How Long Do You Cook London Broil in the Oven? The Expert Guide
Cooking London broil in the oven requires precision. Generally, you should cook London broil in the oven for approximately 12-15 minutes per pound at 400°F for medium-rare to medium doneness, achieving an internal temperature of 130-140°F.
Understanding London Broil: A Lean and Flavorful Cut
London broil isn’t a specific cut of beef; it’s a method of preparing a tougher cut, usually top round or flank steak. This method involves marinating the meat and then broiling or grilling it. However, baking in the oven can also yield delicious results when done correctly. Proper cooking ensures the meat is tender and flavorful, rather than dry and chewy.
Benefits of Oven Cooking London Broil
Oven cooking offers several advantages:
- Consistent Heat: The oven provides more consistent and even heat compared to grilling, leading to more uniform cooking.
- Hands-Off Approach: Once in the oven, the meat requires minimal attention, freeing you up for other tasks.
- Year-Round Availability: Oven cooking allows you to enjoy London broil regardless of the weather.
- Simplified Cleanup: Compared to grilling, oven cooking typically results in easier cleanup.
The Oven Cooking Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s how to cook London broil perfectly in the oven:
- Prepare the Meat: Pat the London broil dry with paper towels.
- Marinate (Essential!): Marinate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, in the refrigerator. A good marinade should include an acid (like vinegar or lemon juice), oil, and seasonings.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Sear (Optional, But Recommended): For enhanced flavor, sear the London broil in a hot skillet with oil for 2-3 minutes per side before placing it in the oven.
- Place in Oven: Place the London broil on a baking sheet or in a roasting pan.
- Cook: Cook for 12-15 minutes per pound for medium-rare to medium doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
- Rest: Remove the London broil from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful cut.
- Slice Against the Grain: Slice the London broil thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Marinade: Marinading is crucial for tenderizing the meat. Don’t skip this step!
- Overcooking: London broil is best served medium-rare to medium. Overcooking will result in a tough and dry piece of meat. Use a meat thermometer!
- Not Slicing Against the Grain: Slicing with the grain will result in a chewy texture.
- Not Resting the Meat: Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a more tender and flavorful final product.
- Cooking from Cold: Bringing the meat close to room temperature before cooking promotes even cooking.
Doneness Temperatures for London Broil
| Doneness | Internal Temperature (°F) | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Rare | 120-130 | Cool red center |
| Medium-Rare | 130-140 | Warm red center |
| Medium | 140-150 | Pink center |
| Medium-Well | 150-160 | Slightly pink center |
| Well Done | 160+ | Little or no pink |
Marinade Recommendations
A good marinade is essential for London Broil. Here are a few proven options:
- Classic Marinade: Olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Asian-Inspired Marinade: Soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes.
- Herb Marinade: Olive oil, lemon juice, fresh rosemary, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best temperature to cook London Broil in the oven?
The ideal oven temperature for cooking London broil is 400°F (200°C). This high heat helps to quickly cook the meat while retaining its moisture and preventing it from becoming too tough. Searing before baking can also enhance the flavor and create a desirable crust.
How do I know when my London Broil is done?
The most reliable way to determine doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, avoiding bone. Refer to the doneness temperatures table above for your desired level of cooking.
Can I cook London Broil from frozen in the oven?
It’s generally not recommended to cook London broil from frozen. Frozen meat cooks unevenly, and it can be difficult to achieve the desired level of doneness without overcooking the exterior. Thawing the meat completely in the refrigerator is the best approach.
Should I cover the London Broil while it’s in the oven?
Covering the London broil while baking can trap moisture and prevent it from developing a nice crust. It’s generally best to cook it uncovered to achieve a good sear. If you find the meat is browning too quickly, you can lightly tent it with foil.
What if my London Broil is very thick?
If your London broil is significantly thicker than average (over 2 inches), you may need to increase the cooking time slightly. Monitor the internal temperature closely and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Can I use a convection oven to cook London Broil?
Yes, you can use a convection oven. Convection ovens cook faster due to the circulating air. Reduce the cooking time by about 20% and monitor the internal temperature carefully.
How long should I marinate London Broil?
For the best results, marinate London broil for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, in the refrigerator. Longer marinating times allow the meat to absorb more flavor and become more tender.
What is the best way to slice London Broil?
The key to tender London broil is to slice it thinly against the grain. Look closely at the meat to identify the direction of the muscle fibers and slice perpendicular to them.
What should I serve with London Broil?
London broil pairs well with a variety of side dishes, including:
- Roasted vegetables (potatoes, carrots, broccoli)
- Mashed potatoes
- Salads
- Rice or quinoa
Can I reheat leftover London Broil?
Yes, you can reheat leftover London broil. To prevent it from drying out, reheat it gently in a skillet with a little oil or broth, or in a low-temperature oven.
How can I make my London Broil more tender?
Aside from marinating, using a meat tenderizer before cooking can also help to break down tough muscle fibers. Avoid overcooking, which is the biggest factor in dry, tough meat.
What is the difference between London Broil and Flank Steak?
London broil is a cooking method, while flank steak and top round are cuts of meat. Flank steak is often used for London broil due to its affordability and flavor, but top round is also a common choice. The key is to marinate and cook either cut correctly.