Simple and Delicious Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

The aroma of grilling flank steak always transports me back to summer evenings at my childhood home. Dad would fire up the charcoal grill, the scent of charred meat mingling with the sweet fragrance of honeysuckle in the air. We’d gather around the picnic table, laughing and sharing stories as the stars began to twinkle, the perfectly grilled flank steak the centerpiece of our simple, joyful feasts. Even now, the sizzle of the steak hitting the hot grates brings a comforting wave of nostalgia and a reminder of cherished family moments.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 35 minutes (includes marinating)
• Cook Time: 16 minutes
• Total Time: 51 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Dietary Type: Gluten-Free (naturally)

Ingredients

• 2 lbs flank steak
• 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon McCormick’s Montreal Brand steak seasoning
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 2 teaspoons hot sauce (such as Tabasco or your favorite brand)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

Equipment Needed

• Shallow dish (for marinating)
• Whisk
• Indoor or outdoor grill

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine the finely chopped garlic, McCormick’s Montreal Brand steak seasoning, cumin, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and red wine vinegar. This mixture forms the base of your flavorful marinade.

2. Using a whisk, slowly incorporate the extra virgin olive oil into the mixture. Whisk until the marinade is well-combined and slightly emulsified. This will help it adhere to the steak and distribute the flavors evenly.

3. Place the flank steak in a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring that it is evenly coated on all sides. You can gently rub the marinade into the meat with your hands to ensure maximum flavor penetration.

4. Cover the dish and marinate the flank steak for at least 30 minutes, or longer if desired, in the refrigerator. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful and tender the steak will become. For the best results, marinate for at least 2 hours, or even overnight.

5. Preheat your indoor or outdoor grill to high heat. Ensure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent the steak from sticking.

6. Carefully place the marinated flank steak on the hot grill. Grill for 7 to 8 minutes per side for medium-rare. Adjust the cooking time based on your desired level of doneness. For medium, grill for 8 to 9 minutes per side; for medium-well, grill for 9 to 10 minutes per side.

7. Remove the grilled flank steak from the grill and transfer it to a cutting board. It’s crucial to let the steak rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. Tent loosely with foil while resting.

8. Using a sharp knife, thinly slice the flank steak on an angle, cutting against the grain. This is a critical step to ensure the steak is tender and easy to chew. Look for the direction of the muscle fibers and slice perpendicular to them.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Marinade Magic: Don’t be afraid to experiment with the marinade! A splash of soy sauce adds umami, while a touch of brown sugar lends a hint of sweetness. Citrus juice, like lime or lemon, can also brighten the flavors.
• Achieving the Perfect Sear: A screaming hot grill is key to achieving a beautiful, flavorful sear on your flank steak. Make sure the grill is preheated to high heat before placing the steak on the grates.
• Internal Temperature is Key: For the most accurate results, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. Medium-rare is 130-135°F, medium is 135-145°F, and medium-well is 145-155°F.
• Reverse Sear: For an even more tender and flavorful steak, try the reverse sear method. Cook the steak in a low oven (around 275°F) until it reaches about 10 degrees below your desired final temperature, then sear it on a hot grill for a minute or two per side to develop a crust.
• Prevent Sticking: Thoroughly clean and oil the grill grates before grilling to prevent the steak from sticking. You can use a grill brush or a paper towel dipped in oil.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the sliced grilled flank steak immediately while it’s hot and juicy. It pairs perfectly with a variety of sides, such as grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad. For a more elegant presentation, arrange the sliced steak on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro.

Leftover grilled flank steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can gently warm it in a skillet over medium heat, or in the microwave. Be careful not to overcook it, as it can become dry. Cold flank steak is also delicious in salads or sandwiches.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	543.5 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	332 g	61%
Total Fat	36.9 g	56%
Saturated Fat	10.3 g	51%
Cholesterol	154.2 mg	51%
Sodium	228.4 mg	9%
Total Carbohydrate	1.9 g	0%
Dietary Fiber	0.1 g	0%
Sugars	0.5 g	1%
Protein	48.4 g	96%

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeno to the marinade for an extra kick of heat.
• Asian-Inspired: Substitute soy sauce for the Worcestershire sauce and add a tablespoon of sesame oil and a teaspoon of grated ginger to the marinade for an Asian-inspired flavor.
• Herbaceous Delight: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the marinade for a more complex and aromatic flavor.
• Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a balsamic glaze over the sliced steak for a sweet and tangy finish.
• Different Cut of Meat: While this recipe is specifically for flank steak, you can also use skirt steak or hanger steak as alternatives. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I marinate the flank steak for longer than 30 minutes?
A: Absolutely! Marinating for longer, even overnight, will result in a more flavorful and tender steak. Just be sure to keep it refrigerated.

Q: What’s the best way to slice flank steak for maximum tenderness?
A: The key is to slice it thinly against the grain. This shortens the muscle fibers, making the steak easier to chew.

Q: Can I cook this flank steak in a pan instead of grilling?
A: Yes, you can! Use a heavy-bottomed skillet, preferably cast iron, and heat it over high heat. Sear the steak for a few minutes per side until it reaches your desired level of doneness.

Q: How do I know when the flank steak is cooked to medium-rare?
A: The best way is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the steak. Medium-rare is 130-135°F.

Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with grilled flank steak?
A: Grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, and fresh salads are all great options. You can also serve it with a chimichurri sauce or a simple salsa.

Final Thoughts

This marinated grilled flank steak recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal yet impressive enough for a special occasion. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the marinade to create your own signature flavor. Fire up the grill, gather your loved ones, and savor the deliciousness of this classic dish. And please, let me know in the comments how it turns out! I’m always eager to hear about your culinary adventures.