There’s something undeniably captivating about the scent of marinated flank steak wafting from the grill, signaling the arrival of summer barbecues and family gatherings. Just imagine the sizzle as each steak hits the hot grates, caramelizing into a delicious, juicy masterpiece that’s bursting with flavor. I first tried this marinated flank steak recipe during an impromptu cookout with friends, and it instantly stole the spotlight. Everyone was raving, and I realized this simple yet mouthwatering dish could elevate any meal, from casual weeknight dinners to festive celebrations.
With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a marinade that perfectly balances savory, sweet, and zesty notes, transforming flank steak into something extraordinary. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a newbie looking to impress, this recipe is your ticket to flavorful success. So gather your ingredients and get ready to experience the joy of grilling an irresistible marinated flank steak that will leave your taste buds dancing!
Why is Marinated Flank Steak a Must-Try?
Unbeatable Flavor: Each bite of this flank steak delivers a carnival of flavors, thanks to the perfect marinade that blends citrusy, savory, and sweet notes seamlessly.
Ease of Preparation: With just a simple marinade and minimal steps, anyone can achieve grill perfection without breaking a sweat.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Ideal for family gatherings and summer barbecues, it consistently gets rave reviews from guests.
Versatile Variations: Customize your marinade with different herbs or spices for unique flavor twists; it’s a blank canvas just waiting for your creativity!
Time-Saving: Whether marinating for an hour or overnight, this recipe fits effortlessly into any busy schedule, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners or planned gatherings.
Experience the magic of grilled perfection by bringing this Marinated Flank Steak to your next meal!
Essential Marinated Flank Steak Ingredients
For the Marinade
• Flank Steak – The star of the dish; choose high-quality, grass-fed for richer flavor.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps tenderize the meat; avocado oil is a great substitute for a neutral taste.
• Low-Sodium Soy Sauce – Imparts umami depth and saltiness; swap with tamari for a gluten-free option.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Infuses aromatic flavor; fresh garlic is recommended, while garlic powder can work in a pinch.
• Fresh Lime Juice (¼ cup) – Provides acidity to balance the marinade; lemon juice can serve as a suitable alternative.
• Brown Sugar (2 tbsp) – Balances the marinade with a touch of sweetness; honey can replace it for a natural twist.
• Black Pepper (1 tsp) – Adds depth; freshly ground black pepper ensures maximum flavor impact.
• Cumin Powder (½ tsp) – Brings warmth and depth; smoked paprika is an excellent substitute for a smoky profile.
For Garnishing
• Fresh Cilantro – Optional garnish that adds brightness to each serving.
With these ingredients, you’re ready to create a sensational marinated flank steak that will have everyone asking for seconds!
How to Make Marinated Flank Steak
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Whisk the Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, brown sugar, black pepper, and cumin. Mix until fully blended to create a delicious marinade.
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Coat the Steak: Place your flank steak in a resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over it, ensuring the meat is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight for maximum flavor.
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Heat Your Grill: Preheat your grill to a sizzling 450°F (232°C). Clean the grates thoroughly and lightly oil them to prevent sticking, creating the perfect cooking surface.
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Grill the Steak: Lay the marinated steak onto the hot grill. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side for medium-rare, adjusting the time if you prefer a different level of doneness.
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Rest and Slice: Once grilled to perfection, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. After resting, slice against the grain into thin strips for maximum tenderness.
Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of brightness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Marinated Flank Steak is a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the marinade and coat the flank steak up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen for a mouthwatering result. Simply whisk together all marinade ingredients, pour it over the steak in a resealable bag, and refrigerate. To maintain quality, ensure the steak is well-sealed to prevent air exposure, which can dry it out. When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill and grill the marinated steak for 5-7 minutes per side until it reaches your desired doneness. Enjoy the convenience of having a flavorful meal ready to go with minimal effort!
Marinated Flank Steak Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with these fun twists and substitutions!
- Dairy-Free: Replace the marinade with coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a tasty, soy-free option.
- Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 teaspoons of chili powder or sriracha to the marinade for a spicy flavor boost that tingles the taste buds.
- Sweet and Tangy: Swap brown sugar for maple syrup for a unique twist that adds a deliciously different sweetness to the blend.
- Herbaceous Freshness: Try adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the marinade for a fragrant, garden-fresh flavor that brightens each bite.
- Citrus Burst: Experiment with other citrus juices, such as orange or grapefruit, to give your marinade a zesty, vibrant twist.
- Smoky Flavor: Include 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika in the marinade to infuse a delightful smoky note that perfectly complements the grilled steak.
- Marinade-Free Option: For a quick version, simply rub the flank steak with olive oil, black pepper, and sea salt before grilling for a minimalist approach.
- Texture Twist: Substitute flank steak with skirt steak or even chicken breast for a different texture, while still delivering delicious results.
With these fun variations, let your culinary creativity shine and turn this marinated flank steak into something uniquely yours!
Expert Tips for Marinated Flank Steak
Maximize Marinade Time: Allow the flank steak to marinate overnight for deeper flavor and tenderness; one hour is okay, but longer is better!
Grill Temperature Matters: Make sure your grill is preheated to at least 450°F (232°C); a hot grill ensures a perfect sear that locks in juices.
Avoid Overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to check doneness; 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare keeps the steak juicy and tender without drying out.
Resting is Crucial: Letting the steak rest for 10 minutes after grilling allows juices to redistribute, preventing dryness and maximizing flavor.
Cut Against the Grain: Always slice the steak against the grain into thin strips for maximum tenderness; it makes a world of difference in each bite.
Enjoy the ultimate flavorful experience with your Marinated Flank Steak!
What to Serve with Marinated Flank Steak?
Elevate your grilling experience with perfectly complementary sides that bring out the flavors of your marinated flank steak.
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Grilled Vegetables: Colorful bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus offer a vibrant contrast and charred flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the steak.
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Fluffy Rice: A bed of jasmine or basmati rice provides a light and fragrant balance, soaking up the delicious marinade juices.
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Creamy Cole Slaw: Crunchy cabbage with a tangy dressing adds a refreshing crunch, perfect for offsetting the savory richness of the steak.
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Zesty Tacos: Slice the steak thinly and serve it in corn tortillas with fresh avocado, salsa, and cilantro for a fiesta of flavors that feels festive.
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Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn silks up perfectly next to flank steak; the sweetness complements the steak’s marinade, making every bite delightful.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay can enhance the meal, cleansing the palate and highlighting the dish’s savory elements.
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Chocolate Mousse: A light dessert like chocolate mousse offers a sweet ending; its smooth texture pairs well with the flavorful punch of your steak.
Create a feast that celebrates the joy of grilling!
Storage Tips for Marinated Flank Steak
Fridge: Store leftover marinated flank steak in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: If you have extra marinated steak, it can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat the steak in the microwave on low or in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying it out.
Prepping Ahead: Marinated flank steak can also be prepared in advance; just remember to marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight for the best flavor!
Marinated Flank Steak Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting flank steak?
Absolutely! When choosing flank steak, look for a deep red color and good marbling of fat, which indicates flavor and tenderness. Avoid steaks with dark spots or a slimy texture. Opt for high-quality, grass-fed beef if possible, as it enhances the overall taste!
How should I store leftover marinated flank steak?
After enjoying your delicious meal, store the leftover marinated flank steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the container is sealed tightly to retain moisture and flavor.
Can I freeze marinated flank steak?
Very! To freeze marinated flank steak, first, remove it from the bag after marinating. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. Press out as much air as possible before sealing. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for the best results.
Why is my flank steak tough after grilling?
Common culprits include cooking too long or cutting it improperly. Always use a meat thermometer for doneness; aim for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare. After grilling, let it rest for 10 minutes, then slice against the grain to ensure maximum tenderness in every bite.
Is marinated flank steak safe for pets?
Only feed plain, unseasoned meat to pets, as marinade ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and onion can be harmful to them. Always check what’s in your marinade before sharing with furry friends.
What adjustments should I make for dietary restrictions?
Great question! To accommodate various dietary needs, use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version. You can swap brown sugar for honey if avoiding refined sugars and experiment with different herbs in the marinade for additional flavors without adding allergens.
Mouthwatering Marinated Flank Steak for Grill Masters
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, brown sugar, black pepper, and cumin. Mix until fully blended to create a delicious marinade.
- Place your flank steak in a resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over it, ensuring the meat is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight for maximum flavor.
- Preheat your grill to a sizzling 450°F (232°C). Clean the grates thoroughly and lightly oil them to prevent sticking.
- Lay the marinated steak onto the hot grill. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side for medium-rare, adjusting the time if you prefer a different level of doneness.
- Once grilled to perfection, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes. Slice against the grain into thin strips.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.