London broil is a delicious, budget-friendly cut perfect for family meals or gatherings. Despite its name, it’s not a specific cut but a cooking method for lean beef. This guide helps you master the timing for a tender, juicy result.
The cooking time depends on the thickness, weight, and desired doneness. A london broil cooking time chart simplifies the process, whether grilling, broiling, or oven-roasting. With the right steps, you’ll achieve restaurant-quality flavor at home.
You don’t need to be a chef to cook london broil perfectly. This article covers preparation, tools, and tips to avoid common pitfalls. Let’s dive into creating a mouthwatering dish with ease.
What Is London Broil
London broil refers to a preparation style, typically using top round or flank steak. These lean cuts benefit from marinating and quick, high-heat cooking. The result is a flavorful, tender roast when done right.
It’s often sliced thinly against the grain for serving. This enhances tenderness and makes it ideal for sandwiches or plates. Medium-rare is the most popular doneness for maximum juiciness.
The key is to avoid overcooking, as lean cuts can become tough. Proper timing and temperature control are essential. This method is versatile for grilling, broiling, or oven cooking.
Tools You’ll Need
A meat thermometer is vital for checking doneness accurately. Aim for 130–135°F (54–57°C) for medium-rare. A digital thermometer is quick and reliable.
You’ll need a grill, broiler, or oven-safe skillet, depending on the method. Tongs help handle the meat safely. A sharp knife and cutting board are necessary for slicing.
Optional tools include a basting brush for marinade and a wire rack for resting. A ziplock bag or dish is useful for marinating. These tools make the process smooth and efficient.
Preparing Your London Broil
Choose a top round or flank steak, about 1–2 inches thick. Trim excess fat to prevent flare-ups during cooking. Pat the meat dry with paper towels for a better sear.
Marinate for 4–24 hours to enhance flavor and tenderness. Use a mix of oil, acid (like vinegar), and spices. Refrigerate during marinating and bring to room temperature before cooking.
Score the surface lightly with a knife to help the marinade penetrate. This also promotes even cooking. Let the steak sit out for 30–60 minutes before cooking.
London Broil Cooking Time Chart
The london broil cooking time chart below shows times for a 1–2 inch thick steak. Times are based on grilling or broiling over high heat (450–500°F). Always check the internal temperature for doneness.
| Thickness | Rare (120–125°F) | Medium-Rare (130–135°F) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 inch | 3–4 min/side | 4–5 min/side |
| 1.5 inches | 4–5 min/side | 5–6 min/side |
| 2 inches | 5–6 min/side | 6–8 min/side |
For oven-roasting, sear first, then cook at 400°F for 8–12 minutes. Below are the steps to cook a perfect london broil.
Step 1: Preheat Your Cooking Surface
Heat your grill or broiler to high (450–500°F). For oven-roasting, preheat to 400°F (204°C). A hot surface ensures a flavorful crust.
For pan-searing, use a cast-iron skillet with high smoke point oil. Heat until smoking hot. Preheating takes about 5–10 minutes, depending on your equipment.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
Place the london broil on the grill, broiler, or hot skillet. Sear for the time listed in the chart based on thickness and doneness. For a 1.5-inch steak, sear 5–6 minutes per side for medium-rare.
Flip once using tongs to form a golden-brown crust. Avoid moving it during searing. This locks in juices and enhances flavor.
Step 3: Finish in the Oven (Optional)
For thicker cuts (1.5–2 inches), finish in a 400°F oven after searing. Cook for 8–12 minutes, depending on thickness. This ensures even cooking without burning the exterior.
Check the temperature during this step. Remove when 5°F below your target doneness. The steak will continue cooking while resting.
Step 4: Check the Internal Temperature
Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the steak. Aim for 130–135°F (54–57°C) for medium-rare. Check after the minimum cooking time to avoid overcooking.
If not at the target, cook for 1–2 minutes more and recheck. Precision is key for a tender london broil. Remove from heat once done.
Step 5: Rest and Slice
Transfer the steak to a cutting board and tent loosely with foil. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes. This redistributes juices for a moist, tender result.
Slice thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Cooking Methods and Benefits
Grilling london broil adds smoky flavor and grill marks. It’s quick, taking 6–12 minutes for medium-rare. Use high heat for the best sear.
Broiling mimics grilling, using your oven’s top heat. Place the steak 4–6 inches from the broiler. It’s ideal for indoor cooking with similar timing to grilling.
Pan-searing followed by oven-finishing works for thicker cuts. Sear on high heat, then roast at 400°F. This method ensures even cooking and a great crust.
Marinating is key for all methods to tenderize the lean cut. A good marinade adds flavor and prevents dryness. Always rest the meat before slicing.
Tips for a Perfect London Broil
Marinate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight. A mix of soy sauce, olive oil, and garlic works well. This tenderizes and boosts flavor.
Pat the steak dry before cooking to ensure a good sear. Wet meat steams instead of browning. Use paper towels for best results.
Don’t skip the thermometer, as london broil is lean and overcooks easily. Check early to hit your desired doneness. Medium-rare keeps it tender.
Slice thinly at a 45-degree angle against the grain. This makes the meat less chewy. Serve fanned out for an appealing presentation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking a cold steak leads to uneven results. Let it sit at room temperature for 30–60 minutes. This ensures the center cooks properly.
Not marinating long enough results in tough meat. Aim for 4–24 hours to tenderize the lean cut. Don’t skip this step for best results.
Overcooking makes london broil chewy and dry. Use a thermometer to avoid going past 135°F. Check early to stay in the safe zone.
Cutting with the grain instead of against it reduces tenderness. Identify the grain direction before slicing. Thin slices improve texture significantly.
Enhancing Your London Broil
Add a marinade with acid, like lemon juice or vinegar, for tenderness. Garlic, rosemary, or Worcestershire sauce enhance flavor. Experiment with your favorite spices.
After resting, top with a pat of herb butter. Mix butter with parsley or thyme for richness. This melts over the warm steak beautifully.
Serve with a chimichurri or peppercorn sauce for a bold kick. These complement the beef’s flavor. Drizzle lightly to avoid overpowering the meat.
Pairing Ideas for London Broil
Serve with roasted vegetables like zucchini or potatoes. These balance the rich beef flavor. A fresh arugula salad adds a peppery contrast.
For drinks, a red wine like Merlot pairs well with london broil. A craft beer or sparkling water with limeხ
System: lime works too. Keep sides light to let the steak shine.
Summary
Cooking a london broil is simple with the right timing and preparation. The london broil cooking time chart shows 4–8 minutes per side for medium-rare, depending on thickness. A thermometer ensures you hit 130–135°F for perfect doneness.
Marinate the steak, sear it well, and rest before slicing thinly. Avoid mistakes like skipping the marinade or overcooking. With these steps, you’ll serve a tender, flavorful london broil every time.
FAQ
How long does a 1.5-inch london broil take to cook?
A 1.5-inch london broil takes 5–6 minutes per side for medium-rare on high heat. Check for 130–135°F internally. Rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
Can I cook london broil without a grill or broiler?
Yes, pan-sear in a hot skillet, then finish in a 400°F oven for 8–12 minutes. Check the temperature for accuracy. This method works well for thicker cuts.
Why is my london broil tough?
Toughness comes from not marinating long enough or overcooking. Marinate for 4–24 hours and keep below 135°F. Slice thinly against the grain.
What’s the best marinade for london broil?
Use soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, and an acid like vinegar or lemon juice. Marinate for 4–24 hours in the fridge. This tenderizes and adds flavor.
How do I slice london broil for tenderness?
Slice thinly against the grain at a 45-degree angle. Identify the grain direction first. This ensures a tender, easy-to-chew texture.