Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

Published: July 29, 2025

by Alexia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can marinate the steak overnight and grill it the next day.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder creates a savory marinade that elevates the beef’s natural flavors.
Versatile Dish: This recipe pairs well with various sides and sauces, such as Chimichurri or olive sauce, allowing you to customize each meal.
Healthy Option: Low in carbs yet high in protein, this dish fits perfectly into a low-carb diet while satisfying your meat cravings.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this marinated grilled flank steak is sure to please any meat lover at your table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, ensure you have the right tools on hand. Proper equipment not only makes preparation easier but also enhances your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill
Ziploc bag
Colander
Instant-read meat thermometer
Large serrated knife or chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

Grill: A good grill ensures even cooking and adds that delicious charred flavor to your flank steak.
Instant-read meat thermometer: This tool helps achieve the perfect doneness without cutting into the meat prematurely.
Large serrated knife or chef’s knife: Using a sharp knife allows you to slice the steak thinly against the grain for optimal tenderness.

Ingredients

This Marinated Grilled Flank Steak dinner is a low-carb meal that will please any beef lover.

For the Steak

1 1/2 lbs. flank steak (see notes)
1-2 T Steak Rub (see notes)

For the Marinade

2 T balsamic vinegar
2 T fresh-squeezed juice (see notes)
1 T Worcestershire sauce (gluten-free if needed)
1 tsp. garlic powder
1/4 tsp. fresh ground black pepper
1/4 tsp. salt
2 T olive oil

For Seasoning After Cooking

more salt and fresh-ground black pepper to season cooked steak

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine:
1. Balsamic vinegar
2. Fresh lime juice (or other citrus juice)
3. Worcestershire sauce (use gluten-free if necessary)
4. Garlic powder
5. Coarse-ground black pepper
6. Salt
7. Olive oil

Mix well until combined.

Step 2: Prep the Flank Steak

Trim any excess fat from the edges of the flank steak if desired.
If keeping some fat, make small slits in the fat pieces to prevent curling during grilling.

Step 3: Marinate

Rub both sides of the flank steak with your chosen steak rub.
Place the seasoned meat into a Ziploc bag.
Pour in the marinade and seal tightly.
Refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight for best results.

Step 4: Preheat Grill

Let the flank steak come to room temperature while preheating your grill to high heat (about 450-500°F or 230-260°C).

Step 5: Grill

Place the flank steak on an angle across grill grates for attractive grill marks.
After about 3 minutes, check for grill marks; rotate at a diagonal for another 3 minutes on that side.
Flip over and cook for about 4-5 minutes until reaching an internal temperature of 130°F/55°C for medium-rare.

Step 6: Rest and Slice

Remove from grill when done.
Cover with foil and let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Cut thin slices against the grain using a sharp knife.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper as desired, along with your favorite sauces or sides!

How to Serve Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

Serving Marinated Grilled Flank Steak can elevate your dining experience. This juicy, flavorful dish pairs well with various sides and sauces that enhance its taste. Here are some delicious serving suggestions that will make your meal unforgettable.

Pair with Chimichurri Sauce

Chimichurri Sauce: This fresh, herbaceous sauce adds a zesty flavor that complements the steak beautifully. Drizzle it over the sliced meat for an extra kick.

Add a Fresh Salad

Arugula Salad: A simple arugula salad with cherry tomatoes and a lemon vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the steak.

Serve with Grilled Vegetables

Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned and grilled asparagus spears offer a perfect crunch and earthy flavor that pairs well with flank steak.

Include Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture of garlic mashed potatoes balances the steak’s robust flavor while adding comfort to your meal.

Offer Crusty Bread

Rustic Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is great for soaking up any juices from the steak, making every bite even more satisfying.

Enjoy with Roasted Corn on the Cob

Roasted Corn: Sweet, grilled corn on the cob brings a delightful sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory steak.

How to Perfect Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

Perfecting your Marinated Grilled Flank Steak takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve mouthwatering results every time.

Choose Quality Meat: Always select a fresh, high-quality flank steak. The better the meat, the more flavorful your dish will be.
Marinate for Longer: While 8 hours is sufficient, marinating overnight allows deeper flavors. This extra time enhances tenderness and taste.
Bring Meat to Room Temperature: Letting the steak sit at room temperature before grilling ensures even cooking throughout, preventing toughness.
Use a Meat Thermometer: Invest in an instant-read thermometer to check doneness accurately. This prevents undercooking or overcooking your steak.
Let It Rest After Cooking: Allowing the steak to rest for 5-10 minutes after grilling keeps it juicy. This step redistributes juices for better flavor in each bite.
Slice Against the Grain: Cut thin slices against the grain for maximum tenderness. This technique makes each bite more enjoyable and easier to chew.

Best Side Dishes for Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

Complementing your Marinated Grilled Flank Steak with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy on the outside and tender inside, roasted Brussels sprouts add a nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with beef.
Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that’s light yet satisfying; season it with herbs or spices for added flavor.
Sweet Potato Fries: Baked or fried sweet potato fries provide a sweet contrast to savory flank steak while adding a fun twist.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, balancing out the richness of grilled meats.
Grilled Zucchini: Simple yet delicious, grilled zucchini offers a light side that enhances any barbecue meal.
Quinoa Salad: A hearty quinoa salad mixed with veggies gives you protein-packed nutrition along with vibrant flavors.
Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéed spinach adds color and nutrients without overpowering your main dish.
Couscous Salad: Light and fluffy couscous tossed with herbs creates an excellent side that pairs well with marinades used in flank steak dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Marinated Grilled Flank Steak, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect your results. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure a delicious meal.

Skipping the Marinade Time: Not allowing enough time for the flank steak to marinate can lead to bland flavors. Aim for at least 8 hours in the fridge for maximum flavor infusion.
Overcooking the Steak: Flank steak can become tough if overcooked. Use an instant-read thermometer to monitor the internal temperature, aiming for 130F/55C for medium rare.
Cutting Against the Grain: Slicing the steak with the grain will make it chewy. Always cut against the grain at a diagonal for tender pieces.
Not Preheating the Grill: A cold grill will not provide good searing or grill marks. Preheat your grill to high heat before placing the steak on it.
Using Low-Quality Meat: Choosing a poor quality flank steak can ruin your dish. Opt for fresh, high-quality cuts for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Item: Store leftover Marinated Grilled Flank Steak in an airtight container.
Item: It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

Item: Place cooked flank steak in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Item: It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label with date and contents for easy reference.

Reheating Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

Oven: Preheat to 350F/175C and reheat wrapped in foil for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Marinated Grilled Flank Steak?

Marinated Grilled Flank Steak is a flavorful beef dish where flank steak is soaked in a marinade before being grilled. The marinade enhances its taste and tenderness.

How long should I marinate flank steak?

For best results, marinate your flank steak for at least 8 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat.

Can I use other cuts of beef?

Yes, while flank steak is ideal, you can substitute skirt steak or sirloin if preferred. Adjust cooking times based on thickness.

What should I serve with Marinated Grilled Flank Steak?

This dish pairs wonderfully with Chimichurri sauce, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. The options are endless!

How do I know when my flank steak is done?

Use an instant-read thermometer; aim for 130F/55C for medium rare. If you don’t have one, use the finger test as an alternative.

Final Thoughts

Marinated Grilled Flank Steak is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize the marinade based on your preferences or serve it with various sides. Try this recipe and enjoy a satisfying meal that any beef lover would adore!

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