18 Flavorful Eye of Round Thin Steak Recipes for Grilling and Pan-Frying

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Written By Lorraine Koller

DIY expert, architect, 20+ years in crafting, home improvement, and interior design.

When it comes to cooking steaks, many people overlook the humble eye of round. But this thinly cut muscle is actually a perfect canvas for a wide range of flavors and cooking methods. Whether you’re a grilling enthusiast or a pan-frying pro, we’ve got 18 mouthwatering recipes to get you started.

From classic combinations like garlic butter and balsamic glaze, to international inspirations like Cajun spice and Jamaican jerk, these eye of round thin steak recipes are sure to impress. And the best part? They’re all relatively quick and easy to make, so you can spend more time enjoying your delicious meal and less time slaving away in the kitchen.

In this article, we’ll be diving into each of these 18 flavorful recipes, with step-by-step instructions and stunning photography to guide you every step of the way. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, we’ve got something for everyone. So let’s get started on our culinary journey and explore the incredible world of eye of round thin steak!

Garlic Butter Eye of Round Thin Steak Skillet

Savor a rich and savory skillet dish featuring tender eye of round thin steak, infused with aromatic garlic butter and served hot.

Ingredients:

– 1.5-2 pounds eye of round thin steak, sliced into 1/4-inch thick strips
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
3. Add the sliced steak to the preheated skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
4. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the olive oil and garlic butter mixture. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Return the cooked steak to the skillet and spoon some of the garlic butter sauce over the top.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Balsamic Glazed Eye of Round Thin Steak Salad

Savor the rich flavors of this Balsamic Glazed Eye of Round Thin Steak Salad, a perfect blend of tender steak and fresh greens. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.

Ingredients:
– 1 (6 oz) eye of round thin steak
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze and 1 tbsp olive oil.
3. Season the steak with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Grill or pan-sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Brush the grilled steak with the balsamic glaze mixture.
6. Let the steak rest for 2-3 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
7. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese.
8. Slice the glazed steak into thin strips and add on top of the salad.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Lemon Herb Marinated Eye of Round Thin Steak

Lemon Herb Marinated Eye of Round Thin Steak Recipe

This refreshing marinade brings out the best in thin steak, with a perfect balance of tangy lemon and savory herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb eye of round thin steak
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  2. Pour the marinade over the steak, making sure it’s coated evenly.
  3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
  4. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove steak from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
  5. Cook steak for 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches desired level of doneness.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Spicy Cajun Eye of Round Thin Steak Tacos

Spicy Cajun Eye of Round Thin Steak Tacos Recipe

Get ready to spice up your taco game with this bold and flavorful recipe!

Ingredients:

– 1 lb eye of round thin steak, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp ground cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup Spicy Cajun seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded lettuce
– Diced tomatoes
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar)
– Sour cream
– Salsa

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add the sliced steak to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with grilled steak, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, and salsa.

Cooking Time: Approximately 40 minutes

Honey Soy Eye of Round Thin Steak Stir-Fry

Savor the sweet and savory flavors of this quick and easy stir-fry, featuring tender eye of round thin steak cooked to perfection with a sticky honey soy glaze.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb eye of round thin steak, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add steak strips; cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and ginger.
6. Pour the glaze over the steak and vegetables; stir-fry to combine.
7. Cook for an additional minute; season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with green onions, if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Smoky Paprika Eye of Round Thin Steak Wraps

Transform thin steak into a flavorful wrap with smoky paprika and fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb eye of round thin steak (about 1/4 inch thick)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 large flour tortillas
– Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
– Crumbly feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the steak.
4. Grill the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble wraps by placing sliced steak onto tortillas, topping with chopped cilantro, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
8. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Quick Chimichurri Eye of Round Thin Steak

Elevate your steak game with this Argentine-inspired chimichurri sauce, perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound eye of round thin steak
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh oregano leaves, chopped
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Season steak with salt and black pepper on both sides.
4. Grill steak for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it reaches desired level of doneness.
5. Let steak rest for 1 minute before slicing against the grain.
6. Brush chimichurri sauce onto steak during last minute of grilling.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Asian-Inspired Sesame Eye of Round Thin Steak

A flavorful and aromatic twist on traditional steak, this recipe marries the nutty goodness of sesame with the bold flavors of Asia.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb thin eye of round steak
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, and ginger.
3. Place the steak on a plate or cutting board and brush the sesame-ginger mixture evenly over both sides of the steak.
4. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top of the steak, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, then finish cooking in the oven for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until cooked to desired doneness.

Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes

Pan-Seared Eye of Round Thin Steak with Mushrooms

A classic combination that’s both elegant and effortless, this recipe yields a tender and flavorful steak paired with earthy mushrooms. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 (6 oz) eye of round thin steak
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the steak with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add the olive oil to the skillet and swirl it around to coat the mushrooms.
5. Place the steak in the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
7. Serve the sliced steak with the mushroom mixture spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes (4-5 minutes per side for the steak)

BBQ Glazed Eye of Round Thin Steak Sandwiches

A sweet and tangy BBQ glaze elevates this tender steak sandwich to new heights. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb eye of round thin steak
– 1/4 cup BBQ glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, cheese, and any other desired toppings

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season steak with salt and pepper.
3. Grill steak for 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
4. While the steak is cooking, toast the hamburger buns on the grill.
5. Once the steak is cooked, brush with BBQ glaze during the last minute of grilling.
6. Assemble sandwiches by placing sliced steak onto toasted buns and adding desired toppings.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Worcestershire and Thyme Eye of Round Thin Steak

A classic flavor combination elevates this thin steak to a new level, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 1 (6-8 oz) eye of round thin steak
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Season the steak with salt and pepper.
  3. In a small bowl, mix together Worcestershire sauce and thyme.
  4. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the steak.
  5. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 1-2 minutes per side, or until browned.
  6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the steak reaches desired doneness.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Italian-Style Eye of Round Thin Steak with Tomatoes

This classic Italian dish is a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. Thinly sliced eye of round steak is marinated in a zesty tomato sauce, then grilled to perfection.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb thin cut eye of round steak
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the sliced steak and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Remove steak from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Grill steak for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
4. While steak is cooking, combine cherry tomatoes and chopped basil in a small bowl.
5. Once steak is done, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly. Serve with tomato-basil mixture spooned over the top.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Jamaican Jerk Eye of Round Thin Steak Kebabs

Elevate your grilling game with these flavorful kebabs, infused with the bold spices and warmth of Jamaican jerk seasoning.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb eye of round thin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tbsp Jamaican jerk seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning and olive oil.
3. Thread steak cubes, onion, garlic, and bell pepper onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
4. Brush the jerk mixture evenly over the kebabs.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Cheesy Eye of Round Thin Steak Quesadillas

Elevate your taco Tuesday with these flavorful and gooey quesadillas, featuring tender eye of round thin steak and melted cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or game-day snack!

Ingredients:

– 1 lb eye of round thin steak
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Slice the steak into thin strips and cook in a skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Let cool.
2. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese on half of the tortilla.
4. Add the cooled steak strips on top of the cheese.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Rosemary Garlic Eye of Round Thin Steak Flatbread

A flavorful flatbread that combines the richness of rosemary and garlic with the tender bite of thin steak, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb eye of round thin steak
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 tsp sugar
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the steak on a large piece of parchment paper or a lightly floured surface. Brush both sides with the rosemary-garlic mixture.
4. Roll out the flour mixture to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm). Place the steak in the center of the dough, leaving a 1-inch (2.5 cm) border around it.
5. Fold the edges of the dough over the steak, pressing gently to seal.
6. Place the flatbread on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the steak reaches desired doneness.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Teriyaki Pineapple Eye of Round Thin Steak Bowls

A sweet and savory twist on traditional steak bowls, this recipe combines the flavors of teriyaki sauce and grilled pineapple with tender eye of round thin steak.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb eye of round thin steak
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 ripe pineapple, sliced into wedges
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce and 1 tablespoon water.
3. Brush both sides of the steak with the teriyaki mixture.
4. Grill the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Meanwhile, grill pineapple wedges and bell peppers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
6. Assemble bowls by slicing grilled steak, topping with grilled pineapple and bell peppers, and garnishing with green onions.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Peppercorn Crusted Eye of Round Thin Steak

Elevate your steak game with this crispy and flavorful peppercorn crust. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 (6-8 oz) thin eye of round steak
– 2 tbsp freshly ground black pepper
– 1 tsp coriander seeds, toasted and ground
– 1 tsp sea salt
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together black pepper, coriander seeds, and sea salt.
3. Pat the steak dry with paper towels. Sprinkle the peppercorn mixture evenly over both sides of the steak.
4. Dip the peppercorn-coated steak in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 1-2 minutes per side, or until a nice crust forms.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the steak reaches your desired level of doneness.
7. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Herbed Eye of Round Thin Steak with Roasted Vegetables

This recipe combines the tender and flavorful eye of round thin steak with a medley of roasted vegetables, all infused with a blend of fresh herbs. The result is a hearty and satisfying dish perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 (6-8 oz) eye of round thin steak
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 medium yellow squash, sliced

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the steak, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the steak on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Toss the bell pepper, zucchini, and squash with a pinch of salt and pepper. Spread them out in a single layer on a separate baking sheet.
6. Roast the vegetables for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
7. Grill or pan-sear the steak to desired doneness (6-8 minutes per side).
8. Serve the steak with the roasted vegetables and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

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