Grilled Flank Steak Recipes with Fresh Mozzarella You’ll Love

Grilled Flank Steak Recipe Overview

This grilled flank steak recipe is a testament to how incredible a meal can be with minimal fuss. Flank steak, known for its robust beefy flavor, truly shines when cooked quickly over high heat. It’s a lean cut that responds beautifully to marinades, absorbing flavors that tenderize and enhance its natural qualities. Our approach focuses on efficiency without compromising on taste, making it a stellar choice for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering. The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward steps and the ability to customize it with various toppings, creating a truly personal culinary experience. Prepare to impress your family and friends with a dish that looks gourmet but is surprisingly easy to execute.

Quick Prep for Steak

One of the biggest advantages of working with flank steak is the minimal preparation required. Unlike some other cuts that demand extensive trimming, flank steak usually needs just a quick pat dry before marinating. The key here is efficiency. You can have your steak ready for the grill in under 15 minutes of active prep, allowing you more time to focus on other aspects of your meal or simply relax. This quick prep makes it an excellent choice for those busy evenings when time is of the essence but you still crave a hearty, home-cooked meal.

Fast Cooking Time

Given its relatively thin profile, flank steak cooks incredibly fast on a hot grill. You’re looking at just 4-8 minutes per side, depending on your desired doneness and the thickness of your specific cut. This rapid cooking time means you won’t be tethered to the grill for long, making it perfect for summer barbecues where you want to spend more time with guests and less time cooking. The quick searing process locks in juices, creating a delicious crust while keeping the interior tender.

Servings and Total Time

This recipe is designed to generously serve 4-6 people, making it versatile for both small family dinners and larger gatherings. From start to finish, including marinating, active prep, and grilling, the total time can range from 2 hours (with a minimum 1.5-hour marinade) to up to 8 hours if you choose a longer marinating period for deeper flavor. However, the active hands-on time remains incredibly low, typically around 30 minutes. This balance of flavor development and quick active cooking makes it an approachable and rewarding recipe for any home cook.

Choosing the Right Flank Steak Cut

Selecting the proper cut is the first step to a truly successful grilled flank steak. Flank steak is a specific cut of beef taken from the abdominal muscles of the cow. It’s known for its long, distinct grain and strong beefy flavor. When purchasing, look for a piece that is uniformly reddish-pink with a minimal amount of silver skin or connective tissue. While usually lean, some flank steaks might have a thin layer of fat on one side; this can be left on for flavor or trimmed for leanness. The thickness can vary, but ideally, you want a piece that’s around 1 to 1.5 inches thick for even cooking on the grill.

Beyond traditional flank steak, other cuts that perform similarly well on the grill include skirt steak and hanger steak. Skirt steak is even thinner and has a more pronounced grain, making it very quick to cook and excellent for absorbing marinades. Hanger steak, sometimes called “butcher’s steak,” is incredibly flavorful and tender, though it has a thicker membrane down the middle that usually needs to be removed. While flank steak is our star today, understanding these alternatives gives you flexibility in your grilling adventures. For best results with any of these cuts, ensure they are fresh and sourced from a reputable butcher. Knowing your cuts is part of mastering delicious main course recipes.

Best Cuts for Grilling

For optimal grilling, flank steak stands out due to its relatively flat shape and consistent thickness, which allows for even heat distribution. Its fibrous texture makes it highly receptive to marinades, which break down the tougher fibers and infuse flavor, resulting in a more tender bite. When grilling, the goal is high heat and fast cooking to achieve a beautiful sear on the outside while maintaining a juicy, medium-rare to medium interior. This method brings out the best in cuts like flank steak, skirt steak, and hanger steak. Avoid very thick cuts, like certain roasts, unless you plan for a much longer, indirect grilling process, which isn’t the aim for this quick and flavorful recipe.

A well-grilled flank steak transforms into a tender and juicy meal, proving that simple ingredients can yield extraordinary results. Always ensure your chosen cut is fresh. You can learn more about flank steak on Wikipedia to deepen your understanding of this versatile meat.

Simple Balsamic Marinade for Steak

A truly exceptional grilled flank steak begins with an outstanding marinade. Our simple balsamic marinade is designed to infuse the meat with deep, savory, and slightly sweet notes, while also tenderizing the fibers. The acidity in the balsamic vinegar works wonders, breaking down the muscle tissue just enough to ensure a tender chew without making the steak mushy. This marinade is incredibly versatile, pairing wonderfully with many types of beef or even chicken, such as our grilled salsa verde pepper jack chicken. It’s the secret weapon for achieving that restaurant-quality flavor right in your backyard.

The combination of rich balsamic vinegar, robust olive oil, fragrant garlic, and a hint of fresh herbs creates a flavor profile that complements the inherent beefiness of flank steak beautifully. We’ll also add a touch of Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce for an extra layer of umami and complexity. Don’t underestimate the power of freshly cracked black pepper and a good sea salt—they are fundamental to bringing all these flavors into harmony. Prepare to elevate your grilling game with this straightforward yet incredibly impactful marinade.

Making Marinade Quickly

Whipping up this marinade is a breeze, taking mere minutes. In a medium bowl or a large resealable bag, combine the following: 1/2 cup good quality balsamic vinegar, 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, 2-3 cloves of garlic (minced), 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped), 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Whisk everything together until well combined. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity; you likely have most of these ingredients in your pantry already. Once prepared, simply place your flank steak into the bag or bowl, ensuring it’s fully coated with the marinade. Seal it up, and it’s ready for its flavor bath.

Marinating Steak Time

Marination time is crucial for both flavor and tenderness. For flank steak, we recommend marinating for a minimum of 1.5 to 2 hours. This duration allows the flavors to penetrate the meat sufficiently and the acidity of the balsamic to begin its tenderizing work. However, for a more intense flavor and even greater tenderness, you can extend the marinating period up to 8 hours. Do not marinate flank steak for longer than 12 hours, as the acid can start to break down the fibers too much, resulting in a somewhat mushy texture. Always marinate in the refrigerator to ensure food safety. Turn the bag or steak occasionally if marinating in a bowl, to ensure even coverage. This thoughtful preparation will pay off immensely when you bite into your tender, flavorful steak.

Grilling Your Flank Steak Perfectly

Grilling flank steak to perfection is an art, but one that is easily mastered with a few key techniques. The goal is to achieve a beautiful, savory crust on the outside while maintaining a juicy, tender interior. This requires a hot grill and precise timing. Avoid the common mistake of cooking flank steak too slowly over low heat, as this will result in a tough, dry piece of meat rather than the succulent dish you desire. High heat ensures a quick sear, locking in all those delicious juices and creating that desirable char flavor that makes grilled steak so irresistible.

Ensuring your grill is properly prepared is half the battle. Whether you’re using a gas grill or charcoal, the principle remains the same: get it screaming hot. This high temperature is what allows you to achieve the perfect crust in a short amount of time, preventing the steak from overcooking before it has a chance to develop that wonderful sear. A well-maintained and hot grill also means less sticking, making for an easier flip and a more attractive final product. Pay attention to your grill’s hot spots and be ready to move the steak if necessary to ensure even cooking.

Preheat Your Grill

Before placing your steak, make sure your grill is thoroughly preheated. For gas grills, turn all burners to high, close the lid, and allow it to preheat for at least 10-15 minutes, reaching around 450-500°F (230-260°C). For charcoal grills, light your charcoal and allow it to burn until it’s covered in a light gray ash, then spread it evenly for direct heat. Once hot, use a sturdy wire brush to clean the grates. Lightly oil the clean grates with a paper towel dipped in high smoke point oil, like canola or grapeseed, just before adding the steak. This step is critical for non-stick grilling and achieving a perfect sear.

Grilling Times and Doneness

Flank steak cooks rapidly, so vigilance is key. Remove the steak from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the steak directly over the high heat. For a 1 to 1.5-inch thick flank steak, here are approximate grilling times per side for various doneness levels:

• Rare: 2-3 minutes per side (125-130°F / 52-54°C)
• Medium-Rare: 3-4 minutes per side (130-135°F / 54-57°C) – Recommended for flank steak!
• Medium: 4-5 minutes per side (135-140°F / 57-60°C)

These are guidelines. The best way to ensure perfect doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding any fat or bone. Pull the steak off the grill when it’s about 5 degrees below your target temperature, as it will continue to cook as it rests (carryover cooking). For more tips on achieving the perfect cook, check out advice on using a meat thermometer on Pinterest. The accurate temperature reading is crucial for safe and delicious results.

Adding Fresh Mozzarella to Steak

While grilled flank steak is magnificent on its own, adding a touch of fresh mozzarella elevates the dish to another level of indulgence. The creamy, mild flavor of fresh mozzarella beautifully complements the savory richness of the steak and the tang of the balsamic marinade. Unlike aged cheeses, fresh mozzarella melts into a soft, slightly gooey blanket that enhances both the texture and the visual appeal of your meal. It introduces a delightful contrast, adding a cool, milky dimension to the warm, charred beef.

Using fresh mozzarella specifically (as opposed to low-moisture, shredded mozzarella) is key here. Its higher moisture content and delicate structure mean it melts more gently and doesn’t become greasy or overly crispy. When selecting your mozzarella, look for fresh balls packed in water or a whey solution. You can either slice it thinly or tear it into smaller pieces for easier melting and distribution across the steak. This simple addition transforms a great steak into an unforgettable culinary experience, making each bite even more luscious.

Melting Cheese on Grill

The trick to melting fresh mozzarella on the grill without burning it or making a mess is timing. Once your flank steak has reached your desired doneness, and just before you remove it from the grill, place thin slices or torn pieces of fresh mozzarella evenly over the surface of the steak. Close the grill lid for 1-2 minutes, or just long enough for the cheese to soften and become slightly bubbly. The residual heat from the grill and the steak itself will do most of the work.

Keep a close eye on it to prevent the cheese from dripping into the flames or overcooking. You want it warm and melted, not crisp and brown. If you’re concerned about direct heat, you can move the steak to a cooler part of the grill or even tent it loosely with foil for a minute or two off the heat to achieve the perfect melt. This technique ensures that the mozzarella is perfectly soft and creamy, ready to blend with the steak’s juices as you slice it. This creates a wonderfully integrated flavor that makes every serving truly delicious.

Resting and Slicing Tender Steak

Once your grilled flank steak has achieved its perfect doneness and the mozzarella is beautifully melted, the temptation to slice into it immediately is strong. However, exercising patience at this stage is absolutely critical for a truly tender and juicy result. The resting period, though seemingly minor, is perhaps one of the most important steps in preparing any grilled meat, especially a lean cut like flank steak. Skipping this step often leads to a dry, less flavorful experience, which would be a shame after all your careful work.

This crucial pause allows the internal juices, which have been pushed to the center of the steak during the high-heat cooking process, to redistribute evenly throughout the meat. Without resting, these juices would simply spill out onto your cutting board, leaving you with a drier steak. Resting ensures that every bite is as succulent and flavorful as possible, locking in all the goodness you’ve created. It transforms a good steak into a great one, enhancing both its texture and its taste.

Why Resting Matters

When meat cooks, its muscle fibers contract, forcing moisture towards the center. If you cut into the steak immediately after removing it from the grill, those pressurized juices will rush out, leaving the outer edges dry and tough. Resting allows the muscle fibers to relax and reabsorb that moisture, ensuring that each slice remains juicy and tender. For a flank steak, a rest of at least 5-10 minutes is ideal. Simply transfer the steak to a cutting board, tent it loosely with aluminum foil to retain warmth, and let it sit. This period also allows for some “carryover cooking,” where the internal temperature rises slightly, contributing to the final desired doneness. This simple step truly makes all the difference in achieving a perfectly moist and flavorful steak.

Slicing Against the Grain

After a proper rest, the next crucial step is slicing your flank steak correctly – always against the grain. Flank steak has very long, visible muscle fibers, which can be tough if not cut properly. To find the grain, look for parallel lines of muscle fibers running through the meat. You want to orient your knife perpendicular to these lines. Slicing against the grain shortens these fibers, making the steak much more tender and easier to chew. If you slice with the grain, even the most perfectly cooked steak will seem tough and stringy.

Use a sharp knife and slice the steak thinly, at a slight angle, for maximum tenderness. The thin slices also increase the surface area for the delicious toppings and sauces. This technique is paramount for flank steak, turning what could be a chewy experience into a delightfully tender one. It’s a trick that applies to many lean cuts, ensuring your efforts result in a truly pleasant dining experience. This meticulous approach to slicing is just as important as the grilling itself for the perfect bite of crispy parmesan chicken or steak.

Prepping Fresh Toppings for Steak

The beauty of this grilled flank steak recipe extends beyond the perfectly cooked meat and melted mozzarella. Fresh, vibrant toppings provide a delightful contrast in texture and flavor, adding brightness and a burst of garden-freshness to every bite. These accoutrements aren’t just for garnish; they play a significant role in balancing the richness of the steak and making the dish feel complete and well-rounded. Think of them as the perfect punctuation mark to your culinary sentence, elevating simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

Incorporating fresh toppings is also an excellent way to introduce more color and nutrients to your meal. The crispness of fresh vegetables and the aromatic qualities of herbs provide a refreshing counterpoint to the savory, hearty steak. It allows for a layered flavor experience, where each component contributes something unique to the overall harmony of the dish. Plus, preparing these toppings is often very quick, ensuring that your overall meal assembly remains efficient and enjoyable.

Slice Tomatoes and Basil

For this recipe, ripe, juicy tomatoes and fragrant fresh basil are the stars of the topping show. Choose heirloom tomatoes for their varied colors and intense flavor, or sweet cherry tomatoes halved. Slice larger tomatoes into thin wedges or dice them, depending on your preference. The key is to have bite-sized pieces that can be easily enjoyed with each forkful of steak. Fresh basil should be chiffonaded (thinly sliced) or simply torn by hand to release its aromatic oils. The bright, slightly acidic notes of the tomato cut through the richness of the steak and cheese, while the sweet, peppery freshness of the basil adds a herbaceous lift.

Arrange these fresh toppings artfully over the sliced steak and melted mozzarella just before serving. The combination not only tastes incredible but also creates a visually stunning presentation that is sure to impress. Consider adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt and a crack of black pepper over the tomatoes to enhance their natural sweetness. This simple preparation highlights the quality of your fresh ingredients and showcases how a few well-chosen elements can make a significant impact on the final dish.

Optional Balsamic Glaze

To add an extra layer of sophisticated flavor and a beautiful glossy finish, consider drizzling your grilled flank steak with an optional balsamic glaze. This is easily made by simmering good quality balsamic vinegar over low heat until it reduces by about half and thickens to a syrupy consistency. Be careful not to reduce it too much, or it will become overly sticky. A dash of honey or maple syrup can be added during the reduction for extra sweetness, if desired. The concentrated sweet and tangy notes of the glaze provide a perfect counterpoint to the savory steak and fresh toppings.

A light drizzle of this glaze just before serving ties all the flavors together, adding depth and a gourmet touch. It’s a quick step that truly enhances the overall experience, providing a “wow” factor with minimal effort. This sweet and tangy addition creates a harmonious flavor profile that will make your grilled flank steak an unforgettable meal. You can also explore preparing crispy cauliflower or other side dishes that might also benefit from a touch of balsamic glaze.

Essential Tips for Grilled Steak Success

Achieving consistently perfect grilled flank steak relies on a few fundamental principles that, when followed, virtually guarantee success. These tips are not just suggestions; they are the bedrock of exceptional grilling, turning good intentions into delicious realities. Mastering these basics will not only improve your flank steak but also elevate your overall grilling prowess, making you more confident and capable with any cut of meat. From infusing flavor to ensuring safety and quality, each tip plays a vital role in the journey to a truly memorable meal.

Consider these guidelines as your personal grilling commandments. They distill years of culinary experience into actionable advice, designed to prevent common pitfalls and maximize the natural deliciousness of your ingredients. Paying attention to these details will ensure that every grilled flank steak you prepare is tender, juicy, and packed with flavor, making your efforts incredibly rewarding. This approach makes your cooking more consistent and ultimately more enjoyable for everyone at the table.

Marinating for Flavor

As previously mentioned, marinating is paramount for flank steak. Beyond just adding flavor, the acidic components in the marinade, like balsamic vinegar, work to tenderize the meat. Aim for at least 1.5 to 2 hours of marination, and up to 8 hours for deeper flavor penetration. Always marinate in the refrigerator. Ensure the steak is fully submerged or turned occasionally if in a bowl. This critical step sets the foundation for a flavorful and tender steak, making it a non-negotiable part of the preparation process. Don’t rush this step; the flavors need time to develop.

Using a Meat Thermometer

Guessing doneness is a recipe for disappointment, especially with fast-cooking cuts like flank steak. A reliable instant-read meat thermometer is your best friend. It takes the guesswork out of grilling and ensures your steak is cooked to your exact preference—medium-rare, medium, or whatever you desire—without overcooking. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding fat or bone. Remember to account for carryover cooking by removing the steak a few degrees below your target temperature. This simple tool guarantees food safety and culinary precision, making you a grilling pro.

Fresh Ingredients Impact

The quality of your ingredients directly correlates with the quality of your finished dish. This is especially true for grilled flank steak, where simple flavors are allowed to shine. Use good quality balsamic vinegar, fresh garlic, and vibrant, ripe tomatoes and basil. These fresh components contribute immensely to the overall taste and aroma, transforming a simple grilled steak into a gourmet experience. Fresh herbs, for example, have a more potent and nuanced flavor than their dried counterparts. Investing in fresh, high-quality ingredients will always yield superior results, making your meal truly stand out.

Creative Variations for Grilled Steak

While our classic grilled flank steak with mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil is undeniably delicious, don’t hesitate to let your culinary creativity take the reins. This recipe serves as an excellent foundation for endless variations, allowing you to adapt it to your taste preferences, seasonal availability, or simply what you have on hand. Experimenting with different flavor profiles and ingredient combinations can keep your meals exciting and prevent palate fatigue, making flank steak a versatile staple in your cooking repertoire. Think beyond the traditional and imagine the possibilities.

The beauty of grilling is its adaptability. You can easily switch up marinades, cheeses, and toppings to create an entirely new experience. This flexibility makes flank steak a fantastic choice for home cooks who love to innovate and try new things. Whether you’re aiming for a spicier kick, a smoky depth, or a Mediterranean twist, the core method of grilling flank steak remains reliable. These creative variations are perfect for making the most out of your kitchen and grill.

Cheese and Steak Swaps

Instead of fresh mozzarella, consider other cheeses that melt well and complement beef. A sharp provolone or a smoky Gouda would add a distinct character. Crumbled blue cheese after grilling provides a pungent kick that pairs wonderfully with steak. For a Mexican-inspired twist, try pepper jack or cotija cheese. As for the steak, if flank is unavailable or you simply want to try something new, skirt steak, as mentioned earlier, is an excellent substitute. Hanger steak also works beautifully with this marinade and grilling method, offering a slightly richer flavor. These swaps allow for endless combinations.

Adding More Vegetables

Expand your side dish options by grilling vegetables right alongside your steak. Asparagus, bell peppers, red onion slices, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes on skewers all grill quickly and beautifully. Toss them with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper before placing them on the grill. This not only adds more nutrients and color to your plate but also streamlines the cooking process by utilizing the same heat source. You can even chop up leftover grilled vegetables to serve as a warm salsa or relish over the steak, creating a complete, flavorful meal all cooked on one appliance. These additions can transform your plate into a vibrant culinary landscape.

Perfect Sides for Steak Recipes

A perfectly grilled flank steak deserves equally perfect companions. While the steak itself is undeniably the star, the right side dishes can elevate the entire meal, providing balance, contrast, and additional layers of flavor and texture. Thinking about side dishes that complement the richness of the beef without overwhelming it is key. This section offers suggestions that are both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, ensuring your dining experience is complete and harmonious from the first bite to the last. Selecting good sides makes all the difference in a meal.

The goal is to create a well-rounded plate that offers a variety of nutrients and tastes. Whether you prefer hearty roasted vegetables or light, refreshing salads, there are countless ways to round out your grilled steak dinner. These suggestions are designed to be relatively simple, allowing the focus to remain on the star of the show while still providing substantial and delicious accompaniments. Consider pairing your steak with something that cuts through its richness or adds a fresh, vibrant element.

Roasted Veggies Pairings

Roasted vegetables are a fantastic choice for pairing with grilled flank steak because they require minimal attention and often can be prepared simultaneously. Toss broccoli florets, asparagus spears, Brussels sprouts, or chunks of sweet potato with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of your favorite herbs (like rosemary or thyme). Roast them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) until tender-crisp and slightly caramelized. The earthy sweetness and slight char of roasted vegetables complement the savory grilled steak beautifully. For a touch of garlic and parmesan, consider making crispy cauliflower as a side.

Another excellent option is roasted potatoes, such as small red potatoes or Yukon Golds, tossed with garlic and herbs. The starchy, comforting texture of potatoes provides a lovely counterpoint to the lean steak. These sides are hearty enough to make the meal substantial but don’t compete with the steak for attention, making them ideal partners for a robust main course.

Simple Salad Options

For a lighter, fresher approach, a simple salad can be the perfect accompaniment. A classic Caesar salad, with its crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons, offers a refreshing contrast. Alternatively, a vibrant caprese salad (sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze) mirrors some of the steak’s toppings, tying the meal together with a cohesive flavor profile. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing, perhaps featuring mixed greens, cucumber, and red onion, provides a cleansing palate experience.

Consider a Mediterranean-inspired salad with cucumbers, olives, feta, and a lemon-herb dressing for something a bit more adventurous. These fresh, crisp elements provide a wonderful counterpoint to the rich, savory steak, adding a much-needed crunch and acidity. Salads are quick to assemble and can often be prepared ahead of time, reducing last-minute stress. They are a healthy and delicious way to round out your grilled flank steak dinner, offering both flavor and visual appeal.

Grilled Flank Steak You’ll Love

By following these detailed steps, from selecting the right cut and mastering the marinade to perfect grilling and artful slicing, you are now equipped to create a grilled flank steak that will truly impress. This recipe isn’t just about cooking; it’s about crafting an experience—a meal that’s both satisfyingly hearty and refreshingly vibrant. The interplay of the savory, tender steak, the creamy melted mozzarella, and the bright, fresh toppings creates a symphony of flavors and textures that tantalize the palate. It’s a dish that speaks to both simplicity and sophistication, proving that incredible food doesn’t have to be overly complicated.

Each element of this recipe has been thoughtfully considered to ensure maximum flavor and ease of preparation. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this grilled flank steak is guaranteed to be a hit. Its versatility also means you can revisit it often, experimenting with variations to keep things interesting. So fire up that grill with confidence, knowing that a truly delicious meal awaits. Your journey to mastering the art of the perfect grilled flank steak starts here, promising culinary satisfaction with every forkful.

Enjoy These Grilled Flank Steak Recipes

Now that you have all the tools and tips, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. This grilled flank steak recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an invitation to savor fresh flavors and appreciate the simple joy of home cooking. We encourage you to make it your own, adjusting seasonings, exploring alternative toppings, and even sharing your creations. Cooking should be a delightful adventure, and this recipe is a perfect starting point for many memorable meals to come.

Don’t forget to connect with us and share your culinary successes! Follow us on Instagram for daily inspiration and delicious recipe ideas. You can also find more grilling tips and meal ideas on our Pinterest page. We love seeing how you bring our recipes to life in your own kitchen. Happy grilling!