How Long to Cook London Broil in Oven for Perfect Results

Cooking London broil in the oven is a great way to enjoy a tender and flavorful meal without much hassle. Knowing the right cooking time ensures your steak turns out juicy and perfectly done every time. Whether you prefer it rare, medium, or well-done, timing is key to achieving the best results.

You don’t have to be a pro chef to master this cut of beef. With a few simple tips and the right temperature, you can impress your guests or just treat yourself to a delicious home-cooked dinner. Let’s dive into how long you should cook London broil in the oven for that perfect balance of tenderness and flavor.

Understanding London Broil

You’ll get the best results by knowing what London broil really is and selecting the right cut of meat. This section breaks down key details to prepare your steak properly.

What Is London Broil?

London broil refers to a cooking method rather than a specific cut. It usually involves marinating and grilling or broiling a lean, tough cut like flank steak or top round. The goal is to tenderize the meat through marination and cooking, then slice it thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness and flavor.

Choosing the Right Cut of Meat

Pick cuts such as top round, flank steak, or sirloin flap for London broil. These cuts offer firm texture but respond well to marinating and high-heat cooking methods. Look for meat with consistent thickness, about 1 to 1.5 inches, to ensure even cooking. Avoid overly fatty or very thin cuts since they won’t yield the classic London broil texture or flavor.

Preparing London Broil for the Oven

Proper preparation ensures your London broil cooks evenly and stays tender. Focus on marinating techniques and temperature control before cooking.

Marinating Tips

Use a marinade with acidic ingredients like vinegar, lemon juice, or wine to break down muscle fibers and tenderize the meat. Add flavors such as garlic, soy sauce, and herbs for a well-rounded taste. Marinate your London broil in a sealed container or plastic bag for at least 4 hours or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor absorption. Always refrigerate the meat while marinating to prevent bacterial growth.

Bringing Meat to Room Temperature

Remove the London broil from the refrigerator 30 to 45 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature. This step promotes even cooking by reducing the temperature difference between the meat and the oven. Avoid leaving the meat out longer than an hour, as this increases the risk of bacterial contamination.

How Long to Cook London Broil in Oven

Cooking time depends primarily on your London broil’s thickness and desired doneness. Precise timing prevents toughness and achieves the perfect texture.

Cooking Time Based on Thickness

Measure your London broil’s thickness before cooking.

• For 1-inch thick cuts, roast 10 to 12 minutes per side.
• For 1.5-inch thick cuts, extend to 15 to 18 minutes per side.
• For 2-inch thick cuts, allow 20 to 24 minutes per side.

Adjust time according to thickness to ensure even cooking without drying out the meat.

Optimal Oven Temperature Settings

Set your oven between 425°F and 450°F for optimal results.

• Higher temperatures create a good sear and lock in juices.
• Lower temperatures may cook meat unevenly and prolong cooking time.

Preheat the oven fully before placing your London broil inside to maintain consistent heat distribution.

Using a Meat Thermometer for Accuracy

Insert a digital meat thermometer into the thickest part of the steak.

• Remove the meat when the internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare.
• Aim for 140°F for medium doneness.
• Reach 150°F for medium-well and 160°F for well-done.

Relying on temperature ensures precise cooking, preventing guesswork and preserving tenderness.

Resting and Serving London Broil

Resting London broil after cooking preserves its juices and improves tenderness. Serving it properly enhances flavor and texture.

Why Resting Is Important

Resting lets the steak’s juices redistribute evenly, preventing them from spilling out when cut. Allow London broil to rest for 5 to 10 minutes tented loosely with foil. Avoid skipping this step because cutting immediately causes dryness and toughness.

Best Ways to Slice London Broil

Slicing across the grain shortens muscle fibers, resulting in more tender bites. Identify the direction of the grain, then use a sharp knife to cut thin slices at a 45-degree angle. Serve slices immediately to maintain optimal texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Cooking London broil in the oven is straightforward once you know the right timing and temperature. With a good marinade and proper preparation, you can transform tougher cuts into a tender, flavorful meal. Using a meat thermometer takes the guesswork out of cooking, helping you hit your preferred doneness every time.

Remember to let your steak rest before slicing to lock in those juices and enhance tenderness. By following these steps, you’ll be able to enjoy a perfectly cooked London broil that’s juicy and satisfying without any hassle.