London broil, with its lean and flavorful nature, is a fantastic choice for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal. But getting it perfectly cooked can be tricky. Overcook it, and you'll end up with tough, chewy meat. Undercook it, and you'll have a less-than-tender experience. This guide will help you master the art of oven-baked London broil, ensuring juicy, flavorful results every time.
Understanding London Broil Cooking Times
The key to a perfect London broil is understanding that it's best cooked medium-rare to medium. This preserves its tenderness and allows its rich, beefy flavor to shine. Cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your cut, your oven's temperature, and your desired level of doneness.
Factors Affecting Cooking Time:
- Thickness: A thicker cut will require longer cooking time than a thinner one.
- Oven Temperature: Higher temperatures will cook the meat faster, but also increase the risk of overcooking. We recommend a lower temperature for more even cooking.
- Desired Doneness: Medium-rare will require less time than medium or medium-well.
Oven-Baking London Broil: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here's how to cook London broil in the oven to achieve that perfect balance of tender and flavorful:
1. Preparation is Key:
- Pat it Dry: Start by patting your London broil dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice sear.
- Season Generously: Season generously with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices (garlic powder, onion powder, paprika are all great choices).
- Marinating (Optional): While not strictly necessary, marinating your London broil for a few hours or overnight can significantly enhance its flavor and tenderness.
2. Oven Baking Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Sear (Optional but Recommended): For enhanced flavor and a beautiful crust, sear the London broil in a hot skillet with a little oil before placing it in the oven. Sear for about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Bake: Place the seasoned London broil in a roasting pan or baking dish. Bake for approximately:
- 1-inch thick: 20-25 minutes for medium-rare, 25-30 minutes for medium.
- 1.5-inch thick: 25-30 minutes for medium-rare, 30-35 minutes for medium.
- 2-inch thick: 30-35 minutes for medium-rare, 35-40 minutes for medium.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: The most accurate way to determine doneness is by using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the meat.
- Medium-rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
- Medium-well: 150-155°F (66-68°C)
3. Resting is Crucial:
- Rest for 10-15 Minutes: Once cooked, remove the London broil from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
4. Slicing Against the Grain:
- Slice Thinly: Once rested, slice the London broil thinly against the grain. This is crucial for tenderness. Slicing against the grain means cutting perpendicular to the muscle fibers.
Tips for the Perfect London Broil:
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked London broil will be tough and dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure you achieve your desired level of doneness.
- Let it Rest: Resting the meat is essential for retaining its juices.
- Slice Thinly: Thin slices are easier to chew and more tender.
- Experiment with Marinades: Marinades can add incredible depth of flavor.
By following these guidelines, you'll be well on your way to cooking the perfect oven-baked London broil. Enjoy!
