5 Simple Ways to Make Flank Steak (Tender & Flavorful)

Flank steak is an incredibly versatile and delicious cut of beef that is perfect for dinner. Whether you’re grilling it, searing it in a pan, or roasting it in the oven, flank steak can be prepared in so many ways to suit any meal occasion. With the right marinade and cooking technique, you can create a juicy, tender, and flavorful steak that will impress everyone at the dinner table.

If you’ve ever wondered how to make flank steak at home, you’re in the right place! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from choosing the right marinade to serving it with delicious side dishes. Whether you’re looking for steak dishes for dinner or need flank steak recipe ideas, we’ve got you covered!

Looking for more delicious steak recipes? Try our Tenderized Flank Steak Recipes for a variety of quick and easy flank steak dinner ideas.

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What is Flank Steak and Why Should You Choose It?

Flank steak comes from the lower part of the cow’s abdomen, just beneath the ribs. It’s a long, flat, and lean cut of meat that is known for its rich beef flavor and versatility. Although flank steak is a relatively tough cut compared to others like ribeye or tenderloin, it is incredibly flavorful when prepared correctly.

The key to making flank steak tender and juicy lies in the cooking method and how well you handle the meat. When marinated properly and cooked quickly over high heat, flank steak can rival the tenderness of more expensive cuts.

What makes flank steak a great choice for your meals?

• Affordable: It’s a budget-friendly steak option that still provides great flavor.
• Lean: As a leaner cut of beef, it’s perfect for those looking to enjoy a flavorful steak without the excess fat.
• Versatile: You can use flank steak in various dishes, from tacos to steak salads, stir-fries, and more.

Now that you know why flank steak is a great choice, let’s dive into how to cook it to perfection.

Flank Steak Marinade: The Key to Flavorful Meat

One of the best ways to add depth of flavor to your flank steak is by marinating it. The marinade helps tenderize the meat while infusing it with spices and seasoning that bring out the beef’s natural flavor. Here’s a simple yet effective flank steak marinade recipe that will elevate your dinner:

Flank Steak Marinade Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (or balsamic vinegar)
• 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar (for a touch of sweetness)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together all the marinade ingredients.
2. Place the flank steak in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the steak.
3. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but ideally 4–6 hours. For best results, marinate overnight.
4. After marinating, remove the steak from the fridge and let it come to room temperature before cooking.

The combination of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sweetness from honey or brown sugar works wonderfully to tenderize and flavor the flank steak. This marinade can be used for grilling, pan-searing, or oven-roasting, making it a versatile option for any cooking method.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Flank Steak

Grilling Flank Steak

Grilling is one of the most popular ways to cook flank steak, as it allows the meat to develop a beautiful char while keeping it juicy inside. Here’s how to grill flank steak to perfection:

1. Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill the steak: Place the marinated flank steak on the grill and cook for 4–5 minutes per side for medium-rare or 6–7 minutes per side for medium. Make sure not to overcook the meat, as it can become tough.
3. Rest the steak: Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5–10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
4. Slice against the grain: To ensure tenderness, slice the steak thinly against the grain before serving.

Pan-Seared Flank Steak

If you don’t have access to a grill, pan-searing is an excellent alternative. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Heat the pan: Heat a cast-iron skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil (vegetable or olive oil works well).
2. Cook the steak: Place the marinated flank steak in the pan and cook for 4–5 minutes per side for medium-rare or 6–7 minutes for medium.
3. Rest the steak: Remove from the pan and allow the steak to rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Oven-Roasted Flank Steak

For a hands-off approach, you can also roast flank steak in the oven:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Sear the steak: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the flank steak for 2 minutes on each side to develop a nice crust.
3. Roast the steak: Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for about 10-12 minutes for medium-rare.
4. Rest and slice: Let the steak rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing against the grain.

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How to Tenderize Flank Steak for Better Results

If you’re looking to make your flank steak even more tender, here are a few tips:

• Marinate for longer: Longer marinating times allow the flavors to penetrate the meat while also breaking down muscle fibers, which results in a more tender steak.
• Use a meat mallet: Gently pound the steak with a meat mallet to break down the muscle fibers and make the meat more tender.
• Cook quickly over high heat: Flank steak should be cooked quickly at a high temperature to keep it from becoming tough. Overcooking will lead to dry, chewy steak.

Flank Steak Recipe Ideas for Different Meal Types

Flank steak is incredibly versatile, and once you know how to cook it, you can use it in various dishes. Here are some flank steak recipe ideas for different meal types:

• Flank Steak Tacos: Slice the cooked flank steak thinly and serve it in soft tortillas with toppings like guacamole, salsa, and cilantro for a tasty taco night.
• Steak Salad: Top a green salad with slices of flank steak, blue cheese, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic glaze for a hearty salad.
• Stir-Fry: Slice the flank steak into thin strips and toss it in a stir-fry with vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots. Add a savory sauce made from soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for extra flavor.
• Steak Sandwiches: Layer sliced flank steak on a crusty roll and top with caramelized onions, arugula, and horseradish sauce for a delicious sandwich.

Flank Steak Sides: The Best Dishes to Pair with Flank Steak

To make your flank steak dinner complete, here are some side dish ideas that pair perfectly with flank steak:

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and Brussels sprouts complement the rich flavors of flank steak.
• Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled alongside your steak is a great addition to a BBQ meal.
• Cauliflower Rice: For a lighter, low-carb side, serve your flank steak with cauliflower rice seasoned with garlic and herbs.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic butter are a classic side dish that goes wonderfully with flank steak.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Flank Steak

Storage:
Store leftover flank steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let the steak cool to room temperature before refrigerating it.

Reheating:
To reheat leftover flank steak without drying it out, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop in a skillet. Cover the steak with a lid and heat over low heat to prevent it from becoming tough.

For best results, enjoy the leftover steak in salads, sandwiches, or stir-fries.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Flank Steak

• Not slicing against the grain: Always slice flank steak against the grain to ensure tenderness. Cutting with the grain makes it chewy and tough.
• Overcooking: Flank steak cooks quickly, and overcooking it can lead to dryness. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
• Skipping the resting time: Let your steak rest for at least 5 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
• Underseasoning: Don’t skip seasoning the steak before cooking. A simple salt and pepper rub, along with the marinade, can make all the difference in flavor.

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FAQs About Flank Steak and Its Preparation

Can I use flank steak for grilling?
Yes! Flank steak is great for grilling. Just make sure to marinate it first and cook it over high heat to achieve a nice sear.

Can I cook flank steak without marinating it?
While marinating enhances the flavor and tenderness, you can cook flank steak without marinating. Simply season the steak with salt, pepper, and any other spices you like.

What is the best way to tenderize flank steak?
Tenderizing the steak with a meat mallet or marinating it for a longer time will help break down the muscle fibers and result in a more tender steak.

Conclusion + Call to Action

Flank steak is an affordable, flavorful, and versatile cut of meat that’s perfect for various dinner occasions. By marinating the meat, cooking it quickly over high heat, and slicing against the grain, you can enjoy a tender, juicy steak every time.

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Want to learn more about tenderized flank steak recipes? Check out our Tenderized Flank Steak Recipes for quick and flavorful meal ideas.

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