Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

Name: Marinated Grilled Flank Steak
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Serves approximately four people
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ lbs flank steak; 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Published: August 3, 2025

by Lucille

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavorful Marinade: The combination of balsamic vinegar and Worcestershire sauce creates a robust flavor profile that enhances the beef beautifully.
Quick Prep Time: With just 20 minutes of preparation, you can easily marinate the steak overnight for a hassle-free cooking experience.
Perfect for Grilling: This recipe is ideal for outdoor grilling, making it a great choice for summer cookouts or tailgating.
Low-Carb Delight: As a low-carb meal, this steak fits seamlessly into keto or low-carb diets without sacrificing taste.
Impressive Presentation: The beautiful grill marks and thinly sliced presentation make it visually appealing for guests at any dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes preparing Marinated Grilled Flank Steak easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill
Ziploc bag
Colander
Instant-read meat thermometer
Serrated knife or chef’s knife
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Grill: Provides high heat necessary for achieving perfect grill marks and tenderness in the flank steak.
Instant-read meat thermometer: Ensures accurate cooking temperatures, helping to achieve your desired level of doneness without guesswork.

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

To Season Cooked Steak

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

Combine balsamic vinegar, fresh lime juice, Worcestershire sauce (or gluten-free version), garlic powder, coarse-ground black pepper, salt, and olive oil in a bowl. Mix well.

Step 2: Prepare the Steak

Trim excess fat from the edges of the flank steak if necessary. If you prefer some fat, score it lightly with small slits to prevent curling on the grill.

Step 3: Marinate

Rub both sides of the flank steak with your chosen steak rub. Place the meat in a Ziploc bag and add the marinade. Seal tightly and refrigerate for at least 8 hours (overnight is best).

Step 4: Preheat Grill

Remove the marinated steak from the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to reach room temperature. Preheat your grill to high heat (450-500°F or 230-260°C).

Step 5: Grill the Steak

Place the flank steak on an angle across the grill grates for about 3 minutes until you see grill marks. Rotate it to cook at an opposite angle for another 3 minutes.

Step 6: Flip and Continue Cooking

Turn the steak over and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 130°F (55°C) for medium rare. Use an instant-read thermometer for accuracy.

Step 7: Resting Time

After reaching your desired doneness, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest covered with foil for about 5-10 minutes.

Step 8: Slice and Serve

Using a large serrated knife or chef’s knife, slice thin pieces against the grain on a diagonal. Serve hot with optional Chimichurri Sauce or olive sauce for added flavor.

Enjoy this delicious Marinated Grilled Flank Steak as part of your next meal!

How to Serve Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

Serving Marinated Grilled Flank Steak is a delightful experience that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a simple dinner at home, this steak pairs wonderfully with various flavors and sides.

With Chimichurri Sauce

Fresh and Zesty: Drizzle chimichurri sauce over the sliced steak for a burst of herby flavor.

On Tacos

Flavorful Filling: Use the grilled flank steak as a filling for soft or hard-shell tacos, topped with avocado and salsa.

In Salads

Protein Boost: Slice the steak thinly and add it to mixed greens with your choice of dressing for a hearty salad.

With Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Comfort Food Classic: Serve alongside creamy garlic mashed potatoes that complement the steak’s rich flavors.

As a Sandwich

Savory Delight: Layer slices of flank steak in a crusty roll with sautéed onions and peppers for a delicious sandwich.

With Grilled Vegetables

Colorful Plate: Pair the steak with an assortment of grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus for a nutritious meal.

How to Perfect Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

To achieve the best results with your Marinated Grilled Flank Steak, consider these helpful tips.

Marinate Longer: Allowing the meat to marinate overnight enhances the flavors and tenderness.
Room Temperature: Let the steak sit at room temperature before grilling; this ensures even cooking.
High Heat Grill: Start grilling at high heat to achieve those perfect grill marks and sear the meat properly.
Use a Meat Thermometer: For accurate doneness, use an instant-read thermometer; aim for 130F (55C) for medium-rare.
Resting Time: Always let the steak rest after grilling; this allows juices to redistribute for maximum flavor.
Cut Against the Grain: Slicing against the grain helps make each bite tender and easier to chew.

Best Side Dishes for Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

Pairing side dishes with Marinated Grilled Flank Steak can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted with garlic provide a fresh crunch.
Coleslaw: A creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the savory steak.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes and cucumber offers a nutritious grain alternative.
Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes baked until fluffy bring out natural sweetness that complements the savory flavors of beef.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Charred corn adds sweetness; serve it slathered in butter and sprinkled with salt.
Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option, cauliflower rice absorbs flavors well and makes for a great base under your steak.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Marinated Grilled Flank Steak, avoiding common pitfalls can lead to better results. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

Skipping the marinade time: A short marinating time won’t allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. Aim for at least 8 hours for the best taste.
Not trimming excess fat: Leaving too much fat can cause flare-ups on the grill. Trim it down or make small cuts in the fat to prevent curling.
Grilling straight from the fridge: Cold steak will cook unevenly. Let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling.
Using high heat throughout cooking: Cooking on high heat for too long can burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Adjust your grill for even cooking.
Cutting against the grain: Slicing with the grain makes meat tough and chewy. Always cut against the grain for tender slices.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Make sure the steak is completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag.
It can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with the date.

Reheating Marinated Grilled Flank Steak

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place steak in a baking dish covered with foil, heating until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
Microwave: Use medium power and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in short intervals, checking frequently.
Stovetop: Slice steak and reheat in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I marinate my flank steak?

Marinating your flank steak for at least 8 hours is ideal. This allows the flavors to fully develop and tenderize the meat.

Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?

Yes, while flank steak is excellent, you can use skirt steak or sirloin as alternatives. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What should I serve with Marinated Grilled Flank Steak?

This delicious steak pairs well with roasted vegetables, salads, or sauces like Chimichurri that enhance its flavor.

How do I know when my flank steak is done?

For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (55°C). Use an instant-read thermometer for accuracy.

Final Thoughts

This Marinated Grilled Flank Steak recipe is not only simple but also brings bold flavors that satisfy any beef lover. Its versatility allows you to customize marinades and sides according to your preferences, making it a perfect choice for various occasions. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delightful meal that everyone will love!

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