Grilling Flank Steak: How Long Should You Cook It?

Flank steak, known for its bold flavor and versatility, is a popular cut for grilling. However, mastering the art of grilling flank steak requires precise timing to ensure tender and juicy results. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the crucial question: how long to grill flank steak for optimal doneness?

Factors Influencing Grilling Time

Before we dive into specific grilling times, it’s essential to consider factors that can influence the cooking process:

• Steak Thickness: Thicker steaks require longer grilling time.
• Grill Temperature: Higher temperatures reduce grilling time.
• Desired Doneness: The desired level of doneness (rare, medium-rare, etc.) affects the grilling duration.
• Marinade: Marinating the steak can tenderize it, reducing the grilling time.

Grilling Times for Different Doneness Levels

Now, let’s explore the grilling times for different doneness levels:

• Rare (125-130°F): 3-4 minutes per side
• Medium-Rare (130-135°F): 4-5 minutes per side
• Medium (135-140°F): 5-6 minutes per side
• Medium-Well (140-145°F): 6-7 minutes per side
• Well-Done (145°F and above): 7-8 minutes per side

How to Grill Flank Steak Perfectly

To achieve perfectly grilled flank steak, follow these steps:

1. Prepare the Steak: Remove the steak from the refrigerator 30 minutes before grilling to bring it to room temperature.
2. Season the Steak: Generously season the steak with salt and pepper.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat the grill to the desired temperature (600-700°F for gas grills, 500-600°F for charcoal grills).
4. Grill the Steak: Place the steak on the preheated grill and cook for the recommended grilling time.
5. Flip the Steak: Flip the steak halfway through the cooking process.
6. Check the Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. Remove it from the grill when it reaches the desired doneness.
7. Rest the Steak: Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.

Tips for Grilling Flank Steak

• Marinate the Steak: Marinating the steak for at least 30 minutes can tenderize it and enhance its flavor.
• Slice the Steak Against the Grain: Slicing the steak against the grain breaks down the muscle fibers, making it more tender.
• Don’t Overcook the Steak: Overcooking can result in a tough and dry steak. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate doneness.
• Grill Over Direct Heat: Grilling over direct heat will create a flavorful sear and cook the steak evenly.

Grilling Flank Steak on Different Grills

The grilling time may vary slightly depending on the type of grill you are using:

• Gas Grill: The grilling times provided in this guide are most suitable for gas grills.
• Charcoal Grill: Charcoal grills provide a more intense heat, so reduce the grilling time by 1-2 minutes per side.
• Electric Grill: Electric grills tend to cook more slowly, so increase the grilling time by 1-2 minutes per side.

Troubleshooting Common Grilling Issues

• Tough Steak: The steak may be overcooked or the grain was not cut against the grain.
• Dry Steak: The steak may have been overcooked or not allowed to rest properly.
• Burnt Steak: The grill temperature was too high or the steak was not flipped frequently enough.
• Undercooked Steak: The steak was not grilled for long enough or the grill temperature was too low.

Final Thoughts

Mastering the art of grilling flank steak requires a combination of precision and understanding. By following the guidelines and tips in this comprehensive guide, you can confidently achieve perfectly cooked flank steak every time you fire up the grill. Remember, the key is to pay attention to the factors influencing grilling time, use a meat thermometer for accurate doneness, and allow the steak to rest before slicing and serving.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: How do I know when the flank steak is done grilling?
A: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The desired temperature depends on the desired doneness level.

Q: What is the best way to slice flank steak?
A: Slice the steak against the grain to break down the muscle fibers and make it more tender.

Q: Can I grill flank steak without marinating it?
A: Yes, you can grill flank steak without marinating it, but marinating can enhance its flavor and tenderness.

Q: What is the best way to prevent the steak from burning?
A: Preheat the grill to the desired temperature and flip the steak frequently during grilling.

Q: How long should I let the steak rest before slicing and serving?
A: Allow the steak to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving to allow the juices to redistribute.