Roast Shell Steak Au Jus
Succulent shell steak, seared with buttery glaze, finished with a savory beef jus – a hearty, classic comfort dish perfect for a quick weeknight or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brush the shell steak with melted butter or margarine.
- Place the steak on a rack in a small roasting pan and roast in a preheated oven: 25 to 30 minutes for rare, 35 to 40 minutes for medium.
- Sprinkle the cooked steak with salt and pepper, then transfer to a carving board and let rest for 1 minute before carving.
- Discard all but 1 teaspoon of the drippings from the pan and place the pan over low heat.
- Add the dissolved beef bouillon cube, stirring up the browned bits, and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Transfer the jus to a gravy boat.
- Carve the steak across the grain.
- Serve the sliced steak with the au jus.
- Serve with baked potato and marinated broccoli, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a perfectly cooked shell steak, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness: 125°F for rare, 135°F for medium. If butter is unavailable, olive oil can be a great substitute. Letting the steak rest after cooking helps retain juices. You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. This recipe pairs beautifully with a baked potato.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the steak against the grain for tender pieces, and serve it with the au jus drizzled over the top. Accompany the dish with sides like baked potatoes or marinated broccoli for a complete meal. A glass of red wine complements the richness of the steak nicely, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the steak in a preheated oven at 250°F until warmed through, which helps maintain its tenderness. The au jus can also be stored separately and reheated gently on the stove, ensuring it doesn't boil.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Roast Shell Steak Au Jus contains roughly 154 calories, with 5g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1289mg per serving (56% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when my steak is done cooking?
Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable way to check doneness. For medium-rare, aim for 135°F; for medium, 145°F. Alternatively, you can use the touch test: a firmer steak indicates it’s more cooked, while a softer one is rarer.
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Yes, while shell steak is recommended for its tenderness, you can use other cuts like ribeye or sirloin. Just adjust cooking times according to the thickness and fat content of the cut you choose for the best results.
What should I do with leftover au jus?
Leftover au jus can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Use it as a flavorful base for soups or stews, or as a dipping sauce for sandwiches. Reheat gently to preserve its rich flavor and serve with other beef dishes, enhancing your meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).