The marriage of a juicy pan-seared London broil with a rich, golden cheddar Yorkshire pudding creates a meal that’s both comforting and elegant. With only a few ingredients and a quick prep, this dinner brings big flavor with minimal effort.
Perfect for cozy nights in or a hearty family dinner, the dish celebrates both British inspiration and home-cooked warmth. The roasted tomatoes provide a delicate acidity that pairs perfectly with the savory, buttery pudding and tender beef slices. It’s a new take on a timeless classic that will win hearts at your dinner table.
Full Recipe:
1½ pounds top round steak (London broil)
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
3 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 scallions, chopped
½ cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated (about 2 oz)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
½ tablespoon vegetable oil
3 plum tomatoes, quartered
Directions:
Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C). Rub the steak with Worcestershire sauce, ½ teaspoon salt, and a generous amount of pepper. Set aside.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Add flour, scallions, cheese, and ½ teaspoon salt. Whisk until smooth.
Brush a deep-dish pie plate with some of the melted butter. Add the remaining butter to the batter and mix well. Pour the batter into the pie plate.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the Yorkshire pudding is puffed and golden.
Meanwhile, heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the steak and cook about 5 minutes until browned on one side.
Flip the steak, reduce heat to low, and cover the skillet. Cook for 10–12 minutes or until the internal temp reaches 120°F (49°C).
Remove steak and tent with foil. Let it rest for 10 minutes.
In the same skillet, place tomatoes cut-side down. Cover and cook for 5 minutes until soft.
Thinly slice the steak against the grain. Cut the Yorkshire pudding into wedges. Serve everything together.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: ~420 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings
The Rich History Behind London Broil and Yorkshire Pudding
The pairing of London Broil with Cheesy Yorkshire Pudding brings together culinary traditions from both sides of the Atlantic. While “London Broil” may sound quintessentially British, the term actually originated in North America and refers to a particular method of preparing lean cuts of beef, typically top round steak, by marinating and broiling them before slicing thinly across the grain.
On the other hand, Yorkshire pudding is a true staple of British cuisine. Traditionally served with roast beef and gravy as part of a classic Sunday roast, Yorkshire pudding has its roots in 18th-century England. Cooks would use the drippings from roasting meat to make a batter-based side dish that was both economical and hearty. Adding cheese to this batter, as done in this modern adaptation, adds a rich, savory depth that perfectly complements the beef’s robust flavor.
This dish harmoniously merges these culinary backgrounds into one hearty and flavorful meal. It’s rustic yet refined, and makes for a perfect centerpiece for a weekend family dinner or even a casual holiday gathering.
Flavor Profile and Texture Pairings
One of the key strengths of this dish lies in its textural contrast and flavor balance. The London broil, when cooked properly, offers a flavorful crust on the outside with a juicy, tender center. The meat is seasoned simply with Worcestershire sauce, salt, and freshly ground pepper, allowing the natural beefy flavor to shine through.
The Yorkshire pudding in this version is enhanced with sharp cheddar cheese and chopped scallions, transforming it into a more complex and satisfying side. Once baked, the pudding rises and develops a golden, crispy exterior with a soft, almost custard-like interior. The cheese melts into the batter, providing richness and a gentle tang that cuts through the meat’s savory depth.
Meanwhile, the addition of roasted plum tomatoes offers a mild acidity that lifts the dish and prevents it from feeling overly heavy. These tomatoes become lightly caramelized in the pan, releasing their natural sweetness and providing a subtle contrast to the savory elements of the dish.
Why This Dish Works So Well Together
This meal is not just about putting meat and pudding on a plate. It’s about how the components complement one another.
The steak is lean and intense in flavor, best served medium-rare and sliced thinly to maximize tenderness.
The pudding acts as a starchy, cheesy companion that absorbs juices from the meat, creating a richer eating experience.
The tomatoes serve as a balancing act, adding freshness and color while cleansing the palate between bites.
Together, these elements form a cohesive, satisfying dish that hits on multiple sensory levels: it’s savory, cheesy, juicy, and just a little tangy.
Tips for Perfect Execution
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, but that doesn’t mean it’s foolproof without attention to detail. Here are some important tips to ensure the dish comes out perfect every time:
Let the steak rest: After cooking, always tent the steak with foil and allow it to rest. This step helps redistribute the juices, making for a juicier cut once sliced.
Use a hot oven for the pudding: Yorkshire pudding relies on a sudden burst of heat to puff up. Make sure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature and avoid opening the door during baking.
Choose quality cheddar: A sharp, aged cheddar will provide the best contrast against the mild egg batter and will melt beautifully into the pudding.
Watch the steak’s internal temperature: Overcooking can turn this lean cut tough. Use a meat thermometer and aim for about 120°F (49°C) for rare and up to 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
Occasions to Serve This Dish
Though it may seem indulgent, London Broil with Cheesy Yorkshire Pudding fits well into many settings:
Sunday family dinners where you want something comforting but elevated.
Holiday gatherings as a sophisticated but simple main dish.
Dinner parties where plating and presentation matter but you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Romantic home dates when you want to impress with a hearty, homemade meal.
The dish feels both rustic and elegant, making it flexible enough for both casual and formal settings.
Pairing Suggestions: Beverages and Sides
This hearty dish pairs beautifully with a wide range of beverages. A bold red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec, brings out the richness of the beef while complementing the sharp cheddar in the pudding. If you prefer beer, a robust English ale or stout will mirror the dish’s depth while adding its own malty notes.
For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, a rich, unsweetened iced tea or sparkling water with lemon can cleanse the palate and cut through the dish’s richness.
As for side dishes, consider:
Garlic green beans or sautéed spinach to add freshness and color.
Horseradish cream or a drizzle of gravy for those who enjoy a little extra on their beef.
A small green salad with vinaigrette to balance the warmth of the dish.
Modern Twists and Variations
Though the recipe is fantastic as-is, adventurous home cooks can try out these variations to suit different tastes:
Swap the cheese: Blue cheese or Gruyère can add new flavor notes to the pudding.
Add herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary can elevate the beef and pudding with aromatic depth.
Make it spicy: Add a touch of Dijon mustard to the Yorkshire batter or sprinkle chili flakes over the steak for some kick.
Vegetarian variation: Use grilled portobello mushrooms instead of steak, and maintain the same pudding and tomato side for a satisfying meatless option.
These tweaks allow you to make the dish your own, depending on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
A Nostalgic Yet Modern Dish
There’s something undeniably nostalgic about this meal. It evokes memories of Sunday roasts, family dinners, and cozy kitchens filled with warmth and savory aromas. Yet, thanks to the addition of cheese, simple searing techniques, and fresh ingredients, it also feels modern and elevated.
Unlike some complicated beef roasts or hard-to-perfect pastries, London Broil with Cheesy Yorkshire Pudding is surprisingly approachable. Even novice home cooks can master it with a bit of care and attention. And the results? Utterly satisfying and impressive enough for guests.
Conclusion: A New Classic for Your Dinner Repertoire
London Broil with Cheesy Yorkshire Pudding is more than just a combination of steak and baked batter—it’s a celebration of flavor, texture, and tradition. From the seared, juicy slices of steak to the golden, cheesy puff of Yorkshire pudding, every bite offers richness and comfort.
Whether you’re reviving a family tradition, creating a new one, or simply exploring hearty dinner ideas, this dish is sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation. Its balance of elegance and simplicity makes it perfect for almost any occasion. Serve it with love, pair it thoughtfully, and watch as it becomes a household favorite.