Flank steak is a versatile and flavorful cut of beef that can elevate your dinner game with ease. Whether you’re grilling, searing, or cooking it in the oven, flank steak absorbs marinades well and cooks quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike.
Discover recipes that transform this cut into mouthwatering dishes everyone will love. From hearty salads to delicious tacos, there are many ways you can enjoy flank steak that will keep your meals exciting and varied.
1) Grilled Flank Steak with Chimichurri Sauce
Grilled flank steak with chimichurri sauce is perfect for a summer BBQ. The marinade is easy to make and adds a lot of flavor.
To start, whisk together soy sauce, lemon juice, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, pepper, salt, and a pinch of red pepper. Place your flank steak in a resealable bag or bowl and pour the marinade over it. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and pat it dry. Place the steak on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 125°F for medium-rare.
After grilling, let the steak rest for 15 minutes. This keeps the juices in the meat, making it more tender. Slice the steak against the grain for the best texture.
Top your grilled flank steak with chimichurri sauce. You can make this by blending fresh parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, oregano, and olive oil until smooth. Serve and enjoy!
2) Mexican-Style Carne Asada
Mexican-Style Carne Asada is all about bold flavors and juicy meat. To achieve this, you start with a simple yet flavorful marinade.
Combine cilantro, lime juice, garlic, chili powder, cumin, orange juice, and soy sauce. These ingredients tenderize the flank steak and infuse it with rich flavors. Marinate the meat for at least 6 hours; overnight is even better.
When it’s time to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the grill with a bit of vegetable oil to prevent sticking. Place the marinated steak on the grill and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes per side.
Once the steak reaches an internal temperature of 130-135°F, remove it from the grill. Let the meat rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This helps retain the juices.
Slice the steak against the grain for the best texture. Serve with warm tortillas, pico de gallo, and guacamole for a traditional Mexican meal.
3) Teriyaki Marinated Flank Steak
To make Teriyaki Marinated Flank Steak, start by preparing a flavorful marinade.
Combine ingredients like soy sauce, mirin, sake, and some brown sugar. Bring this mix to a boil and simmer for a few minutes to cook off any alcohol. Let it cool to room temperature before using.
Place the flank steak in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over the meat. Ensure the steak is well-coated.
For the best flavor, marinate the steak in the refrigerator. You can let it sit for a minimum of 30 minutes, but it’s best to leave it for a few hours.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade, letting any excess drip off.
Season the steak lightly with salt and pepper. Place it on the hot grill and cook for about 3-5 minutes per side.
The steak should reach an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C) for a medium-rare doneness. Let it rest for about 5 minutes after grilling.
When ready to serve, cut the steak across the grain. This will ensure tender, thin slices. The result is a juicy, flavorful Teriyaki Marinated Flank Steak that’s perfect for a variety of dishes.
4) Flank Steak Fajitas
Flank steak fajitas are a delicious and easy meal to prepare. You’ll need a few key ingredients: flank steak, bell peppers, onions, and a mix of spices. To start, cut your flank steak into thin strips. This helps the meat cook quickly and evenly.
Next, prepare a marinade with lime juice, olive oil, garlic, and chili powder. You can also add cumin, paprika, and onion powder for extra flavor. Place the steak in a zip-top bag and pour the marinade over it. Let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Heat a large skillet over high heat and add a bit of oil. When the oil is hot, cook your steak strips for a few minutes until they are browned. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add more oil if needed, then cook your sliced bell peppers and onions. Stir them occasionally until they are soft. Add the steak back into the skillet to combine with the veggies.
Serve your fajitas with warm tortillas, and top with your favorite garnishes like sour cream, salsa, and guacamole. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of this satisfying dish!
5) Korean BBQ Flank Steak
Korean BBQ Flank Steak is flavorful and tender.
Start by marinating the steak. Combine soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and gochujang in a bowl. Mix well.
Place your flank steak in a gallon-size bag. Pour the marinade over the steak. Make sure the steak is fully coated. Marinate for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 450°F.
Once heated, lightly grease the grill grates. Place the marinated steak on the grill. Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes or until your desired doneness.
Let the steak rest for about 10 minutes after grilling. This makes it more juicy and tender. Slice it thinly against the grain before serving.
Serve your Korean BBQ Flank Steak with scallions and any extra sauce.
6) Balsamic Glazed Flank Steak
For a flavorful and tender dish, try Balsamic Glazed Flank Steak. Start by preparing a simple marinade with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, and a touch of honey or maple syrup. This balances the acidity of the vinegar and adds a hint of sweetness.
Score the steak lightly in a diamond pattern. This helps the marinade soak in. Place the steak in a resealable plastic bag or a glass dish, then pour in the marinade. Marinate the steak in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
When ready to cook, preheat your grill or oven. For grilling, heat the grill to medium-high. Grill the steak for about 6-8 minutes per side, depending on thickness. For oven cooking, bake at 350°F for about 10 minutes per inch of thickness.
While the steak cooks, reduce some balsamic vinegar on the stove until it thickens into a glaze. Once the steak is done, let it rest for a few minutes. This keeps the juices inside.
Slice the steak thinly against the grain and drizzle with the balsamic glaze. Serve with your favorite side dishes for a delicious meal.
7) Flank Steak Stuffed with Spinach and Feta
Flank steak stuffed with spinach and feta is a tasty and impressive dish. It combines juicy steak with a flavorful, cheesy filling.
First, you need to slice the steak horizontally, creating a pocket or “butterflying” it. This allows you to spread the filling evenly.
In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese. Add a bit of salt, pepper, basil, and parsley. Mix everything together until well combined.
Spread the mixture over the steak. Roll the steak tightly and secure it with kitchen twine or toothpicks. This helps keep the filling inside while cooking.
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Before baking, sear the stuffed steak in a hot skillet with a bit of oil. Brown each side for 2-3 minutes. This adds a nice crust to the meat.
Transfer the steak to a baking dish and place it in the oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until cooked to your liking. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into rounds.
Serve the steak slices with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. The combination of the savory steak and the tangy, cheesy filling is sure to impress.
8) Garlic and Herb-Rubbed Flank Steak
Start by taking your flank steak out of the fridge and letting it warm to room temperature for about 20 minutes.
Prepare your herb mixture using dried rosemary, thyme, and paprika. Finely chop them if using whole herbs.
Rub both sides of the steak thoroughly with the herb blend, ensuring it covers all areas evenly.
Let the steak rest with the rub on it for 30 minutes to 45 minutes, which will let the flavors soak in.
While the steak rests, preheat your grill or a cast-iron skillet until it’s very hot.
Cook the steak for about 3 minutes on each side to get a good sear. Aim for well-browned edges.
After grilling, let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing it. This helps keep the juices in.
Serve sliced against the grain for the best texture. Enjoy your flavorful, garlic and herb-rubbed flank steak.
9) Flank Steak with Rosemary Butter
First, gather your ingredients: fresh rosemary, unsalted butter, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Start by finely chopping the rosemary and mincing the garlic. Mix these with softened butter until well combined.
Season the flank steak with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat your grill to medium-high.
Place the steak on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. Adjust the time if you prefer it more or less done.
Once cooked, let the steak rest for a few minutes.
While it rests, spread the rosemary butter over the steak. As it melts, it will create a savory sauce.
Slice the steak thinly against the grain.
This tender, flavorful dish pairs well with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. Enjoy your meal!
10) Flank Steak Tacos with Pico de Gallo
Flank steak tacos are a tasty and easy-to-make meal. Start by marinating the flank steak with your favorite spices and olive oil. Let it sit in the fridge for at least 8 hours. When ready, bring the steak to room temperature.
Heat up your grill or a cast iron skillet. Cook the steak for about 7-9 minutes on each side, depending on how thick it is and how well you like it cooked. Once done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly.
While the steak rests, make the pico de gallo. Chop tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapenos. Mix them together with lime juice, salt, and pepper. This fresh topping adds a great burst of flavor to your tacos.
Warm up some corn tortillas on the grill or in a pan. Fill each tortilla with slices of flank steak and a generous scoop of pico de gallo. You can also add other toppings like guacamole, sour cream, or cheese.
Serve the tacos hot for the best taste. These flank steak tacos with pico de gallo are perfect for any meal, easy to make, and absolutely delicious.
11) Spicy Thai Flank Steak Salad
For this dish, start by marinating the flank steak in a mix of lime juice, fish sauce, garlic, and ginger. This adds a tangy and savory flavor.
Cook the steak on a grill or pan until it reaches your desired doneness. Let it rest before slicing thinly against the grain.
Meanwhile, toss together a salad with fresh herbs like cilantro and mint. Add sliced onions and chives for extra crunch and flavor.
Dress the salad with a spicy sauce made from lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and chili powder. Mix well to dissolve the sugar and combine the flavors.
Serve the thinly sliced steak on top of the salad, and drizzle with the remaining marinade.
The contrast of the cool salad and the warm, spicy steak creates a delicious combination. This recipe brings together classic Thai flavors for a fresh and lively meal.
12) Coffee-Rubbed Flank Steak
Give your flank steak a bold flavor by using a coffee rub. Start by mixing ground coffee, brown sugar, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, ground red pepper, kosher salt, and pepper.
Rub this mixture generously over both sides of the steak. Let it rest at room temperature for at least 15 minutes or refrigerate for several hours.
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium doneness.
After grilling, let the steak rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
The coffee rub gives the steak a rich and smoky taste, making it a unique and delicious option.
13) Honey Soy Flank Steak Stir-Fry
Honey Soy Flank Steak Stir-Fry is perfect for a quick and delicious meal. This recipe combines sweet and savory flavors with a simple marinade.
Start by marinating your flank steak in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Let it sit for at least an hour, but no more than four hours, to absorb the flavors.
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil and wait until it gets hot. Sear the steak strips for 1-2 minutes on each side until they are brown and crispy. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add more oil if needed. Toss in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, snow peas, and carrots. Stir-fry them for a few minutes until they are tender-crisp.
Return the steak to the skillet and pour the remaining marinade over the top. Stir well and cook for another couple of minutes until the sauce thickens.
Serve the Honey Soy Flank Steak Stir-Fry over fluffy white rice or noodles. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor. Enjoy!
14) Red Wine Marinated Flank Steak
Red Wine Marinated Flank Steak combines rich flavors with a tender texture. You start by making a simple marinade. Mix red wine, garlic, olive oil, and your favorite herbs.
Place the flank steak in the marinade. Ensure it coats the meat evenly. Cover the dish and refrigerate for a minimum of an hour, or up to 24 hours for a deeper flavor.
Before cooking, let the steak come to room temperature. Preheat your grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
Remove the steak from the marinade and discard any excess liquid. Grill the steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare.
After grilling, let the steak rest for five minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making your steak more flavorful. Slice thinly across the grain.
Enjoy your Red Wine Marinated Flank Steak with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
15) Flank Steak with Mushroom Sauce
Flank Steak with Mushroom Sauce is a tasty and easy dish you can make at home.
Start by heating oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the steak until it’s well-browned on both sides. This usually takes about 10 minutes for medium-rare. Once done, remove the steak from the skillet.
Add butter and more oil to the hot skillet. Toss in mushrooms and cook them for about 5 minutes until they are tender. Stir occasionally to make sure they don’t stick.
You can enhance the flavor by adding garlic, shallots, or herbs like rosemary. Cook these ingredients for about 30 seconds before adding concentrated broth and water. Stir until the butter melts, creating a rich and savory sauce.
Put the steak back in the skillet with the mushrooms. Toss everything together to coat the steak evenly with the sauce. Let it warm up for a minute or two.
This dish goes well with side dishes like mashed potatoes or a simple green salad. Enjoy your delicious Flank Steak with Mushroom Sauce!
Preparation Techniques
Proper preparation of flank steak involves selecting the right cut, marinating to enhance flavor, and cooking at optimal temperatures for the best results. Here’s how you can master each of these steps.
Choosing the Right Cut
When picking a flank steak, look for one that’s about one inch thick and has a deep red color. It should have a good amount of marbling, which are the thin lines of fat running through the meat. This helps in keeping the steak juicy and tender when cooked.
Avoid pieces with too much gristle or connective tissue as these can make the steak tough. If possible, buy from a butcher who can guide you to the freshest cuts. Tip: Always buy slightly more than you need as it shrinks during cooking.
Marinating Tips for Maximum Flavor
Marinating your flank steak is essential for adding flavor and tenderizing the meat. Use a mix of acidic ingredients like vinegar or citrus juice, oil, and spices. The acid breaks down tough fibers while oil helps in retaining moisture.
Place the steak in a zip-top bag with the marinade and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but not more than 24 hours to avoid the meat becoming mushy. Pro Tip: Turn the bag occasionally for even marination.
Optimal Cooking Temperatures
Cooking flank steak to the right temperature ensures it stays tender and flavorful. Aim for a rare to medium-rare finish, which means cooking until an internal temperature of 125°F to 135°F. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature accurately.
For cooking, you can grill, broil, or pan-sear. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side. After cooking, let the meat rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Make sure to slice against the grain for the best texture. Reminder: Resting allows juices to redistribute for juicier slices.
Health Benefits of Flank Steak
Flank steak provides numerous health benefits due to its nutritional profile, high protein content, and essential vitamins and minerals. It’s a nutritious choice that can contribute to a balanced diet.
Nutritional Profile
Flank steak is a lean meat, meaning it has lower fat content compared to other cuts. A typical serving (about 3.5 ounces) contains up to 23 grams of protein and only about 9 grams of fat.
This cut of beef is relatively low in calories, making it suitable for those watching their calorie intake. Additionally, iron, an essential mineral found in flank steak, helps in the production of red blood cells, which carry oxygen through your bloodstream.
Protein Benefits
Eating flank steak supports muscle growth and repair. Protein is crucial for maintaining muscle mass and strength, especially as you age. Each serving provides a high amount of protein that helps in building and repairing tissues.
Protein also plays a role in hormone production, enzyme functions, and maintaining a strong immune system. By including flank steak in your diet, you ensure your body receives the essential building blocks it needs for these processes.
Essential Vitamins and Minerals
Flank steak is a good source of important vitamins and minerals such as B12 and zinc. Vitamin B12 is vital for nerve function and the production of DNA. Zinc supports your immune system and helps in wound healing.
This cut also contains iron, which is especially important for maintaining healthy red blood cells. Including flank steak in your meals can help prevent deficiencies in these essential nutrients and contribute to overall well-being.
Summary
Flank steak is not just delicious but also provides numerous health benefits. It supports muscle growth, contributes to a balanced diet with its high protein content, and is rich in essential vitamins and minerals.
Pairing Suggestions
When it comes to pairing flank steak, you can enhance the dining experience with the right side dishes and beverages. Your goal is to complement the steak’s rich flavors while adding variety to your meal.
Best Side Dishes
Herbed Couscous: This fluffy, Mediterranean-inspired side dish is quick to prepare. The herbs and spices in the couscous soak up the steak’s savory juices, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
Hasselback Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these potatoes are an impressive side dish. They pair well with the juicy texture of flank steak.
Grilled Onions: Caramelized and slightly sweet, grilled onions add a rich taste that complements the meatiness of the steak.
Rocket and Arugula Salad: A fresh salad with a mix of peppery arugula and tangy balsamic vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the steak’s bold flavors.
Tex-Mex Couscous: This version of couscous includes flavors like corn, beans, and spices. It adds a comforting taste that pairs well with steak.
Wine and Beverage Pairings
Red Wine: A full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec pairs perfectly with flank steak. Their tannins balance the steak’s rich flavors.
Beer: A robust stout or porter works well by enhancing the savory aspects of the steak. Lighter beers might not stand up to the richness of the meat.
Iced Tea: For a non-alcoholic option, consider sweetened iced tea with a hint of lemon. The sweetness can offset the steak’s savory notes.
Sparkling Water: A simple yet elegant choice, sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime can cleanse your palate between bites, allowing you to fully enjoy the steak’s taste.
Cocktails: Classic cocktails like a Manhattan or an old-fashioned can add an additional layer of flavor that complements the steak’s richness.
