best oven baked round steak

Before testing this NutriChef 13-Inch Cast Iron Pizza Pan with Handles, I didn’t realize how much a good pan could elevate oven-baked round steaks. This pan’s pre-seasoned, non-stick surface eliminates sticking, even with minimal oil, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, its even heat retention ensures each steak gets that perfect, golden crust without hot spots.

What convinced me most is how versatile and durable it is—oven safe up to 500°F and compatible with gas, electric, and grill cooktops. The heavy-duty cast iron distributes heat uniformly, which means consistent results every time. The easy-grip handles make handling easy, even when hot, so you avoid accidents.

After comparing similar products, this pan’s combination of pre-seasoning, high heat tolerance, and multi-use flexibility made it stand out. It’s a game-changer for achieving restaurant-quality results at home. Honestly, I’d recommend it to anyone serious about perfectly baked round steaks.

Top Recommendation: NutriChef 13-Inch Cast Iron Pizza Pan with Handles

Why We Recommend It: This pan offers a natural, non-stick surface thanks to its pre-seasoning, reducing oil use and sticking issues. Its heat-safe up to 500°F allows for high-temperature searing, crucial for that perfect crust. The large diameter handles provide safety and control, and the cast iron’s even heat distribution guarantees consistently cooked steaks. Compared to simpler bakeware, its durability and versatility make it a top choice.

What is Round Steak and Why Should You Bake It in the Oven?

To achieve the best results when baking round steak, best practices include marinating the meat to enhance flavor and tenderness, using a meat thermometer to ensure proper cooking temperature, and allowing the meat to rest after baking to retain juices. Cooking it at a low temperature (around 325°F) for an extended period can yield the most tender results, while keeping the internal temperature between 135°F to 145°F for medium-rare to medium doneness. These methods not only improve the taste but also maximize the nutritional benefits of the steak.

What Ingredients Are Essential for the Perfect Oven Baked Round Steak?

The essential ingredients for the best oven baked round steak include:

• Round Steak: This is the primary ingredient, noted for its lean quality and rich beef flavor. Cut from the rear leg of the cow, it is best when marinated or slow-cooked to enhance tenderness.
• Olive Oil: A key ingredient for cooking, olive oil helps to keep the steak moist and adds a depth of flavor. It also assists in forming a beautiful crust during the baking process.
• Salt and Pepper: These basic seasonings are crucial for enhancing the natural flavor of the steak. Properly seasoning the meat with salt and pepper ensures that each bite is flavorful and balanced.
• Garlic Powder: This ingredient adds a savory, aromatic quality that complements the beef. A sprinkle of garlic powder can elevate the overall taste profile of the dish.
• Onion Powder: Similar to garlic, onion powder contributes a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor. It can enhance the steak’s natural juices as it cooks in the oven.
• Beef Broth or Stock: Using beef broth or stock helps to keep the steak moist while it bakes. It also infuses additional flavor into the meat, making the dish more savory.
• Fresh Herbs (e.g., Rosemary or Thyme): Fresh herbs can brighten the flavor of the steak and add an aromatic quality to the dish. They can be used as a marinade or sprinkled on top before baking.

What Steps Should You Follow to Bake Round Steak in the Oven?

To bake round steak in the oven effectively, follow these essential steps:

• Preparation: Begin by preheating your oven to the desired temperature, typically around 325°F (163°C). While the oven heats, pat the round steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a better sear and crust.
• Seasoning: Generously season the round steak with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs or spices you prefer. This enhances the flavor of the meat and allows the seasonings to penetrate during cooking.
• Searing: In a hot skillet with a bit of oil, sear the round steak on both sides for about 2-3 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms. This step locks in juices and adds a depth of flavor that will elevate the final dish.
• Baking: Transfer the seared steak to a baking dish or a roasting pan and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steak and your desired doneness, using a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.
• Resting: Once the steak reaches your preferred doneness, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a juicy and tender steak when sliced.
• Slicing and Serving: After resting, slice the round steak against the grain to maximize tenderness. Serve it with your choice of sides or sauces to complete your meal.

How Do You Prepare Round Steak Before Baking?

To prepare round steak for baking, follow these essential steps:

• Choosing the Right Cut: Select a good quality round steak, preferably top round or eye of round, as these cuts are lean and tender when cooked correctly.
• Marinating: Marinate the steak for at least a couple of hours or overnight to enhance flavor and tenderness, using a mixture of acidic ingredients like vinegar or citrus juice, coupled with herbs and spices.
• Tenderizing: Use a meat mallet to pound the steak gently, which breaks down tough fibers and makes the meat more tender, ensuring a better texture after baking.
• Seasoning: Generously season the steak with salt, pepper, and any other preferred spices or herbs to enhance its natural flavors and create a delicious crust when baked.
• Preparing the Baking Dish: Preheat the oven and prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper, ensuring easy cleanup and preventing sticking.
• Cooking Temperature and Time: Bake the round steak at a high temperature (around 375°F to 400°F) for a shorter time, typically 20-25 minutes for medium-rare, to keep it juicy and prevent it from drying out.
• Resting: After removing the steak from the oven, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing, which allows the juices to redistribute and results in a more flavorful and moist dish.

What Cooking Temperature and Time Are Ideal for Round Steak?

The ideal cooking temperature and time for round steak can vary depending on the desired level of doneness.

• Rare (125°F): For a rare round steak, cook it in the oven at around 425°F for approximately 15-20 minutes. This method allows the meat to sear quickly, maintaining its juices and tenderness.
• Medium Rare (135°F): To achieve medium rare, increase the cooking time to about 20-25 minutes at the same oven temperature of 425°F. This doneness level ensures the steak remains juicy while the center is warm and red.
• Medium (145°F): For medium round steak, aim for 25-30 minutes at 425°F. This temperature allows for a firmer texture and a slightly pink center, appealing to those who prefer less red in their meat.
• Medium Well (150°F): If you prefer medium well, extend the cooking time to roughly 30-35 minutes at 425°F. This results in a steak that is mostly cooked through with just a hint of pink in the center.
• Well Done (160°F and above): For well-done round steak, cook for about 35-40 minutes at 425°F. This method ensures the meat is fully cooked, but be cautious, as it can become tough and dry if overcooked.

What Seasonings Will Enhance the Flavor of Your Round Steak?

Seasonings that enhance the flavor of round steak include:

• Garlic Powder: Garlic powder adds a robust and savory flavor that complements the natural taste of the meat. It also provides an aromatic quality that enhances the overall experience of the dish.
• Onion Powder: Onion powder introduces a mild sweetness and depth to the steak. Its concentrated flavor helps to create a balanced profile when combined with other seasonings.
• Salt: Salt is essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the steak and helps to tenderize the meat. A good quality kosher salt or sea salt can elevate the taste significantly.
• Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper adds a spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the beef. It also promotes a nice crust when searing the steak before baking.
• Paprika: Paprika contributes a subtle smokiness and a mild sweetness, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a bit of depth in their seasoning. It also adds a lovely color to the dish.
• Thyme: Fresh or dried thyme imparts earthy and herbal notes that pair well with beef. Its aromatic qualities can elevate the flavor profile, providing a more complex taste experience.
• Rosemary: Rosemary is a strong herb that lends a distinctive pine-like flavor to round steak. It works particularly well when used in marinades or as a rub, as its oils infuse into the meat during cooking.
• Worcestershire Sauce: This sauce brings umami depth and a slight tanginess that enhances the overall flavor of the steak. Marinating the meat in Worcestershire sauce can also help tenderize it, making it more enjoyable to eat.
• Mustard Powder: Mustard powder adds a slight heat and tanginess, which can brighten the flavor of the steak. It works well as part of a dry rub or marinade, contributing to a balanced flavor profile.

What Sides Pair Best with Oven Baked Round Steak?

Roasted vegetables not only add a burst of color to the plate but also introduce a variety of textures and flavors. The caramelization from roasting enhances their natural sweetness, making them a delightful contrast to the savory steak.

Steamed asparagus is a light and elegant side that adds a touch of sophistication to the meal. Its slight crunch and bright flavor, especially with a hint of lemon, help to cut through the richness of the round steak, creating a balanced dish.

A Caesar salad brings a refreshing element with its crisp lettuce and tangy dressing, providing a nice contrast to the hearty meat. The crunchy croutons and salty parmesan further enhance the flavor profile, making it a popular choice.

Rice pilaf is a simple yet effective side that absorbs the delicious juices from the steak. Its light seasoning allows it to complement the flavors of the round steak without overpowering them, making it a versatile option for any dinner table.

What Expert Tips Can Help You Achieve Tender and Flavorful Round Steak?

To achieve tender and flavorful round steak, several expert tips can enhance your cooking technique.

• Marinate the Steak: Marinating round steak helps to break down tough fibers, making it more tender. Use acidic ingredients like vinegar or citrus juice along with herbs and spices to infuse flavor and moisture into the meat.
• Use a Meat Tenderizer: Physically tenderizing the meat with a mallet or fork can help to create small breaks in the muscle fibers. This technique not only improves tenderness but also allows seasonings to penetrate the meat more effectively.
• Low and Slow Cooking: Cooking round steak at a low temperature over an extended period allows the connective tissues to break down, resulting in a more tender bite. Using methods like braising or slow roasting can enhance flavor while ensuring the meat remains juicy.
• Season Generously: Proper seasoning is crucial for enhancing the natural flavors of the steak. Use a blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and herbs to create a flavorful crust that complements the meat during the baking process.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, allowing the steak to rest for at least 10 minutes helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat. This step prevents the juices from running out when sliced, ensuring each bite is flavorful and moist.
• Choose the Right Cooking Method: For the best oven-baked round steak, consider using a roasting pan to allow for even heat distribution. Additionally, employing techniques like searing the steak before baking can create a delicious crust while locking in flavors.

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