There is something undeniably irresistible about a perfectly cooked steak that carries layers of flavor beyond just the meat itself. The Grilled Balsamic and Garlic Flank Steak Recipe is a shining example of how a few simple ingredients can transform an everyday cut into an elegant, mouthwatering entree. This recipe brings together the bright tang of balsamic vinegar, the earthiness of garlic, and just a hint of thyme to create a marinade that tenderizes the flank steak and infuses it with incredible depth. Whether you’re grilling for a casual weeknight or impressing guests over the weekend, this dish delivers bold taste with a tender bite every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Putting together this Grilled Balsamic and Garlic Flank Steak Recipe is delightfully simple because each ingredient plays a crucial role in bringing the flavors to life. These basics work harmoniously to build a marinade that enhances both texture and taste without overwhelming the natural beefy goodness.
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar: Adds tanginess and slight sweetness that tenderizes the meat beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: Creates a smooth, rich base for the marinade and helps with grilling.
- 1 large garlic clove: Brings a warm, aromatic punch that elevates the flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme leaves: Adds subtle herbal notes that perfectly complement the steak.
- 1 (2 1/2-pound) flank steak: A lean, flavorful cut that’s ideal for quick grilling and soaking up marinades.
- Kosher salt: Enhances the steak’s natural flavors and helps form a nice crust.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Provides a slight heat and dimension to each bite.
How to Make Grilled Balsamic and Garlic Flank Steak Recipe
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Start by assembling everything on your counter to keep the process smooth and stress-free. Having all ingredients within reach makes the experience more enjoyable, especially when working with a fast marinade.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
Combine the balsamic vinegar, extra-virgin olive oil, peeled garlic clove, and thyme leaves. These simple components come together to create a marinade that’s bursting with zest and herbal aroma. Using a blender helps achieve a smooth texture so the steak gets evenly coated.
Step 3: Marinate the Flank Steak
Place the flank steak in a large glass or ceramic dish, then pour the marinade over it. Because flank steak is thin and lean, it only needs a quick 5-minute soak to absorb those brilliant flavors without losing its texture. This brief marinade helps tenderize the meat just enough to keep each bite juicy and tender.
Step 4: Heat Your Grill Pan
Preheat a grill pan over moderately high heat. The hot surface ensures that your flank steak develops that crave-worthy crust locked with the deep caramel notes balsamic vinegar creates. A properly heated pan is key for even cooking and beautiful grill marks.
Step 5: Season and Grill the Steak
Just before grilling, season the steak generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to add that classic steakhouse flavor. Grill the flank steak for about 8 minutes on each side, turning once, until it reaches a perfect medium doneness. This method guarantees a tender inside with a perfectly seared exterior that’s bursting with bold flavor.
How to Serve Grilled Balsamic and Garlic Flank Steak Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes is a lovely way to brighten up the rich grilled steak. Think chopped parsley or a sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves to echo the marinade flavors. A drizzle of extra balsamic reduction can also add an elegant touch and heighten the tangy notes.
Side Dishes
The bold taste of this grilled steak pairs wonderfully with simple yet satisfying sides. Roasted garlic mashed potatoes, grilled asparagus, or a fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette make perfect companions. They balance the steak’s richness and enhance the overall meal experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the flank steak thinly against the grain for the most tender bites and arrange the slices fanned out over a wooden board for a rustic appeal. You can also serve it on warm tortillas with avocado and pickled onions to turn this dish into a gourmet taco night. The Grilled Balsamic and Garlic Flank Steak Recipe is very versatile, so have fun with your presentation!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When stored properly, the steak maintains its flavor and tenderness, making it easy to enjoy in sandwiches or salads later.
Freezing
If you want to save the steak for longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in a freezer bag. Frozen grilled flank steak keeps well for up to 3 months and thaws nicely without losing too much moisture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the steak gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of beef broth or water to keep it juicy. Avoid microwaving which can dry it out. This will bring the steak back to a pleasant temperature without sacrificing texture.
FAQs
Can I marinate the flank steak longer than 5 minutes?
Yes, you can marinate it for up to 2 hours if you have the time, which will intensify the flavors and increase tenderness. However, because flank steak is thin, the quick 5-minute marinade is enough for a tasty, tender result without overpowering the meat.
What’s the best way to check if the steak is medium doneness?
Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable method. For medium, aim for an internal temperature of about 140 to 145 degrees Fahrenheit. The steak will continue to cook slightly after removing it from the heat.
Can I use this marinade for other cuts of beef?
Absolutely! This balsamic garlic marinade works beautifully with other lean cuts like skirt steak or sirloin. Just adjust marinating time depending on the thickness and toughness of the meat.
Do I need to oil the grill pan before cooking?
While the olive oil in the marinade helps prevent sticking, lightly oiling the grill pan can give extra insurance against the steak sticking to the surface. A well-seasoned pan or non-stick surface also helps.
Can I make a vegetarian version using this recipe?
You can get creative by marinating and grilling hearty vegetables like portobello mushrooms or thick slices of eggplant in the same balsamic and garlic marinade. While it won’t be steak, it’ll still be bursting with flavor!
Final Thoughts
There’s truly nothing quite like the satisfaction of biting into a tender flank steak glazed with a rich, tangy balsamic and garlic marinade. The Grilled Balsamic and Garlic Flank Steak Recipe captures that special balance between bold flavor and juicy texture with such simplicity, it makes grilling feel accessible and downright fun. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try—you might just find your new go-to for a memorable meal.
Print
Grilled Balsamic and Garlic Flank Steak Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Total Time: 26 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Grilled Balsamic and Garlic Flank Steak recipe features a tender and flavorful flank steak marinated in a tangy balsamic vinegar, aromatic garlic, and fresh thyme, then grilled to juicy perfection. Perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner or an impressive BBQ entree.
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 large garlic clove, peeled
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme leaves
For the Steak
- 1 (2 1/2-pound) flank steak
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Gather Ingredients. Collect all ingredients including balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, thyme, flank steak, kosher salt, and black pepper to start the preparation.
- Prepare Marinade. Place the balsamic vinegar, extra-virgin olive oil, peeled garlic clove, and thyme leaves into a blender.
- Puree Marinade. Blend the mixture until it becomes a smooth marinade, ensuring all flavors are well combined.
- Marinate the Steak. Pour the blended marinade over the flank steak in a large glass or ceramic dish, making sure the steak is evenly coated. Marinate it for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
- Heat Grill Pan. Preheat a grill pan on moderately high heat to prepare for searing the steak.
- Season Steak. Season the marinated flank steak with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides before grilling.
- Grill the Steak. Place the steak on the hot grill pan and cook for about 8 minutes per side, turning once, until the steak reaches medium doneness.
- Rest and Serve. Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing against the grain and serving for maximum tenderness.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate the steak for longer (up to 2 hours) if time allows.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for preferred doneness — medium is around 140-145°F internal temperature.
- Allowing the steak to rest after grilling helps retain its juices and tenderness.
- If you don’t have a grill pan, an outdoor grill or broiler can be used as alternatives.
