Round Steak Recipe

Round steak is a budget-friendly cut of beef that can be transformed into a tender and flavorful dish with the right cooking techniques. While it’s naturally lean and a bit tougher than premium cuts, slow-cooking or braising can bring out its best qualities. This recipe will help you make the most of round steak with simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps.

What is Round Steak?

Round steak comes from the back leg of the cow, making it lean but not as naturally tender as ribeye or filet mignon. However, it’s incredibly versatile and works well in slow-cooked dishes, stir-fries, and country-fried steak. It absorbs flavors beautifully when cooked low and slow, making it a great option for hearty, comforting meals.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 to 2 lb round steak (top or bottom round)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (optional for extra flavor)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a little kick)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp butter (for extra richness)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Steak – Pat the round steak dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and thyme.
2. Sear the Steak – Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for about 3 minutes per side until a deep brown crust forms, then remove it from the pan.
3. Sauté Aromatics – In the same pan, add the sliced onions and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and slightly caramelized.
4. Deglaze & Simmer – Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the diced tomatoes if using, then return the steak to the pan. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the steak is fork-tender.
5. Finish & Serve – Stir in a pat of butter to add a rich, velvety finish. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing against the grain. Serve it alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables for a comforting meal.

Alternative Cooking Methods:

• Slow Cooker: Add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours until tender.
• Instant Pot: Use the sauté function to sear the steak, then pressure cook for 30-35 minutes with a natural release for best results.

Final Thoughts

Round steak may not be the most well-known cut, but with the right approach, it becomes a rich and satisfying dish that the whole family will love. Whether you choose to braise it on the stove, let it slow cook all day, or speed things up with an Instant Pot, this recipe turns an affordable cut of beef into a delicious, comforting meal.