Flank steak is a versatile cut of beef that can be transformed into countless delicious meals. From savory braciole to sizzling fajitas, this lean cut offers great flavor at a budget-friendly price compared to more expensive cuts like filet mignon.
The right preparation makes flank steak tender and juicy, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or impressive weekend entertaining. You can marinate it with citrus and herbs, slow-cook it for maximum tenderness, or slice it thinly for stir-fries and sandwiches. Whether you’re grilling, broiling, or slow-cooking, these recipes will help you make the most of this underrated cut of beef.
1. Grilled Flank Steak with Chimichurri
Grilled flank steak with chimichurri combines bold flavors for a delicious meal. The steak is often marinated in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, lime juice, and spices to enhance tenderness and taste.
Chimichurri sauce, a tangy blend of fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro with garlic and red wine vinegar, adds brightness to the grilled meat. This Argentinian-inspired sauce provides the perfect contrast to the savory steak.
You can prepare this dish for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners. The marinade tenderizes the flank steak while adding flavor, and the chimichurri sauce brings freshness to each bite.
2. Classic Marinated Flank Steak
A good marinade transforms flank steak from tough to tender. Mix soy sauce, brown sugar, lemon juice, olive oil, and minced garlic for a basic marinade that delivers big flavor.
For best results, marinate your flank steak for at least 2 hours, but overnight works even better. The acid in the marinade helps break down tough muscle fibers.
When grilling, cook to medium-rare for the most tender results. Let the meat rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing against the grain.
You can customize your marinade with additions like Worcestershire sauce, red wine vinegar, or ginger to create different flavor profiles.
3. Flank Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Flank steak tacos with avocado salsa offer a perfect blend of flavors for your next taco night. The tender, marinated flank steak pairs beautifully with fresh, vibrant avocado salsa.
For best results, marinate your flank steak for 8 to 24 hours in a spiced marinade. This ensures the meat absorbs all the bold flavors before cooking.
To prepare the avocado salsa, combine diced avocados with mango, lime juice, jalapeño, red onion, and cilantro. This fresh topping adds a creamy texture and bright flavor to your tacos.
Slice the cooked steak against the grain into thin strips. Serve on warm tortillas with the avocado salsa and your favorite toppings like lime wedges, additional cilantro, or onions.
4. Asian-inspired Flank Steak Stir Fry
Flank steak makes an excellent choice for quick Asian-inspired stir fry dishes. The lean cut absorbs marinades well, especially those with soy sauce and sesame oil that add authentic flavor.
For best results, slice your flank steak thinly against the grain before cooking. This helps keep the meat tender even with high-heat cooking methods.
You can prepare this dish in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Simply coat the sliced beef with a mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch before cooking in a hot pan.
Add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for a complete meal. Serve over rice or noodles for a satisfying dinner.
5. Flank Steak with Balsamic Glaze
Balsamic glaze transforms ordinary flank steak into a mouthwatering dish. The sweet and tangy flavor of balsamic vinegar complements the rich taste of this cut perfectly.
To prepare this recipe, marinate your flank steak in a mixture of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and Dijon mustard. Some recipes also include soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce for added depth.
Let the steak soak up these flavors overnight for best results. When you’re ready to cook, grill the steak to your preferred doneness.
Serve your balsamic flank steak over grilled zucchini or with a side of whipped feta for a complete meal. The finished dish features a delicious balsamic reduction drizzled over the sliced meat.
6. Honey Garlic Flank Steak
Honey garlic flank steak is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. The marinade typically includes soy sauce, honey, and garlic, creating a delicious flavor profile that complements the meat perfectly.
For the best results, pierce the steak multiple times before adding the marinade. This helps the flavors penetrate deeper into the meat. You should marinate the steak for 12-24 hours for maximum flavor.
When you’re ready to grill, remove excess marinade by scraping and wiping it off. This prevents burning and ensures a beautiful caramelization on the outside of your steak.
Serve this dish with twice-baked potatoes and a green salad for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.
7. Spicy Mexican-style Flank Steak
Spicy Mexican-style flank steak combines bold flavors with tender meat for a crowd-pleasing dish. A marinade with citrus juices like lime, lemon, and orange helps tenderize the meat while adding brightness.
Mix chili powder, cumin, coriander, and garlic with the citrus juices for authentic Mexican flavors. Add a splash of soy sauce and a touch of honey to balance the heat and acidity.
For best results, marinate your flank steak for at least 4 hours, though 24 hours will give you the most tender meat. Grill over high heat for a nice char while keeping the inside juicy and pink.
Slice against the grain and serve in warm tortillas with fresh toppings for delicious tacos.
8. Sundried Tomato and Feta Stuffed Flank Steak
This flavorful dish combines juicy flank steak with a Mediterranean-inspired filling. The combination of spinach, feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a perfect balance of flavors.
To prepare, butterfly a 1.5-pound flank steak and layer it with fresh spinach leaves, crumbled feta, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Some recipes add olives and fresh herbs for extra flavor.
Roll the steak tightly, secure with butcher’s twine, and cook to your preferred doneness. The result is an impressive meal that looks complex but is actually simple to make.
This stuffed flank steak works well for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. It’s also compatible with various diets including keto, Whole30, and paleo.
9. Lime and Cilantro Marinated Flank Steak
This vibrant marinade combines fresh cilantro and lime for a perfect flavor boost to flank steak. The bright citrus helps tenderize the meat while adding a zesty kick.
To make the marinade, whisk together chopped cilantro, lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Some recipes add orange juice for sweetness and soy sauce for depth.
Pour the mixture over your flank steak and let it marinate for at least 2 hours. For best results, you can marinate it for up to 7 hours.
Grill the steak over medium-high heat for a flavorful crust. The citrus-herb combo works perfectly with the rich beef, making this an excellent choice for summer cookouts.
10. Herb-Crusted Flank Steak
Herb-crusted flank steak is a flavorful dish that’s simple to prepare. This lean cut of meat needs little prep work and cooks quickly on the grill or in a pan.
To make this dish, combine herbs like rosemary, thyme, and garlic with olive oil to create a flavorful rub. Brush your steak with olive oil first, then apply the herb mixture generously.
Cook your flank steak over medium-high heat for about 4 minutes per side for medium doneness. The herb crust creates a delicious exterior while preserving the meat’s natural flavors.
Try serving with a tomato-olive relish for a complete meal. You could also pair it with grilled vegetables or roasted potatoes for a satisfying dinner.
11. Garlic Soy Marinated Flank Steak
Garlic Soy Marinated Flank Steak delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. The marinade combines soy sauce, garlic, and other simple ingredients that transform tough flank steak into a tender, flavorful dish.
To prepare, whisk together soy sauce, olive oil, vinegar, and minced garlic cloves. Add Worcestershire sauce and seasonings for depth. Some recipes include honey or mustard for extra flavor.
Place your flank steak in the marinade for at least 2 hours, though overnight works better. The acids and salt break down tough fibers in the meat.
Grill the steak to medium-rare for best results, then slice against the grain to ensure tenderness.
12. Korean BBQ Flank Steak
Korean BBQ flank steak combines savory, sweet, and tangy flavors for a delicious meal. The simple marinade includes garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of sugar.
You can prepare this dish easily by blending the marinade ingredients until smooth, then soaking your flank steak for at least 1-2 hours. For best results, marinate overnight.
Grill the steak over medium-high heat until it reaches your desired doneness. Remember to let it rest before slicing thinly against the grain.
Serve your Korean BBQ flank steak over rice or in a fresh summer salad. The tender slices cook quickly and deliver amazing flavor with every bite.
13. Sweet and Spicy Grilled Flank Steak
This flavorful dish combines sweet and spicy elements to create a perfect balance for your flank steak. The marinade typically includes scallions, ginger, jalapeño, and garlic for a spicy kick.
The sweetness comes from sugar or honey, while lime zest and juice add a tangy brightness. Some recipes also include sriracha for extra heat.
Season your steak with salt before applying the marinade. The marinade not only flavors the meat but also helps tenderize it, making it ideal for grilling.
You can serve this versatile steak on its own or use it as a filling for fajitas with peppers and onions. It pairs well with rice or a fresh salad.
14. Smoky Chipotle Flank Steak
Smoky chipotle flank steak offers a delicious blend of spicy and smoky flavors. This recipe uses a marinade with chipotle peppers, lime juice, and garlic that deeply flavors the meat.
The lime juice in the marinade tenderizes the flank steak while adding a fresh, light taste. When grilled, the meat develops a beautiful char that complements the smoky chipotle flavors.
You can prepare this dish in about 15 minutes of active cooking time, though it’s best to marinate the steak for a few hours first. The result is juicy, flavorful meat that works well as a main dish.
Try serving your chipotle flank steak with a blue smoked slaw for a complete meal with contrasting flavors.
15. Teriyaki Marinated Flank Steak
Teriyaki flank steak combines the perfect balance of soy sauce and sugar for a flavor-packed dish. You’ll want to marinate the steak overnight to allow those rich flavors to penetrate the meat.
For best results, grill your marinated flank steak to medium-rare and slice it thinly against the grain. This technique ensures each bite remains tender rather than tough.
Pair your teriyaki flank steak with twice-baked potatoes and a green salad for a complete meal. You can also add some of the marinade to BBQ sauce and baste it on the meat while cooking for an extra layer of flavor.
16. Mediterranean Flank Steak with Olives
Transform your flank steak with bold Mediterranean flavors.
Marinate the steak in olive oil, lemon zest, garlic, and rosemary for at least one hour.
When ready to cook, remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature.
Grill over medium heat for 11-16 minutes, depending on your preferred doneness.
While the steak rests, prepare a topping of mixed olives, chopped tomatoes, and fresh herbs. This bright mixture adds tangy flavor to the rich meat.
Slice the steak thinly against the grain and top with the olive mixture. Serve with rice or crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices.
17. Peppercorn-Crusted Flank Steak
Peppercorn-crusted flank steak offers a zesty burst of flavor that complements the natural richness of the meat.
The coarse crushed black peppercorns create a bold, aromatic crust when seared.
For the best results, crush your peppercorns rather than using pre-ground pepper. You can use a mortar and pestle or a clean coffee grinder for this task.
Some recipes combine black peppercorns with pink peppercorns and fennel seeds for more complex flavors.
Salt your steak before applying the peppercorn crust. Then sear it at medium-high heat to develop a flavorful crust without burning the peppercorns.
This technique helps lock in juices while creating that restaurant-quality peppery exterior.
18. Mustard-Marinated Flank Steak
Mustard adds a tangy depth to flank steak that’s hard to beat. The sharp flavor cuts through the rich meat perfectly when used in a marinade.
To prepare this delicious dish, combine white wine, olive oil, and Dijon mustard with salt and pepper. Add chopped shallots and minced garlic for extra flavor.
You can also try variations with balsamic vinegar or beer for different flavor profiles. Some recipes include honey to balance the tanginess of the mustard.
For best results, marinate your flank steak for at least 2 hours before grilling. The marinade tenderizes the meat while infusing it with wonderful mustard flavor.
19. Jamaican Jerk Flank Steak
Jamaican Jerk Flank Steak combines the tender texture of flank steak with bold Caribbean flavors. The meat is coated in a spicy jerk seasoning blend that typically includes allspice, thyme, scotch bonnet peppers, and other aromatic spices.
For best results, marinate your flank steak in the jerk seasoning for at least 2 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate deep into the meat.
You can grill this flank steak to perfection in just minutes on each side. Let it rest before slicing against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Serve your Jamaican Jerk Flank Steak with coconut rice for an authentic island-inspired meal that brings tropical flavors to your dinner table.
20. Savory Rosemary Flank Steak
Rosemary adds amazing flavor to flank steak, creating a savory dish that’s both simple and impressive. The combination of rosemary, garlic, and balsamic vinegar tenderizes the meat while adding deep flavor.
For this recipe, you’ll create a marinade using fresh rosemary sprigs, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and a touch of lemon zest. Let your flank steak marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
Grill the steak over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. The rosemary creates a fragrant crust that seals in juices and enhances the beef’s natural flavors.
After grilling, let the steak rest for 10 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain for the most tender bites.
21. Maple-Bourbon Flank Steak
Maple-bourbon flank steak combines sweet and savory flavors for a truly memorable meal. The marinade mixes bourbon, maple syrup, and other ingredients like mustard and Worcestershire sauce to tenderize and flavor the meat.
For best results, marinate your flank steak for at least 30 minutes at room temperature. Some recipes allow for longer marination times in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
This recipe pairs wonderfully with asparagus or other seasonal vegetables. The caramelization of the maple-bourbon glaze when grilled creates a delicious crust on the steak.
You’ll find this dish impressive enough for guests yet simple enough for weeknight dinners. The combination of maple sweetness and bourbon complexity makes this steak “fall out of your chair” delicious.
Understanding Flank Steak
Flank steak is a versatile, affordable cut that delivers big flavor when prepared correctly. This lean cut requires special handling techniques to transform it from potentially tough to deliciously tender.
What Is Flank Steak?
Flank steak is a long, flat cut of beef taken from the abdominal muscles of the cow. It features a distinctive grain pattern running along its length, which is crucial to understand when preparing it. This cut is prized for its bold, beefy flavor despite being leaner than many other cuts.
Unlike tender cuts like filet mignon, flank steak contains strong muscle fibers that can become tough if not prepared properly. This is why marinating flank steak is highly recommended – it helps break down these fibers.
When cooking flank steak, you should:
- Marinate for at least 4 hours (preferably longer)
- Cook quickly at high heat (grilling or broiling works best)
- Slice against the grain to shorten muscle fibers
- Cut thinly at a 45-degree angle for maximum tenderness
Nutritional Value of Flank Steak
Flank steak offers an excellent nutritional profile, particularly for protein-conscious eaters. A 3-ounce serving provides approximately:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 160-170 |
| Protein | 23-24g |
| Fat | 7-8g |
| Iron | 15% DV |
| Zinc | 20% DV |
This lean cut contains less fat than other popular steaks while still delivering essential nutrients. Flank steak is an excellent source of B vitamins, particularly B12, which supports nerve function and red blood cell formation.
You’ll also get a good dose of selenium and zinc, which support immune function. The protein content makes it ideal for muscle building and recovery after exercise.
Cooking Techniques for Flank Steak
Flank steak requires specific cooking methods to bring out its best qualities. The right techniques can transform this affordable cut into a tender, flavorful meal that rivals more expensive options.
Grilling Flank Steak
Grilling is one of the best methods for cooking flank steak.
Preheat your grill to high heat (450-500°F) before cooking. This high temperature quickly sears the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
For best results, grill flank steak for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness – aim for 130-135°F for medium-rare or 140-145°F for medium.
Important: Always slice flank steak against the grain after cooking. This shortens the muscle fibers and makes each bite more tender. Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
A simple seasoning of salt and pepper works well, but you can also use dry rubs with spices like garlic powder, paprika, and oregano for extra flavor.
Marinating Tips
Marinating is crucial for tenderizing flank steak. Plan to marinate your steak for at least 2 hours, but overnight is better for maximum flavor and tenderness.
Effective marinade components:
- Acid: Use lemon juice, vinegar, or wine to break down tough fibers
- Oil: Helps carry flavors and prevents sticking
- Salt: Enhances flavor and helps tenderize
- Aromatics: Garlic, ginger, herbs add depth
A basic yet effective marinade combines soy sauce, brown sugar, olive oil, and garlic.
Place your steak and marinade in a zip-top bag. Remove as much air as possible to ensure the meat is fully covered.
Turn the bag occasionally during marinating for even flavor distribution. Remove the steak from refrigeration 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to reach room temperature for more even cooking.
