Even though supermarkets may label certain meats as "London broil," there isn't a cut of meat dedicated to the flavor. Instead, it's all about the cooking method and knowing how long it takes.
While all ovens are different, thanks to the various hot spots, you should aim to cook London broil for six to 15 minutes at 450°F. However, be mindful that these timings may change based on the thickness of the meat and your preferred doneness. Use an instant-read digital thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat to determine when it's ready.
The variables may seem too tough to handle, but that isn't the case, as you'll see if you stick with us.
Choosing the Best Cut of Meat for London Broil
You can get away with cheaper cuts when making London broil. You get more value for money since you're marinating the beef. And if it's a special occasion? Go for dry-aged top sirloin — it will impart a hearty, beefy flavor that would otherwise be impossible.
That said, there are a couple of types that are best-suited for this cooking method — flatiron steak and flank steak.
Flatiron Steak
Many chefs prefer flatiron steak, the more expensive option, thanks to its uniform thickness and leanness. The former ensures it will cook evenly without much manipulation from you. Using this cut almost guarantees you'll get tender bites throughout the entire dining experience.
It's fantastic for additional seasoning and marinating — that's all thanks to the lack of exterior fat and perfectly symmetrical shape. Plus, its thickness slices nicely, making it suitable for any plating plan.
Flank Steak
For home cooks, flank steaks tend to be the best option. Coming from the belly of the cow, it's quite cheap and has a wide yet consistent grain for exceptional marinating and flavor penetration.
That said, it's slightly chewier than flatiron steak. Although, you can solve this conundrum quite easily by following recommended cooking times, leaving it to rest for long enough, and thinly slicing it.
The Fresher The Better
Regardless of the cut you go for, ensure it's high-quality and 100% grass-fed beef. Why? Because it's packed with lots more nutrients and is better for the planet.
To ensure it's fresh, choose meat with a deep ruby color. Meats sporting a dark purple color are oxidized, not fresh, and cause bad texture alongside an iron-esque taste.
You should also check the smell. Beef with rich, nutty aromas grace you with exceptional taste, whereas sweet or sour aromas result in a bad meal due to its less-than-fresh status.
4 Oven Cooking Tips for London Broil
Before diving into the oh-so-delicious recipe, take note of our five cooking tips to ensure you and your loved ones enjoy a perfectly cooked London broil.
1. Don't Skip the Sear
The searing process delivers a gorgeous crust and caramelization between the marinade and the beef. Not to mention it seals the juices inside, preventing dried, chewy meat.
To sear like a pro, ensure the pan is as hot as possible before placing the meat on it. Sear it on both sides for 30 to 45 seconds each before sticking it in the oven.
2. Always Cut Against the Grain
Slicing or cutting it perpendicular to the grain shortens the strands. While this seems like a useful fat, it actually creates a tender mouthfeel and meat that's easier to chew.
3. Make Sure It's Room Temperature Before Cooking
Letting the meat come to room temperature enables more even cooking all the way through the cut. If it's cold when hitting the pan, the fibers will tense up, limiting evenness and tenderness.
Remove your steak from the oven 30 to 40 minutes before cooking. Patience is a virtue when it comes to cooking London broil.
4. Know Your Steak Doneness Temperatures
Using your instant-read thermometer in the thickest part of the meat lets you know when it's ready to be removed. Take a look at the chart below to cook it to your preferences every single time:
Doneness | Remove from Oven at this Internal Temperature | Final Cooked Temperature |
---|---|---|
Rare | 118°F (48°C) | 120°F (50°C) |
Medium rare | 125°F (52°C) | 130°F (54°C) |
Medium | 136°F (58°C) | 140°F (60°C) |
Medium well | 143°F (62°C) | 150°F (65°C) |
Well Done | 154°F (68°C) | 160°F (70°C) |
What to Do with Leftover London Broil
Some foods aren't made for reheating or saving as leftovers to put in your sandwiches. However, you can do both with leftover London broil.
To ensure it lasts longer than one day, cover it in plastic wrap or a food storage bag. Squeeze it to release as much air as possible before storing it in the fridge for up to three days. You'll need to make and eat your sandwiches or salads quite quickly, but we promise you it's worth it.
As for reheating, allow the steak to come to room temperature by leaving it on the counter for 15 to 20 minutes. After that, put it in a skillet on a low heat. Cook until the temperature is just right. Avoid putting it on high heat; otherwise, you risk drying it out.
Tender and Tasty: An Oven-Cooked London Broil Recipe
How Long to Cook London Broil in the Oven at 450 F
Learn exactly how long to cook London broil in the oven at 450°F with our concise, easy-to-follow guide. Expert tips included.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds London broil round steak
- ⅓ cup soy sauce
- ⅓ cup lemon juice
- ½ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Pinch red pepper
Instructions
- Rub both sides of the London broil with salt and pepper.
- Cut crisscross patterns into the meat with your knife on both sides. Keep these cuts looking like "light scores." It will help create a tender London broil.
- Put the soy sauce, lemon juice, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic, salt, and pepper into a large gallon bag.
- Put the steak in the bag.
- Massage it to ensure the marinade penetrates the meat.
- Leave it for at two hours at room temperature or overnight in the fridge.
- Preheat your oven to 450°F.
- Heat two tablespoon olive oil in a cast-iron pan on high heat. It should be searingly hot.
- Remove the steak from the marinade bag.
- Sear it in the pan for 45 seconds on each side.
- After searing, place the cast iron pan in the preheated oven.
- Cook it for six to 15 minutes, depending on how you like your steak cooked.
- Use a digital thermometer to check the internal temperature. If it reads between 128°F and 131°F (for a medium-rare London broil), remove it from the oven.
- Let it rest for ten minutes before carving.
- Serve with your favorite side dishes!
Notes
If you're struggling to find the perfect side dishes for your London broil, try our favorites: green beans and potatoes, mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, brown rice and veg, cilantro lime recipe, asparagus soup, French fries, roasted mushrooms, garlic butter rolls, beetroot, sweet potato wedges, Asian salad, honey white bread, or apple walnut salad.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving:Calories: 995Total Fat: 72gSaturated Fat: 21gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 44gCholesterol: 283mgSodium: 1971mgCarbohydrates: 8gFiber: 1gSugar: 2gProtein: 75g
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