpretations.
Ribeye is often the go-to choice thanks to its intense marbling, tenderness, and buttery flavor. It’s a premium cut, making it ideal for an indulgent oven-baked steak dinner. When you roast it in the oven after a solid sear, the fat melts right into the meat, giving you that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Chuck eye, on the other hand, is more affordable and still very flavorful. While it’s slightly tougher than ribeye, it’s packed with beefy richness. It’s a great choice if you’re cooking for a group or want a budget-friendly version without sacrificing too much on quality. You’ll just need a bit more marination or a longer resting time after baking.
Here’s a quick comparison table to help you choose:
Cut Type | Flavor Profile | Tenderness | Price Range | Oven Suitability |
---|---|---|---|---|
Ribeye | Rich, buttery | Very tender | High | Excellent |
Chuck Eye | Beefy, robust | Moderately tender | Medium | Good |
If you’re new to oven steak recipes, start with ribeye. It’s more forgiving and delivers consistent, juicy results even if your technique isn’t perfect yet.
How to Identify a True Delmonico Steak
Here’s where things get a bit tricky—“Delmonico steak” isn’t a fixed cut. The term dates back to the 1800s from Delmonico’s Restaurant in New York, where the steak was prized for its tenderness and presentation. But over the years, it’s been used to describe several different cuts, most often ribeye, chuck eye, or even strip loin.
When selecting your steak for an oven recipe, look for:
- A boneless, well-marbled cut (fat means flavor!)
- Thickness of at least 1 to 1.5 inches for proper searing and baking
- A uniform shape to ensure even cooking
Ask your butcher for a Delmonico cut and clarify what cut they use. Whether it’s ribeye or chuck eye, what really matters is the quality of the meat and how you prep and cook it.
To keep things easy, go with a ribeye or a chuck eye steak labeled “Delmonico-style.” They’re the best for that oven-cooked steakhouse flavor.
For more detail on the cut and history of this steak, check out this legendary original Delmonico steak recipe.
Tools & Ingredients You’ll Need
Essential Kitchen Tools for Oven Steak Cooking
Before diving into the Delmonico steak recipe oven method, make sure your kitchen is stocked with the right tools. Proper equipment not only simplifies the cooking process but also ensures even heat distribution and better results.
Here’s a checklist of must-have kitchen tools:
- Cast Iron Skillet or Oven-Safe Pan
A cast iron skillet is perfect for searing and can seamlessly transition into the oven. Its heat retention is unmatched, giving you that golden-brown crust every steak lover craves. - Meat Thermometer
A digital meat thermometer is key for nailing the doneness without guesswork. Whether you like it rare or well done, temperature accuracy is everything. - Tongs
Forget the fork—use tongs to flip your steak. It preserves juices and keeps that crust intact. - Baking Sheet and Wire Rack (Optional)
If you’re using the reverse-sear or slow-roast method, placing your steak on a wire rack over a baking sheet helps circulate heat evenly. - Aluminum Foil or Butcher Paper
For resting the steak post-bake, wrapping it helps retain heat and redistribute juices for a juicy bite every time. - Oven Mitts
Don’t forget safety—those pans are hot!
Looking for inspiration? Want to give it a twist? Dice leftovers into a cheesy steak quesadilla for the next day!
Prepping the Delmonico Steak
Trimming and Marinating Tips
Proper prep is what separates a good steak from a great steak. When working with a Delmonico steak recipe oven method, the goal is to lock in flavor while keeping the meat tender and juicy.
Trimming Basics
Most Delmonico steaks come nicely butchered, but here’s what to look for:
- Trim any excess fat on the edges to prevent flare-ups if searing.
- Leave the marbling intact—it’s the key to flavor.
- Remove any silver skin (that shiny, tough connective tissue) with a sharp knife for a smoother chew.


Should You Marinate?
You don’t have to marinate a quality Delmonico cut, but doing so can take the flavor up a notch—especially if you’re working with a chuck eye variation.
Here’s a simple marinade to use:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary (chopped)
- ½ tsp salt and ½ tsp black pepper
Marinate for 30 minutes to 2 hours max. Too long, and you risk overpowering the steak’s natural richness.
Want to skip the marinade? No problem—go for a dry brine. Just season the steak generously with salt and let it rest uncovered in the fridge for at least an hour. This draws moisture to the surface and helps create a crust when seared.
Room Temperature Prep: Why It Matters
Letting your steak rest at room temperature before it hits the pan or oven is a game-changer. Here’s why:
- Even Cooking: Cold steak thrown into a hot pan results in an overcooked exterior and undercooked center.
- Better Sear: A room-temperature steak forms a better crust because less moisture is released during cooking.
- Faster Cook Time: No need to compensate for the chill—your oven will thank you.
How long? Let the steak sit out for about 30–45 minutes before cooking.
While it rests, pat the steak dry with paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of searing, and dry meat equals a golden, crispy exterior.

Quick Recap for Prepping:
Step | Action |
---|---|
1 | Trim excess fat and silver skin |
2 | Marinate (optional) or dry brine |
3 | Let steak come to room temperature |
4 | Pat dry before searing or oven-baking |
Of course! Here’s Part 8: Serving & Plating Ideas, fully optimized for our keyword Delmonico steak recipe oven, designed to inspire readers to serve their steak like pros. This section will cover what to serve with the steak, plus plating tips for a restaurant-style presentation—simple but classy!
You can also explore variations like the Delmonico Steak Recipe cooked on the grill or stovetop, depending on your mood or weather.
Serving & Plating Ideas
Side Dishes that Pair Perfectly with Delmonico
You’ve nailed the cooking part—your Delmonico steak recipe oven masterpiece is resting, juicy, and ready to be devoured. Now, let’s talk sides that complement its bold, beefy flavor without stealing the spotlight.
Classic Pairings:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and smooth, they soak up steak juices beautifully.
- Roasted Asparagus or Brussels Sprouts – Crisp and caramelized veggies add texture and balance the richness.
- Baked Mac and Cheese – For an indulgent twist, creamy cheese pairs wonderfully with the umami depth of the steak.
- Sautéed Mushrooms with Thyme – Earthy and buttery, mushrooms are a steak’s best friend.
- Creamed Spinach – A steakhouse staple that’s rich but surprisingly easy to make.
Light Options:
- Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette – Peppery and bright, a great palate cleanser.
- Grilled Zucchini or Bell Peppers – Adds smoky depth and vibrant color.
- Cauliflower Mash – A low-carb, creamy alternative to potatoes.
Plating Like a Pro: Visual Tips
The flavor of your Delmonico steak is king—but visual presentation matters too. A beautiful plate elevates the entire experience, especially when you’re hosting or serving a special dinner.
Top Plating Tips:
- Slice Against the Grain
Always slice your steak against the grain for maximum tenderness. Presenting it sliced also helps highlight the juicy center and seared crust. - Use White Plates
A neutral backdrop lets the color of the meat and sides pop. - Stack for Height
Elevate the steak slightly over the sides—this adds dimension and a high-end restaurant feel. - Garnish with Fresh Herbs
Sprinkle chopped parsley, rosemary sprigs, or microgreens for that polished final touch. - Drizzle, Don’t Drench
If using a sauce or compound butter, drizzle it lightly over the steak or serve on the side in a small ramekin.
Sample Plate Composition:
Element | Placement |
---|---|
Steak Slices | Slightly overlapping at center |
Potatoes/Mash | Bottom left or under steak |
Veggies | Opposite side for color contrast |
Garnish | On top or scattered lightly around edge |
Absolutely! Here’s a complete list of ingredients with precise measurements tailored for one of the most flavorful Delmonico steak recipe oven preparations. This setup serves 2 people, but you can easily scale it depending on your guest count.
Oven Cooking Methods Explained
Sear Then Bake Method
One of the most popular and foolproof ways to execute a Delmonico steak recipe oven style is the sear-then-bake method. This technique delivers a rich crust and a perfectly cooked center—just like a steakhouse experience, but from your home kitchen.

Here’s how it works:
Step-by-Step:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C).
- Heat a cast iron skillet over high heat for about 5 minutes until it’s smoking hot.
- Add a little oil with a high smoke point (avocado or canola).
- Sear the Delmonico steak for 2–3 minutes per side until a brown crust forms.
- Transfer the entire skillet to the oven.
- Bake for 5–10 minutes, depending on the thickness and your desired doneness (see the doneness guide in Part 7).
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temp (Medium-Rare: 130–135°F).
- Let the steak rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
Why this method works:
- Searing caramelizes the outer layer, giving that umami-packed crust.
- Baking allows for controlled internal cooking, avoiding overdone edges and raw centers.
Want to try variations? Don’t miss our guide on different steak searing techniques for even more flavor ideas.
Slow Roast Technique for Extra Tenderness
If you’re after tenderness and don’t mind a little patience, the slow roast method is where it’s at. This works best for slightly thicker Delmonico steaks, especially those with more connective tissue like chuck eye cuts.
How To:
- Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
- Season your steak and place it on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
- Insert a meat thermometer probe into the thickest part.
- Roast until it reaches 10–15°F below your desired internal temp.
- Remove from oven and rest for 10 minutes.
- Sear quickly in a hot cast iron pan for 1–2 minutes per side.
This method, often called the reverse sear, gives you:
- Even pink color from edge to center
- Super tender meat
- A finish that’s still crusty and flavorful
Here’s a quick comparison of both methods:
Method | Best For | Oven Temp | Total Time | Crust Quality | Tenderness |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sear Then Bake | Ribeye Delmonico Cuts | 400°F | 12–18 mins | Excellent | High |
Slow Roast | Chuck Eye or Thick Cuts | 275°F | 35–50 mins | Great (after sear) | Exceptional |
Pro Tip:
No matter the method, always rest your steak after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping your steak moist and flavorful.
Looking for more oven-friendly cooking ideas? Don’t miss our roundup of slow-cooked gourmet meat dishes perfect for any occasion.
Perfect! Let’s wrap up this detailed guide on the Delmonico steak recipe oven with the FAQs section and a compelling conclusion—both fully optimized for SEO and easy to read for a U.S. audience. These final pieces will help answer common reader questions and encourage action.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What temperature do you cook Delmonico steak in the oven?
For best results, bake Delmonico steak in a preheated oven at 400°F (204°C). If you’re using the slow-roast method, reduce the heat to 275°F (135°C) for a longer, more tender cook.
Should you sear Delmonico steak before baking?
Yes, searing first helps develop a flavorful crust and locks in juices. Always sear for 2–3 minutes per side in a hot skillet before transferring to the oven.
How long to cook a 1-inch Delmonico steak in the oven?
After searing, bake for about 6–10 minutes, depending on your desired doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130–135°F.
Is Delmonico steak the same as ribeye?
Not exactly. While ribeye is one of the most common cuts labeled as Delmonico, some butchers use chuck eye or strip loin. The name “Delmonico” refers more to the preparation and presentation than a specific cut.
Do you need to marinate a Delmonico steak?
It’s optional. Ribeye-based Delmonico steaks are already tender, so a simple dry brine or basic seasoning works fine. Chuck eye cuts benefit more from marinating for 30–60 minutes.
What’s the best way to serve Delmonico steak?
Serve it sliced against the grain, with rich sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or compound butter. Finish with fresh herbs or a light drizzle of pan sauce.
Conclusion
Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or simply treating yourself to a steakhouse-quality meal at home, this Delmonico steak recipe oven guide has you covered. From choosing the right cut to mastering oven techniques and perfect plating, we’ve walked you through every step to make your steak juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor.
Remember:
- Start with quality steak—ribeye or chuck eye
- Use a hot sear to lock in juices
- Finish in the oven to cook evenly and safely
- Rest, slice, and plate for a final presentation that impresses
Delmonico Steak Recipe Oven – The Best 7-Step Juicy Steak
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
This Delmonico steak recipe cooked in the oven delivers rich, juicy, restaurant-quality flavor with a crispy crust and a tender center—perfect for a hearty weeknight meal or special dinner.
Ingredients
2 Delmonico steaks (about 1.25 to 1.5 inches thick)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp sea salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Let the steaks rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking.
Pat steaks dry with a paper towel. Season generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steaks for 2–3 minutes per side until a golden crust forms.
Add butter, garlic, thyme, and Worcestershire sauce to the pan. Spoon the mixture over the steaks for 30 seconds.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast for 5–7 minutes for medium-rare, or longer depending on your preferred doneness.
Remove steaks, cover loosely with foil, and rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Always rest the steak after cooking to lock in the juices.
For extra flavor, you can dry-brine the steaks overnight with salt in the fridge.
Adjust oven time depending on the steak thickness and desired doneness. Use a thermometer for best results (125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium).
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 540 kcal
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 47g
Keywords: Delmonico steak recipe oven, oven-cooked steak, juicy steak in oven, cast iron steak recipe, easy steak dinner