How Long Do You Cook Flank Steak on the Grill?
The optimal grilling time for flank steak varies, but generally, you should grill it for 3-5 minutes per side for medium-rare and 5-7 minutes per side for medium, always ensuring the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness. Remember, a hot grill is essential for achieving a flavorful sear.
Understanding Flank Steak
Flank steak, a lean and flavorful cut of beef taken from the abdominal muscles of the cow, is a popular choice for grilling due to its relative affordability and versatility. However, its leanness means it can easily become tough if overcooked, making precise grilling crucial. Understanding its characteristics is the first step to a perfectly grilled flank steak.
Benefits of Grilling Flank Steak
Grilling flank steak offers several advantages:
- Quick cooking time: Flank steak cooks relatively quickly, making it ideal for weeknight meals.
- Intense flavor: The high heat of the grill sears the surface, creating a delicious crust and enhancing the beefy flavor.
- Versatility: Flank steak can be used in a variety of dishes, from fajitas and tacos to salads and stir-fries.
- Cost-effectiveness: Compared to some other cuts of steak, flank steak is generally more budget-friendly.
Preparing Flank Steak for the Grill: The Key to Success
Proper preparation is paramount for tender and flavorful flank steak. This includes:
- Marinating: Marinating for at least 30 minutes (and up to overnight) helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. Common marinades include soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and herbs.
- Patting Dry: Before grilling, pat the flank steak dry with paper towels. This ensures a good sear.
- Trimming (Optional): While not always necessary, trimming excess fat can help prevent flare-ups on the grill.
The Grilling Process: Step-by-Step
Follow these steps for grilling flank steak to perfection:
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to high heat (450-500°F). A hot grill is essential for creating a good sear.
- Oil the Grates: Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the steak from sticking.
- Place the Steak on the Grill: Place the flank steak on the hottest part of the grill.
- Grill: Grill for 3-5 minutes per side for medium-rare or 5-7 minutes per side for medium. Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness.
- Check the Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches the desired internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F; for medium, aim for 140-145°F.
- Rest: Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
- Slice Against the Grain: Slice the flank steak thinly against the grain. This shortens the muscle fibers, making the steak easier to chew.
Essential Tools for Grilling Flank Steak
- Grill: A gas or charcoal grill is essential.
- Meat Thermometer: A reliable meat thermometer is crucial for ensuring the steak reaches the desired internal temperature.
- Tongs: Use tongs to flip the steak on the grill. Avoid using a fork, as it can pierce the meat and allow juices to escape.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board is needed for slicing the steak.
- Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is essential for slicing the steak against the grain.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking: Overcooking is the most common mistake when grilling flank steak. It leads to tough, dry meat. Use a meat thermometer to avoid this.
- Not Marinating: Marinating helps to tenderize the meat and add flavor.
- Not Letting the Steak Rest: Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender steak.
- Slicing with the Grain: Slicing with the grain results in tough, stringy meat. Always slice against the grain.
- Not Using a Hot Enough Grill: A hot grill is essential for creating a good sear.
Doneness Temperatures for Flank Steak
| Doneness | Internal Temperature (°F) |
|---|---|
| Rare | 125-130 |
| Medium-Rare | 130-135 |
| Medium | 140-145 |
| Medium-Well | 150-155 |
| Well-Done | 160+ |
Grilling Variations
- Reverse Sear: For a more even cook, consider the reverse sear method. Cook the flank steak in a low oven (around 250°F) until it reaches about 10-15°F below your desired final temperature. Then, sear it on a hot grill for a minute or two per side to develop a crust.
- Indirect Heat: For thicker flank steaks, you can use indirect heat to cook the steak more evenly. Place the steak on the cool side of the grill and cook until it reaches about 10-15°F below your desired final temperature. Then, move it to the hot side of the grill to sear.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when my flank steak is done?
The most reliable way to determine doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding bone. Refer to the doneness temperatures table above for specific readings. Visual cues like firmness can be helpful, but are less reliable than a thermometer.
Can I grill flank steak from frozen?
While it’s not recommended due to uneven cooking, you can grill flank steak from frozen in a pinch. You will need to drastically increase the cooking time, use a lower heat to avoid burning the outside, and ensure the internal temperature reaches a safe level. Marinating will be impossible until thawed. Thawing in the refrigerator overnight is the preferred method for optimal results.
What is the best marinade for flank steak?
There is no single “best” marinade, as it depends on your taste preferences. However, a classic marinade typically includes an acid (like vinegar or citrus juice), oil, soy sauce (or a similar savory element), garlic, and herbs. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite. Popular options include chimichurri, Korean BBQ marinades, and teriyaki.
Can I cook flank steak on a gas or charcoal grill?
Yes, you can cook flank steak on either a gas or charcoal grill. Charcoal grills tend to impart a smokier flavor, while gas grills offer more precise temperature control. Both can produce excellent results.
What temperature should my grill be for flank steak?
Your grill should be heated to high heat, typically between 450-500°F (232-260°C). This high heat is essential for creating a good sear and preventing the steak from sticking to the grates.
How long should I let my flank steak rest after grilling?
Let your flank steak rest for at least 10 minutes, and preferably 15, after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. Tenting the steak loosely with foil can help keep it warm.
How do I slice flank steak against the grain?
Look closely at the flank steak to identify the direction of the muscle fibers (the grain). Then, slice the steak perpendicular to those fibers, as thinly as possible. This shortens the fibers, making the steak easier to chew.
What if my flank steak is too thick?
If your flank steak is particularly thick (over 1.5 inches), consider butterflying it by slicing it horizontally through the middle to create a thinner, more even piece. Alternatively, use the reverse sear method.
Can I use a cast iron skillet instead of a grill?
Yes, a cast iron skillet can be an excellent substitute for a grill. Preheat the skillet over high heat until it’s smoking hot. Sear the flank steak for 3-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches the desired internal temperature. You may want to open a window, as this can generate a lot of smoke.
What side dishes go well with flank steak?
Flank steak pairs well with a variety of side dishes, including grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, salads, and roasted potatoes. Consider your marinade when choosing sides to complement the flavors.
Is flank steak the same as skirt steak?
No, flank steak and skirt steak are different cuts of beef. While both are often used for grilling, skirt steak is thinner and has a more intense beefy flavor. Flank steak is typically wider and slightly less flavorful. They can be substituted, but cooking times will vary, especially for skirt steak that cooks very quickly.
How do I store leftover flank steak?
Store leftover flank steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, being careful not to overcook it. Consider using leftover flank steak in salads, sandwiches, or tacos.