Are you looking for a budget-friendly and delicious way to cook beef bottom round steak? Look no further than your oven!
With a few simple steps, you can create a tender and flavorful meal that will have your family asking for seconds. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and adaptable to your taste preferences.
So, preheat your oven and get ready to impress with this mouth-watering dish.
How To Cook Beef Bottom Round Steak In The Oven?
There are several ways to cook beef bottom round steak in the oven, but we’ll focus on two methods that are sure to yield delicious results.
Method 1: Oven Baked Round Steak Recipe
This recipe has been passed down through generations and is a family favorite for its simplicity and affordability. Here’s what you’ll need:
– Beef bottom round steak
– Cream of chicken soup
– Cream of mushroom soup
– Brown gravy mix
– Water
– Garlic salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, brown gravy mix, and water.
3. Place the beef bottom round steak in a baking dish and season with garlic salt if desired.
4. Pour the gravy mixture over the steak.
5. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 3 hours.
6. Check the steak for tenderness and adjust cooking time as needed for thicker or thinner cuts.
Method 2: Slow Cooked Bottom Round Steak
This method takes a bit longer but results in a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s worth the wait. Here’s what you’ll need:
– Beef bottom round steak
– Salt and pepper
– Olive oil
– Balsamic vinegar
– Worcestershire sauce
– Soy sauce
– Dijon mustard
– Minced garlic
– Water
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Season the beef bottom round steak with salt and pepper.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic.
4. Tenderize the steak with a meat mallet or the back of a knife.
5. Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium heat and brown the steak on each side for 1-2 minutes.
6. Pour 2 cups of water into the skillet and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Place in the oven and cook for 10-12 minutes or until tender.
Choosing The Right Cut Of Beef Bottom Round Steak
When it comes to choosing the right cut of beef bottom round steak, it’s important to consider the dish you plan to prepare. The bottom round steak is a lean cut that can be tough if overcooked, but it’s also a more affordable option than other cuts of beef.
If you plan to use the bottom round steak for pot roast, stews, or other slow-cooked dishes, it’s a great choice. The whole point of pot roast is to take a tough cut of meat and braise it slowly in liquid until its fibers relax into tenderness and its ribbons of collagen and fat melt into the meat and make it succulent and moist. The bottom round is a bit tougher than the top round, but when cooked with moist heat, such as in braises and stews, the cooking liquid keeps it from drying out before it gets tender.
If you’re planning to grill or broil the bottom round steak, it’s best to marinate it first. This will help to tenderize the meat and add flavor. You can also use dry rubs or spice blends to add flavor before cooking.
Preparing The Steak For Cooking
Before cooking your beef bottom round steak in the oven, it’s important to prepare it properly to ensure maximum flavor and tenderness. Here are some tips to follow:
1. Season the steak: Whether you’re using the oven baked or slow cooked method, seasoning your steak is crucial. You can use a simple combination of salt and pepper, or get creative with herbs and spices. For best results, season your steak at least an hour before cooking and let it come to room temperature.
2. Pat dry: Before seasoning your steak, make sure to pat it dry with paper towels. This helps remove any excess moisture on the surface, which can prevent a good sear and cause steaming instead of browning.
3. Tenderize: If you’re using the slow cooked method, tenderizing the steak can help break down tough fibers and make it more tender. You can use a meat mallet or the back of a knife to gently pound the steak.
4. Brown the steak: For both methods, it’s important to brown the steak before cooking in the oven. This helps create a flavorful crust and seal in juices. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a bit of oil, then add the steak and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until browned.
5. Add liquid: Depending on the method you’re using, adding liquid can help keep the steak moist and tender during cooking. For the oven baked method, you’ll be using a gravy mixture. For the slow cooked method, you can use a combination of water and flavorful ingredients like balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic.
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to cooking a delicious beef bottom round steak in the oven.
Seasoning Options For Beef Bottom Round Steak
Seasoning your beef bottom round steak is crucial for adding flavor to this budget-friendly cut of meat. Here are some seasoning options to consider:
1. Salt and pepper – Simple yet effective, salt and pepper can enhance the natural flavor of the beef.
2. Mexican spices and lime juice – For a bold and zesty flavor, season your steak with Mexican spices like cumin, chili powder, and paprika, and add a splash of lime juice.
3. Italian seasoning – If you’re in the mood for Italian flavors, try seasoning your steak with a blend of oregano, basil, thyme, and garlic powder.
4. Cajun seasoning – For a spicy kick, use Cajun seasoning or make your own blend with paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
5. Barbecue rub – If you love smoky flavors, use a barbecue rub or make your own with brown sugar, paprika, chili powder, and cumin.
Remember to season your steak generously and let it sit for at least 30 minutes before cooking to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Cooking The Steak In The Oven
If you prefer to cook your beef bottom round steak in the oven, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it’s important to let the steak come to room temperature before cooking. This allows for more even cooking and prevents the steak from becoming tough.
For a simple and quick method, try broiling the steak. Preheat your oven to broil and position the rack closest to the heating element. Rub the steak with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Broil for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 125°F for rare, 135°F for medium rare, and 145°F for medium. Let the steak rest for 10 minutes before slicing against the grain.
Another option is to sear the steak on the stovetop and finish it in the oven. Preheat your oven to 450°F and place a large oven-safe skillet in the oven while it’s heating. Remove the pan from the oven and place it over high heat on the stove. Pat the steak dry with a paper towel, then rub it with oil and season generously with sea salt and pepper. When the pan is very hot, add the steak and sear on each side for 1 minute. Then place the pan in the oven and bake for 4-6 minutes on each side or until it reaches your desired doneness. Remove the meat 5°F before it reaches the desired temperature and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
No matter which method you choose, be sure to use a meat thermometer to ensure that your steak is cooked to your liking. And don’t forget to let it rest before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat for a more flavorful and tender result.
Checking For Doneness And Resting The Steak
Once you’ve cooked your beef bottom round steak in the oven, it’s important to check for doneness and let it rest before serving. Checking for doneness ensures that your steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, while resting allows the juices to distribute throughout the meat, making it juicier and more flavorful.
To check for doneness, you can use a meat thermometer or the finger test method. A meat thermometer is a reliable way to check the internal temperature of the steak. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, making sure not to touch bone or fat. The temperature will vary depending on your desired level of doneness.
For rare steak, the internal temperature should be around 125°F with a red color. For medium-rare steak, the temperature should be around 130°F with a deep pink color. For medium steak, the temperature should be around 140°F with a light pink color. For medium-well steak, the temperature should be around 150°F with a slightly pink center. For well-done steak, the temperature should be around 160°F+ with little to no pink.
If you prefer not to use a meat thermometer, you can use the finger test method. Gently press on the center of the steak with your finger. If it feels soft and squishy, it’s rare. If it feels slightly firm and bounces back, it’s medium-rare. If it feels firm and bounces back strongly, it’s well-done.
Once you’ve determined that your steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and flavorful.
To rest your steak, transfer it to a clean cutting board or plate and tent it loosely with aluminum foil. This will keep it warm while allowing excess steam to escape. Resist the urge to cut into your steak immediately after cooking, as this will cause all of the juices to escape and leave you with a dry piece of meat.
Serving Suggestions For Beef Bottom Round Steak
Beef bottom round steak is a versatile cut that can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some serving suggestions to help you get the most out of this delicious cut:
1. Roasted Italian Beef: Use the slow-cooked bottom round steak recipe above and add Barolo wine to the gravy for a rich, flavorful roast. Serve with mashed potatoes and your favorite vegetables for a hearty meal.
2. Beef and Mushroom Skillet: Cut the beef bottom round steak into thin strips and sauté with sliced mushrooms and onions. Serve over rice or noodles for a quick and easy dinner.
3. Beef Stir Fry: Cut the beef bottom round steak into thin strips and stir fry with your favorite vegetables and sauce. Serve over rice or noodles for a healthy and flavorful meal.
4. Beef Stew: Cut the beef bottom round steak into bite-sized pieces and simmer with vegetables, broth, and herbs for a comforting and hearty stew.
5. Beef Tacos: Cook the beef bottom round steak in a skillet with taco seasoning and serve in tortillas with your favorite toppings for a fun and flavorful meal.
No matter how you choose to serve it, beef bottom round steak is a delicious and affordable cut that can be used in a variety of dishes. Experiment with different flavors and cooking methods to find your favorite way to enjoy this versatile cut of meat.
