As a busy home cook, finding affordable, tasty meals for the family can be tough. That’s why beef round steak is a key ingredient in my kitchen. It comes from the cow’s hindquarters and is great for quick dinners or big meals.
Beef round steak is perfect for many dishes, like grilled steaks, slow-cooked roasts, or stir-fries. It’s lean and affordable, making it a great choice. You can make it tender and flavorful with the right cooking methods, pleasing everyone at the table.
Understanding Beef Round Steak
Beef round steak is a versatile and affordable cut of meat from the cow’s rear leg. It’s loved by home cooks and chefs for its flavor and nutrition. Let’s explore what makes beef round steak special.
What is Beef Round Steak?
Beef round steak is lean and tough, cut into sections like top round, bottom round, eye of round, and sirloin tip. Each cut has its own texture and taste, perfect for different cooking methods.
Cuts of Beef Round Steak Explained
- Top Round – The most tender cut, great for grilling, roasting, or making deli sandwiches.
- Bottom Round – Needs slow cooking to become tender, ideal for braising or stewing.
- Eye of Round – The leanest cut, perfect for thinly sliced deli meat or quick-cooking dishes.
- Sirloin Tip – Tough but good for ground beef or slow-cooked dishes.
Beef Round Steak Stir-Fry
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef round steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- Cooked rice for serving
Instructions:
- Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned. Remove the beef and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the bell pepper, onion, and broccoli. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
- Add the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Return the beef to the pan and pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir everything together and cook for 1-2 more minutes until well coated.
- Serve the stir-fry over cooked rice
Nutritional Benefits of Beef Round Steak
Beef round steak is packed with high-quality protein, about 20.9 grams per 3-ounce serving. It’s also rich in vitamins and minerals like iron, B vitamins, selenium, and coenzyme Q10. As a lean cut, it’s low in fat, with only 10 grams per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 255 kcal |
| Protein | 35g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Sodium | 387mg |
| Potassium | 540mg |
| Carbohydrates | 5g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
Beef round steak is a lean, protein-rich choice for meals. It’s versatile for grilling, braising, or adding to salads and wraps. This budget-friendly cut is perfect for those looking for a healthy option.
Slow Cooker Round Steak Stew
Ingredients:
- 2 lb beef round steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 3 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Instructions:
- Brown the beef cubes in a skillet over medium-high heat. Transfer to the slow cooker.
- Add the carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker.
- Pour in the beef broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the beef is tender.
- If you’d like a thicker stew, mix the cornstarch with a little water to make a slurry, then stir it into the stew. Cook for another 10 minutes.
- Serve hot and enjoy a hearty meal!
Preparing Beef Round Steak
Getting beef round steak ready is crucial for a tender and tasty dish. Knowing the right tools and techniques can bring out the best in this meat.
Essential Tools for Preparation
First, gather the necessary tools. A sharp knife is key for thin cuts against the grain. A meat tenderizer or mallet can help make the steak softer. Don’t forget a meat thermometer to cook it just right.
Marinades to Enhance Flavor
Marinating the beef round steak for at least four hours boosts its flavor and texture. Mix garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and fresh thyme for a great marinade. The acid in the marinade breaks down tough fibers, making the steak tender and flavorful.
Tips for Perfectly Tender Steak
- Slice the steak thinly against the grain for optimal tenderness, especially when grilling or stir-frying.
- For tougher cuts like bottom round, consider slow cooking methods such as braising or using a crockpot to achieve the desired tenderness.
- Choose the right cooking method based on the specific cut of beef round steak to ensure the best results.
Mastering preparation will help you make delicious beef round steak dishes. They’ll surely impress your loved ones.
Grilling Beef Round Steak
Grilling is a great way to enhance grilled beef round steak. It’s perfect for backyard barbecues or a tasty weeknight meal. Learning to grill round steak can boost your cooking skills.
Classic Grilled Round Steak Recipe
To make a delicious grilled round steak, start with salt and pepper. Use a marinade to add flavor and tenderness. Soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and herbs are great choices.
Seasoning Options for Grilling
- Garlic-Herb Blend: Minced garlic, fresh thyme, rosemary, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
- Steak Rub: A mix of paprika, chili powder, brown sugar, and coarse black pepper.
- Lemon-Pepper: Lemon zest, cracked black pepper, and a touch of salt.
Ideal Cooking Times and Temperatures
For grilled beef round steak, aim for 130-135°F for medium-rare. This keeps the steak juicy and tender. Grill for about 6 minutes per side for a 1-inch steak.
Let the steak rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps the juices spread evenly, making the steak perfect.
Slow Cooking with Beef Round Steak
Slow cooking is great for making beef round steak tender. It’s perfect for tougher cuts like bottom round. This method tenderizes the meat and adds rich flavors. It’s ideal for hearty stews or comforting pot roasts.
Grilled Beef Round Steak with Garlic Herb Marinade
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lb beef round steak
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, garlic, lemon juice, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Place the beef round steak in a resealable bag or shallow dish, and pour the marinade over the steak. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight for best results).
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the steak from the marinade and grill for 6-8 minutes per side, depending on your desired doneness.
- Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.
- Serve with your favorite sides for a delicious meal.
How to Make Round Steak Stew
To make a tasty round steak stew, brown the meat first. This locks in the flavor. Then, put the beef in a slow cooker with chopped veggies like carrots, potatoes, and onions.
Add beef broth, herbs, and spices. Let it simmer for 6-8 hours on low or 4-6 hours on high. You’ll get tender beef and a flavorful gravy.
Tips for Maximizing Flavor in Slow Cooking
- Brown the beef round steak before adding it to the slow cooker to create a nice sear and enhance the meaty flavor.
- Experiment with a variety of herbs and spices, such as garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, or a homemade spice blend.
- Consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a touch of heavy cream to the stew for an extra layer of depth.
- Use a combination of beef broth and water to control the saltiness and allow the natural flavors to shine.
- Thicken the stew with a cornstarch or tapioca flour slurry towards the end of the cooking time for a rich, velvety gravy.
Follow these tips to make tough beef round steak tender and flavorful. The beef round steak slow cooker method is a game-changer for cozy meals.
Stir-Frying Beef Round Steak
Stir-frying is a quick and easy way to make beef round steak into a tasty weeknight dinner. Round steak is tender and has a versatile flavor, making it great for stir-frying. Slice the meat thinly against the grain to keep it tender and cook it fast in the wok or skillet.
Quick and Easy Stir-Fry Recipe
To make a simple yet flavorful beef round steak stir-fry, start by slicing 1 lb of beef round steak into thin strips. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Quickly sauté the beef in batches if needed, for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned. Then, remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.
Next, stir-fry your choice of fresh vegetables, like bell peppers, onions, and broccoli, for 3-4 minutes until they’re crisp-tender. Return the beef to the pan and toss everything together with a savory sauce. The sauce should include soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a bit of brown sugar. For extra nutrition and texture, add fresh spinach in the last few minutes of cooking.
Serve your beef round steak stir-fry over fluffy Basmati, Jasmine, or long-grain white rice. This makes for a complete and satisfying easy beef round steak dinner.
Flavor Profiles for Stir-Frying
While the classic soy sauce, garlic, and ginger mix is a favorite, you can also try different flavors. Experiment with various sauces and seasonings, such as:
- Teriyaki: Mix soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and a splash of rice vinegar.
- Thai-Inspired: Use fish sauce, lime juice, chili-garlic sauce, and fresh basil.
- Szechuan-Style: Add Szechuan peppercorns, chili oil, and a touch of rice wine vinegar.
No matter the flavor you pick, the key to a great beef round steak stir-fry is to slice the meat thinly and cook it quickly. This keeps the meat tender and juicy.
Oven-Roast Beef Round Steak
Oven-roasting beef round steak is a great way to get delicious results. This method brings out the beef’s natural flavors and adds a tasty crust. It’s perfect for any meal, from weeknights to special events, and will impress your guests.
A Simple Oven-Roasted Recipe
Start by seasoning the beef round steak with salt, pepper, and herbs. Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sear the steak in a skillet over high heat for 3-4 minutes on each side. Then, move the skillet to the oven and roast for 20-30 minutes, or until it’s 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Times for Different Thicknesses
- 1-inch thick steak: Roast for 20-25 minutes
- 1.5-inch thick steak: Roast for 25-30 minutes
- 2-inch thick steak: Roast for 30-35 minutes
These times are just a guide. Always check with a meat thermometer to make sure the steak is cooked right. The steak’s thickness and your oven’s temperature might need some adjustments.
By following these simple steps, you can enjoy the best beef round steak recipes right in your kitchen. Oven-roasting is a surefire way to enhance the natural flavors of this versatile cut of meat.
Incorporating Beef Round Steak into Salads
Beef round steak is a versatile and nutritious cut that can elevate your salad game. For a hearty and satisfying meal, consider grilling thinly sliced round steak. Serve it over a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and crumbled blue cheese. To add even more flavor and nutrition, roast some asparagus or bell peppers and toss them into the salad.
Hearty Salad with Grilled Round Steak
Start by marinating the beef round steak in a mixture of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Grill the steak until it reaches your desired doneness, then slice it against the grain for maximum tenderness. Arrange the grilled steak over a bed of fresh mixed greens, alongside your favorite salad toppings. The combination of the juicy, flavorful beef and the crisp, refreshing vegetables creates a delightful balance of textures and flavors.
Dressing Recommendations for Salads
- Balsamic Vinaigrette: The tangy and slightly sweet balsamic vinaigrette complements the beef round steak perfectly, providing a bright and refreshing contrast.
- Creamy Garlic Dressing: For a more indulgent option, a creamy garlic dressing can add a rich and savory element to the salad, enhancing the beefy flavors.
- Lemon Herb Dressing: A light and zesty lemon herb dressing can also be a fantastic pairing, bringing a fresh and vibrant touch to the salad.
Incorporating beef round steak into your salads is a great way to add protein, flavor, and a satisfying element to your meal. With the right marinade, grilling techniques, and complementary dressings, you can create a truly delicious and nutritious salad. This salad will leave you feeling full and satisfied.
Beef Round Steak Tacos and Wraps
Elevate your taco and wrap game with beef round steak. This lean protein is great for quick, flavorful meals. It’s perfect for classic Carne Asada tacos or unique twists.
Crafting the Perfect Beef Taco
For an authentic Carne Asada taco, start by thinly slicing your beef round steak. Marinate it in a zesty blend of lime juice, orange juice, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let the flavors meld for 4-6 hours.
Quickly sear the steak in a hot skillet or on the grill. Warm up soft tortillas and fill them with the juicy steak, diced onions, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. This taco is a flavorful hit.
Unique Ideas for Beef Round Steak Wraps
- Mediterranean-Inspired Wrap: Grill marinated round steak and tuck it into a large tortilla or flatbread. Add hummus, diced cucumber, crumbled feta, and a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice.
- Thai-Influenced Wrap: Sauté round steak with Thai-inspired flavors like fish sauce, lime, chili paste, and fresh herbs. Wrap it up with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a creamy peanut sauce.
- Southwestern Steak Wrap: Combine grilled round steak, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and a zesty chipotle-lime crema for a flavorful Southwestern-style wrap.
These easy beef round steak dinner options are perfect for quick weeknight meals or on-the-go lunches. Get creative with your favorite taco and wrap fillings to showcase the versatility of this lean, flavorful cut of beef.
Pairing Side Dishes with Beef Round Steak
Finding the right side dishes can make your beef round steak meal even better. You can choose from classic roasted potatoes to creative salads and vegetable medleys. These options help create a balanced and tasty dish.
Popular Side Dishes to Complement Your Steak
- Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes infused with the savory essence of roasted garlic.
- Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Crisp, charred asparagus spears brightened with a touch of lemon zest.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil leaves drizzled with a balsamic reduction.
- Sautéed Mushrooms and Onions: Earthy sautéed mushrooms and caramelized onions, perfect for soaking up the steak’s juices.
- Twice-Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes stuffed with a blend of cheese, bacon, and scallions.
Wine and Beverage Suggestions
A medium-bodied red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon pairs well with beef round steak. If you don’t drink wine, try a robust iced tea or a refreshing sparkling water with lemon. These options balance the meat’s richness.
Experimenting with different side dishes and drinks can make your beef round steak meal unforgettable. The right combinations can take your recipes to new heights of flavor.
Storing and Reheating Beef Round Steak
Keeping your leftover beef round steak fresh is key. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it for 2-3 months.
Best Practices for Storing Leftovers
Keep your steak fresh by storing it in an airtight container or resealable bag. This locks in moisture and prevents drying. When freezing, wrap it tightly in foil or use a freezer-safe bag to avoid freezer burn.
Tips for Reheating without Drying Out
Reheat your steak gently to avoid drying it out. Use low heat in a covered skillet with a bit of beef broth. Or, reheat it in a 250°F oven until warm. For dishes with sauce, the microwave is okay, but check it reaches 165°F for safety.
conclusion
Beef round steak is a versatile, lean, and affordable cut of meat that works well for grilling, stir-frying, slow cooking, and more. It’s rich in protein and essential nutrients, making it a healthy choice. With the right preparation and cooking techniques, it can be transformed into tender, flavorful dishes perfect for family meals.