[FULL GUIDE] How Long To Cook Round Steak In Oven

Cooking round steak in the oven can be a convenient and delicious way to prepare this lean and flavorful cut of meat. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a special meal for family and friends, mastering the art of cooking round steak in the oven can be a valuable skill. From choosing the right cut to understanding the optimum oven temperature, this article will guide you through the entire process of preparing and cooking round steak to perfection.

Quick Answer: How Long To Cook Round Steak In The Oven

Cooking round steak in the oven generally takes around 30 minutes at a temperature of 375°F (190°C) for medium-rare doneness. However, various factors such as the thickness of the steak, desired level of doneness, and individual oven variations can influence the exact cooking time. It’s important to use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches your preferred level of doneness.

Choosing Round Steak

Round steak comes from the hindquarters of the cow and is known for its rich beefy flavor. While it’s a lean cut, it can be slightly tough if not cooked properly. There are two primary types of round steak: top round and bottom round.

• Top Round Steak: This cut is more tender compared to bottom round, making it suitable for roasting and broiling. It’s often used for dishes such as London broil and can be cut into thin slices for sandwiches or fajitas.

• Bottom Round Steak: This cut is lean but can be tougher than top round. It’s commonly used for braising, stewing, and slow cooking methods. When cooked properly, it can be tender and flavorful.

When selecting round steak for oven cooking, consider the thickness of the cut. Thicker steaks will require longer cooking times, while thinner cuts will cook more quickly. Additionally, look for well-marbled round steak, as the marbling contributes to tenderness and juiciness.

Preparing Round Steak

Before cooking round steak in the oven, it’s essential to properly prepare the meat to enhance its flavor and texture.

1. Tenderizing

Due to its lean nature, round steak can benefit from tenderizing. Use a meat mallet or a tenderizing tool to gently pound the steak, which helps break down the muscle fibers and make the meat more tender.

2. Seasoning

Season the round steak generously with your choice of spices and herbs. Common seasonings for round steak include salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried herbs such as thyme or rosemary. You can also consider using a marinade to add flavor and tenderize the meat further. Allow the steak to marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator.

3. Bringing To Room Temperature

Before placing the round steak in the oven, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps ensure more even cooking.

Oven Temperature For Cooking Round Steak

The oven temperature plays a crucial role in determining how long round steak needs to cook. A moderate oven temperature ensures that the steak cooks evenly without becoming overcooked on the outside.

1. Preheating

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) before placing the round steak inside. The preheating process helps create a consistent and stable cooking environment, promoting even cooking and desirable searing on the exterior of the steak.

2. Cooking Time

The cooking time for round steak in the oven can vary based on the desired level of doneness and the thickness of the steak.

• For medium-rare doneness: Cook the round steak for approximately 15 minutes per inch of thickness, flipping it halfway through the cooking time. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C).

• For medium doneness: Increase the cooking time slightly to about 18-20 minutes per inch of thickness, aiming for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

• For well-done doneness: Cook the steak for around 22-25 minutes per inch of thickness, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for well-done.

3. Checking Doneness

It’s essential to use a meat thermometer to accurately gauge the doneness of the round steak. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, away from any bones or fat. This ensures an accurate reading of the internal temperature, allowing you to achieve your desired level of doneness while preventing overcooking.

Cooking round steak in the oven can result in a flavorful and satisfying meal when done correctly. Starting with the right cut, proper preparation, and understanding the ideal oven temperature are key elements in achieving a delicious outcome. By tenderizing, seasoning, and monitoring the cooking time and temperature, you can confidently prepare round steak in the oven to your preferred level of doneness. Whether you prefer a succulent medium-rare steak or a well-done hearty meal, mastering the art of cooking round steak in the oven allows you to create a range of delightful dishes.

Oven Cooking Time For Cooking Round Steak

Round steak is a popular cut of beef known for its tenderness and rich flavor. While it can be grilled or pan-fried, cooking round steak in the oven is a convenient and fool-proof method to achieve juicy and delicious results. However, achieving the perfect doneness requires paying attention to cooking time and technique.

The cooking time for round steak in the oven depends on several factors, including the thickness of the steak, desired doneness, and whether you are cooking the steak whole or in smaller pieces. As a general guideline, you can estimate the oven cooking time for round steak to be approximately 20-25 minutes per pound. However, it is important to note that this is only a starting point, and you should always rely on internal temperature and doneness as the ultimate indicators for cooking time.

To achieve the desired level of doneness, you can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. Here are the recommended temperature ranges for different degrees of doneness:

• Rare: 120-125°F (49-52°C)
• Medium Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
• Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
• Medium Well: 150-155°F (66-68°C)
• Well Done: 160°F (71°C) and above

Keep in mind that these temperatures are for beef, and the USDA recommends cooking beef to a minimum internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for food safety.

How To Cook Round Steak In The Oven

Now that we know the oven cooking time and desired doneness temperatures, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of cooking round steak in the oven:

1. Preheating the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures a steady and even heat distribution throughout the cooking process.

2. Preparing the Steak: Before placing the round steak in the oven, it is essential to prepare it properly. Remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows for more even cooking. Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Season the steak with salt, pepper, and any desired spices or herbs. This will enhance the flavor of the meat.

3. Choosing a Baking Dish: Select a baking dish or a roasting pan that is large enough to accommodate the round steak comfortably. It should have high sides to prevent any drippings from spilling over. If you have a wire rack, place it in the baking dish. This will elevate the steak and promote air circulation, resulting in a more evenly cooked steak.

4. Cooking the Steak: Place the prepared round steak in the baking dish or on the wire rack. Ensure that the steak is in a single layer to ensure even cooking. If you are cooking multiple steaks, leave some space between them to avoid overcrowding the pan. This helps in proper browning and prevents steaming.

5. Inserting the Meat Thermometer: To monitor the internal temperature of the round steak accurately, insert a meat thermometer horizontally into the thickest part of the steak. Ensure that the thermometer is not touching any bone or fat, as this can give you an inaccurate reading.

6. Placing in the Oven: Once the oven has reached the desired temperature, place the baking dish with the round steak in the center of the oven. Close the oven door and allow the steak to cook undisturbed.

7. Monitoring the Temperature and Basting: Keep a close eye on the internal temperature of the round steak by checking the meat thermometer periodically. If you prefer your steak medium-rare, remove it from the oven when the thermometer reads about 5-10 degrees below the desired doneness temperature. You can baste the steak with melted butter or your favorite marinade during the cooking process to enhance the moisture and flavors.

8. Resting the Steak: Once the round steak reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board or a warm plate. Allow the steak to rest for 5-10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak.

Cooking Techniques

While the oven cooking time plays a significant role in achieving a perfectly cooked round steak, there are several cooking techniques you can employ to further enhance the tenderness and flavor profile.

Marinating

Marinating round steak before cooking can infuse it with delicious flavors and tenderize the meat. Marinating is a process of soaking the meat in a mixture of acidic ingredients, such as vinegar, citrus juice, or wine, combined with herbs, spices, and other flavorings.

To marinate round steak, place it in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. The longer you marinate the steak, the more flavorful and tender it will become.

Once the steak has marinated, remove it from the marinade and discard the remaining liquid. Pat the steak dry before seasoning and cooking it in the oven.

Slow Roasting

Slow roasting is a cooking technique that involves cooking the round steak at a low temperature for an extended period. This method allows the collagen in the meat to break down slowly, resulting in a tender and melt-in-your-mouth steak.

To slow roast round steak, preheat the oven to 275°F (135°C). Follow the same preparation steps as mentioned earlier, including seasoning the steak and placing it in a baking dish or on a wire rack. Insert a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature accurately.

Place the baking dish with the steak in the oven and cook for approximately 2-3 hours, depending on the thickness of the steak. Slow roasting requires patience but rewards you with a tender and flavorful round steak.

Reverse Searing

Reverse searing is a technique that involves cooking the round steak at a low temperature first, followed by a quick sear in a hot skillet or grill. This method ensures evenly cooked steak with a delicious crust.

To reverse sear round steak, start by preheating the oven to 275°F (135°C). Place the seasoned steak on a wire rack set inside a baking dish. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the steak.

Cook the steak in the oven until the internal temperature reaches about 10-15 degrees below the desired doneness. Remove the steak from the oven and let it rest while you preheat a skillet or grill to high heat.

Once the skillet or grill is hot, sear the steak for 1-2 minutes per side until a crust forms. The high heat of the skillet or grill will create a flavorful browned crust while keeping the interior juicy and tender.

Do I Need To Use Foil?

One common question when cooking round steak in the oven is whether or not to use foil. The use of foil is optional and depends on personal preference and the desired outcome.

Using foil can help to trap steam and moisture, resulting in a more tender and juicy steak. It also prevents excessive browning or charring on the outside while the steak cooks. If you prefer a steak with a softer exterior, then using foil can be beneficial.

To use foil, simply cover the baking dish or the wire rack with a piece of aluminum foil, ensuring it is tightly sealed. This creates a steamy environment for the steak to cook in. However, it is crucial to note that using foil may increase the cooking time slightly.

If you prefer a crispy exterior or want to create a crust on the steak, then leaving the steak uncovered is the way to go. This allows for more direct heat and browning. The choice between using foil or not depends on personal preference and the desired texture of the steak.

Cooking round steak in the oven is a convenient and reliable method to achieve tender and flavorful results. By following the recommended oven cooking time and paying attention to the internal temperature, you can cook round steak to your preferred level of doneness. Additionally, employing various cooking techniques such as marinating, slow roasting, or reverse searing can further enhance the tenderness and flavor of the steak. Whether you choose to use foil or not, cooking round steak in the oven is an excellent way to enjoy this delicious cut of beef.

Cooking Times For Frozen Round Steak

Round steak is a versatile cut of beef that can be cooked in a variety of ways. If you’re looking to prepare round steak in the oven, it’s essential to know the right cooking time to ensure a delicious and tender dish. The cooking time can depend on several factors, such as whether the steak is frozen or thawed, the thickness of the steak, and how well-done you prefer your meat.

If you’re starting with frozen round steak, it’s essential to allow for additional cooking time compared to when using thawed steak. The reason is that frozen steak will need more time to defrost and cook through. Here’s a general guideline to estimate how long to cook frozen round steak in the oven:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the frozen round steak on a baking sheet or in a baking dish. It’s advisable to use a baking dish with raised edges to contain any juices that may release during cooking.
3. Cook the steak for approximately 20-30 minutes per pound (450 grams). This range ensures thorough cooking while preventing overcooking or drying out the steak.
4. Check the internal temperature of the steak using a meat thermometer. The desired internal temperature for a well-done round steak is 160°F (71°C). For a medium or medium-rare steak, aim for 145°F (63°C) or 130°F (54°C), respectively.
5. Once the desired internal temperature is reached, remove the round steak from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

It’s worth noting that these cooking times are approximate and can vary depending on the thickness of the steak and your specific oven. It’s crucial to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the steak has reached the desired internal temperature at its thickest part.

Adjusting Oven Temperature For Cooking Round Steak

While a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) is suitable for cooking many cuts of meat, you may want to adjust the temperature slightly for round steak. A higher cooking temperature can help develop a desirable crust on the steak while keeping the center tender and juicy.

Generally, increasing the oven temperature by 25°F (14°C) can result in a slightly faster cooking time and a more caramelized exterior. However, it’s important to monitor the steak closely to prevent it from becoming too dry or overcooked.

Conversely, if you prefer a more gentle cooking process that allows the steak to retain more moisture, reducing the oven temperature by 25°F (14°C) is recommended. This lower temperature will typically yield a more tender and juicy result, albeit with a slightly longer cooking time.

Adjusting the oven temperature is a personal preference, and you may need to experiment to find the perfect balance that suits your taste. It’s always a good idea to keep a close eye on the cooking process, use a meat thermometer, and adjust the time accordingly to prevent undercooking or overcooking.

Adjusting Oven Cook Times For Cooking Round Steak

Besides adjusting the oven temperature, the cooking time will also vary depending on the desired level of doneness. Round steak can be enjoyed anywhere from rare to well-done, and each level of doneness requires a different cooking time. Here’s a breakdown of approximate cook times for round steak at different levels of doneness:

1. Rare: For a rare round steak, with an internal temperature around 125°F (52°C), cook for approximately 10-15 minutes per pound (450 grams) in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven.
2. Medium-Rare: To achieve medium-rare, with an internal temperature around 130°F (54°C), cook for approximately 15-20 minutes per pound (450 grams) in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven.
3. Medium: For a medium round steak, with an internal temperature around 145°F (63°C), cook for approximately 20-25 minutes per pound (450 grams) in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven.
4. Well-Done: To cook the round steak to well-done, with an internal temperature around 160°F (71°C), cook for approximately 25-30 minutes per pound (450 grams) in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven.

Remember that these cooking times are estimates and can vary depending on the thickness of the steak, the accuracy of your oven, and personal preference. Always use a meat thermometer to determine the internal temperature and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Undercooking

While it is crucial to cook round steak to a safe internal temperature, some individuals may prefer their steak to be cooked to a lower doneness level. It is important to note that round steak is a lean cut, and cooking it to lower levels of doneness can result in a tougher texture compared to more tender cuts. However, if you prefer a steak with a slightly pink center, you can adjust the cooking time accordingly.

To achieve a more rare or medium-rare round steak, you can reduce the cooking time per pound (450 grams) by about 5 minutes in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. However, it is crucial to ensure that the internal temperature reaches a minimum of 125°F (52°C) to maintain food safety.

When cooking round steak to lower levels of doneness, it is vital to source high-quality meat from a reputable supplier and handle it safely to reduce the risk of bacterial contamination. Always follow safe food handling practices, and if you have any concerns, consult with a knowledgeable professional before undercooking your meat.

Cooking round steak in the oven can result in a flavorful and tender dish when done correctly. By considering the cooking times for frozen and thawed round steak, adjusting the oven temperature, and adapting the cooking time to your desired level of doneness, you can prepare a delicious meal that satisfies your taste buds.

Remember to use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches the desired internal temperature, according to your preference and food safety guidelines. Keep in mind that these cooking times are approximate and can vary depending on several factors, such as the thickness of the steak and your oven's accuracy.

Mastering the art of cooking round steak in the oven may require some experimentation to achieve the perfect balance between tenderness and flavor. With practice, you'll be able to prepare a delightful round steak that is sure to impress your family and friends.

Overcooking

Round steak is a cut of beef that comes from the hindquarters. It has a lean and tough texture, which makes it ideal for slow-cooking methods. When cooked properly, round steak becomes tender and flavorful, making it an affordable and tasty option for meals. Cooking round steak in the oven is a popular method that yields delicious and juicy results.

Before diving into the specifics of cooking round steak in the oven, it’s worth noting the importance of not overcooking. Overcooking round steak can result in a tough and dry dish, which can be unpalatable. For this reason, it’s essential to keep an eye on the steak and remove it from the oven once it has reached the desired doneness.

When Things Go Wrong

If you do overcook the steak, don’t worry. There are a few things you can do to save your dish. One option is to add some liquid to the pan and cover it with foil before returning it to the oven for a short time. This will help soften the steak and add moisture to it. Another option is to cut the round steak into thin slices against the grain, which can help reduce the chewiness.

Tips For Cooking Round Steak In Oven

1. Seasoning: Season the round steak generously with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings of your choice. This will help enhance the flavors of the meat.
2. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F for the optimal cooking temperature.
3. Searing: Sear the round steak on both sides in a skillet for a few minutes before placing it in the oven. This will help create a nice crust and caramelized flavor on the outside.
4. Pan: Use a shallow pan or ovenproof skillet to cook the round steak. This will help the meat cook evenly and allow any juices to collect at the bottom of the pan, which can be used as a base for a sauce.
5. Liquid: Adding liquid to your pan while baking can help keep the meat moist. A simple beef broth can be used, or you can experiment with different types of liquids, such as wine or beer, for additional flavor.
6. Temperature: Round steak should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F for medium-rare, 160°F for medium, and 170°F for well-done.
7. Resting: After removing the steak from the oven, allow it to rest for five to ten minutes before serving. This will help the juices distribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.

Conclusion

Round steak is an affordable and delicious cut of meat that can be cooked to perfection in the oven. By following these tips, you can ensure that your round steak comes out juicy and flavorful every time. Remember to keep an eye on the steak to avoid overcooking, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and liquids to enhance the flavor. With a little bit of practice, you’ll be able to create a delectable round steak dish that will impress your family and friends.

FAQS

How Long Do I Cook Round Steak In The Oven For Maximum Tenderness?

For maximum tenderness, cook round steak in the oven for 2.5 to 3 hours at a low temperature of 275-300°F.

What Is The Recommended Oven Temperature For Cooking Round Steak?

The recommended oven temperature for cooking round steak is between 350-375°F for 30-45 minutes per pound of meat.

Can I Cook Round Steak In The Oven Without Marinade?

Yes, you can cook round steak in the oven without marinade. However, marinating the steak beforehand can add flavor and help tenderize the meat.

How Do I Know When Round Steak Is Fully Cooked In The Oven?

The best way to determine if round steak is fully cooked is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 145°F for medium-rare, 160°F for medium, and 170°F for well done.

Can I Broil Round Steak In The Oven?

Yes, you can broil round steak in the oven for a quick and easy cooking method. Broil the steak for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or 6-7 minutes for medium.