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