Round steak is a lean, budget-friendly cut from the rear leg of the beef. While it can be a bit tough if not cooked properly, using the oven to slow-cook it can transform it into a tender, flavorful meal. If you’re wondering how to cook round steak in the oven, this guide will walk you through an easy, step-by-step method to get juicy, tender results every time.
Why Cook Round Steak in the Oven?
The oven is perfect for cooking round steak because it allows for slow, even heat that breaks down the tougher muscle fibers. This method ensures the meat becomes tender without drying out. Plus, it’s a hands-off approach that frees you up to prepare sides or relax while your dinner cooks.
What You’ll Need
– Round steak (top round, bottom round, or eye of round)
– Salt and pepper (or your favorite seasoning blend)
– Cooking oil (vegetable or olive oil)
– Optional: onions, garlic, herbs (like rosemary or thyme)
– Aluminum foil or a tight-fitting lid
– Oven-safe skillet or baking dish
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Round Steak in the Oven
1. Prepare the Steak
Take your round steak out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps it cook more evenly.
Season both sides generously with salt and pepper or your preferred seasoning mix. You can also add garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
2. Sear the Steak
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Once hot, sear the steak for 2-3 minutes on each side until it develops a nice brown crust. This step locks in the juices and adds depth to the flavor.
3. Add Aromatics (Optional)
If you like, add sliced onions, garlic cloves, or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the skillet to infuse more flavor during cooking.
4. Transfer to the Oven
Move the seared steak (and aromatics if using) to an oven-safe baking dish or keep it in the skillet if it’s ovenproof. Cover tightly with aluminum foil or a lid to keep moisture in.
5. Slow Cook at Low Temperature
Place the covered dish in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C). Bake for about 2 to 2 ½ hours. The low and slow cooking will tenderize the meat until it easily pulls apart with a fork.
6. Brown the Steak (Optional)
For a slightly crispy finish, remove the foil during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the steak to brown on top.
7. Rest and Slice
Once done, take the steak out of the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Resting helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making it juicier. Slice the steak thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness.
Tips for Perfect Oven-Baked Round Steak
– Tenderize before cooking: You can pound the steak lightly with a meat mallet to break down tough fibers.
– Marinate for flavor: Marinating the steak for a few hours or overnight in a mixture of oil, vinegar, herbs, and spices can add flavor and tenderness.
– Use a gravy or sauce: Cooking the steak with a sauce like mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, or barbecue sauce can keep it moist and add richness.
– Check doneness: The steak is ready when it’s fork-tender and easy to slice.
Easy Recipe Variation: Round Steak with Mushroom Sauce
– After searing the steak, sauté onions and garlic in the skillet.
– Mix cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and a bit of brown gravy mix.
– Pour the sauce over the steak, cover, and bake as above.
– The sauce keeps the steak moist and creates a delicious gravy for serving.
Serving Suggestions
Oven-cooked round steak pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad. You can also slice the steak thin and use it in sandwiches or wraps for a hearty lunch.
Cooking round steak in the oven is a straightforward way to turn an economical cut into a tender, flavorful meal. With a little patience and the right technique, you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.