If you’ve ever struggled to cook round steak without it turning out tough, this recipe will change your kitchen game forever. My round steak recipe brings that 5-star steakhouse flavor right to your dinner table in just 11 minutes!
Searing the steak in garlic and herb butter creates a crispy, flavorful crust while locking in the juices. It’s quick, it’s affordable, and it tastes like you spent hours on it. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or an impromptu steak night, this round steak is the star of the show.
Why You’ll Love This Round Steak Recipe
- 🔥 Fast – Just 11 minutes from prep to plate
- 🧈 Buttery & Juicy – Garlic and rosemary elevate every bite
- 💪 High-Protein Meal – 26g of protein per serving
- 🍽️ Steakhouse Quality – All in your own skillet
Ingredients for Round Steak
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Round steak (1-inch thick) | 1½ pounds |
| Salt | 1½ teaspoons |
| Black pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Fresh rosemary sprigs | 2 sprigs |
How to Cook Round Steak Like a Pro
1. Tenderize the Steak
Place your steak between two pieces of parchment paper and pound with a meat mallet for 20–30 seconds. This breaks down the fibers and helps the steak stay juicy.
2. Season Generously
Sprinkle both sides of the round steak with salt and black pepper. Let it sit for a few minutes while your skillet heats up.
3. Sear to Perfection
Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak and sear for about 5 minutes total, flipping to get that golden crust on both sides.
4. Add Butter & Flavor
Lower the heat and toss in the butter, garlic, and rosemary. Spoon the melted butter mixture over the steak repeatedly as it finishes cooking.
5. Check Temperature
Cook until the internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
6. Rest & Slice
Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This seals in the juices and delivers the most tender bites.
Pro Chef Tips
- 🥩 Use cast iron – It holds heat evenly and gives the best crust.
- 🧈 Don’t skip the butter baste – This step adds flavor and moisture.
- 🔥 Let it rest – Never slice steak straight from the pan!
- 🌡️ Use a thermometer – Aim for 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 236 kcal |
| Protein | 26 g |
| Carbohydrates | 1 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Sodium | 676 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
How to Store Round Steak
To Refrigerate:
Let the cooked steak cool to room temp, then store it in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
To Freeze:
Wrap cooled steak in plastic wrap or foil, then seal in an airtight bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs About Round Steak
Is round steak tender or tough?
Round steak is naturally lean and can be tough, but with proper tenderizing and fast cooking, it becomes juicy and flavorful.
Can I marinate the round steak?
Absolutely! Marinate in olive oil, vinegar, soy sauce, and herbs for 1–2 hours for extra flavor and tenderness.
How do I know when round steak is done?
Use a meat thermometer:
- 130°F = Medium-rare
- 140°F = Medium
- 150°F = Medium-well
Final Thoughts
This round steak recipe proves you don’t need a fancy cut of meat or hours of prep to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal. With a hot skillet, garlic butter, and a few simple steps, you’ll create a dish that impresses every time.
