London broil is a classic and budget-friendly beef dish that’s perfect for a hearty family dinner. Despite its name, London broil isn’t a specific cut of meat but a cooking method that transforms lean cuts like top round or top sirloin into tender, flavorful steak. Cooking it in the oven is easy and yields juicy results with just a few simple steps. Here’s how to cook a London broil in the oven, with tips to get it tender and tasty every time.
What Is London Broil?
London broil typically involves marinating a large, lean cut of beef and then cooking it quickly at high heat, usually by broiling or roasting. The goal is to get a flavorful crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. It’s often sliced thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness.
Choosing the Right Cut
Look for cuts such as:
– Top round
– Top sirloin
– Flank steak
These cuts are lean and work well with marinating and high-heat cooking. Aim for a piece about 1 to 1.5 inches thick to ensure even cooking.
Step-by-Step: How to Cook London Broil in the Oven
1. Marinate the Meat
Marinating is key to tenderizing and flavoring London broil. Use a marinade with acidic ingredients like lemon juice, vinegar, or soy sauce combined with herbs, garlic, and spices. Marinate the beef in a sealed bag or container for at least 30 minutes, but ideally a few hours or overnight in the fridge.
2. Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) for roasting or broiling. This temperature is high enough to develop a nice crust while cooking the meat through.
3. Season and Sear
Remove the beef from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels. Season it with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you prefer. For extra flavor and texture, sear the meat in a hot skillet with a bit of olive oil for 1-2 minutes per side until browned. This step locks in juices and adds a delicious crust.
4. Roast or Broil in the Oven
– Roasting: Place the seared London broil on a rack in a roasting pan or oven-safe dish. Roast in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes per pound, depending on your preferred doneness.
– Broiling: Alternatively, place the meat under the broiler, flipping occasionally, until it reaches your desired internal temperature.
5. Check Internal Temperature
Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness:
| Doneness | Internal Temperature |
|---|---|
| Rare | 120°F (49°C) |
| Medium-rare | 130°F (54°C) |
| Medium | 135-145°F (57-63°C) |
| Medium-well | 140-150°F (60-66°C) |
| Well-done | 150-160°F (66-71°C) |
Pull the meat from the oven when it’s about 5°F below your target temperature as it will continue to cook while resting.
6. Rest the Meat
Cover the London broil loosely with foil and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender and juicy.
7. Slice Against the Grain
For the most tender bites, slice the meat thinly against the grain. This breaks up the muscle fibers and enhances tenderness.
Tips for the Perfect Oven-Cooked London Broil
– Marinate well: The acid in the marinade tenderizes the meat and adds flavor.
– Don’t skip searing: It creates a flavorful crust and seals in juices.
– Use a thermometer: Avoid overcooking by checking the internal temperature.
– Rest before slicing: This step is crucial for juicy results.
– Slice thinly against the grain: This makes even tougher cuts easier to chew.
Flavor Variations
Try different marinade bases like:
– Soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for an Asian twist
– Red wine, rosemary, and thyme for a classic herb flavor
– Balsamic vinegar, honey, and mustard for a sweet and tangy glaze
Cooking London broil in the oven is straightforward and rewarding. With a good marinade, proper seasoning, and careful cooking, you can enjoy a tender, juicy steak that rivals more expensive cuts. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this method delivers big flavor with minimal fuss.
Enjoy your delicious oven-cooked London broil!