How to Cook London Broil: Tender and Flavorful Every Time

London broil is a budget-friendly cut of beef perfect for hearty meals. Despite its name, it’s a cooking method, not a specific cut, often applied to top round or flank steak. This guide on how to cook London broil will help you achieve juicy, flavorful results with ease.

This dish is ideal for family dinners or gatherings, offering bold flavors when marinated and cooked properly. It’s versatile, pairing well with sides like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. With simple techniques, you can avoid toughness and enjoy a delicious steak.

This article covers preparation, cooking methods, and serving tips for London broil. From marinating to slicing, you’ll learn how to cook London broil like a pro. Let’s dive into the steps!

Why Choose London Broil?

London broil is an affordable cut that delivers rich beefy flavor when cooked correctly. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank. Marinating enhances tenderness and adds depth to the taste.

This cut is lean, making it a healthier option for steak lovers. It’s great for grilling, broiling, or oven cooking, offering flexibility. The dish is a classic choice for barbecues or weeknight meals.

Cooking London broil is straightforward with the right approach. Mastering how to cook London broil ensures a tender, delicious meal. It’s a go-to for satisfying, protein-packed dishes.

Understanding London Broil

London broil typically refers to top round or flank steak, both lean and flavorful. Look for cuts about 1-1.5 inches thick with minimal fat. Fresh steak should be bright red with no strong odor.

Marinating is key to tenderizing this tougher cut. Acidic ingredients like vinegar or citrus juice break down the meat’s fibers. The USDA recommends cooking beef to 145°F internally for safety.

Store raw London broil in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for 6 months. Proper preparation is essential for how to cook London broil successfully. Always use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

How to Cook London Broil: Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking London broil is simple with a marinade and the right cooking method. These steps explain how to cook London broil using the oven-broil method for tender, juicy results. Follow this guide for perfect steak every time.

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

Combine ¼ cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 teaspoon each of salt and pepper. Place a 1.5-2 pound London broil in a resealable bag with the marinade. Refrigerate for 4-8 hours, turning occasionally.

Marinating tenderizes the meat and adds flavor. Don’t marinate longer than 24 hours to avoid mushiness. Pat dry before cooking to ensure a good sear.

Step 2: Preheat the Broiler

Set your oven to broil on high and preheat for 10 minutes. Place the oven rack 4-6 inches from the broiler element. Line a broiler pan or baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.

Preheating ensures a hot, even sear for the steak. Position the rack close to the heat for a caramelized crust. This step sets up ideal cooking conditions.

Step 3: Broil the Steak

Remove the steak from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels. Place on the broiler pan and broil for 5-7 minutes per side for medium-rare (135°F internally). Flip once using tongs for even cooking.

Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer in the thickest part. Thicker cuts may need an extra minute per side. This step is critical for how to cook London broil.

Step 4: Check Doneness

Aim for 135°F for medium-rare or 140°F for medium, as the temperature will rise during resting. If you don’t have a thermometer, check for a firm but springy texture. Return to the broiler for 1-2 minutes if undercooked.

Avoid overcooking to prevent toughness. The USDA recommends 145°F after resting for safety. Checking doneness ensures a tender, juicy steak.

Step 5: Rest and Slice

Remove the steak from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes, covered loosely with foil. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist. Slice thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.

Serve with your favorite sides or use in salads or sandwiches. Store leftovers in an airtight container. These steps complete how to cook London broil successfully.

London Broil Cooking Times Chart

Cooking times vary based on thickness and cooking method. Below is a guide for how to cook London broil for a 1.5-2 pound steak. Always check the internal temperature for doneness.

This chart assumes a 1-1.5 inch thick steak. Add 1-2 minutes per side for thicker cuts. Resting adds 5-10°F to the final temperature.

Tips for Perfect London Broil

Marinate for at least 4 hours to tenderize the lean cut. Use acidic ingredients like vinegar or lemon juice for best results. Don’t skip this step for tender, flavorful meat.

Slice against the grain to break up tough fibers, ensuring each bite is tender. Use a sharp knife for clean, thin slices. This makes a big difference in texture.

Let the steak rest after cooking to lock in juices. Check the temperature early to avoid overcooking. These tips align with how to cook London broil for great results.

Cooking Variations

For grilling, preheat to medium-high and cook for 5-6 minutes per side. Brush with marinade for extra flavor but avoid flare-ups. Check for 135°F for medium-rare.

To bake, sear in a hot skillet for 2 minutes per side, then bake at 400°F for 8-10 minutes. This method is great for even cooking without a broiler.

For a slow cooker, marinate, then cook on high for 4-5 hours with 1 cup of broth. Slice thinly after cooking. These variations add flexibility to how to cook London broil.

Serving Suggestions

London broil pairs well with roasted potatoes or grilled asparagus for a hearty meal. Serve with a chimichurri sauce or horseradish cream for extra flavor. A fresh green salad balances the richness.

Slice thinly for tacos with salsa and avocado or sandwiches with mustard. Use leftovers in stir-fries or grain bowls with quinoa. These ideas make London broil versatile and delicious.

Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for presentation. Serve warm for the best taste. These suggestions elevate your London broil experience.

Storing and Reheating

Store cooked London broil in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Cool completely before storing to maintain quality. Freeze for up to 3 months in freezer-safe bags.

To reheat, bake at 300°F for 10-15 minutes, covered with foil. Add a splash of broth to keep it moist. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture.

Label containers with the date to track freshness. Proper storage keeps steak ready for quick meals. Reheat only what you’ll eat to avoid waste.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If the steak is tough, it may be under-marinated or overcooked. Marinate for 4-8 hours and aim for 135°F for medium-rare. Slice thinly against the grain.

For uneven cooking, ensure the steak is an even thickness. Pat dry before cooking and avoid overcrowding the pan. Let it reach room temperature before cooking.

If the flavor is bland, use a bolder marinade with garlic or soy sauce. Sear properly for a caramelized crust. These fixes align with how to cook London broil.

Safety Tips for Cooking

Cook London broil to 145°F internally, followed by a 3-minute rest, per USDA guidelines. Use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness. Avoid tasting undercooked meat to prevent illness.

Keep raw beef refrigerated until ready to cook. Wash hands, utensils, and surfaces after handling raw meat to avoid cross-contamination. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Use oven mitts or tongs to handle hot pans. Place the pan on a stable surface to avoid spills. These precautions ensure a safe cooking experience.

Summary

Learning how to cook London broil is simple with these clear steps. Broiling for 5-7 minutes per side at high heat yields tender, juicy steak. Proper marinating and slicing are key to success.

This guide covers cooking methods, serving ideas, and troubleshooting tips. With these instructions, you can enjoy delicious London broil for any meal. Experiment with marinades and store leftovers properly for the best results!

FAQ

How long to cook London broil for medium-rare?

Broil a 1.5-2 pound London broil for 5-7 minutes per side on high. Aim for 135°F internally. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

Can I cook London broil in the oven without broiling?

Yes, sear for 2 minutes per side, then bake at 400°F for 8-10 minutes. Check for 135°F for medium-rare. Rest before slicing.

Why is my London broil tough?

Tough steak may result from insufficient marinating or overcooking. Marinate for 4-8 hours and cook to 135°F. Slice thinly against the grain.

How do I store cooked London broil?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Cool completely and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat at 300°F with foil.

What’s the best marinade for London broil?

Use olive oil, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and pepper. Marinate for 4-8 hours for tenderness. Add herbs like rosemary for extra flavor.