Beef round steak is a budget-friendly cut that’s full of flavor. It comes from the cow’s rear leg and is both tasty and affordable. With the right cooking methods, you can make this tough cut tender and delicious.
There are many ways to prepare beef round steak. You can try classic recipes or add garlic butter for extra flavor. Slow cooker options are great for busy days, while pan-searing creates a tasty crust. Learning a few simple techniques can open up a world of tasty, affordable meals.
Beef round steak is versatile in the kitchen. It’s perfect for hearty meals without spending a lot. Let’s explore some delicious recipes and tips to make your round steak dishes stand out.
Key Takeaways
- Beef round steak is a lean, affordable cut from the cow’s rear leg
- Proper tenderizing techniques are crucial for a juicy result
- Slow cooking methods work best for this cut
- Marinades can enhance flavor and tenderness
- Round steak is versatile and suitable for various recipes
- Cooking to the right internal temperature ensures optimal doneness
Understanding Round Steak: A Budget-Friendly Cut
Round steak is a budget-friendly beef cut that’s full of flavor. It comes from the cow’s hind legs and is both tasty and affordable. Let’s explore why round steak is a great choice for those watching their budget.
What is round steak?
Round steak is a lean cut from the cow’s rear leg. It has a strong beefy taste and a slightly chewy texture. This affordable steak is ideal for those who enjoy hearty meals without spending a lot.
Different types of round steak cuts
Round steak has several subcuts, each with its own traits:
- Top round: The most tender of the round cuts
- Bottom round: Tougher but flavorful
- Eye round: Very lean and best for slow cooking
Nutritional profile of round steak
Round steak is a nutritional powerhouse. A typical serving offers:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 236 |
| Protein | 26g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Carbohydrates | 1g |
| Sodium | 676mg |
This lean beef is rich in protein and low in fat. It’s perfect for those who care about their health. Whether you’re grilling a top round or slow-cooking an eye round, these cuts are both tasty and nutritious.
Preparing Your Round Steak for Cooking
Getting your round steak ready for cooking is key to a tasty meal. This tough cut needs special care to become tender and flavorful. Let’s look at some important techniques to make your round steak dish better.
Tenderizing Techniques
Meat tenderizing is vital for round steak. Use a meat mallet to break down tough fibers. Pound the steak evenly, focusing on thicker areas.
Another method is to score the meat with a sharp knife, creating a diamond pattern. This helps marinades penetrate deeper and makes the steak more tender.
Seasoning and Marinating Tips
Beef seasoning is key for flavor. Start with salt and pepper, then add herbs like thyme or rosemary. For a kick, try Hey Grill Hey Beef Rub.
Create a steak marinade using acidic ingredients like vinegar or citrus juice. This breaks down tough proteins and adds flavor. Marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
Bringing Steak to Room Temperature
For even cooking, let your steak sit out for about 30 minutes before cooking. This step ensures the meat cooks evenly from edge to center. Remember, food safety is key – don’t leave the steak out for more than 2 hours.
| Doneness | Internal Temperature |
|---|---|
| Rare | 125°F |
| Medium Rare | 135°F |
| Medium | 145°F |
| Medium Well | 155°F |
| Well Done | 160°F |
By following these steps, you’ll transform your tough round steak into a tender, flavorful dish. Remember, patience is key when preparing this budget-friendly cut.
Classic Round Steak and Gravy Recipe
Craving a hearty round steak dinner? This classic recipe is perfect. It features tender round steak smothered in rich beef gravy. It’s a comfort food favorite for those chilly evenings.
This recipe serves 6 and takes about 3 hours and 20 minutes to prepare and cook. Each serving has 35g of protein and only 10g of fat. It’s also low in carbs, with just 5g per serving.
Ingredients and Preparation
Start with 3 pounds of round steak, preferably top or bottom round. This choice offers great flavor and affordability. Sear the steak on all sides to lock in the juices.
Then, slow-cook it in a savory mixture of beef stock, mushrooms, and onions. This mixture creates a flavorful base for your onion gravy.
- 3 pounds round steak
- 3 cups beef stock
- 8 ounces sliced mushrooms
- 2 packages onion gravy mix
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch (for thickening)
Cooking Method
You can cook this dish in a slow cooker, Instant Pot, or oven. For the slow cooker method, cook on low for 8 hours. This long, slow cooking process makes your round steak tender and flavorful.
| Cooking Method | Cooking Time | Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Slow Cooker | 8 hours | Low |
| Oven | 3 hours | 325°F (165°C) |
| Instant Pot | 45 minutes | High pressure |
Remember to let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking. Slice it against the grain for maximum tenderness. Serve with creamy mashed potatoes and sweet corn for a complete meal.
Garlic Butter Round Steak: A Flavorful Twist
Turn your round steak into a delicious dish with garlic butter sauce. This recipe adds fancy flavor to your meals without costing much. Let’s explore how to make this tasty treat with simple ingredients and easy steps.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Sauce
The garlic butter sauce is the heart of this dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 6 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Here’s how to make a perfect skillet steak with garlic butter sauce:
- Cut 2 pounds of round steak into 1-1½ inch cubes.
- Season the steak with salt and pepper.
- Heat 1½ tablespoons olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the steak cubes for 4-5 minutes per batch until browned.
- Remove steak from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Cook for 30 seconds.
- Return steak to the skillet and toss with the garlic butter sauce.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy your garlic butter round steak with these tasty sides:
- Skillet-roasted potatoes
- Steamed green vegetables
- Crusty bread to soak up the herb butter
| Nutritional Info (per serving) | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 307 |
| Protein | 33g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 1g |
This garlic butter round steak recipe is a perfect mix of flavors and textures. The cast iron cooking gives a beautiful crust. The garlic butter sauce adds depth and richness. Enjoy this fancy meal any night!
Pan-Seared Round Steak with Herbs
Elevate your dinner with a delicious pan-seared round steak. This stovetop cooking method turns an affordable cut into a restaurant-quality meal. Using a cast iron skillet, you’ll get a perfect golden crust and a tender inside.
Start by picking a lean eye of round steak. It’s low in fat, making it a healthier option. Season it well with salt and pepper, then let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps it cook evenly.
Heat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil and place the steak in the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side for a medium-rare. The internal temperature should be 130°–135°F for medium-rare.
To make a flavorful herb-crusted steak, add butter, garlic, and fresh rosemary to the pan in the last minute. Baste the steak with this aromatic mixture, letting the herbs infuse into the meat.
After cooking, let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, making it moist and flavorful. Slice against the grain and serve with a sprinkle of flaky salt for extra flavor.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 660 kcal |
| Protein | 73g |
| Fat | 36g |
| Carbohydrates | 3g |
Pan-searing is a versatile technique. Feel free to try different herbs and spices to make your perfect herb-crusted steak. With practice, you’ll become a pro at stovetop cooking, turning budget-friendly cuts into delicious meals.
Slow Cooker Round Steak Recipes
Slow cooker beef recipes are great for busy families. They offer easy dinner options that are tasty and healthy. With just a few ingredients, you can make tender round steak dishes.
Round Steak Pot Roast
Round steak pot roast is a favorite for families. Use a 2 ½ pound top or bottom round steak. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
Add sliced mushrooms and sweet onions for extra flavor. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff
Turn your round steak into a creamy stroganoff. Mix the meat with mushrooms, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Near the end, add heavy cream and tapioca flour for a thick sauce.
This dish has about 338 calories per serving. It has 44g of protein and only 8g of fat.
Crock Pot Round Steak with Vegetables
Try slow cooking round steak with vegetables for a complete meal. This dish is full of nutrients. Each serving has 184 calories, 27g of protein, and essential vitamins and minerals.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours in a 4-quart slow cooker for the best results.
| Recipe | Prep Time | Cook Time | Calories | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pot Roast | 15 minutes | 6-8 hours (low) | 338 | 44g |
| Beef Stroganoff | 15 minutes | 6-8 hours (low) | 50 | 2g |
| Steak with Vegetables | 5 minutes | 6-8 hours (low) | 184 | 27g |
These slow cooker beef recipes are not only delicious but also support local farmers. In Ohio, 97% of beef farms are family-owned. By choosing these recipes, you’re enjoying tender round steak and supporting hardworking families.
Grilling Round Steak to Perfection
Outdoor cooking fans, it’s time to fire up your grills! Grilled round steak is a great, affordable choice for your next barbecue. With the right steps, you can make this lean cut into a delicious meal.
First, make a tasty steak marinade. Mix olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Put your round steak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes. This makes it tender and flavorful.
Heat your grill to 450-500°F for the best sear. Take the steak out of the marinade and dry it. Grill it for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature:
- Medium-rare: 135-140°F
- Medium: 145-150°F
Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes after grilling. This helps the juices spread, making it even more flavorful. Slice it against the grain for extra tenderness.
“Grilling is all about timing and temperature control. Master these, and you’ll have perfect barbecue beef every time.”
Don’t overcook the steak, as it can become tough. If you’re new, start with shorter times and adjust. Soon, you’ll be the top grillmaster in your neighborhood!
How to cook beef round steak recipes
Round steak is a versatile cut that shines in various cooking methods. Let’s explore some delicious ways to prepare this budget-friendly beef.
Oven-roasted round steak
Oven-roasted beef is a hands-off approach that yields tender results. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Season the steak with salt, pepper, and herbs. Place it in a roasting pan and cook for about 20 minutes per pound for medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 130°F to 135°F.
Stir-fry round steak strips
Stir-fry recipes are perfect for quick weeknight meals. Slice the round steak thinly against the grain. Heat oil in a wok over high heat. Add the beef strips and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside. Stir-fry vegetables of your choice, then return the beef to the wok with sauce. Cook for another minute and serve over rice.
Round steak fajitas
Fajitas are a crowd-pleasing dish that showcases round steak’s flavor. Slice the steak into thin strips and marinate in lime juice, oil, and spices for 30 minutes. Sauté sliced peppers and onions in a skillet. Push them to the side and add the marinated steak. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Serve in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings.
| Cooking Method | Cooking Time | Internal Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Oven-roasted | 20 min/lb | 130°F – 135°F |
| Stir-fry | 2-3 minutes | N/A |
| Fajitas | 3-4 minutes | N/A |
These versatile steak dishes showcase the adaptability of round steak. Whether you prefer oven-roasting, stir-frying, or making fajitas, round steak offers a delicious and economical option for your beef recipes.
Best Side Dishes to Pair with Round Steak
Round steak is a lean cut that deserves tasty companions. Let’s explore some mouthwatering steak sides that will elevate your meal. From classic potato dishes to creative vegetable pairings, these options will help you create balanced meals that impress.
Potatoes are a staple when it comes to steak sides. Creamy mashed potatoes, seasoned with butter and milk, offer comfort in every bite. For a twist, try Parmesan roasted potatoes or air fryer French fries for a lighter option. These potato dishes complement the lean round steak perfectly.
Vegetable pairings add color and nutrition to your plate. Grilled romaine Caesar wedges bring a smoky flavor, while garlic-Parmesan roasted carrots offer sweetness and crunch. For a quick 30-minute option, consider Caprese asparagus, combining fresh flavors with minimal prep time.
- Cacio e Pepe Brussels Sprouts: Bold and peppery
- Summer Couscous Salad: Light and refreshing
- Grilled Potatoes: Crispy exterior, fluffy interior
Remember, the key to balanced meals is variety. Mix and match these sides to create a well-rounded plate that complements your round steak. With options ranging from 15 minutes to 1.5 hours of prep time, you can find the perfect side dish for any occasion.
“A great steak deserves great sides. It’s all about creating harmony on the plate.” – Chef from Virginia Beach, Virginia
Whether you’re a beginner cook or looking to expand your culinary horizons, these side dishes are sure to enhance your round steak dinner. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite pairings and enjoy creating delicious, balanced meals at home.
Tips for Achieving Tender Round Steak Every Time
Learning to cook tender round steak can boost your cooking skills. Here are some key techniques to make a delicious dish every time.
Proper slicing techniques
The secret to tender steak tips is in the cutting. Always cut against the grain to break down tough fibers. For thin-sliced beef round steak, aim for a thickness of 0.5 cm to 1 cm. If you can, ask your butcher to cut it for you.
Ideal internal temperatures
Using a meat thermometer is key for perfect steak doneness. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F, and medium is best at 145°F. Remember, the temperature will rise a bit during resting, so remove the steak just before it reaches your desired temperature.
Resting the meat before serving
After cooking, let your steak rest for 5-10 minutes. This lets the juices redistribute, making it juicier and more flavorful. During this time, the internal temperature will continue to rise, finishing the cooking process. Following these tips will help you make a tasty meal for 8, with each serving having 26g of protein and only 191 calories.