Flank steak is a lean, budget-friendly cut that shines when marinated and cooked properly. These easy recipes maximize flavor with minimal effort perfect for weeknights or weekend grilling!
1. Classic Grilled Flank Steak
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs flank steak
- ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp black pepper
Steps:
- Whisk marinade ingredients. Marinate steak 2-4 hours.
- Grill over high heat 4-5 mins per side for medium-rare.
- Rest 10 mins, slice thinly against the grain.
Serve With: Garlic mashed potatoes, roasted veggies.
2. Asian-Style Flank Steak Stir-Fry
Ingredients:
- 1 lb flank steak, sliced thinly
- 3 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup snap peas
Steps:
- Marinate steak in hoisin and soy sauce 30 mins.
- Heat sesame oil in a wok. Stir-fry steak 2-3 mins.
- Add veggies, cook 4-5 mins. Serve over rice.
3. Carne Asada Tacos
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs flank steak
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ cup chopped cilantro
- Corn tortillas, salsa, onions
Steps:
- Marinate steak in lime juice, cumin, chili powder, and cilantro 1-2 hours.
- Grill or pan-sear 4 mins per side. Slice and serve in tortillas.
4. Balsamic Herb Flank Steak
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs flank steak
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp rosemary (fresh or dried)
- 3 garlic cloves, crushed
Steps:
- Marinate steak in vinegar, oil, rosemary, and garlic 4+ hours.
- Broil 6-8 mins per side. Slice and drizzle with reduced marinade.
5. Slow-Cooker Flank Steak Fajitas
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs flank steak
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 bell peppers, sliced
- ½ cup beef broth
Steps:
- Rub steak with taco seasoning.
- Add to slow cooker with veggies and broth. Cook on low 6-8 hours.
- Shred and serve in tortillas.
6. Chimichurri Flank Steak
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs flank steak
- ½ cup chimichurri sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper
Steps:
- Coat steak in chimichurri. Marinate 1+ hour.
- Grill 4-5 mins per side. Slice and top with extra sauce.
7. Korean BBQ Flank Steak
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs flank steak
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Steps:
- Marinate steak 2+ hours.
- Grill or broil 4-5 mins per side. Slice and garnish with sesame seeds.
Pro Tips for Perfect Flank Steak
- Always slice against the grain (look for the muscle fibers and cut perpendicular).
- Don’t overcook – aim for medium-rare (130-135°F internal temp).
- Marinate 2-24 hours (acidic ingredients like citrus or vinegar tenderize the meat).
Serving Ideas
- Salads: Slice over arugula with shaved Parmesan.
- Sandwiches: Pile onto crusty bread with horseradish mayo.
- Meal Prep: Use leftovers for steak bowls or omelets.
Flank steak’s versatility makes it a kitchen MVP! Which recipe will you try first?