Olivia Carter
If you’re a steak lover, then you probably know that London broil is a classic and delicious cut of meat. While it’s traditionally cooked on the grill or broiled in the oven, using a cast iron skillet is another great option. Not only does it give you the opportunity to sear your London broil to perfection, but it also allows for the convenience of cooking indoors. If you’re wondering how long it takes to cook London broil in a cast iron skillet, we have the answer for you.
Cooking London broil in a cast iron skillet requires a combination of searing and oven cooking. To achieve those beautiful grill marks on the outside and a perfectly juicy center, start by preheating your cast iron skillet on the stovetop over high heat. While the skillet is heating up, season your London broil with your preferred seasoning blend, making sure to generously coat both sides.
Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the London broil in the center, and let it sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side. This initial searing will help lock in the flavors and create a nice crust. After searing, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven and continue cooking at 400°F (200°C) until the desired level of doneness is reached. A meat thermometer can be handy to check the internal temperature, as London broil is best served medium-rare or medium.
The duration of oven cooking will depend on the thickness of your London broil. As a general guideline, cook it for about 5-7 minutes per side for a 1-inch thick cut. Thicker cuts may require additional cooking time. Once cooked to your liking, remove the skillet from the oven and allow the London broil to rest for a few minutes to let the juices redistribute before slicing it against the grain.
Cooking London broil in a cast iron skillet is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this flavorful cut of meat. With the right timing and technique, you can achieve a tender and juicy London broil that will impress your family and friends. So, fire up your cast iron skillet and get ready to indulge in a mouthwatering steak dinner!
Best Ways To Cook London Broil In Cast Iron Skillet
London broil is a delicious cut of beef that can be cooked in a variety of ways. One popular method is to cook it in a cast iron skillet, which allows for even cooking and a nice sear on the outside. Here are some of the best ways to cook London broil in a cast iron skillet:
1. Preparing the London Broil
- Start by marinating the London broil for at least 1 hour, or overnight if possible. You can use a simple marinade of olive oil, soy sauce, garlic, and your choice of herbs and spices.
- Remove the London broil from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels. Let it come to room temperature, which will help it cook more evenly.
- Season the London broil with salt and pepper, or your favorite steak seasoning, on both sides.
2. Cooking the London Broil
- Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it is very hot. Add a bit of oil to the skillet and swirl it around to coat the bottom.
- Carefully place the London broil in the hot skillet and let it sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side. This will create a nice crust on the outside of the meat.
- Reduce the heat to medium and continue to cook the London broil until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature – 145°F for medium rare, 160°F for medium, and 170°F for well done.
- Once the London broil is cooked to your liking, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute and result in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Remember that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the London broil and your desired level of doneness. It is always a good idea to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the steak is cooked to your liking.
Whether you’re cooking London broil for a special occasion or a weekday meal, using a cast iron skillet is a great way to achieve a delicious and flavorful steak. Give these cooking methods a try and enjoy a juicy and tender London broil every time!
Preparing the London Broil
To ensure a deliciously cooked London Broil, proper preparation is key. Follow these steps to get your meat ready:
1. Marinating the London Broil
Marinating the London Broil not only imparts amazing flavors but also helps tenderize the meat. You can use a store-bought marinade or prepare your own using ingredients like soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, garlic, and various spices. Place the London Broil in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish, and pour the marinade over it. Make sure to coat the meat thoroughly. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
2. Seasoning the London Broil
Before cooking the London Broil, remove it from the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off. Season the meat generously with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add additional seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika to enhance the flavors further.
Note: Some recipes recommend letting the seasoned London Broil sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking, allowing it to cook more evenly.
3. Preheating the Cast Iron Skillet
To achieve a perfectly seared crust, preheating the cast-iron skillet is essential. Place the skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Let it heat up for about 5 minutes or until hot. You can occasionally test the heat by sprinkling a few drops of water onto the skillet; if it sizzles and evaporates immediately, the skillet is ready for cooking.
Tip: While the skillet is preheating, you can also preheat your oven to a low temperature (around 200°F or 93°C) if you want to keep the London Broil warm after searing.
By following these preparation steps, you’ll be well on your way to cooking a mouthwatering London Broil in a cast-iron skillet.
Seasoning the London Broil
Before cooking your London broil in a cast iron skillet, it’s important to season it properly. This will enhance the flavor and add a delicious crust to the meat. Here’s how to season your London broil:
1. Choose Your Seasonings
There are various seasonings you can use to enhance the flavor of your London broil. Some popular options include:
- Salt and pepper
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano
2. Preparing the London Broil
Before applying the seasonings, make sure to pat the London broil dry with a paper towel. This will help the seasonings stick to the meat better.
3. Seasoning the Meat
Sprinkle the chosen seasonings generously on both sides of the London broil. Make sure to coat the entire surface evenly for maximum flavor.
4. Let It Rest
After seasoning, let the London broil rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and results in a more flavorful dish.
Once you’ve seasoned your London broil, you’re ready to cook it in a cast iron skillet. Follow the recommended cooking time and temperature for the best results.
Cooking the London Broil
To cook the London broil in a cast iron skillet, follow these steps:
1. Preheat the skillet: Place the cast iron skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Allow it to heat up for a few minutes until it is hot.
2. Prepare the London broil: Season the London broil with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika for extra flavor.
3. Sear the meat: Add a small amount of oil to the hot skillet and carefully place the London broil in the pan. Sear the meat for about 2-3 minutes on each side until it develops a nice crust.
4. Lower the heat: Reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking the London broil for about 5-7 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on the temperature using a meat thermometer and cook until the internal temperature reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. Let it rest: Once the London broil is cooked to your liking, remove it from the skillet and place it on a cutting board. Tent it loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to become more tender.
6. Slice and serve: After the resting period, slice the London broil against the grain into thin slices. This will help make the meat more tender. Serve it as a main dish with your favorite side dishes or use the slices to make sandwiches or salads.
Remember, cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the London broil and your desired level of doneness. It is always best to use a meat thermometer to ensure the meat is cooked to your liking.
Resting and Serving the London Broil
Once the London broil is finished cooking, it’s important to allow it to rest for about 5 to 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that the meat stays tender and juicy.
While the London broil is resting, you can prepare any additional side dishes or sauces to accompany the meal. Some popular options include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a mushroom sauce.
Slicing the London Broil
When it’s time to serve the London broil, it’s crucial to slice it against the grain. This means cutting perpendicular to the direction of the muscle fibers. Slicing against the grain helps to break down the muscle fibers and make the meat more tender.
Using a sharp knife, slice the London broil into thin slices. Aim for slices that are about 1/4-inch thick. If you prefer your meat more well-done, you can cook the London broil to a higher internal temperature, but keep in mind that it may become less tender.
Serving Suggestions
London broil is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Some popular serving suggestions include:
- Plating the slices of London broil alongside the side dishes, with a drizzle of sauce on top.
- Serving the sliced London broil in a sandwich or wrap, along with your favorite condiments and toppings.
- Slicing the London broil into bite-sized pieces and serving it as an appetizer with toothpicks.
Whatever serving method you choose, be sure to enjoy the flavorful and tender London broil that you’ve cooked in your cast iron skillet!
FAQ
How long should I cook London broil in a cast iron skillet?
The cooking time for London broil in a cast iron skillet can vary depending on the thickness of the meat. As a general rule, you should cook it for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. For medium, cook it for an additional 1-2 minutes on each side. However, it’s always best to use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches your desired level of doneness.
What temperature should I cook London broil in a cast iron skillet?
For a London broil in a cast iron skillet, you should preheat the skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot. Then, sear the meat on each side for about 4-5 minutes for medium-rare. The internal temperature of the meat should reach around 135-140°F (57-60°C) for medium-rare and 145-150°F (63-66°C) for medium. Remember to let the meat rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
Can I cook a London broil in a cast iron skillet in the oven?
Yes, you can cook a London broil in a cast iron skillet in the oven. To do so, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Heat the skillet on the stovetop over high heat until it’s hot. Sear the meat on each side for about 2-3 minutes. Then, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meat reaches your desired doneness. Remember to let the meat rest before slicing.
How can I make sure my London broil is tender when cooked in a cast iron skillet?
To ensure that your London broil is tender when cooked in a cast iron skillet, you can try marinating the meat before cooking. A marinade with acidic ingredients like vinegar, citrus juice, or yogurt can help break down the connective tissues in the meat, resulting in a more tender texture. You can also try pounding the meat with a meat tenderizer to further tenderize it. Additionally, slicing the cooked meat against the grain can make it easier to chew.
