When it comes to transforming a tough cut of beef into a dinner showstopper, nothing does it quite like a well-prepared London Broil. The rich aroma of garlic and soy sauce mingling in the air as the meat marinates unlocks feelings of excitement and anticipation. I discovered this sensational recipe on a busy weeknight when I was eager to impress but exhausted from a long day. With just a handful of flavorful ingredients, I found the easiest way to create a tender and juicy steak that even the pickiest eaters couldn't resist.
What makes London Broil so special? Its versatility is unmatched! You can serve it as the centerpiece of a weeknight meal or dress it up with cowboy butter for a gathering that feels extra special. Fast and flavorful, this dish not only satisfies hunger but also sparks joy. Let’s dive in and elevate your cooking game with this delicious recipe that will surely become your family's new favorite!
The Easiest Way to Cook London Broil?
Bursting with flavor, this recipe transforms tough beef into a juicy sensation. Quick preparation means you can whip it up on a busy night! Impressive and adaptable, it shines both solo or topped with cowboy butter. Savory aroma of garlic and soy sauce creates an irresistible atmosphere. Plus, it's a crowd-pleaser that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy. Discover this game-changing dish that could elevate your next family dinner or celebration!
The Easiest Way to Cook London Broil
• Discover how to create a tender and flavorful London Broil with this simple ingredient list.
For the Marinade
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Infuses the dish with robust flavor; perfect for enhancing the marinade's depth.
- Soy Sauce (¼ cup) – Essential for added umami and saltiness; ensures the steak is flavorful throughout.
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (¼ cup + 1 tablespoon) – Aids in tenderizing and adds richness; can be swapped with avocado oil for a lighter version.
- Balsamic Vinegar (¼ cup) – Provides a balancing sweetness and tang to the marinade; use red wine vinegar for a different twist.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon) – Introduces a delightful smoky flavor; perfect for elevating the taste profile.
- Kosher Salt (½ teaspoon) – Enhances the overall flavor; adjust amount based on dietary preferences.
- Black Pepper (½ teaspoon) – Adds a hint of heat; freshly ground is ideal for optimal flavor.
For the London Broil
- London Broil (2 pounds) – The star of the dish; a marinated cut of beef best suited for broiling to achieve tenderness.
- Parsley (for garnish) – Adds a fresh pop of color; optional but elevates presentation.
For Serving
- Cowboy Butter (for serving) – Optional topping that amplifies the steak's flavor; a delightful addition for gatherings or special occasions.
With this ingredient breakdown, you're one step closer to mastering the easiest way to cook a tender and flavorful London Broil! Happy cooking!
How to Make London Broil
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Prepare Marinade: In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined. The aroma will be intoxicating!
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Marinate Beef: Place the London Broil in a zippered plastic bag. Pour in the marinade, seal it well, and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours—overnight is even better for deeper flavor.
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Preheat & Sear: About 30 minutes before cooking, take the beef out to reach room temperature. Preheat your oven to broil and set a large skillet over high heat. Add the remaining olive oil, then sear the London Broil for 1-2 minutes on each side until it’s beautifully browned.
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Broil: Carefully transfer the skillet to the oven on the middle rack. Broil the steak for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare, or your desired doneness.
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Rest & Slice: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the meat rest for 10 minutes to retain those delicious juices. Then, slice against the grain into ¼-inch pieces, garnish with parsley, and serve with cowboy butter if you decided to add this delightful touch!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika before serving for an extra flavor boost.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Tender and Flavorful London Broil
• Marinate Time: Longer is better: Aim for at least 2 hours, but overnight allows flavors to fully penetrate the meat, enhancing tenderness.
• Room Temperature: Ensure even cooking: Let the London Broil sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking to prevent a cold center.
• Optimal Searing: High heat is key: Sear for just 1-2 minutes on each side to lock in juices; don’t overcrowd the skillet for perfect browning.
• Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer: Aim for 135°F for medium-rare; it’s the easiest way to ensure your London Broil is cooked to perfection without overdoing it.
• Slice Against the Grain: Correct slicing matters: Cutting against the grain allows you to enjoy a more tender bite, making all the difference in texture.
• Resting Time: Don’t skip this step: Allow the steak to rest for 10 minutes post-cooking; it helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a moisture-rich, flavorful dish.
What to Serve with Tender and Flavorful London Broil?
Crafting a complete meal around London Broil is an exciting journey that opens up a world of mouthwatering possibilities. Let your imagination run wild with these delightful accompaniments that will elevate your dining experience.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness of mashed potatoes pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of marinated beef, creating a comforting balance.
- Grilled Asparagus: Tender, charred asparagus brings a fresh crunch to your plate, offering a delightful contrast to the juicy steak.
- Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and tangy dressing complement the richness of the London Broil, making every bite refreshing and flavorful.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts add a nutty flavor and crispy texture that perfectly enhance the meat's succulence.
- Garlic Bread: A side of warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any delicious juices left behind on the plate, making each bite a treat.
- Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine, like Cabernet Sauvignon, elevates the entire meal, perfectly matching the savory notes of the steak.
- Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light chocolate mousse brings a touch of sweetness that rounds out the savory richness of your London Broil dinner.
- Summer Corn Salad: The sweetness of fresh corn, with herbs and a zesty dressing, will brighten your meal and add a seasonal touch.
With these enticing options, your London Broil dinner will be a feast to remember, satisfying both the heart and the palate!
Make Ahead Options
These Tender and Flavorful London Broil are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify their meal planning! You can prepare the marinade and marinate the beef up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply infuse and ensure a tender steak. Simply mix the marinade ingredients and store the London Broil in a sealed plastic bag in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, take the meat out of the fridge 30 minutes before cooking to let it reach room temperature. When ready to cook, just sear and broil the meat as described in the recipe, and you'll have an effortless, restaurant-quality meal that requires minimal effort on the day of serving. Enjoy the time-saving benefits of making this delicious dish ahead of time!
How to Store and Freeze London Broil
Fridge: Store leftover London Broil in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to maintain flavor and tenderness.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the sliced steak tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight. Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth to retain moisture, until heated through.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the cooked London Broil out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure safety.
London Broil Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this classic dish and make it truly yours!
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Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the marinade for an aromatic twist. These flavors will brighten up the beef and elevate your meal.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce into the marinade for a delightful heat. Your taste buds will thank you for the added layer of excitement!
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Citrus Burst: Swap in fresh orange or lemon juice for balsamic vinegar. The citrus adds a refreshing zing that complements the rich beef beautifully.
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Sweet & Tangy: Mix in a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar for a sweet contrast to the savory marinade. This balance creates a delicious caramelized crust when broiled.
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Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika to deepen the smoky notes in your London Broil. The nuanced flavor makes each bite taste like summer barbecue.
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Umami Upgrade: Try swapping soy sauce for miso paste in your marinade. This ingredient delivers a rich umami punch, resulting in a uniquely savory beef dish.
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Asian Twist: Add a splash of sesame oil and some sliced green onions to the marinade for a delightful Asian flair. Serve with rice and vegetables for a complete meal.
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Veggie Garnish: Top your cooked London Broil with sautéed bell peppers and onions for a colorful and flavorful finish. This addition not only enhances taste but also adds vibrant visual appeal.
Tender and Flavorful London Broil Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best London Broil?
Absolutely! For the best results, look for cuts like flank steak, skirt steak, or top-round steak. They should be bright red with minimal dark spots and firm to the touch. Choose cuts with some marbling for added tenderness and flavor.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftover London Broil in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. I recommend allowing the meat to cool to room temperature before sealing it up, as this helps maintain moisture and flavor.
Can I freeze London Broil after cooking?
Certainly! To freeze, first slice the London Broil into portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. This way, you’ll have delicious, tender steak ready for a quick meal anytime!
What should I do if my London Broil is tough?
Very! If you find your London Broil is tough, it could be due to improper marination or slicing. Ensure you marinate the meat for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. Also, slice against the grain; this technique is crucial, as it shortens the muscle fibers, making each bite irresistibly tender.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, many people often enjoy it gluten-free! Simply substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos, which provide a similar flavor profile without gluten. Additionally, check it with your dietary needs to ensure all ingredients meet your standards.
Is it safe to leave cooked London Broil at room temperature?
Absolutely not! To ensure food safety, do not leave your cooked London Broil out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. If you're serving it outdoors, such as at a picnic, keep it chilled until ready to serve. Enjoying it fresh will keep everyone happy and healthy!
The Easiest Way to Cook Juicy and Tender London Broil
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Place the London Broil in a zippered plastic bag. Pour in the marinade, seal it well, and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
- About 30 minutes before cooking, take the beef out to reach room temperature. Preheat your oven to broil and set a large skillet over high heat.
- Sear the London Broil for 1-2 minutes on each side until it’s beautifully browned.
- Carefully transfer the skillet to the oven on the middle rack. Broil the steak for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let the meat rest for 10 minutes. Then, slice against the grain and garnish with parsley.
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