[GUIDE] How Long To Cook Bottom Round Steak In Oven

Cooking bottom round steak in the oven can result in a flavorful and tender meat dish. However, achieving the desired level of doneness can be a challenge if you’re unsure about the cooking time. In this article, we will discover the ideal cooking temperature and time for bottom round steak in the oven. We will also explore various cooking techniques, troubleshooting tips, and best practices to ensure your bottom round steak turns out delicious every time.

Quick Answer: How Long To Cook Bottom Round Steak In Oven

For a tender and juicy bottom round steak cooked in the oven, it is recommended to cook it at a temperature of 325°F (163°C). Cook the steak for approximately 25-30 minutes per pound (454 grams) for medium-rare to medium doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 135-145°F (57-63°C) for medium-rare to medium. Let the cooked steak rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Key Takeaways

• Cook bottom round steak in the oven at 325°F (163°C).
• Cook the steak for 25-30 minutes per pound (454 grams) for medium-rare to medium doneness.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the desired internal temperature is reached.
• Let the cooked steak rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

The Science Of Cooking Bottom Round Steak

Bottom round steak comes from the hindquarter of the cow and contains a significant amount of tough connective tissue. To make this cut tender and enjoyable, we need to break down this tough collagen into gelatin, which occurs through slow cooking at a moderate temperature.

When the steak is cooked in the oven, the heat gradually penetrates the meat, causing the connective tissue to break down and transform into gelatin. The longer the steak cooks, the more tender it becomes. However, overcooking can result in a dry and tough steak.

Choosing Bottom Round Steak

When selecting bottom round steak for oven cooking, look for a cut that is bright red in color with minimal visible fat. Opt for a thickness of around 1-1.5 inches (2.5-3.8 cm) to ensure even cooking. Thicker steaks may take longer to cook, while thinner ones may cook too quickly and become overdone.

Preparing Bottom Round Steak

To enhance the flavor and tenderness of bottom round steak, it’s essential to properly prepare it before cooking. Follow these steps to prepare your steak:

1. Start by patting the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
2. Season the steak generously with salt and pepper or your favorite steak seasoning.
3. For added flavor, you can marinate the steak with your choice of marinade for 30 minutes to overnight in the refrigerator. This step is optional but can add an extra layer of taste to your steak.
4. If you marinated the steak, remove it from the marinade and pat it dry before cooking.

By following these steps, you will ensure that your bottom round steak is ready to be cooked to perfection.

Ideal Cooking Temperature For Bottom Round Steak

The ideal cooking temperature for bottom round steak in the oven is 325°F (163°C). This temperature allows for slow and even cooking, ensuring that the tough connective tissues break down, resulting in a tender steak.

Cooking Techniques

There are a few different cooking techniques to consider when cooking bottom round steak in the oven. Here are a couple of popular options:

1. Oven Roasting: This technique involves placing the seasoned steak on a roasting rack in a preheated oven. The rack allows for better air circulation and even cooking. Baste the steak with melted butter or olive oil halfway through cooking to keep it moist and flavorful.

2. Braising: Braising involves searing the steak in a hot skillet, then transferring it to a baking dish. Add liquid such as beef broth or red wine to partially submerge the steak, cover the dish with foil, and cook in the oven for the recommended time and temperature. Braising helps to keep the steak moist and tender.

Monitoring And Troubleshooting

To ensure your bottom round steak cooks to perfection, it’s crucial to monitor the temperature and check for signs of doneness:

1. Use a meat thermometer: Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding contact with bones, fat, or the cooking vessel. This will provide an accurate reading of the internal temperature.

   Pro Tip: Invest in an instant-read meat thermometer for quick and accurate temperature readings.

2. Check for doneness: Use the following internal temperature guide to determine the doneness level:

   • Rare: 125-130°F (52-54°C)
   • Medium-Rare: 135-145°F (57-63°C)
   • Medium: 145-155°F (63-68°C)
   • Well-Done: 160°F (71°C) and above

3. Adjust cooking time if needed: If the steak is not yet cooked to your desired level of doneness, continue cooking in 5-minute increments until the desired internal temperature is reached. Be cautious not to overcook the steak, as it can become dry and tough.

Bottom Round Steak Cooking Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions for cooking bottom round steak in the oven:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Prepare the steak by patting it dry with paper towels and seasoning it with salt and pepper or your preferred steak seasoning.
3. Place the seasoned steak on a roasting rack set inside a baking sheet or pan.
4. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, ensuring it does not touch the bone or the cooking vessel.
5. Place the baking sheet with the steak in the preheated oven.
6. Cook the steak for approximately 25-30 minutes per pound (454 grams) for medium-rare to medium doneness or until the desired internal temperature is reached.
7. Baste the steak with melted butter or olive oil halfway through cooking to keep it moist and flavorful.
8. Once the steak reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
9. Slice the rested steak against the grain to maximize tenderness.
10. Serve and enjoy your deliciously cooked bottom round steak.

Variations

While the basic cooking instructions outlined above will result in a flavorful bottom round steak, you can experiment with additional flavors and seasonings to suit your preferences. Consider these variations to add extra flair to your oven-cooked bottom round steak:

1. Marinades: Instead of a simple salt and pepper seasoning, marinate the steak in various combinations of marinades. Popular options include garlic and herb marinades, teriyaki marinades, or balsamic vinegar-based marinades. Marinating can add tenderness and infuse the steak with additional flavors.

2. Spice Rubs: Create your own spice rub by combining different herbs, spices, and seasonings. For example, mix chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, paprika, and brown sugar for a flavorful steak crust.

3. Herb Butter: After oven roasting the steak, top it with a pat of herb butter. This adds a burst of flavor and richness to the final dish.

4. Roasted Vegetables: Enhance your meal by roasting vegetables alongside the bottom round steak. Common options include potatoes, carrots, bell peppers, and onions. Simply toss the vegetables in olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast them in a separate baking dish at the same temperature as the steak. This creates a well-rounded and delicious meal.

When Things Go Wrong

Cooking bottom round steak in the oven requires precise timing and temperature management. However, even with careful monitoring, sometimes things can go wrong. Here are some troubleshooting tips for common problems:

1. If the steak is overcooked and becomes tough: Overcooking bottom round steak can result in a dry and tough texture. To salvage the steak, consider slicing it thin and using it in sandwiches, wraps, or salads where the added moisture from dressings or condiments can help improve the texture.

2. If the steak is undercooked: If the steak is undercooked and you prefer it to be more done, return it to the oven for additional cooking time. Check the temperature frequently to prevent overcooking. Note that thinner cuts will cook faster, so adjustments to cooking time may be necessary.

3. If the steak lacks flavor: Bottom round steak is a lean cut of beef and may benefit from a flavorful marinade or spice rub. Consider incorporating marinades or dry rubs before cooking to enhance the taste.

Serving Bottom Round Steak

When serving bottom round steak, keep in mind that it is a lean cut and can benefit from additional moisture or sauce. Here are some serving ideas to enhance the overall experience:

1. Pair it with a sauce: Serve the steak with a homemade or store-bought sauce such as chimichurri, horseradish cream, or a classic steak sauce. These options provide added moisture and flavor to the steak.

2. Add a side dish: Serve the bottom round steak with complementary side dishes such as roasted or mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

3. Slice it thin for sandwiches or salads: If you have leftovers or prefer a lighter meal, thinly slice the bottom round steak and use it in sandwiches, wraps, or salads. This allows for versatility and creates different serving options.

Best Practices For Bottom Round Steak Cooking

To ensure the best results when cooking bottom round steak in the oven, keep the following tips in mind:

1. Use a meat thermometer: Investing in a reliable meat thermometer is essential for accurate temperature readings, preventing overcooking or undercooking.

2. Let the steak rest: Allowing the cooked steak to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving helps retain moisture and ensures more flavorful and tender meat.

3. Slice against the grain: To maximize tenderness, always slice bottom round steak against the grain. This breaks up the muscle fibers, resulting in a more enjoyable eating experience.

4. Experiment with different flavors: Don’t be afraid to try different marinades, spice rubs, or seasonings to tailor the flavor to your liking. Bottom round steak can be quite versatile in taking on various flavors.

Conclusion

Cooking bottom round steak in the oven can yield delicious and tender results when done correctly. By following the recommended cooking temperature, monitoring the internal temperature with a meat thermometer, and allowing the steak to rest before serving, you can enjoy a flavorful and enjoyable meal. With various cooking techniques, troubleshooting tips, and serving suggestions, you can elevate your bottom round steak to a delightful dish that will impress your family and friends.

FAQS

What Is A Bottom Round Steak?

Bottom round steak is a lean cut of beef that comes from the hindquarters of the cow, which is a heavily exercised muscle area. It is also known as a rump steak.

How Should I Prepare Bottom Round Steak Before Cooking It In The Oven?

Before cooking, you need to marinate the bottom round steak to make it more tender and flavorful. You can use your favorite marinade or simply mix olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Allow the steak to marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator.

How Long Do I Need To Cook A Bottom Round Steak In The Oven?

The cooking time for a bottom round steak in the oven depends on its thickness and desired doneness. For a 1-inch thick steak, you can cook it for 15-20 minutes at 375°F (190°C) for medium-rare doneness. For thicker steaks, you need to add more cooking time.

Can I Use A Meat Thermometer To Check The Doneness Of Bottom Round Steak?

Yes, using a meat thermometer is highly recommended to ensure that your steak is cooked to your desired doneness. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, and the temperature should read 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare and 145°F (63°C) for medium doneness.

Should I Let The Bottom Round Steak Rest Before Serving?

Yes, after removing the steak from the oven, you need to let it rest on a cutting board for about 5-10 minutes before slicing it. This allows the juices to redistribute and make the steak more tender and flavorful.

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