If you’re a meat lover, you’ve probably encountered flank steak at some point. Flank steak is a popular choice due to its rich flavor and versatility in various dishes. Whether you’re grilling, broiling, or pan-searing, knowing how long it takes to cook flank steak can make a significant difference in the final result.

Cooking time may vary depending on several factors, such as the thickness of the steak and desired level of doneness. However, there are general guidelines to help you achieve the perfect flank steak:

For medium-rare: Cook the flank steak for about 4-6 minutes per side, depending on the thickness. This will result in a moist and tender steak with a pinkish center.

For medium: Add an extra minute or two to each side, cooking the flank steak for approximately 6-8 minutes per side. This will yield a slightly firmer texture with a hint of pink in the center.

For well-done: Cook the flank steak for 1-2 minutes longer per side, totaling 8-12 minutes. This will give you a fully cooked steak without any pinkness.

Remember to let the flank steak rest for a few minutes before slicing it against the grain to ensure maximum tenderness. Keep in mind that these cooking times are approximate, and it’s always essential to use a meat thermometer to check for your preferred level of doneness. With the proper cooking time, you can enjoy a flavorful and perfectly cooked flank steak every time!

How Long Does Flank Steak Take to Cook: All You Need to Know

Flank steak is a delicious cut of meat that is known for its rich flavor and tender texture. However, cooking flank steak can be a bit tricky, as it can become tough and chewy if not cooked properly. If you’re wondering how long it takes to cook flank steak, we’ve got you covered.

Marinating the Flank Steak

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The Beef Flank Steak Pantry: 30 Stunning Recipe's (The Butcher Shop Pantry Book 7)
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Before cooking the flank steak, it’s important to marinate it. This not only adds flavor to the meat, but also helps to tenderize it. You can use a pre-made marinade or make your own using ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce. Ideally, you should marinate the flank steak for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better. Make sure to refrigerate the meat while marinating.

Cooking Methods for Flank Steak

When it comes to cooking flank steak, there are several methods you can choose from:

Grilling: Grilling is a popular way to cook flank steak. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grill the flank steak for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. Make sure to let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing it against the grain.

Broiling: If you don’t have a grill, broiling is another option. Preheat your broiler and place the flank steak on a broiler pan. Broil for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare.

Stir-Frying: Stir-frying is a quick and easy way to cook flank steak. Heat a pan or wok over high heat, add oil, and stir-fry the thinly sliced flank steak for about 2-3 minutes until cooked to your desired level of doneness.

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Remember, the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the flank steak and your desired level of doneness. It’s always a good idea to use an instant-read meat thermometer to ensure the steak is cooked to the correct temperature.

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A.1. Steakhouse New York Marinade (16 oz Bottles, Pack of 6)
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Resting and Slicing the Flank Steak

After cooking, it’s important to let the flank steak rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing it. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful steak. Slice the flank steak against the grain, which will help to break up the muscle fibers and make it more tender.

By following these tips and cooking methods, you can achieve a perfectly cooked flank steak that is tender, flavorful, and delicious. Experiment with different marinades and cooking techniques to find your favorite way of cooking this versatile cut of meat.

Remember to always handle raw meat with care, and follow proper food safety guidelines to prevent any foodborne illnesses.

Understanding Flank Steak

Flank steak is a popular cut of beef that comes from the lower chest area of the cow. It is known for its rich flavor and tenderness when grilled or cooked properly. Understanding how to cook flank steak can help you achieve the perfect result every time.

Choosing the Right Cut

When selecting flank steak, look for a cut that is bright red in color with some marbling. It should be firm to the touch and have a slightly sweet, earthy smell. Avoid cuts that have a strong odor or any signs of discoloration.

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Marinating

Marinating flank steak is essential to enhance its flavor and tenderness. You can use a variety of ingredients such as soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, and citrus juices to create a flavorful marinade. It is recommended to marinate flank steak for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator for maximum flavor absorption.

Cooking Methods

Grilling:

To grill flank steak, preheat the grill to high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and pat it dry. Place it on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust the cooking time to your desired level of doneness. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing it against the grain.

Broiling:

Amazon Grocery, Beef Flank steak, Boneless, USDA Choice
Amazon Grocery, Beef Flank steak, Boneless, USDA Choice
Amazon.com

If you don’t have access to a grill, you can broil flank steak in the oven. Preheat the broiler and place the steak on a broiler pan or a baking sheet lined with foil. Broil for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches your preferred level of doneness. Let the steak rest before slicing.

Sautéing:

Sautéing is another method that can be used to cook flank steak. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add some oil or butter. Cook the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Allow it to rest before slicing.

Overall, flank steak is a versatile and delicious cut of beef that can be cooked in various ways to suit your preferences. By following these tips and techniques, you can enjoy a flavorful and tender flank steak every time.

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Preparation and Seasoning

Before cooking flank steak, it is important to properly prepare and season it to enhance its flavor and tenderness.

SIMPSON FARMS Beef Flank Steak
SIMPSON FARMS Beef Flank Steak
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First, start by patting the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help create a nice crust when searing it.

Next, you can choose to marinate the steak to add extra flavor. Create a marinade using ingredients such as soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and olive oil. Place the flank steak in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over it. Allow it to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for more intense flavor.

If you prefer to season the steak without a marinade, you can simply rub it with a mixture of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and any other herbs or seasonings of your choice.

Once the steak is seasoned or marinated, let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This will help ensure even cooking throughout the steak.

Remember, flank steak is a lean cut of meat, so it is important not to overcook it. Aim for medium-rare to medium doneness for the best results. And don’t forget to let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute before slicing.

Beef Loin Flank Steak Step 1
Beef Loin Flank Steak Step 1
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Grilling Flank Steak

Flank steak, a flavorful cut of beef, is perfect for grilling. When cooked properly, it can be tender and juicy. The key to grilling flank steak is to marinate it beforehand to enhance the flavor and tenderize the meat.

Here is a simple recipe for grilling flank steak:

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 pounds flank steak
– 1/3 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, ground black pepper, and dried rosemary.
  2. Place the flank steak in a large resealable bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.
  3. Preheat your grill to high heat.
  4. Remove the flank steak from the marinade and discard the excess liquid.
  5. Grill the flank steak for about 5-7 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer if desired. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the steak and your preferred level of doneness.
  6. Once cooked to your liking, remove the flank steak from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This will help retain the juices.
  7. Slice the flank steak against the grain, at a slight angle, to ensure tenderness.
  8. Serve and enjoy your delicious grilled flank steak!

This recipe is perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue. Pair the grilled flank steak with a fresh salad or some grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Broiling Flank Steak

Broiling is a great method for cooking flank steak. It’s quick, easy, and results in a deliciously juicy and flavorful steak.

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Here’s how to broil flank steak:

Amazon Grocery, Beef Inside Skirt Steak, Boneless, USDA Choice
Amazon Grocery, Beef Inside Skirt Steak, Boneless, USDA Choice
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  1. Preheat the broiler to high.
  2. Season the flank steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices or marinades.
  3. Place the steak on a broiler pan or a wire rack set inside a baking sheet.
  4. Position the steak about 3-4 inches away from the broiler element.
  5. Broil the steak for 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust the cooking time according to your desired level of doneness.
  6. Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. Aim for 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare or 140-145°F (60-63°C) for medium.
  7. Once the steak reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the broiler and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing against the grain.

Remember, cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the steak, so it’s always a good idea to use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak is cooked to your liking.

Broiled flank steak is perfect for serving as a main dish or slicing thin for sandwiches or fajitas. Enjoy!

Q&A

How long should I cook flank steak for?

Flank steak should be cooked for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. If you prefer it more well-done, you can cook it for a few more minutes on each side.

What is the best way to cook flank steak?

The best way to cook flank steak is to grill it over high heat. This will give it a nice char on the outside while keeping it tender and juicy on the inside.

Can I cook flank steak in the oven?

Yes, you can cook flank steak in the oven. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and cook the flank steak for about 10-12 minutes for medium-rare.

How do I know if flank steak is cooked?

You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the flank steak. For medium-rare, the temperature should be around 135°F (57°C). Alternatively, you can make a small cut in the middle of the steak and check the color inside. It should be pink with some red juices.

Can I marinate flank steak overnight?

Yes, you can marinate flank steak overnight. This will help to enhance the flavor and tenderness of the meat. Make sure to cover it tightly and refrigerate it while marinating.

How long does it take to cook flank steak on the grill?

Flank steak should be grilled for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare doneness. If you prefer your steak cooked more well-done, you will need to grill it for a few minutes longer on each side.

Can you cook flank steak in the oven?

Yes, you can cook flank steak in the oven. To do so, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), place the steak on a baking sheet, and cook it for 12-15 minutes or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Remember to let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing it.