Juicy Marinated Flank Steak Recipe for Your Dream Dinner

A perfectly seasoned marinated flank steak can turn an ordinary dinner into a memorable culinary adventure.

Meat lovers seek bold flavors that dance across their taste buds with excitement.

Salt, herbs, and carefully selected spices work magic on this tender cut.

Marinades penetrate deep, infusing each fiber with complex and rich undertones.

Weekend warriors and home chefs appreciate simple techniques that deliver restaurant-quality results.

Professional techniques combined with accessible ingredients make this recipe surprisingly approachable.

She can transform an everyday protein into something spectacular that impresses everyone at the table.

Roll up your sleeves and get ready to create a dish that will have people asking for seconds.

Side Dishes That Match Flank Steak Perfectly

• Select robust Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec to complement the steak's rich, smoky marinade and enhance its deep flavor profile.
• Roast garlic-brushed asparagus or create a zesty corn salsa with fresh cilantro to balance the meat's intense seasoning and provide complementary textures.
• Whip up a quick chimichurri sauce with parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, and olive oil to cut through the steak's richness and add bright herbal notes.
• Serve alongside crispy rosemary roasted potatoes or creamy polenta to soak up the delicious marinade and provide a satisfying base for the protein.

Flavor Variations for Marinated Flank Steak

• Gluten-Free Friendly: Replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos to create a gluten-free marinade that maintains rich flavor while accommodating celiac or gluten-sensitive diners.
• Low-Sodium Option: Swap regular soy sauce for low-sodium soy sauce and reduce added salt to decrease overall sodium content without compromising taste profile.
• Herb-Infused Variation: Incorporate fresh rosemary, thyme, or oregano into the marinade for an aromatic Mediterranean-style flavor that elevates the traditional recipe's complexity.
• Spicy Southwest Remix: Add chipotle powder, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes to introduce a bold, fiery kick that transforms the classic marinade into a zesty southwestern-inspired experience.

FAQs About Flank Steak Marinades and Prep

• Why should I marinate the steak before cooking?

Marinating helps tenderize the meat, infuse flavors, and break down tough muscle fibers. The combination of acidic ingredients like balsamic vinegar and Worcestershire sauce helps soften the flank steak, making it more tender and flavorful.

Slicing against the grain means cutting perpendicular to the muscle fibers, which creates shorter muscle fibers. This makes each bite more tender and easier to chew, preventing the meat from being tough or chewy.

• Can I use a different type of meat for this marinade?

While the recipe is designed for flank steak, you can use similar cuts like skirt steak or hanger steak. These cuts have similar texture and muscle structure that work well with this marinade.

• How do I know when the steak is cooked to the right temperature?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135F. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can use the touch method or check by cutting into the thickest part of the steak to verify doneness.

Why Marinated Flank Steak Packs So Much Flavor

• Delivers bold, mouth-watering taste with minimal effort through an easy marinade that transforms simple flank steak into a gourmet meal.
• Provides versatility by allowing grilling or broiling techniques, making the recipe adaptable for indoor or outdoor cooking environments without compromising delicious results.
• Requires only 10-15 minutes of active preparation, with most time spent marinating, enabling busy home cooks to create restaurant-quality dinner without extensive kitchen work.
• Appeals to meat lovers and satisfies various tastes with its balanced blend of savory and slightly sweet marinade ingredients, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients for Juicy Marinated Flank Steak

• Flank Steak: Lean, flavorful cut perfect for marinating, best when sliced against the grain for tenderness.

• Soy Sauce, Olive Oil, Balsamic Vinegar, Worcestershire Sauce: Creates a rich, complex flavor profile that tenderizes and adds depth to the meat.

• Honey: Adds subtle sweetness and helps caramelize the meat's exterior.
• Garlic: Provides robust, aromatic flavor and classic savory notes.
• Black Pepper: Adds warm, spicy undertone and enhances overall seasoning.
• Mustard: Brings tangy complexity and helps bind marinade ingredients.
• Smoked Paprika: Contributes smoky, slightly sweet background flavor.

• Fresh Parsley: Adds bright, fresh visual appeal and light herbal note.
• Lemon Wedges: Provides optional citrusy brightness to complement the meat.

How to Grill or Sear Flank Steak Like a Pro

Step 1: Whisk Flavor-Packed Marinade

• Soy sauce
• Olive oil
• Balsamic vinegar
• Worcestershire sauce
• Honey
• Minced garlic
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Dijon mustard
• Smoked paprika

Blend ingredients thoroughly until smooth and well integrated.

Step 2: Bathe Steak in Delicious Marinade

Place flank steak in a large ziplock bag or shallow container.

Pour marinade completely over steak, massaging to ensure total coverage.

Refrigerate for minimum 2 hours, ideally overnight.

Occasionally flip steak to distribute marinade evenly.

Step 3: Fire Up Cooking Surface

Preheat grill to medium-high heat or set oven broiler to high.

Ensure cooking surface is hot and ready.

Step 4: Sear to Perfection

Grilling method:

Cook 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare.

Adjust time for preferred doneness.

Broiling method:

Line baking sheet with aluminum foil.

Position steak on foil.

Broil 4-6 minutes per side.

Watch carefully to prevent burning.

Step 5: Rest and Relax Meat

Transfer steak to cutting board.

Allow meat to rest 5-10 minutes.

This helps juices redistribute, ensuring tender texture.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Cut steak against grain into thin slices.

Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley.

Serve with lemon wedges for extra zest.

Tips for Marinating and Slicing Flank Steak Right

• Enhance Marinade Absorption: Gently pierce the steak with a fork before marinating to help the flavors penetrate deeper into the meat, ensuring maximum taste in every bite.
• Manage Doneness Precision: Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature, ensuring perfect medium-rare (130-135F) without overcooking the delicate flank steak.
• Prevent Tough Texture: Always slice against the grain to break up muscle fibers, resulting in more tender and easier-to-chew meat slices.
• Maximize Flavor Depth: Let the steak marinate overnight in the refrigerator to allow the complex blend of soy sauce, balsamic, and spices to fully infuse the meat.
• Customize Dietary Needs: Swap honey with maple syrup for a vegan alternative or use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version of the marinade.

How to Store and Reheat Flank Steak Without Drying It

• Store leftover marinated flank steak in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping it fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Wrap sliced steak tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag to maintain quality for up to 3 months.
• Warm steak in a skillet over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes, adding a splash of beef broth to prevent drying out and preserve moisture.
• Skip microwaving to prevent tough, rubbery texture; instead, use oven or stovetop methods for the most tender reheated steak.

Marinated Flank Steak Recipe

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4.5 from 33 reviews

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent Marinated Flank Steak promises a flavor explosion that transports taste buds to culinary bliss. Tender meat infused with zesty herbs and spices delivers a mouthwatering experience you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1.5 to 2 pounds (680 to 907 grams) flank steak

Marinade Base:

• ¼ cup (60 milliliters) soy sauce
• ¼ cup (60 milliliters) olive oil
• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) Worcestershire sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Flavor Enhancers:

• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) honey or brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Garnish:

• Fresh chopped parsley
• Lemon wedges (optional)

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Instructions

1. Mix the marinade ingredients in a bowl, whisking together soy sauce, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, honey, minced garlic, black pepper, mustard, and smoked paprika until thoroughly blended.
2. Transfer the flank steak to a large resealable plastic bag or shallow container, then pour the marinade over the meat, ensuring complete coverage. Refrigerate for 2-8 hours, turning the steak periodically to enhance flavor absorption.
3. Remove the marinated steak from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to reach room temperature, which promotes even cooking.
4. Heat the grill to medium-high or prepare the oven broiler on high setting.
5. For grilling, place the steak directly on the grates and cook 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, achieving an internal temperature of 130-135F.
6. Alternatively, for broiling, position the steak on a foil-lined baking sheet, placing it 4-5 inches from the heat source. Broil 4-5 minutes per side, monitoring closely to prevent charring.
7. Once cooked, transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest 5-7 minutes, allowing internal juices to redistribute and ensuring maximum tenderness.
8. Slice the steak thinly against the grain, creating delicate, flavorful pieces. Optional: garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for added brightness.

Notes

• Maximize Flavor Absorption by gently piercing the steak with a fork before marinating to help the flavors penetrate deeper into the meat.
• Select High-Quality Meat by choosing a well-marbled flank steak with minimal excess fat for the most tender and flavorful result.
• Customize for Different Diets by substituting honey with maple syrup for a vegan option or using coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free alternative.
• Control Doneness Precisely with a meat thermometer to ensure the perfect temperature, remembering that the steak will continue cooking slightly during the resting period.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 20mg