If you’re craving a deliciously smoky, juicy steak that’s bursting with garlicky flavor, then you are going to love this Grilled Flank Steak with Simple Garlic Marinade Recipe. This dish combines tender flank steak with a bright, tangy marinade that’s incredibly easy to whip up and results in a perfect balance of savory, slightly sweet, and fresh garlic notes. The marinade not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with a depth of flavor that turns any ordinary meal into a memorable feast. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a quick weeknight dinner or planning a casual backyard BBQ, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Grilled Flank Steak with Simple Garlic Marinade Recipe, you only need a handful of straightforward, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating a marinade that tenderizes the meat while layering on complex flavor and a beautiful caramelized finish once grilled.
- Flank steak (2½ pounds): This lean cut is wonderfully flavorful and perfect for marinating and grilling.
- Unfiltered apple cider vinegar (¼ cup): Adds a subtle tang and helps tenderize the steak for ultimate juiciness.
- Extra-virgin olive oil (2 tablespoons): Brings richness and helps distribute the marinade evenly while aiding grill marks.
- Garlic cloves, minced (8 cloves / about 2 tablespoons): The star flavor that gives this recipe its aromatic and savory punch.
- Kosher salt (3 teaspoons): Essential for seasoning the meat and balancing the marinade’s flavors perfectly.
- Brown sugar (2 teaspoons, optional): Adds a touch of sweetness to enhance caramelization on the grill.
- Freshly cracked black pepper (½ teaspoon): Offers a gentle kick and rounded spice to complement the garlic and vinegar.
How to Make Grilled Flank Steak with Simple Garlic Marinade Recipe
Step 1: Make the Marinade
Begin by whisking together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, 2 teaspoons of kosher salt, and brown sugar (if you’re using it) in a small bowl until everything is well combined. This marinade is the heart of the dish, balancing acidity and sweetness with that wonderful garlic bite that hugs every inch of the steak.
Step 2: Marinate the Steak
Generously season the flank steak all over with the freshly cracked black pepper and the remaining 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Place the steak in a 9 x 13-inch baking dish or a large zip-top bag for easy marinating. Pour the marinade over the steak, then turn it over a few times to make sure every side is coated beautifully. Refrigerate the steak for at least 1 hour to let the flavors develop, but if you have the time, up to 4 hours will make it even more tender and flavorful.
Step 3: Grill the Steak
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat so it’s nice and hot. Remove the steak from the marinade and let any excess drip away—this ensures a nice sear without flare-ups. Discard the used marinade to keep things clean and safe. Cook the steak for about 5 to 8 minutes on each side for a perfect medium-rare, or until your instant-read thermometer hits 135°F. Remember, grilling time can vary, so trust your touch and your thermometer for the best results.
Step 4: Rest and Slice
Once grilled to perfection, transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Resting is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. When ready, use a sharp knife to thinly slice the steak against the grain on a diagonal. This slicing technique keeps the meat tender and easy to chew, perfect for serving on a platter.
How to Serve Grilled Flank Steak with Simple Garlic Marinade Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro add a lovely burst of color and freshness that brightens the rich flavors of the steak. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt right before serving can enhance the steak’s natural juiciness. For an extra touch, drizzle a little olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top to elevate the garlicky marinade’s tang.
Side Dishes
This grilled flank steak pairs beautifully with simple, vibrant sides. Think charred corn on the cob, lightly dressed arugula salad, or roasted garlic mashed potatoes. Grilled vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers echo the smoky flavors of the steak, while a chilled quinoa salad adds a fresh and nutritious contrast to each bite.
Creative Ways to Present
You can easily transform this dish into tacos by layering the sliced steak with avocado, salsa, and a dollop of sour cream in warm tortillas. Or serve it atop a bed of mixed greens and cherry tomatoes for a satisfying salad. Another fun idea is slicing the steak thinly and using it for hearty sandwiches with caramelized onions and melted cheese—perfect for casual gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover grilled flank steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinner the next day. Just be sure to slice before storing or slice when you reheat to keep things tender.
Freezing
If you have more than you can eat within a few days, the grilled steak freezes well. Place slices in a freezer-safe bag or container with some of the juices or a light drizzle of olive oil to prevent drying out. It’s best consumed within 2 months for optimum flavor.
Reheating
For juicy reheated steak, warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of beef broth or water, covering it to steam slightly and keep moisture locked in. Alternatively, quick microwaving on low power with a damp paper towel works when you’re in a hurry, but be careful not to overcook and dry out your steak.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While flank steak is ideal for this marinade because it’s lean and flavorful, you can also try skirt steak or sirloin. Just keep in mind that thicker cuts may need longer grilling times and slightly adjusted marinade periods.
How long can I marinate the steak for best results?
Marinating for at least 1 hour is sufficient to infuse flavor and tenderize the meat. However, if you have the time, marinating for up to 4 hours deepens the taste without breaking down the meat too much, which can happen if marinated longer.
Is it necessary to discard the marinade before grilling?
Yes, always discard the used marinade to prevent any risk of foodborne illness. If you want to use it as a sauce, reserve some before adding raw meat or bring it to a boil first to kill bacteria.
What side dishes work best with grilled flank steak?
Simple, fresh sides complement this steak best. Grilled veggies, leafy green salads, roasted potatoes, or even vibrant rice dishes are excellent companions that don’t overpower its bold garlic and vinegar flavor.
How do I know when the flank steak is perfectly cooked?
Use an instant-read thermometer for the most accurate results. Medium-rare is achieved at 135°F. Pressing the steak lightly with your finger can help too — it should feel slightly firm but still springy.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Flank Steak with Simple Garlic Marinade Recipe is a gem to have in your cooking arsenal. It’s effortless enough for a weeknight, yet impressive enough to serve guests, delivering bold flavor, tender texture, and a hint of garlicky magic in every bite. Give it a try and watch how it becomes your go-to steak recipe for any occasion. Happy grilling!
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Grilled Flank Steak with Simple Garlic Marinade Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including marinating)
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This Grilled Flank Steak with Simple Garlic Marinade is a flavorful and easy-to-make recipe perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend barbecue. The garlic-infused marinade tenderizes the flank steak while adding a tangy punch from apple cider vinegar balanced with a touch of brown sugar. Grilled to medium-rare perfection, the steak is juicy, savory, and perfectly charred, then sliced thinly to highlight its texture and flavor.
Ingredients
Flank Steak
- 2½ pounds flank steak
Garlic Marinade
- ¼ cup unfiltered apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 8 garlic cloves, minced (about 2 tablespoons)
- 3 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar (optional)
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Make the marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, 2 teaspoons of kosher salt, and brown sugar (if using) until well combined to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the steak: Season the flank steak evenly with the cracked black pepper and the remaining 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Place the steak in a 9 x 13-inch baking dish or a large zip-top bag. Pour the garlic marinade over the steak, turning to coat both sides thoroughly. Refrigerate and marinate for at least 1 hour and up to 4 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Preheat the grill: Heat the grill to medium-high, approximately 400°F, so it’s ready to sear the steak perfectly.
- Grill the steak: Remove the flank steak from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Discard the leftover marinade. Place the steak on the grill and cook for 5 to 8 minutes per side, depending on thickness, aiming for medium-rare doneness or an internal temperature of 135°F checked using an instant-read thermometer.
- Rest the steak: Transfer the cooked flank steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy bite.
- Slice and serve: Using a sharp knife, slice the steak thinly against the grain at a diagonal angle to maximize tenderness. Arrange the slices on a serving platter and serve immediately.
Notes
- Marinate for up to 4 hours but not longer to prevent the acid in the vinegar from overly breaking down the meat.
- For sweeter notes, the brown sugar is optional but recommended to balance the vinegar’s tartness.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking and achieve perfect medium-rare.
- Allowing the steak to rest after grilling is crucial to maintain juiciness.
- Serve with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-16 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
