Cooking thin round steak in the oven can be a bit tricky, but with the right techniques and tips, you can achieve a deliciously cooked steak that’s sure to impress. In this article, we’ll take you through the steps to cook thin round steak in the oven, including preparation, seasoning, and cooking methods.
Understanding Thin Round Steak
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to understand what thin round steak is and its characteristics. Thin round steak, also known as round steak or top round steak, is a cut of beef that comes from the hindquarters of the cow. It’s a lean cut of meat, which means it has less marbling (fat) than other cuts of beef. This makes it a popular choice for those looking for a healthier option.
Thin round steak is typically cut into thin slices, usually around 1/4 inch thick. This makes it ideal for cooking methods that require quick cooking times, such as grilling, pan-frying, or oven broiling.
Benefits of Cooking Thin Round Steak in the Oven
Cooking thin round steak in the oven offers several benefits, including:
- Even cooking: The oven heat cooks the steak evenly, ensuring that it’s cooked to the same temperature throughout.
- Reduced risk of overcooking: The oven heat is gentler than other cooking methods, reducing the risk of overcooking the steak.
- Easy to cook in bulk: The oven allows you to cook multiple steaks at once, making it ideal for large gatherings or meal prep.
Preparing Thin Round Steak for Oven Cooking
Before cooking thin round steak in the oven, it’s essential to prepare it properly. Here are the steps to follow:
Bringing the Steak to Room Temperature
Remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to 1 hour before cooking. This helps the steak cook more evenly and prevents it from cooking too quickly on the outside.
Seasoning the Steak
Season the steak with your desired seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. You can also add a marinade or rub to the steak for extra flavor.
Patting the Steak Dry
Use paper towels to pat the steak dry, removing any excess moisture. This helps create a crispy crust on the steak during cooking.
Cooking Thin Round Steak in the Oven
Now that the steak is prepared, it’s time to cook it in the oven. Here are the steps to follow:
Preheating the Oven
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). If you have a convection oven, you can use the convection setting to help cook the steak more evenly.
Placing the Steak in the Oven
Place the steak on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. You can also use a broiler pan if you have one.
Cooking the Steak
Cook the steak in the oven for 8-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness. Here’s a general guideline for cooking times:
| Thickness of Steak | Cooking Time |
| — | — |
| 1/4 inch | 8-10 minutes |
| 1/2 inch | 12-15 minutes |
Using a Meat Thermometer
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. The recommended internal temperature for thin round steak is:
- Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium-rare: 135-140°F (57-60°C)
- Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
- Medium-well: 145-150°F (63-66°C)
- Well-done: 150-155°F (66-68°C)
Tips for Cooking Thin Round Steak in the Oven
Here are some additional tips to help you cook thin round steak in the oven:
- Use a cast-iron skillet: If you have a cast-iron skillet, you can use it to cook the steak in the oven. The skillet retains heat well and can help create a crispy crust on the steak.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Make sure to leave enough space between each steak to allow for even cooking.
- Don’t open the oven door too often: Resist the temptation to check on the steak too often, as this can let heat escape and affect the cooking time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Thin Round Steak in the Oven
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when cooking thin round steak in the oven:
- Overcooking the steak: Thin round steak can become tough and dry if it’s overcooked. Make sure to check the internal temperature regularly to avoid overcooking.
- Not letting the steak rest: After cooking the steak, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and the steak to retain its tenderness.
Conclusion
Cooking thin round steak in the oven can be a bit tricky, but with the right techniques and tips, you can achieve a deliciously cooked steak that’s sure to impress. Remember to prepare the steak properly, cook it to the right temperature, and let it rest before slicing. With practice, you’ll become a pro at cooking thin round steak in the oven.
What is the ideal temperature for cooking thin round steak in the oven?
The ideal temperature for cooking thin round steak in the oven depends on the level of doneness desired. For medium-rare, the oven should be preheated to 400°F (200°C), while for medium, it should be set to 375°F (190°C). For well-done, the temperature should be lowered to 350°F (175°C). It’s essential to note that the temperature may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and personal preference.
It’s also crucial to use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches a safe internal temperature. The internal temperature for medium-rare should be at least 130°F (54°C), while for medium, it should be at least 140°F (60°C). For well-done, the internal temperature should be at least 160°F (71°C). By monitoring the temperature, you can achieve the perfect level of doneness for your thin round steak.
How do I prepare thin round steak for oven cooking?
To prepare thin round steak for oven cooking, start by bringing the steak to room temperature. This helps the steak cook evenly and prevents it from cooking too quickly on the outside. Next, season the steak with your desired herbs and spices, making sure to coat it evenly. You can also add a marinade or rub to enhance the flavor.
After seasoning, pat the steak dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps create a crispy crust on the steak during cooking. Finally, place the steak on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving enough space for even cooking. You can also add aromatics like garlic, onions, or bell peppers to the baking sheet for added flavor.
How long does it take to cook thin round steak in the oven?
The cooking time for thin round steak in the oven depends on the thickness of the steak and the level of doneness desired. For a 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick steak, cooking time can range from 8-15 minutes for medium-rare, 12-18 minutes for medium, and 18-22 minutes for well-done. For a 1.5-inch (3.8 cm) thick steak, cooking time can range from 12-20 minutes for medium-rare, 18-25 minutes for medium, and 25-30 minutes for well-done.
It’s essential to use a timer and check the steak regularly to avoid overcooking. You can also use the finger test to check the doneness of the steak. Press the steak gently with your finger; if it feels soft and squishy, it’s medium-rare. If it feels firm and springy, it’s medium. If it feels hard and doesn’t yield to pressure, it’s well-done.
Can I cook thin round steak in the oven with a broiler?
Yes, you can cook thin round steak in the oven with a broiler. In fact, broiling can add a nice crust to the steak. To broil the steak, preheat the broiler to high heat. Place the steak on a broiler pan or a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil, and broil for 2-4 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the steak and the level of doneness desired.
Keep an eye on the steak while it’s broiling, as the high heat can quickly burn the steak. You can also use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. If you prefer a more well-done steak, you can finish it off in the oven after broiling. Simply place the steak in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for an additional 5-10 minutes.
How do I prevent thin round steak from becoming tough when cooking in the oven?
To prevent thin round steak from becoming tough when cooking in the oven, it’s essential to cook it to the right temperature. Overcooking can make the steak tough and chewy. Use a thermometer to ensure the steak reaches a safe internal temperature, and avoid cooking it beyond the recommended temperature.
Another way to prevent toughness is to cook the steak with a bit of fat. You can add a tablespoon of oil or butter to the steak before cooking, which will help keep it moist and tender. Additionally, you can cook the steak with aromatics like onions and bell peppers, which will add flavor and moisture to the steak.
Can I cook thin round steak in the oven with other ingredients?
Yes, you can cook thin round steak in the oven with other ingredients. In fact, cooking the steak with other ingredients can add flavor and moisture to the steak. Some popular ingredients to cook with thin round steak include onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, and potatoes. Simply place the ingredients on the baking sheet with the steak and cook according to the recipe.
When cooking with other ingredients, make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Thicker ingredients like potatoes may take longer to cook than the steak, so you may need to add them to the oven before the steak. On the other hand, delicate ingredients like mushrooms may cook quickly, so you may need to add them towards the end of the cooking time.
How do I store leftover thin round steak cooked in the oven?
To store leftover thin round steak cooked in the oven, let it cool to room temperature. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. Cooked steak can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the steak for up to 3 months. When freezing, make sure to wrap the steak tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag.
When reheating leftover steak, make sure to heat it to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. You can reheat the steak in the oven, on the stovetop, or in the microwave. When reheating, add a bit of moisture to the steak, such as broth or sauce, to keep it moist and tender.