Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

Recipe By:

Juniper

Posted:

August 6, 2025

Updated:

August 6, 2025

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This Marinated Grilled Flank Steak is a delicious low-carb meal that beef lovers will adore. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a simple weeknight feast, this dish stands out due to its rich flavors and tender texture. The marinade infuses the meat with a delightful taste, making it a memorable centerpiece for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this tasty dish in no time.
Flavorful Marinade: The combination of balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and spices creates a savory flavor that elevates the steak.
Low-Carb Delight: Ideal for those watching their carbohydrate intake, this meal fits perfectly into various dietary plans.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it alone or pair it with sides like vegetables or salads for a complete meal.
Grill Marks: Achieve beautiful grill marks that not only enhance presentation but also add to the smoky flavor profile.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Marinated Grilled Flank Steak, gather your tools and equipment. These items will help ensure your cooking process is smooth and successful.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill
Ziploc bag
Mixing bowl
Colander
Meat thermometer (optional)
Cutting board
Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

Grill: Provides the high heat needed to achieve those perfect sear marks and juicy texture.
Meat thermometer: Ensures accurate cooking temperature for perfect doneness every time.

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 Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Combine the balsamic vinegar, fresh-squeezed juice, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and olive oil in a mixing bowl. This flavorful marinade is key to enhancing the flank steak’s taste.

Step 2: Trim the Steak

If necessary, trim excess fat from the edges of the flank steak. If you prefer some fat for flavor, make small slits in fatty areas to prevent curling on the grill.

Step 3: Season with Steak Rub

Generously rub your choice of steak rub on both sides of the flank steak. This adds an additional layer of flavor to complement the marinade.

Step 4: Marinate

Place the seasoned steak in a Ziploc bag and pour in the marinade. Seal tightly and refrigerate for at least 8 hours for optimal flavor absorption.

Step 5: Preheat the Grill

When ready to cook, drain excess marinade from the steak using a colander. Preheat your grill to high heat (around 450-500°F or 230-260°C).

Step 6: Grill the Steak

To get nice grill marks, place the steak diagonally across the grates. Cook for about 3 minutes until marked; then rotate to cook at an opposite angle for another 3 minutes.

Step 7: Flip and Finish Cooking

Turn over the steak and grill on this side for about 4-5 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 130°F (55°C) for medium-rare.

Step 8: Rest Before Slicing

Once cooked to your preference, remove from heat and let rest covered with foil for about 5-10 minutes.

Step 9: Slice Against Grain

Using a sharp knife on a cutting board, slice thin pieces of flank steak against the grain to maintain tenderness.

Step 10: Serve Hot

Enjoy your Marinated Grilled Flank Steak hot off the grill! Pair with Chimichurri Sauce or olive sauce if desired.

How to Serve Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

Serving Marinated Grilled Flank Steak is a delightful experience that can elevate any meal. This versatile dish pairs well with various sides, sauces, and garnishes, making it perfect for gatherings or family dinners.

Pair with Chimichurri Sauce

Chimichurri adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor that complements the richness of the flank steak.

Serve with Grilled Vegetables

A mix of grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus brings color and nutrition to your plate.

Accompany with Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide a comforting side that balances the steak’s bold flavors.

Add a Fresh Salad

A simple arugula or mixed greens salad topped with vinaigrette offers a light, refreshing contrast.

Include Warm Tortillas

Warm tortillas can be used to wrap the sliced steak for a delicious handheld option.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

Sprinkling fresh cilantro or parsley on top enhances presentation and adds freshness.

How to Perfect Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

To master Marinated Grilled Flank Steak, there are some essential tips to keep in mind. These will ensure your steak is flavorful and cooked to perfection.

Choose quality meat: Selecting a good cut of flank steak will enhance the flavor and tenderness.
Marinate for longer: Allowing the steak to marinate overnight intensifies the flavors and tenderizes the meat.
Preheat your grill: A hot grill ensures proper searing and beautiful grill marks on your flank steak.
Use a meat thermometer: Monitoring the internal temperature guarantees that your steak is cooked to your desired doneness.
Let it rest: Resting the steak after grilling allows juices to redistribute for maximum flavor.
Slice against the grain: Cutting against the grain helps achieve tender slices that are easy to chew.

Best Side Dishes for Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

Complementing Marinated Grilled Flank Steak with the right side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy and caramelized, they add crunch and flavor.
Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that soaks up flavors beautifully while being light.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs wonderfully with grilled meats; try it brushed with butter.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch and balances out rich flavors.
Baked Sweet Potatoes: Naturally sweet, they make an excellent contrast to savory beef dishes.
Quinoa Salad: Packed with protein, quinoa salad can be customized with veggies and herbs for added freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Marinated Grilled Flank Steak is a delicious recipe, but it can be easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

Ignoring Marination Time: Skipping the marination time can lead to bland steak. Always marinate for at least 8 hours for the best flavor.
Using Too High Heat from the Start: Starting with too high heat can burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Preheat your grill properly and adjust the heat if necessary.
Cutting Meat Before It Rests: Cutting into the steak too soon can release all the juices. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes to keep it juicy and tender.
Not Trimming Fat Properly: Leaving too much fat can lead to flare-ups on the grill. Trim excess fat or cut slits in it to prevent curling during cooking.
Failing to Slice Against the Grain: Slicing with the grain can make the meat chewy. Always cut against the grain for tender slices that are easier to chew.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Use within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

Place cooked steak in a freezer-safe bag or container.
It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap steak in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
Microwave: Use medium power and heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warmed through.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Marinated Grilled Flank Steak:

Can I use other cuts of beef?

Yes, you can substitute flank steak with skirt steak or sirloin, but adjust cooking times as needed.

How do I know when my flank steak is done?

Use an instant-read thermometer; aim for 130°F (55°C) for medium-rare.

What should I serve with marinated grilled flank steak?

This dish pairs well with salads, roasted vegetables, or sauces like chimichurri.

Can I marinate flank steak overnight?

Absolutely! In fact, marinating overnight enhances the flavors even more.

Final Thoughts

Marinated Grilled Flank Steak is a fantastic dish that combines great flavor with simplicity. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a backyard barbecue. Feel free to customize your marinade or serve it with different sides based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try, and savor the delicious results!