Name: Savory Grilled Flank Steak: Tender & Juicy in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 1.5 - 2 pounds Flank Steak (Aim for optimal results.); 1/4 cup Olive Oil (Can substitute with canola or vegetable oil.); 1/4 cup Reduced Sodium Soy Sauce (Feel free to use regular soy sauce if preferred.); 1/4 cup Balsamic Vinegar (Red wine vinegar makes a great alternative.); 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Lime juice offers an exciting twist.); 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar (White sugar works nicely in a pinch.); 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce (Enhances depth of flavor and umami.); 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard (Switch to yellow mustard if needed.); 1 teaspoon Onion Powder (Adjust according to taste.); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Use fresh garlic instead for a punch.); 1 teaspoon Paprika (Smoked paprika can heighten that depth.); 1 teaspoon Pepper (Switch to crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier touch.); 1 teaspoon Dill Weed (Fresh dill can elevate the dish further.); 1 teaspoon Oregano (Italian seasoning can be a substitute.); 1 teaspoon Rosemary (Thyme is a great alternative.); 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander (Consider ground cumin for a different flavor depth.)

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As the sun warms the grill and fills the air with the enticing scent of sizzling meat, my stomach growls in anticipation. There’s nothing quite like enjoying a delectable homemade meal, especially when it’s a savory grilled flank steak that I can whip up in less than 30 minutes. With just a quick 5-minute prep, this protein-rich delight can be your go-to weeknight winner or an impressive centerpiece for your summer gatherings. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility—whether you choose to grill, broil, or cook it stovetop, the juicy, tender steak will surely satisfy your cravings. Ready to dive into a flavor-packed feast that requires little cleanup and makes even fast food seem lame? Let’s get grilling!

Why is Grilled Flank Steak a Must-Try?

Ease of Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep, you can whip up a dish that looks and tastes gourmet!

Flavor Explosion: The marinade combines sweet, tangy, and savory notes, resulting in a steak that bursts with taste in every bite.

Cooking Flexibility: Whether grilling, broiling, or using a stovetop, this recipe fits seamlessly into your cooking style – endless possibilities await!

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Serve it at summer cookouts or family dinners; it’s an impressive centerpiece that everyone will love!

Healthy Choice: This protein-rich flank steak is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients—making it perfect for a balanced diet!

Pair it with some roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal, or try it in steak tacos for a fun twist! You won’t be disappointed!

Grilled Flank Steak Ingredients

For the Marinade
• Flank Steak – A rich beefy flavor; aim for 1.5 – 2 pounds for optimal results.
• Olive Oil – Adds moisture and tenderness; can substitute with canola or vegetable oil.
• Reduced Sodium Soy Sauce – Brings umami and saltiness to the mix; feel free to use regular soy sauce if preferred.
• Balsamic Vinegar – Provides acidity with a hint of sweetness; red wine vinegar makes a great alternative.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens the marinade and tenderizes the meat; lime juice offers an exciting twist.
• Brown Sugar – Balances the marinade with sweetness; white sugar works nicely in a pinch.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Enhances depth of flavor and umami.
• Dijon Mustard – Aids in emulsifying the marinade while adding extra flavor; switch to yellow mustard if needed.

For the Seasonings
• Onion Powder – Lends a sweet and savory profile; adjust according to taste.
• Garlic Powder – An essential flavor booster; feel free to use fresh garlic instead for a punch.
• Paprika – Imparts a mild smokiness; smoked paprika can heighten that depth.
• Pepper – Adds a kick; switch to crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier touch.
• Dill Weed – Offers a lovely herbaceous note; fresh dill can elevate the dish further.
• Oregano – A classic seasoning that complements the marinade; Italian seasoning can be a substitute.
• Rosemary – Its earthy flavor pairs beautifully with beef; thyme is a great alternative.
• Ground Coriander – Adds a warm, citrusy tone; consider ground cumin for a different flavor depth.

This Grilled Flank Steak recipe is bursting with flavor and sure to impress your guests or family!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Savory Grilled Marinated Flank Steak

Step 1: Marinate the Steak
In a large Ziploc bag, whisk together the olive oil, reduced sodium soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard until well combined. Add your flank steak, ensuring it’s fully submerged in the marinade. Seal the bag, then refrigerate for 4 to 12 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. You can even give the bag a gentle massage every so often!

Step 2: Prep for Cooking
About 30 to 60 minutes before grilling your marinated flank steak, remove it from the refrigerator. This step helps the steak reach room temperature, promoting even cooking. While it rests, you’ll want to prepare your grill for the perfect sear—this method will ensure a beautifully juicy result!

Step 3: Grill Preparation
Preheat your grill over high heat for 10 to 15 minutes, allowing it to get super hot. As it heats up, clean the grill grates with a brush to remove any residue. For a non-stick finish, grease the grates with a paper towel soaked in oil—this promotes that delightful char and ensures easy flipping of your grilled flank steak.

Step 4: Grilling the Steak
Place the marinated flank steak directly on the preheated grill, covering it with the lid. Grill for 5–6 minutes on one side without moving it—this allows for those beautiful grill marks to form. Flip the steak just once using tongs, and grill it on the other side for an additional 5–6 minutes for a perfect medium doneness.

Step 5: Check Doneness
Using an instant-read thermometer, check the internal temperature of your grilled flank steak; aim for 145°F for medium doneness. If it’s not quite there, give it another minute or two on the grill. This step ensures you achieve that tender, juicy texture that makes flank steak such a treat!

Step 6: Rest the Steak
Once you’ve reached the desired doneness, remove the grilled flank steak from the grill and let it rest on a cutting board for 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each slice is as juicy and tender as possible. After resting, slice the steak against the grain for maximum tenderness.

Expert Tips for Grilled Flank Steak

Mind the Marinade: Limit marinating time to 4-12 hours; this prevents the meat from becoming mushy due to acidic ingredients.
Temperature Matters: Always bring your flank steak to room temperature before grilling. This ensures even cooking and a deliciously juicy result.
Flip with Care: Use tongs to flip the steak only once; this retains the juices. Avoid poking the meat with forks to keep all that flavorful goodness.
Slicing Smartly: Always slice the grilled flank steak against the grain. This shortens the muscle fibers, delivering a tender bite that everyone will love.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to modify the marinade ingredients or seasonings based on your personal taste, making this grilled flank steak a versatile dish!

What to Serve with Savory Grilled Marinated Flank Steak

Imagine the mouthwatering aroma of your grilled steak paired with vibrant, flavorful sides that enhance every delicious bite of beef.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these mashed potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the grilled flank steak, soaking up the savory juices beautifully.
Fresh Corn on the Cob: Sweet and juicy, this seasonal delight adds a crunchy sweetness to your meal, balancing out the savory flavors of the steak. The light char from grilling elevates its taste, a must-have for summer!
Roasted Vegetable Medley: Colorful veggies roasted to perfection add texture and nutrients, making your plate not just flavorful but also visually appealing. Consider using a mix of carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini for variety.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce combined with creamy dressing and crunchy croutons offers a refreshing complement to the rich flavors of the steak, while the parmesan adds a lovely umami touch.
Herbed Quinoa: Light and fluffy, this protein-packed side can be enhanced with fresh herbs, providing a nutty flavor that complements the marinade used in the flank steak. It’s a wonderful gluten-free option!
Chimichurri Sauce: For an extra flavor boost, this zesty sauce made with parsley, garlic, and vinegar adds brightness that contrasts beautifully with the beefy richness of grilled flank steak.
Watermelon Feta Salad: Sweet, juicy watermelon mixed with salty feta cheese offers a refreshing burst of flavor, perfect for balancing the savory depth of your main dish on hot days.
Sparkling Lemonade: To drink, sip on a refreshing sparkling lemonade. The citrus notes will cleanse your palate and enhance the flavors of your grilled steak.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, indulge in a light and airy chocolate mousse. Its rich flavors elegantly conclude a satisfying meal, harmonizing with the savory nuances of your grilled flank steak.

Grilled Flank Steak Variations & Substitutions

Discover how you can customize this recipe to suit your taste and preferences with these delightful twists!

Cut Swap: Replace flank steak with skirt steak or sirloin for different textures and flavors.
Broiler Method: If you don’t have a grill, use your oven’s broiler—about 5-6 minutes per side achieves similar results!
Herb Upgrade: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can elevate the marinade. Add them to your mix for an aromatic burst of flavor.
Heat Level: Spice things up! Add chili powder or jalapeños to the marinade for a delicious heat that complements the savory steak.
Sweet & Tangy: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup for a unique twist that balances the tangy notes beautifully.
Veggie Delight: Grill some bell peppers and onions alongside the flank steak for a colorful, tasty addition—perfect for fajitas!
Different Marinade: Shake it up by using teriyaki sauce instead of soy sauce for a sweet, Asian-inspired flavor profile.
Cooking Style: Embrace stovetop cooking—pan-sear the steak in a hot skillet with a drizzle of olive oil for an easy weekday meal.

Experiment with these variations for a personalized culinary adventure, and don’t forget to check out Grilled Lime Salmon for another mouthwatering recipe to broaden your grilling skills!

How to Store and Freeze Grilled Flank Steak

Room Temperature: It’s best to serve grilled flank steak immediately. However, if left out, it should not sit at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent any food safety issues.
Fridge: Store leftover grilled flank steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to retain moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the grilled flank steak tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or use a vacuum-sealed bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing much flavor or texture.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the leftover grilled flank steak, gently reheat it in a skillet over low heat, or microwave it in short bursts. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F to maintain juiciness.

Make Ahead Options

These savory grilled flank steak preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the marinade up to 5 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to deepen. Simply whisk together all the marinade ingredients in a jar, and when you’re ready to cook, add your flank steak to the bag and let it marinate for 4 to 12 hours; this will keep your steak just as delicious and tender. For even more convenience, you can marinate the steak and then freeze it for up to 3 months—just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. When ready to grill, simply allow the marinated steak to come to room temperature for about 30-60 minutes, then grill as directed for a flavorful meal with minimal effort!

Grilled Flank Steak Recipe FAQs

What kind of flank steak should I choose?
Absolutely! When selecting flank steak, look for cuts that are bright red with a good amount of marbling—a little fat adds flavor and moisture while grilling. Avoid any pieces with large dark spots, indicating age or spoilage. Ideally, you want a steak weighing between 1.5 to 2 pounds for optimal results in this recipe.

How should I store leftover grilled flank steak?
After enjoying your meal, let the grilled flank steak cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you plan to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or place it in a vacuum-sealed bag. This method allows for freezing without sacrificing too much flavor or texture, and it can be stored for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze the grilled flank steak?
Certainly! To freeze grilled flank steak, make sure it’s cooled and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Alternatively, using a vacuum-sealed bag is ideal. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat gently.

What if my flank steak turns out tough?
If your grilled flank steak ends up tough, it might be due to improper slicing or overcooking. Always let the steak rest after grilling for about 10 minutes. Then, slice it against the grain—this technique shortens the muscle fibers for a more tender bite. Additionally, make sure to check your cooking temperature with an instant-read thermometer and avoid overcooking, aiming for 145°F for medium doneness.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! This grilled flank steak recipe is inherently gluten-free if you use gluten-free soy sauce. For those monitoring their sugar intake, consider using a sweetener alternative such as coconut sugar or omitting the brown sugar altogether. If you have pets, remember that seasoned meats may not be safe for them; always share plain, unseasoned meat in moderation if treating your furry friends!

How can I enhance the marinade flavors for my flank steak?
Very good question! If you’re looking to enhance the flavors of your marinade, consider experimenting with fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme or adding crushed garlic for extra depth. For a spicy kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or even throw in some diced jalapeños. Remember, feel free to tweak this grilled flank steak marinade based on your personal taste preferences!