My easy oven-baked tuna steaks are a quick dinner that takes almost no prep or cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights. These simple salt and pepper tuna steaks deliver restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort, proving that even the most basic ingredients can create delicious meals.
No time to read the recipe? Pin it to read later ⤵️
Easy Tuna Steaks
While fancy recipes have their place, I’ve found that quality seafood like tuna steaks need little more than salt and pepper to shine. I started making this simple version years ago when I was short on time but still wanted something better than our usual weeknight fare. The beauty of this recipe is how it respects the natural flavor of the fish.
My family appreciates that I’m not spending hours in the kitchen, and I appreciate having just one baking sheet to clean afterward.
We serve these tuna steaks at least twice a month now, usually with a simple vegetable side and some rice or potatoes to complete the meal.
What You’ll Need to Cook
Tuna Steaks: Choose tuna steaks that are about 1½ inches thick and have a vibrant pink or red color. Fresh tuna should smell clean like the ocean without any strong fishy odor. For best results, bring steaks to room temperature 15 minutes before cooking.
Sea Salt: Flaky sea salt provides better texture and more concentrated flavor than table salt. Maldon or fleur de sel varieties add a pleasant crunch to the exterior of the fish.
Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper delivers significantly more aroma and flavor than pre-ground. Use a coarse grind for texture that creates a delicious crust on the tuna.
Olive Oil: Use a high-quality extra-virgin olive oil with a mild flavor profile.
Ingredient Substitutes
Tuna Steaks: Swordfish or mahi-mahi steaks can be used as alternatives, although cooking times may vary slightly.
Sea Salt: Kosher salt is a suitable substitute if you don’t have sea salt on hand.
Olive Oil: Avocado oil or grapeseed oil can be used for their high smoke points and neutral flavors.
How to Make Baked Tuna
Step 1: Prepare the Tuna
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat the tuna steaks completely dry with paper towels—this is crucial for proper searing and for the seasoning to adhere. Place the tuna on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in an oven-safe skillet.
Drizzle each tuna steak with about one teaspoon of olive oil on both sides, then use your hands to ensure the steaks are evenly coated. Season generously with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper on both sides, pressing the seasonings gently into the flesh.
Step 2: Bake to Perfection
Place the seasoned tuna in the preheated oven and bake for 5-6 minutes per inch of thickness for medium-rare (internal temperature of 125°F), or 7-8 minutes per inch for medium (internal temperature of 135°F).
For a more visually appealing sear, you can first sear the tuna in an oven-safe skillet over high heat for 1 minute per side, then transfer to the oven to finish cooking for 3-4 minutes for medium-rare.
Remove from the oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. The tuna will continue to cook slightly as it rests. For optimal flavor and texture, the center should remain a pink color.
How To Store Leftovers and Reheat
Store leftover tuna steaks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results when reheating, warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat just until heated through, about 2 minutes per side. Alternatively, enjoy cold leftover tuna in salads or sandwiches.
What To Serve With Tuna
- Smoked Baked Potatoes – These flavorful potatoes make a satisfying and hearty accompaniment.
- Grilled Carrots – These extra-flavorful carrots are both nutritious and delicious.
- Grilled Garlic Bread – Who can resist garlicky bread with tuna
- Bacon Mac and Cheese – Easy cheesy side that works beautifully with tuna
📌 Did you try this recipe?
Have you made this delicious recipe and loved it?
I would love it if you took a minute to leave a star rating and review. It is also helpful if you made any substitutions or changes to the recipe to share that; thank you!
📌 Please also pin the image below, then you can find the recipe for the next time you want to cook.
Baked Tuna Steaks
Ingredients
- 4 whole tuna steaks 6 oz each, about 1½ inches thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sea salt
- 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Pat tuna steaks dry with paper towels.
- Drizzle each steak with olive oil, coating all sides.
- Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Place on baking sheet and bake for 5-6 minutes per inch of thickness for medium-rare.
- Let rest for 3-5 minutes before serving.
Smoke On!
Charlie
Author: Charlie Reeves
Hi, I’m Charlie, I have been meat-smoking and grilling for the past 15 years. I have an array of different smokers, thermometers, and have a love for finding the right wood and charcoal combo My favourite recipes are my EXTRA CRISPY smoked pork belly, juicy pulled pork, smoked brisket, duck poppers, and ANY SEAFOOD I grill).
I loves sharing his tips with beginners, helping them navigate the world of smoking. I find it’s not just about cooking; it’s a quest for that perfect smoky flavor.
You will usually find me playing with the kids, perfecting my brisket bark, or sipping beers with boys around the fire. Can’t wait to share all my delicious smoking and grilling recipes with you!
You can read more about me on our About Us page.
Hungry For More?
