How to Cook a London Broil Steak in the Oven: Your Guide to Tender Perfection
Here’s how to cook a delicious London broil steak in the oven: Marinade your steak for at least 2 hours, then sear it briefly on the stovetop before finishing it in a preheated oven for perfect doneness.
What is London Broil? A Cut Above the Rest
London broil isn’t actually a specific cut of beef, but rather a method of preparing flank steak or top round steak. The name likely originated in North America, referring to a marinated and broiled (or grilled) steak. While traditionally cooked using high-heat methods, a combination of searing and oven roasting can yield a remarkably tender and flavorful result. It’s a lean cut, making proper cooking crucial to avoid toughness.
Why Oven Cooking is a Great Option for London Broil
While grilling imparts a unique smoky flavor, oven cooking offers several advantages:
- Consistent Temperature: Ovens provide more consistent heat than grills, leading to more even cooking.
- Reduced Flare-Ups: No need to worry about grease fires ruining your dinner!
- Year-Round Availability: Enjoy London broil regardless of the weather.
- Hands-Free Cooking: Once in the oven, you have time to prepare sides or relax.
The Essential Steps: From Prep to Plating
Here’s a comprehensive guide to cooking a London broil steak in the oven:
Marinade Preparation: The marinade is key to tenderizing and flavoring this lean cut.
- Combine your desired marinade ingredients in a bowl.
- Popular options include: soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, Dijon mustard, herbs, and spices.
- Whisk thoroughly to combine.
Marinating the Steak:
- Place the London broil steak in a resealable bag or shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, but ideally overnight (up to 24 hours).
Searing the Steak (Optional but Recommended):
- Remove the steak from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature.
- Preheat a cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pan over medium-high heat.
- Add a tablespoon of oil with a high smoke point (e.g., avocado oil, canola oil).
- Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side to develop a flavorful crust.
Oven Roasting:
- Transfer the seared steak (in the oven-safe pan) to a preheated oven.
- Set oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
- Roast until the internal temperature reaches your desired level of doneness (see chart below).
Resting the Steak:
- Remove the steak from the oven and place it on a cutting board.
- Tent loosely with foil and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender steak.
Slicing and Serving:
- Slice the London broil against the grain (perpendicular to the muscle fibers) to maximize tenderness.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Determining Doneness: Internal Temperature is Key
Use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate results. Here’s a guideline:
| Doneness | Internal Temperature (°F) | Internal Temperature (°C) |
|---|---|---|
| Rare | 125-130 | 52-54 |
| Medium-Rare | 130-140 | 54-60 |
| Medium | 140-150 | 60-66 |
| Medium-Well | 150-160 | 66-71 |
| Well-Done | 160+ | 71+ |
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Skipping the Marinade: This is crucial for tenderizing and flavoring. Don’t skip it!
- Overcooking: London broil becomes tough when overcooked. Use a meat thermometer!
- Not Resting the Steak: Resting is essential for juicy results. Be patient!
- Slicing with the Grain: Slicing against the grain dramatically improves tenderness.
- Using a Cold Steak: Letting the steak come to room temperature before searing promotes even cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What’s the best type of marinade for London broil?
A good marinade should contain an acidic component (like vinegar or citrus juice), oil, and seasonings. The acid helps to break down the muscle fibers, tenderizing the steak. Popular choices include balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice. Experiment to find your favorite flavor combination!
2. Can I use a different cut of beef instead of flank steak or top round?
While flank steak and top round are the most common cuts for London broil, you could potentially use a flat iron steak or even a skirt steak. However, these cuts may cook differently, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.
3. How long should I marinate the London broil?
Ideally, marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight (up to 24 hours) is even better. Avoid marinating for longer than 24 hours, as the acid in the marinade can start to break down the protein too much, resulting in a mushy texture.
4. Do I need to sear the steak before putting it in the oven?
Searing is optional but highly recommended. It creates a delicious crust and adds flavor complexity. If you skip searing, you’ll have a less visually appealing and flavorful result.
5. What temperature should I set my oven to?
A temperature of 350°F (175°C) is generally recommended for oven-roasting London broil. This allows for even cooking without drying out the steak.
6. How long does it take to cook London broil in the oven?
Cooking time varies depending on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate results. A 1-inch thick steak will typically take 15-20 minutes in a 350°F oven for medium-rare.
7. How do I know when the London broil is done?
The best way to determine doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding bone or fat. Refer to the temperature chart above to achieve your preferred level of doneness.
8. Why is it important to let the steak rest after cooking?
Resting allows the juices in the steak to redistribute throughout the muscle fibers. If you slice the steak immediately after cooking, the juices will run out, resulting in a drier, less flavorful steak. Resting for 10-15 minutes is crucial for juicy results.
9. How should I slice the London broil?
Always slice the London broil against the grain. This means cutting perpendicular to the muscle fibers, which shortens them and makes the steak easier to chew. If you slice with the grain, the steak will be tougher.
10. What are some good side dishes to serve with London broil?
London broil pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Some popular options include:
- Roasted vegetables (asparagus, broccoli, carrots)
- Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
- Salad
- Grilled corn on the cob
- Rice or quinoa
11. Can I freeze cooked London broil?
Yes, you can freeze cooked London broil. Allow the steak to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then placing it in a freezer bag. For best results, use within 2-3 months.
12. How do I reheat leftover London broil?
The best way to reheat leftover London broil is in a low oven (250°F). Wrap the steak in foil with a little bit of broth or water to prevent it from drying out. Reheat until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the steak tough.