Are you a fan of grilling delicious, juicy meats? If so, you need to learn the best way to cook flank steak on grill. As a professional copywriting journalist and grilling enthusiast, I’m here to share my secrets for creating a mouth-watering grilled flank steak that will have your taste buds dancing with joy.
In this easy guide, I’ll take you through the process step-by-step, from choosing the perfect flank steak to mastering different grilling techniques and enhancing the flavor with marinades and rubs. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just starting out, you’ll find everything you need to know to cook the perfect flank steak on the grill.
Key Takeaways:
- Cooking flank steak on grill involves choosing the right cut of meat and properly preparing it before grilling.
- A properly preheated grill and using the right grilling techniques are crucial for achieving the perfect level of doneness.
- Resting the meat after cooking and slicing it properly are important for optimal flavor and tenderness.
- Enhancing the flavor of grilled flank steak can be done with a variety of marinades and rubs.
- Cleaning and maintaining the grill is essential for optimal grilling results.
Choosing the Perfect Flank Steak
When it comes to grilling a flank steak, selecting the right cut of meat is essential. Here are some key tips to keep in mind:
- Look for a bright red color: A vibrant red color indicates a fresh cut of meat.
- Check the marbling: Marbling is the small streaks of fat that run through the meat and can add flavor and tenderness. Look for a good amount of marbling throughout the meat.
- Consider the thickness: A thicker cut of meat, around 1 1/2 inches, will be easier to grill to perfection without overcooking.
Marinating the flank steak for several hours or overnight prior to grilling can add even more flavor and tenderness. Here are some of my favorite marinade recipes:
| Marinade Recipe | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Classic Steak Marinade | 1/2 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup olive oil, 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce, 2 tablespoons honey, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 teaspoon black pepper |
| Spicy Mustard Marinade | 1/4 cup Dijon mustard, 1/4 cup honey, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon hot sauce, 1 clove minced garlic, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika |
| Balsamic Herb Marinade | 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar, 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons honey, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary, 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh thyme |
Once you’ve selected your flank steak and marinated it properly, you’re ready to move on to preparing the meat for grilling in the next section.
Preparing the Flank Steak
Before you start grilling your flank steak, it’s important to take the time to properly prepare it. Follow these simple steps to ensure that your flank steak is seasoned and ready for the grill:
- Take the steak out of the fridge about 30 minutes before grilling to bring it to room temperature. This helps it cook more evenly.
- Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
- Season the steak generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Add any additional seasonings or rubs that you like. Some popular options include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and chili powder.
- If you’re using a marinade, make sure to remove the excess marinade before grilling to prevent flare-ups.
Once your flank steak is properly seasoned and prepared, it’s time to start grilling. But before you do, let me share some essential grilling techniques:
Direct Heat
Direct heat is best for searing the steak and achieving those beautiful grill marks. To use direct heat, preheat your grill to high and place the flank steak directly over the flames. Cook for 4-6 minutes on each side, or until the steak reaches your desired level of doneness.
Indirect Heat
Indirect heat is ideal for cooking the flank steak through without burning the exterior. To use indirect heat, turn off one side of your grill and leave the other side on high heat. Place the flank steak on the cool side of the grill and close the lid. Cook for 8-10 minutes on each side, or until the steak reaches your desired level of doneness.
With these simple grilling techniques, you’ll be able to cook a delicious and perfectly cooked flank steak every time. But before you take it off the grill, make sure you know how to check the internal temperature.
Checking the Internal Temperature
Invest in a good meat thermometer to easily check the internal temperature of the flank steak. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak. For rare, the temperature should be around 125°F, for medium-rare it should be around 130°F, and for medium it should be around 140°F. Remember to remove the steak from the grill when it’s about 5-10°F below your desired temperature as it will continue cooking while resting.
Now that you know how to prepare and grill your flank steak, it’s time to rest and slice it to perfection. Check out my next section on resting and slicing for some essential tips.
Preheating the Grill
Before grilling the flank steak, it’s crucial to preheat the grill properly. This ensures even cooking and helps create those beautiful grill marks we all love.
The best way to preheat a grill for cooking flank steak is to turn all the burners to high and leave the lid closed for about 10-15 minutes. This gets the grates hot and ready to sear the meat. Alternatively, you can use a charcoal grill and wait until the coals are gray and glowing before cooking.
Tips for Preheating a Gas Grill
If you’re using a gas grill, follow these tips to preheat it correctly:
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | Open the grill lid and turn on all the burners to high heat. |
| Step 2 | Close the lid and let the grill preheat for 10-15 minutes. |
| Step 3 | Use a grill brush to clean the grates while the grill is preheating. |
By taking the time to properly preheat your grill, you’ll ensure the best results when cooking your flank steak. Don’t rush this step, as it can make all the difference in achieving that perfectly cooked, juicy steak.
Grilling Techniques
When it comes to grilling flank steak, there are several techniques you can use to achieve a delicious and perfectly cooked result. Here are some of the top grilling techniques for flank steak:
Direct Heat
Direct heat is the most common grilling technique. This involves placing the flank steak directly over the heat source on the grill. It’s best to use direct heat for thinner cuts of meat, as it allows you to quickly sear the outside while keeping the inside juicy. Be sure to turn the steak frequently to prevent burning.
Indirect Heat
Indirect heat involves placing the flank steak to the side of the heat source on the grill. This is best for thicker cuts of meat that require longer cooking times. Indirect heat allows you to cook the flank steak evenly without burning the outside. For even better results, sear the steak first over direct heat before moving it to the indirect heat area.
Reverse Sear
The reverse sear method involves cooking the flank steak on the cooler side of the grill first and then searing it over high heat to finish. This technique ensures that the steak is cooked evenly and achieves a delicious crust on the outside. To use this method, start by cooking the steak over indirect heat until it reaches 10-15 degrees below your desired internal temperature, then move it to direct heat for a quick sear.
Tip: No matter which grilling technique you use, don’t forget to let the flank steak rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a more tender and flavorful final dish.
Now that you know these grilling techniques, you can experiment with different methods to find the one that works best for you. Happy grilling!
Timing and Temperature
Timing and temperature are critical when it comes to grilling flank steak. The aim is to achieve the perfect level of doneness while keeping the meat juicy and tender. Follow these guidelines to achieve a perfectly cooked flank steak every time.
Grilling Times
The cooking time for flank steak can vary depending on the thickness of the meat and the desired level of doneness. As a general rule, cook the steak for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, 4-5 minutes per side for medium, and 5-6 minutes per side for medium-well. Remember to flip the steak only once during cooking to ensure even cooking on both sides.
Internal Temperatures
Using a digital meat thermometer is the most accurate way to measure the internal temperature of the flank steak. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat without touching the bone. The internal temperature should read 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium, and 155°F for medium-well. Remove the meat from the grill immediately once it has reached the desired temperature, and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Resting the Meat
Allowing the grilled flank steak to rest is key to achieving a tender and juicy final dish. After removing the steak from the grill, tent it loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This will give the juices time to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak.
Resting and Slicing
After all the hard work of grilling the perfect flank steak, it’s important to let it rest before slicing into it. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final dish.
To rest the steak, remove it from the grill and place it on a cutting board. Tent the steak with aluminum foil to keep it warm and let it rest for about 10 minutes.
When slicing the steak, make sure to cut against the grain for maximum tenderness. Look for the lines on the surface of the meat and slice perpendicular to them. Cut the steak into thin slices to serve, and you’re ready to enjoy a perfectly cooked grilled flank steak!
Tip: If you’re not serving the steak immediately after slicing, you can place the slices on a plate and pour any accumulated juices over the top to keep it moist and flavorful.
Enhancing the Flavor
While the perfect flank steak can be delicious on its own, marinating it can take it to the next level in terms of taste and tenderness. Marinating involves soaking the meat in a flavorful liquid for an extended period, allowing the meat to absorb the flavors and become more tender.
The Art of Marinating
Marinades can be made with a variety of ingredients, including acidic liquids like vinegar or lemon juice, oils, herbs, and spices. Finding the perfect combination is a matter of personal taste, but there are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Acidic marinades can help tenderize the meat, but if left too long, can break down the protein and make the meat mushy.
- Oil-based marinades can help seal in moisture and add flavor, but can cause flare-ups on the grill.
- Marinating for at least 30 minutes, but no longer than 24 hours, is recommended to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat without causing it to become too soft.
Here is a tried-and-true recipe for a delicious flank steak marinade:
“Combine 1/3 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup olive oil, 3 tablespoons honey, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon ground ginger in a large zip-top bag. Add the flank steak to the bag, seal it, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.”
Rub it in
Another way to add flavor to your flank steak is by using a dry rub. Dry rubs are a combination of herbs and spices that are rubbed onto the meat, creating a flavor-packed crust when grilled. Here is a simple recipe to create your own dry rub:
“In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon paprika, 2 teaspoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Rub the mixture onto both sides of the flank steak, pressing it in to adhere.”
Cooking with Flavor
Once your flank steak is marinated or rubbed, it’s time to grill it up. Remember to pat the steak dry before placing it on the grill to prevent flare-ups. As the steak cooks, brush it occasionally with the leftover marinade or baste it with melted butter for added flavor. And don’t forget to let the steak rest after cooking to allow the flavors to settle in.
With these marinating and rub techniques, your flank steak will be bursting with flavor and ready to impress.
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve perfected your grilled flank steak, it’s time to think about how to serve it up! There are so many delicious options to choose from, whether you want to showcase the steak as the star of the meal, or incorporate it into a larger dish. Here are a few of my favorite serving suggestions:
- Slice the flank steak thinly and serve it on a bed of arugula with crumbled blue cheese, sliced red onions, and a balsamic vinaigrette dressing
- Cut the steak into small pieces and use it as a filling for tacos, topping with fresh guacamole, salsa, and cilantro
- Slice the steak and add it to a refreshing salad with mixed greens, sliced cherry tomatoes, and a tangy lemon dressing
- Make a hearty sandwich with sliced flank steak, melted provolone cheese, sautéed onions and peppers, and a garlic aioli spread
- Pair the steak with classic side dishes like grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad
Get creative with your serving options and don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and textures. The possibilities are endless when it comes to serving up a delicious grilled flank steak!
Troubleshooting and Tips
Grilling can be a finicky process, but don’t let that discourage you. Here are some tips to help you overcome common issues and ensure your flank steak turns out perfectly:
Issue: Tough Flank Steak
One of the most common issues when grilling flank steak is ending up with a tough, chewy piece of meat. To prevent this, make sure to marinate the steak for at least 2 hours, and up to 24 hours, before grilling. Additionally, avoid overcooking the steak. A medium-rare steak should be cooked to an internal temperature of 130-135°F, while a medium steak should be cooked to 140-145°F.
Issue: Flare-Ups
Flare-ups can be dangerous and cause uneven cooking. To prevent flare-ups, trim excess fat from the steak and keep a spray bottle of water nearby to quickly douse any flames. You can also try cooking the steak over indirect heat instead of directly over the flames.
Issue: Uneven Cooking
If your flank steak is cooking unevenly, it may be because the heat distribution on your grill is not even. To fix this, move the steak around the grill to find the areas with the most even heat. You can also try rotating the steak throughout the cooking process to ensure all areas are cooked evenly.
Tip: Let the Steak Rest
After cooking, let the flank steak rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final dish.
Tip: Use a Meat Thermometer
Investing in a good meat thermometer is essential for achieving perfectly cooked flank steak. Make sure to insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat and avoid touching any bones, as this can give an inaccurate reading.
Tip: Don’t Forget to Clean the Grill
Cleaning your grill after each use is important for maintaining its functionality and prolonging its lifespan. Make sure to scrape off any leftover food debris and wipe down the grates with a grill brush or damp cloth.
Cleaning and Maintenance
After enjoying a delicious grilled flank steak, it’s essential to properly clean and maintain your grill to ensure it stays in top shape. Here are some useful flank steak grilling tips to help you keep your grill in tip-top condition:
Cleaning the Grill Grates
Start by cleaning the grill grates. Heat up the grill to high heat for around 15 minutes to loosen any residue. Then, use a grill brush to scrub the grates vigorously. For stubborn grime or charred debris, use a mixture of water and mild dish soap to scrub the grates. Rinse thoroughly with water and dry with a clean towel.
Emptying the Grease Trap
To avoid a potential fire hazard, regularly clean the grease trap. After each use, remove the grease tray, empty the contents, and clean it with warm, soapy water. Rinse it off and dry it before placing it back in the grill.
Wiping Down the Exterior
Wipe down the exterior of the grill with a damp cloth to remove any grease or grime. Do not use abrasive cleaners, as they can scratch the surface. If your grill has stainless steel parts, use a stainless steel cleaner to keep them looking shiny and new.
Storing Your Grill
When not in use, store your grill in a dry, covered area to protect it from the elements. If storing the grill for an extended period, remove the propane tank and store it separately in a well-ventilated area.
By following these simple flank steak grilling tips, you can keep your grill in pristine condition and ensure it’s always ready for your next cooking adventure.
Conclusion
There you have it! With my easy guide, you now have all the tips and tricks you need to master the art of cooking flank steak on the grill. By choosing the perfect cut of meat, marinating it to perfection, properly preparing it, and using the right grilling techniques, you can achieve a mouth-watering, perfectly cooked grilled flank steak every time.
Remember to always preheat your grill, cook the steak to the correct temperature, and properly rest it before slicing and serving. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and marinades to enhance the taste of your flank steak.
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Grilled Flank Steak
To recap, here are some key takeaways:
- Choose a quality cut of flank steak and marinate it to enhance its flavor and tenderness
- Properly prepare the steak before grilling, including seasoning it to your liking
- Preheat your grill to the ideal temperature and use the right grilling techniques, such as direct or indirect heat
- Cook the steak to the correct temperature and then rest it before slicing and serving
- Experiment with different flavors and marinades to enhance the taste of your grilled flank steak
By following these tips, you can achieve the perfectly cooked grilled flank steak that will have your friends and family raving. The next time you fire up the grill, put your new skills to the test and enjoy the deliciousness of Cooking Flank Steak on Grill in your own backyard.
FAQ
How do I choose the perfect flank steak for grilling?
When selecting a flank steak for grilling, look for one that is bright red with minimal marbling. It should also be firm to the touch. Avoid any steaks that have a grayish color or excessive fat. Marinating the steak can also enhance its flavor and tenderness on the grill.
What is the best way to prepare a flank steak for grilling?
To prepare a flank steak for grilling, start by seasoning it with your desired spices or marinade. You can marinate the steak in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight to infuse it with flavor. Before grilling, make sure to pat the steak dry and let it come to room temperature for even cooking.
How do I preheat my grill before cooking a flank steak?
Preheating your grill is essential for achieving a delicious char on the outside of the flank steak while keeping the inside juicy and tender. To preheat, turn on all burners to high and close the lid. Allow the grill to heat up for about 10-15 minutes until the temperature reaches around 400-450 degrees Fahrenheit.
What are some different grilling techniques for cooking flank steak?
There are various grilling techniques you can use to cook flank steak. One option is to grill it over direct heat for a shorter amount of time to achieve a nicely charred exterior. Another technique is indirect grilling, which involves using indirect heat to cook the steak slowly and evenly. You can also experiment with searing the steak first and then finishing it off over indirect heat.
How long should I cook a flank steak on the grill?
The cooking time for a flank steak on the grill will depend on your desired level of doneness and the thickness of the steak. As a general guideline, for medium-rare, cook the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side. For medium, cook it for around 6-7 minutes per side. It’s important to use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should be around 130-135 degrees Fahrenheit for medium-rare and 140-145 degrees Fahrenheit for medium.
Should I let the flank steak rest before slicing?
Yes, it’s crucial to let the flank steak rest for about 5-10 minutes after grilling. Resting allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final dish. Tent the steak with aluminum foil to keep it warm during the resting period.
What are some ways to enhance the flavor of grilled flank steak?
You can enhance the flavor of grilled flank steak by marinating it before grilling. Try using a marinade with a combination of acidic ingredients like citrus juice or vinegar, oil, and herbs and spices. Rubs can also add flavor; simply mix dry spices and herbs and apply them to the steak before grilling.
Can you provide some serving suggestions for grilled flank steak?
Grilled flank steak is versatile and can be served in various ways. You can slice it thinly and use it for sandwiches, tacos, or salads. Alternatively, serve it as the main protein alongside your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
What are some common grilling challenges when cooking flank steak?
Some common grilling challenges when cooking flank steak include overcooking, undercooking, or uneven cooking. To avoid these issues, make sure to follow proper cooking times and temperatures. Using an instant-read meat thermometer can help ensure accurate doneness. It’s also essential to let the meat rest before slicing to retain its juices.
How should I clean and maintain my grill for optimal grilling results?
Cleaning and maintaining your grill is crucial for optimal grilling results. After each use, scrape off any remaining food debris with a grill brush. Once a month, deep clean the grates and burners with warm soapy water and a scrub brush. Check and clean the grease trap regularly, and replace any worn-out parts. It’s also important to cover your grill when not in use to protect it from the elements.
