Grilled flank steak is a crowd-pleasing dish that brings smoky flavors and juicy tenderness to your table. This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. The marinade infuses the steak with a delightful blend of savory and sweet notes, making it a standout choice for meat lovers. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, allowing you to enjoy delicious meals without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can marinate the steak and have it ready for grilling.
- Flavorful Marinade: The combination of Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and honey creates a mouthwatering flavor that enhances the beef.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it sliced in salads, sandwiches, or as part of a main course—perfect for any meal!
- Ideal for Gatherings: This recipe yields six servings, making it an excellent choice for family gatherings or cookouts.
- Healthy Protein Source: Flank steak is lean and packed with protein, making it a nutritious option for dinner.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking your grilled flank steak, gather the necessary tools to make the process seamless.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Instant-read thermometer
- Rimmed platter
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: A good quality grill ensures even cooking and adds that essential smoky flavor to the steak.
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to easily combine all marinade ingredients and coat the steak thoroughly.
- Instant-read thermometer: This tool helps you check the doneness of the meat quickly without cutting into it.
Ingredients
Grilled flank steak is marinated and cooked whole for a delicious recipe that’s easy to make and perfect for feeding the entire family!
For the Steak
- 2 pounds whole flank steak
For the Marinade
- ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons low sodium tamari sauce
- 1 lemon (juiced)
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 3 garlic cloves (grated)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Grilled Flank Steak
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Place the Worcestershire sauce, tamari sauce, lemon juice, honey, grated garlic, and black pepper in a large bowl. Whisk these ingredients together until well combined.
Step 2: Marinate the Steak
Add the whole flank steak on top of the marinade. Toss to ensure that the steak is fully coated. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your outdoor gas grill to 450˚F. This high heat will give your steak nice grill marks while locking in moisture.
Step 4: Grill the Steak
Place the marinated flank steak on the grill. Cook for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side. Use an instant-read thermometer to check doneness—130°F to 140°F indicates medium-rare; 150°F is medium-well.
Step 5: Let It Rest
Once cooked to your liking, remove the grill from heat and place it on a rimmed platter. Cover it loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 10 minutes. This step allows juices to redistribute within the meat.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
After resting, slice the flank steak thinly against the grain. Serve immediately with your choice of sides or use in other recipes like tacos or salads. Enjoy!
How to Serve Grilled Flank Steak
Grilled flank steak is versatile and pairs well with many sides. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your meal and impress your family and friends.
With Fresh Salads
- Classic Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a creamy dressing complement the rich flavors of grilled flank steak.
- Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: This salad features chickpeas, cucumber, tomatoes, and feta cheese, adding a refreshing touch that balances the savory meat.
In Tacos
- Flank Steak Tacos: Slice the grilled meat and serve it in soft corn tortillas topped with avocado, cilantro, and lime for a delicious twist.
- Spicy Taco Bowls: Layer sliced flank steak over rice or quinoa with black beans, corn, and salsa for a hearty meal.
On Sandwiches
- Steak Sandwiches: Use fresh baguettes or rolls filled with sliced steak, arugula, and horseradish sauce for a delightful lunch option.
- Philly Cheesesteak Style: Sauté onions and peppers to top the flank steak in a hoagie roll for an East Coast favorite.
How to Perfect Grilled Flank Steak
To achieve the best results when grilling flank steak, follow these tips to ensure it turns out juicy and full of flavor.
- Marinate for Flavor: Allow the flank steak to marinate for at least one hour. The longer you marinate, the more flavor it will absorb.
- Preheat Your Grill: Always preheat your grill to 450˚F. A hot grill seals in juices and creates beautiful grill marks.
- Use an Instant Read Thermometer: This tool helps you achieve the perfect doneness. Aim for 130°F to 140°F for medium rare.
- Let It Rest: After grilling, let the steak rest for about 10 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- Slice Against the Grain: Cutting the steak against the grain makes each bite tenderer. Look for the direction of muscle fibers when slicing.
- Experiment with Seasonings: While this recipe is delicious as is, feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to customize flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Flank Steak
Pairing side dishes with grilled flank steak can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options that will complement its robust flavor.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with grilled flavors.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus drizzled with olive oil adds a fresh crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender meat.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter makes for a classic summer side that everyone loves.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness of grilled flank steak.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized offer both color and nutrition alongside your main dish.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs and lemon provides a nutritious option that’s full of flavor without overwhelming the palate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Grilling flank steak can be simple, but common mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
Skipping the Marinade: Failing to marinate your grilled flank steak can result in a tough and bland meal. Always allow time for the meat to soak in flavor.
Not Preheating the Grill: Cooking on a cold grill can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure your grill reaches 450˚F before placing the steak on it for the best sear.
Overcooking the Steak: Flank steak is best served medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness and avoid cooking it past 140°F.
Slicing Incorrectly: Cutting against the grain is crucial for tenderness. Always slice thinly across the grain to ensure each bite is easy to chew.
Neglecting Rest Time: Cutting into the steak too soon will release juices, making it dry. Let your grilled flank steak rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover grilled flank steak in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator.
- Allow the steak to cool completely before refrigerating for freshness.
Freezing Grilled Flank Steak
- Wrap the cooled steak tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place it in a freezer-safe bag; it can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Label with the date so you can keep track of its freshness.
Reheating Grilled Flank Steak
Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, place the steak in a baking dish covered with foil, and heat for about 15–20 minutes or until warmed through.
Microwave: Slice the steak and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil, and warm sliced steak for about 2–3 minutes per side until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is grilled flank steak?
Grilled flank steak is a flavorful cut of beef that benefits from marinating and quick grilling. It’s known for its rich taste and ideal texture when cooked properly.
How long should I marinate grilled flank steak?
For best results, marinate your grilled flank steak for at least 1 hour but no longer than 24 hours. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply without breaking down the meat too much.
Can I cook grilled flank steak on an indoor grill?
Yes! You can absolutely use an indoor grill or grill pan if outdoor grilling isn’t an option. Just make sure your pan is hot enough before adding the meat.
How do I know when my grilled flank steak is done?
The best way to check doneness is with an instant-read thermometer. Aim for 130°F to 140°F for medium-rare, as temperatures will rise during resting.
What sides pair well with grilled flank steak?
Grilled flank steak pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, fresh salads, or even rice dishes. The versatility of this dish allows for many creative side options!
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, grilled flank steak is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Its quick cooking time means you can enjoy a fantastic meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Feel free to customize this recipe by experimenting with different marinades or serving styles—your taste buds will thank you!
Grilled Flank Steak
Grilled flank steak is a mouthwatering dish that combines smoky flavors with juicy tenderness, making it an ideal centerpiece for summer barbecues or family dinners. Marinated in a delightful blend of Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and honey, this steak is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can marinate the steak and have it ready for grilling in no time. Perfectly versatile, grilled flank steak can be served sliced in salads, tacos, or sandwiches, ensuring it will impress your guests on any occasion. This recipe yields six servings, making it great for gatherings while offering a healthy dose of lean protein.
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: Serves six
Ingredients
- 2 pounds flank steak
- ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons low sodium tamari sauce
- 1 lemon (juiced)
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 3 garlic cloves (grated)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade by whisking together Worcestershire sauce, tamari sauce, lemon juice, honey, grated garlic, and black pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Add the flank steak to the marinade and ensure it's fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to 24 hours for more flavor).
- Preheat your grill to 450°F.
- Grill the marinated flank steak for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side until it reaches an internal temperature of 130°F to 140°F for medium-rare.
- Remove from heat and let rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing against the grain.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 90mg