Mouthwatering Thin Cut Top Round Steak Recipes for Perfectly Cooked, Tender Meat

Thin cut top round steak offers a lean, affordable cut that can be transformed into succulent, delicious dishes when handled properly. Taken from the round primal located in the back end of the cow, top round steak contains a good amount of collagen that must be broken down through specific cooking methods. When prepared right, this budget-friendly steak becomes incredibly juicy and tender. Read on for some tantalizing thin cut top round steak recipes you’ll want to make again and again.

What is Thin Cut Top Round Steak?

Thin cut top round steak comes from the rear leg portion of the cow. It’s a moderately tough cut since the muscles get a good workout. While not naturally tender, it compensates with its mild flavor and value-price.

Top round steak contains a significant amount of collagen that must be converted to gelatin through moist cooking methods. This is what makes the meat tender. When handled properly, thin cut top round steak can become succulent and juicy. Its thin cuts also enable quick cooking.

Benefits of Cooking with Thin Cut Top Round Steak

Here are some benefits this cut offers:

Budget-Friendly

Top round steak costs less than premium cuts, keeping home cooking affordable.

Lean Source of Protein

Low in fat with lots of protein, vitamins, and minerals like iron, zinc, and B12.

Cooks Quickly

Thin cuts mean you can cook the steak fast over high heat.

Absorbs Marinades

The thin cuts soak up flavors from marinades, rubs, and sauces.

Tenderizes Well

Responds beautifully to marinating and moist cooking methods.

Tips for Cooking Tender, Juicy Top Round Steak

Use these helpful tips to get the most out of top round steak:

Slice Across the Grain

This shortens the tough muscle fibers so meat is more tender when eating.

Use a Marinade

Soak steak in an acidic marinade for 1-2 hours to help tenderize.

Cook with Moist Heat

Braise, stew or simmer in sauce for tender textures.

Don’t Overcook

Cook to no more than medium doneness to prevent drying out.

Let Meat Rest

Allowing it to rest seals in the juices for a juicy result.

15 Succulent Thin Cut Top Round Steak Recipes

Take your top round steak to new heights with these satisfying recipes:

1. Steak Fajitas

Marinated steak strips sautéed with colorful veggies - perfect for DIY taco night.

2. Thai Steak Salad

Grilled marinated steak served over fresh greens with a flavorful Thai vinaigrette.

3. Steak Sandwiches with Caramelized Onions

Grilled steak piled high on ciabatta rolls with salty, sweet onions.

4. Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

A takeout favorite - thinly sliced steak and broccoli wok-seared in a savory sauce.

5. Mongolian Beef

Tender strips fried up with green onions in a sweet and spicy sauce - irresistible!

6. Beef Skewers

Marinated steak and veggie skewers grilled to perfection.

7. Philly Cheesesteak

Thinly sliced steak sautéed with peppers, onions and melted cheese - classic!

8. Steak and Potato Soup

Comforting soup filled with tender steak bites and potatoes.

9. Beef Tacos

Grilled marinated steak slices piled high on warm tortillas with all the fixings.

10. Beef Stir Fry with Noodles

Quick cooking steak strips sautéed with snap peas and Lo Mein noodles.

11. Steak Frites

Steakhouse flavor without the price tag - steak and oven fries with garlic herb butter.

12. Beef Bulgogi

Marinated grilled Korean steak with a sweet and savory flavor.

13. Steak Salad with Blue Cheese

Grilled steak served over mixed greens with onion, tomato and blue cheese.

14. Steak Quesadillas

Grilled steak, peppers and cheese pressed into a tortilla until toasted and melty.

15. Beef and Vegetable Kabobs

Steak chunks, peppers, onions, mushrooms - the perfect summer grill meal.

Conclusion

With the proper preparation, thin cut top round steak can become incredibly tender and juicy. Marinades, slicing against the grain, and moist cooking helps transform this budget-friendly cut. Recipes from stir fry to sandwiches let you enjoy succulent steak flavor without breaking the bank. With this variety of global dishes, your top round steak possibilities are endless.

FAQs

1. What's the best marinade for top round steak?

A marinade with acidity from citrus, vinegar, or yogurt helps tenderize. Also use oil, garlic, and spices.

2. Is top round steak good for grilling?

Yes, if marinated first. Grill over high heat for just a few minutes per side to keep it tender.

3. Can you pan sear top round steak?

Yes, use very high heat to quickly brown while keeping the interior juicy.

4. What are some common ways to cook top round steak?

Grilling, pan searing, broiling, sautéing, braising, and stir frying are great cooking methods.

5. What sides go well with top round steak?

Rice, roasted potatoes, pasta, or salad pair nicely. Veggie skewers also complement grilled steak.