Eye of round steak is a lean and flavorful cut of beef that can be cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. This method of cooking is ideal for busy home cooks who want to come home to a delicious, tender steak without having to spend hours in the kitchen. In this article, we will explore the best ways to cook eye of round steak in a slow cooker, including tips and tricks for achieving the perfect level of doneness.
Understanding Eye of Round Steak
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to understand the characteristics of eye of round steak. This cut of beef comes from the hindquarters of the cow and is known for its lean, tender meat. Eye of round steak is a relatively thin cut, which makes it perfect for slow cooking. The low fat content of this cut means that it can become dry if overcooked, so it’s crucial to cook it to the right level of doneness.
Choosing the Right Eye of Round Steak
When selecting an eye of round steak for slow cooking, look for a cut that is at least 1-1.5 inches thick. This will ensure that the steak stays juicy and tender during the cooking process. You can also opt for a steak with a bit of marbling, as this will add flavor and tenderness to the meat.
Preparing the Eye of Round Steak for Slow Cooking
Before cooking the eye of round steak in a slow cooker, it’s essential to prepare it properly. Here are a few steps to follow:
Seasoning the Steak
Season the eye of round steak with your desired herbs and spices. You can use a store-bought seasoning blend or create your own using ingredients like garlic powder, paprika, and thyme. Rub the seasoning all over the steak, making sure to coat it evenly.
Searing the Steak (Optional)
If you want to add a bit of crust to your eye of round steak, you can sear it in a hot skillet before slow cooking it. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over high heat and sear the steak for 1-2 minutes per side. This will create a nice crust on the steak, which will add texture and flavor to the dish.
Cooking the Eye of Round Steak in a Slow Cooker
Now that the eye of round steak is prepared, it’s time to cook it in the slow cooker. Here’s a basic recipe you can follow:
Basic Slow Cooker Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1-2 eye of round steaks (1-1.5 inches thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Place the sliced onion at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add the garlic, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme on top of the onion.
- Place the eye of round steak on top of the onion mixture.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the steak and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the steak on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Times and Temperatures
The cooking time and temperature of the eye of round steak will depend on your desired level of doneness. Here are some general guidelines to follow:
| Level of Doneness | Internal Temperature | Cooking Time (Low) | Cooking Time (High) |
| — | — | — | — |
| Rare | 130-135°F | 6-8 hours | 3-4 hours |
| Medium-rare | 135-140°F | 7-9 hours | 4-5 hours |
| Medium | 140-145°F | 8-10 hours | 5-6 hours |
| Medium-well | 145-150°F | 9-11 hours | 6-7 hours |
| Well-done | 150-155°F | 10-12 hours | 7-8 hours |
Tips and Tricks for Cooking Eye of Round Steak in a Slow Cooker
Here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind when cooking eye of round steak in a slow cooker:
Use a Meat Thermometer
A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure that your eye of round steak is cooked to the right level of doneness. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak and check the internal temperature regularly.
Don’t Overcook the Steak
Eye of round steak can become dry and tough if overcooked. Make sure to check the steak regularly and remove it from the slow cooker when it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Add Aromatics to the Slow Cooker
Adding aromatics like onions, garlic, and carrots to the slow cooker can add flavor and depth to the dish. You can also add other ingredients like mushrooms, bell peppers, and potatoes to create a hearty and delicious meal.
Let the Steak Rest
Once the eye of round steak is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the steak to retain its tenderness.
Conclusion
Cooking eye of round steak in a slow cooker is a great way to create a delicious and tender meal with minimal effort. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you can achieve the perfect level of doneness and enjoy a mouth-watering steak that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re a busy home cook or an experienced chef, slow cooking eye of round steak is a technique that’s worth trying.
What is an Eye of Round Steak and why is it suitable for slow cooking?
An Eye of Round Steak is a lean cut of beef that comes from the hindquarters of the animal. It is known for its tenderness and mild flavor, making it an ideal choice for slow cooking. The slow cooking process allows the connective tissues in the meat to break down, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.
When cooked in a slow cooker, the Eye of Round Steak absorbs all the flavors of the seasonings and sauces, making it a delicious and satisfying meal. Additionally, the slow cooking process helps to retain the moisture of the meat, making it juicy and tender.
How do I prepare the Eye of Round Steak for slow cooking?
To prepare the Eye of Round Steak for slow cooking, start by seasoning the meat with your desired herbs and spices. You can use a dry rub or a marinade, depending on your preference. Make sure to coat the meat evenly, paying attention to all surfaces.
Next, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the steak on all sides until browned. This step is crucial in creating a flavorful crust on the meat. After searing, transfer the steak to the slow cooker and add your desired sauce or broth. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.
What are some common seasonings and sauces used for Eye of Round Steak in a slow cooker?
Some common seasonings and sauces used for Eye of Round Steak in a slow cooker include garlic, onion, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. You can also use store-bought or homemade sauces like teriyaki, BBQ, or mushroom gravy. The key is to choose flavors that complement the natural taste of the beef.
When using sauces, make sure to adjust the amount according to your taste preferences. You can also add other ingredients like potatoes, carrots, or bell peppers to create a hearty and flavorful stew.
Can I cook the Eye of Round Steak from frozen in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook the Eye of Round Steak from frozen in a slow cooker. However, it’s essential to note that the cooking time will be longer. Add an extra 2-3 hours to the cooking time when cooking from frozen.
When cooking from frozen, make sure to adjust the seasoning and sauce accordingly. You may need to add more liquid to the slow cooker to prevent the meat from drying out. Also, ensure that the meat is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to avoid foodborne illness.
How do I ensure the Eye of Round Steak is cooked to perfection in a slow cooker?
To ensure the Eye of Round Steak is cooked to perfection in a slow cooker, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The recommended internal temperature for medium-rare is 145°F (63°C), while medium is 160°F (71°C).
Additionally, check the tenderness of the meat by inserting a fork or knife. If it slides in easily, the meat is cooked to perfection. If not, continue cooking for another 30 minutes and check again. It’s also essential to let the meat rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
Can I cook the Eye of Round Steak in a slow cooker with other ingredients?
Yes, you can cook the Eye of Round Steak in a slow cooker with other ingredients like vegetables, potatoes, or grains. This is a great way to create a hearty and flavorful meal. Some popular ingredients to cook with Eye of Round Steak include carrots, potatoes, onions, and bell peppers.
When cooking with other ingredients, make sure to adjust the cooking time and seasoning accordingly. You may need to add more liquid to the slow cooker to prevent the ingredients from drying out. Also, ensure that the ingredients are cooked to a safe internal temperature to avoid foodborne illness.
How do I store and reheat leftover Eye of Round Steak cooked in a slow cooker?
To store leftover Eye of Round Steak cooked in a slow cooker, let it cool completely before refrigerating or freezing. Wrap the meat tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
To reheat, slice the meat thinly and reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also reheat the meat in the slow cooker on low for 1-2 hours. Make sure to reheat the meat to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.