The sunsets and it’s time to bring a hearty, flavorful meal to the table. Round steak, an affordable and versatile cut, can be transformed into a tender, delicious dish with the right recipe. From comforting classics to exciting global flavors, these 15-round steak recipes will turn your next dinner into a memorable occasion.
These recipes work on the stovetop, in the air fryer, oven, or grill. Learn how to make round steak tender and flavorful. From classic dishes to global flavors, these recipes will make your dinner special.
So, get your ingredients ready and sharpen your cooking skills. Prepare for a journey of tender round steak that will delight your taste buds and save your wallet. Let’s explore the world of round steak recipes and make your next dinner unforgettable.
Table of Contents
Understanding Round Steak: Cuts and Preparation
Round steak is a lean and versatile beef cut. Knowing how to select the right cut and how to prepare it will help you get tender, flavorful results every time.
Types of Round Steak
Round steak comes from the cow’s rear leg and is divided into three main cuts:
- Eye Round: The leanest and most tender cut, perfect for grilling or pan-searing.
- Bottom Round: A bit tougher, best for slow cooking methods like braising or stewing.
- Top Round: The largest cut, moderately tender, and versatile for various cooking methods.
How to Choose the Best Round Steak:
For the best results, select a round steak that’s about 1 inch thick. The colour should be a deep red with minimal fat marbling. The leaner the cut, the more care it needs to remain tender.
Tips for Tenderizing Round Steak:
- Pound it: Use a meat mallet to pound the steak between parchment paper to break down tough fibres.
- Marinate it: Use acidic liquids like vinegar, lemon juice, or citrus to tenderize and add flavour.
- Using a Meat Tenderizer: Commercial meat tenderizers contain enzymes that can help soften the steak.
Choosing the right cooking methods, such as slow braising or grilling, also plays a significant role in achieving the desired tenderness.
Classic Round Steak Recipes
Looking for a comforting dinner? Try these round steak recipes. They include braised round steak with onions and round steak fajitas. These dishes highlight the round steak’s versatility and taste.
Braised Round Steak with Onions
This comforting dish features round steak braised in rich, savory onion gravy. It’s perfect for a hearty meal.
Ingredient | Quantity |
Round steak | 2 lbs |
Large onion (thinly sliced) | 1 |
Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
Beef broth | 2 cups |
Cornstarch | 2 tablespoons |
Salt | To taste |
Pepper | To taste |
Step | Instructions |
1. Sear the steak | Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Season the steak with salt and pepper, then sear both sides until browned. |
2. Prepare the gravy | Add the onions to the pan and cook until softened. Stir in the beef broth and bring it to a simmer. |
3. Braise the steak | Cover and cook on low for about 3 hours, until the steak is tender. |
4. Thicken the gravy | Mix cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the gravy to thicken. Cook for an additional 10 minutes. |
Serving Suggestions | Recommendation |
Serve with mashed potatoes or rice | Enjoy the flavorful gravy over mashed potatoes or rice to soak up all the deliciousness! |
Round Steak in Mushroom Gravy
This dish features round steak cooked in a creamy mushroom gravy. It’s perfect for serving with mashed potatoes or egg noodles.
Ingredient | Quantity |
Round steak | 2 lbs |
mushrooms, sliced | 1 cup |
medium onion, chopped | 1 |
cloves garlic, minced | 2 |
beef broth | 2 cups |
heavy cream | 1/4 cup |
Salt and pepper | To taste |
Step | Instructions |
1. Sear the steak | Season the round steak with salt and pepper and sear on both sides in a hot pan. Remove and set aside. |
2. Cook the mushrooms | In the same pan, sauté the onions, garlic, and mushrooms until softened. |
3. Simmer | Add the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Return the steak to the pan and cook for 1-2 hours. |
4. Finish the gravy | Stir in the cream and cook for an additional 5 minutes to thicken the gravy. |
Serving Suggestions | Recommendation |
Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles to complete the meal | Pair the steak with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles to soak up the flavorful gravy and create a satisfying meal. |
Slow Cooker Round Steak Fajitas
A slow cooker round steak fajita recipe is perfect for a flavorful, hands-off meal. The slow cooking process ensures tender steak that soaks up all the bold Mexican flavors.
Ingredient | Quantity |
Round steak (cut into strips) | 2 lbs |
Red bell pepper (sliced) | 1 |
Yellow bell pepper (sliced) | 1 |
Onion (sliced) | 1 |
Fajita seasoning packet | 1 |
Water | 1/4 cup |
Step | Instructions |
1. Prepare the slow cooker | Add the steak, bell peppers, onions, fajita seasoning, and water to the slow cooker. Stir to combine. |
2. Cook | Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours, until the steak is tender. |
4. Finish the gravy | Stir in the cream and cook for an additional 5 minutes to thicken the gravy. |
Serving Idea | Recommendation |
Serve with salsa, guacamole, and sour cream | Pair with salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for a complete fajita feast. Enjoy the delicious flavors in every bite! |
Grilled Round Steak Delights
Grilling round steak can be a delightful culinary experience. Mastering the right techniques makes a world of difference. Whether you prefer a classic marinated grilled round steak or a fun twist with round steak tacos, these recipes are sure to impress your taste buds.
Marinated Grilled Round Steak
Marinating is key to infusing the steak with flavors and ensuring it remains tender on the grill.
Ingredient | Quantity |
Round steak | 2 lbs |
Olive oil | 1/4 cup |
Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or oregano) | 2 tablespoons |
Balsamic vinegar or lemon juice | 2 tablespoons |
Salt | To taste |
Pepper | To taste |
Step | Instructions |
1. Prepare the marinade | Combine olive oil, garlic, herbs, vinegar or lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. |
2. Marinate the steak | Place the steak in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor. |
3. Grill the steak | Preheat the grill to medium heat. Grill the steak for 4-5 minutes per side, depending on your desired doneness. |
Serving Idea | Recommendation |
Serve with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad | Pair the steak with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a light, healthy meal. Perfect for a flavorful, well-rounded dish. |
Round Steak Tacos with Fresh Salsa
For a quick, flavorful dinner, try these round steak tacos. The fresh salsa adds a vibrant touch.
Ingredient | Quantity |
Round steak (grilled or pan-seared) | 2 lbs |
Small tortillas | 8 |
Diced tomatoes | 1 cup |
Red onion (diced) | 1/2 |
Fresh cilantro (chopped) | 1/4 cup |
Lime juice | 1 tablespoon |
Salt | To taste |
Pepper | To taste |
Step | Instructions |
1. Cook the steak | Grill or pan-sear the round steak, then slice it thinly. |
2. Prepare the salsa | Mix the tomatoes, onion, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. |
3. Assemble the tacos | Place the sliced steak in tortillas and top with fresh salsa. |
Serving Idea | Recommendation |
Serve with Mexican rice or beans | Pair the tacos with a side of Mexican rice or beans for a complete, satisfying meal. |
Flavorful Round Steak Stir-Fry
A round steak stir-fry is a quick and tasty dinner option. The round steak absorbs flavors well, making it perfect for Asian-inspired and classic beef and broccoli dishes.
Asian-Inspired Round Steak Stir-Fry
A quick stir-fry that combines round steak with colorful vegetables and a savory sauce.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb round steak, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, snap peas, carrots)
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
Instructions:
- Marinate the steak: Combine soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger in a bowl and marinate the sliced steak for 10-15 minutes.
- Stir-fry the vegetables: Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat and stir-fry the vegetables until tender.
- Cook the steak: Add the steak to the pan and stir-fry until cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with steamed rice or noodles for a fully satisfying meal.
Beef and Broccoli with Round Steak
This quick stir-fry pairs round steak with tender broccoli in a savory sauce.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb round steak, thinly sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions:
- Stir-fry the broccoli: In a large skillet or wok, stir-fry the broccoli until just tender, then set aside.
- Cook the steak: Stir-fry the sliced round steak in the same pan until cooked through.
- Combine and finish: Add the soy sauce and oyster sauce, then toss everything together. Add the cornstarch and stir to thicken the sauce.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with jasmine rice or noodles.
“A classic beef stir-fry can come together in just 25 minutes, making it a true weeknight dinner hero.”
Round Steak and Vegetable Combos
Pairing tender round steak with vibrant vegetables makes a balanced meal. It’s satisfying and easy to make. These recipes show how versatile this lean beef is.
Round Steak with Roasted Veggies
Try round steak with roasted veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and potatoes. It’s a flavorful one-pan dish. The caramelized veggies and juicy steak make a complete meal.
Round Steak and Garden Stir-Fry
For a lighter meal, try round steak and garden stir-fry. Slice the steak thin and sauté it with bell peppers, zucchini, and snap peas. Serve with rice or quinoa for a wholesome, balanced meal.
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Round Steak | 4 to 6 slices, around 2 lbs |
Onion | 1 medium yellow onion |
Mushrooms | 2 cups diced |
Garlic | 3 cloves |
Butter | 2 tablespoons |
“Pairing round steak with an array of vibrant vegetables creates a balanced, nutritious meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.”
Savory One-Pot Round Steak Meals
One-pot round steak meals are perfect for busy days. They offer deep flavors and are easy to make. Try a round steak stew with potatoes or a one-pot Italian round steak pasta for a cosy meal.
Round Steak Stew with Potatoes
A classic round steak stew is a cold-weather favorite. It has tender round steak, potatoes, carrots, and onions in a rich broth. Cook it in the oven at 300°F for 2 hours to let the flavors blend.
Serve it with crusty bread for a filling meal.
One-Pot Italian Round Steak Pasta
Give a one-pot Italian round steak pasta a try for a delicious twist. Thinly slice the round steak and sear it in olive oil, then add pasta, tomatoes, and herbs to create a flavorful dish.
It’s easy to make and the whole family will love it. You can enjoy leftovers for 2-3 days.
Choose between the round steak stew or the Italian pasta for a delicious meal. Both are simple to prepare and full of flavor. Use a slow cooker or Dutch oven for the best taste.
Round Steak for Family Gatherings
Round steak is a flexible and affordable cut of meat. It’s perfect for family gatherings. You can make simple sheet pan round steak with seasonal veggies or fun round steak sliders. These dishes are guaranteed to impress your guests.
Sheet Pan Round Steak with Seasonal Veggies
An easy, one-pan meal that requires minimal prep.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs round steak
- Seasonal vegetables (potatoes, carrots, Brussels sprouts)
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the steak and vegetables: Slice the steak into strips and toss with vegetables, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Roast: Spread everything on a sheet pan and roast at 400°F for 25-30 minutes until the steak is cooked and the veggies are tender.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with a side of fresh bread or a simple green salad.
Round Steak Sliders with Onion Rings
Mini burgers with crispy onion rings for a fun family meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs round steak, ground or thinly sliced
- Mini slider buns
- Cheese of choice
- Crispy onion rings (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the sliders: Shape the ground or sliced steak into small patties and season with salt and pepper.
- Grill or sear: Cook the sliders on the grill or stovetop.
- Assemble: Place the cooked steak on buns and top with cheese and onion rings.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with a side of fries or a crisp salad
Whether you choose the sheet pan method or sliders, round steak is a great choice. It's versatile and budget-friendly, perfect for feeding a crowd. Its variety of preparation options makes it a reliable and crowd-pleasing choice.
Global Round Steak Inspirations
Round steak is a versatile protein that’s perfect for exploring different cuisines. It can be used in Tex-Mex dishes and Argentinian recipes. This makes it a great choice for anyone looking to try new flavors.
Tex-Mex Round Steak Quesadillas
A quick and delicious Tex-Mex favorite.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs round steak, thinly sliced
- Chili powder, cumin, garlic powder
- Cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- Flour tortillas
Instructions:
- Season the steak: Toss the steak with chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder.
- Cook the steak: Sauté the steak until browned.
- Assemble the quesadillas: Place steak and cheese in tortillas and cook in a pan until crispy.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with salsa, guacamole, and sour cream.
Round Steak with Chimichurri Sauce
A vibrant Argentine dish that pairs grilled round steak with a fresh herb sauce.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs round steak
- Fresh parsley, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Grill the steak: Cook the round steak on the grill until desired doneness.
- Make the chimichurri: Blend parsley, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper to make the sauce.
- Serve: Top the grilled steak with chimichurri sauce.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with roasted potatoes or a simple salad.
These dishes show how round steak can be used in many ways. It's great for making meals with Tex-Mex or Argentinian flavors. Whether you like spice or herbs, round steak is a versatile choice for exploring new tastes.
Round Steak Cooking Techniques
Choosing the right cooking method for round steak can make a big difference. Braising and grilling are two popular ways to cook it. Each method has its own benefits.
Braising vs. Grilling Round Steak
Braising involves simmering the steak in liquid for a long time. This makes the meat tender and juicy.A timeless dish like beef in mushroom gravy is ideal for a comforting meal.
Grilling round steak can also be delicious. Marinate the steak in a mix of balsamic vinegar and herbs before grilling. This makes the meat tender and flavorful. Try Round Steak Tacos with Fresh Salsa for a tasty grilled option.
Roasting Round Steak for Tender Results
Roasting round steak in the oven is another great method. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the steak in a covered pan with a bit of liquid. Roast for about 2 hours until it’s tender.
It’s important to use a meat thermometer, no matter the method. For medium-rare, aim for 145°F (63°C). For medium, aim for 160°F (71°C).
Exploring different cooking techniques can help you make round steak dishes that wow. Try braising, grilling, and roasting to find your favorite way to cook this versatile beef cut.
Sides That Pair Perfectly with Round Steak
Choosing the right sides can make your round steak meal even better. You can choose from comforting classics or fresh, vibrant options. These sides will make your meal complete and tasty.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes are a perfect match for round steak. Their rich, velvety texture is great for soaking up juices and gravies. This side dish adds comfort and satisfaction to your meal.
Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasting Brussels sprouts with garlic and olive oil is a healthy, tasty choice. The caramelized edges and tender sprouts contrast nicely with the steak. They add a green touch and a garlicky flavor to your dish.
Fresh Garden Salad Ideas
A fresh garden salad is a great way to balance the richness of round steak. Use a mix of greens and add veggies like tomatoes and cucumbers. A tangy vinaigrette dressing makes it even better. This salad refreshes your palate between steak bites.
FAQ
What are the different types of round steak?
Round steak comes in three main types: eye round, bottom round, and top round steak.
How do I choose the best round steak?
Look for a 1-inch thick steak with a deep red color and little fat.
How can I tenderize round steak?
You can tenderize it by pounding it, marinating it, or using a meat tenderizer.
What are some classic round steak recipes?
Try braised round steak with onions, round steak in mushroom gravy, or slow cooker round steak fajitas.
How can I grill round steak?
Marinate it in olive oil, garlic, herbs, and vinegar or citrus. Grill over medium heat for 4-5 minutes each side.
What are some quick-cooking round steak recipes?
Quick options include Asian stir-fry and beef and broccoli. These allow the meat to soak up flavors fast.
How can I incorporate vegetables into round steak meals?
Serve it with roasted veggies or in a garden stir-fry. This makes for a healthy, balanced meal.
What are some one-pot round steak recipes?
Try round steak stew with potatoes or one-pot Italian pasta. These can be cooked in a slow cooker or Dutch oven.
How can I use round steak for family gatherings?
Use it for sheet pan steak with veggies or round steak sliders with onion rings. These are tasty and budget-friendly.
What are some global-inspired round steak recipes?
Try Tex-Mex quesadillas or round steak with chimichurri sauce for an Argentinian twist.
What are the best cooking techniques for round steak?
Braising, grilling, and roasting all work well. The right method makes the steak tender and flavorful.
What are some good side dishes to serve with round steak?
Creamy mashed potatoes, garlic roasted Brussels sprouts, and fresh salads are great sides for round steak.