Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Baked Beef Round Steak with Onion Gravy?
It is a tender beef dish baked in a rich onion gravy, designed for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
What cut of beef is used in this recipe?
This recipe specifically calls for 3 lbs of beef top round steak.
How long does the steak need to bake?
The steak should be baked in the oven for a total of 2 hours.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC) before starting the preparation.
Why should I pound the steak with a meat mallet?
Pounding the beef top round steak tenderizes the meat, making it more flavorful and easier to slice.
What is used to dredge the steak?
The steak is dredged in 1/4 cup of flour before being seasoned with salt and pepper.
How long should I sear the steak in the skillet?
Sear the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side until it is thoroughly browned.
What type of skillet is best for this recipe?
A heavy, oven-proof skillet is required because the dish moves from the stovetop to the oven.
How much beef stock is required for the gravy?
You will need 2 1/2 cups of beef stock, which can be homemade or store-bought.
What ingredient provides the extra savory flavor to the gravy?
3 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce are added to the beef stock for enhanced flavor.
How many onions are needed for this dish?
The recipe requires 1 1/2 lbs of sliced onions.
How should the onions be layered in the skillet?
Layer half of the onions on the bottom, place the steak on top, and then layer the remaining onions over the steak.
Should the skillet be covered while baking?
Yes, cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil before placing it in the oven.
Is basting required during the cooking process?
Yes, you should baste the steak with the onion gravy after it has baked for 1 hour.
Why do I need to let the steak rest after cooking?
Letting the steak rest for a few minutes helps the juices redistribute, making the meat more tender when sliced.
How should the beef be sliced for serving?
For the best texture, slice the steak against the grain.
What is the best side dish to serve with this steak?
Warm mashed potatoes are the perfect accompaniment for the steak and rich onion gravy.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed to provide 6 servings.
Can I use store-bought beef stock?
Yes, you can use either homemade or store-bought beef stock for this recipe.
What is the purpose of scraping the bottom of the pan?
Scraping the pan releases browned bits, known as fond, which adds deep flavor to the gravy.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, it is described as an easy dinner where the oven does most of the heavy work.
What kind of oil should I use for browning the meat?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
How do I prepare the beef before dredging?
The beef should be trimmed of excess fat and pounded with a meat mallet.
When do I add the salt and pepper?
Season both sides of the steak generously after dredging them in flour.
Can I use aluminum foil if I don't have a lid?
Yes, if your skillet does not have a lid, aluminum foil works perfectly to cover the dish.
What makes this a 'savory' dish?
The combination of seared beef, beef stock, Worcestershire sauce, and slow-cooked onions creates a deep savory profile.
Is this a good recipe for a family gathering?
Absolutely, its hearty nature and large serving size make it an ideal centerpiece for family meals.
Does the gravy thicken on its own?
Yes, the flour from dredging the steak helps to naturally thicken the beef stock into a gravy as it bakes.
How do I know when the steak is ready?
After 2 hours of baking, the steak will be tender and the onions will have softened into a rich gravy.
Can I add more seasoning to the broth?
Yes, you should taste the broth and adjust the salt and pepper before pouring it over the steak and onions.