Best Flank Steak Marinade

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This marinade is a game-changer for flank steak lovers. It infuses the meat with savory umami from the soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce, while honey adds a touch of sweetness. The lime juice (or vinegar) balances everything with a refreshing zing, and the garlic and green onions bring a burst of aromatic flavor. Whether you’re grilling, searing, or broiling, this marinade ensures the steak is juicy, tender, and packed with flavor every time.

Ingredients

• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• ½ cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice, or red wine vinegar / balsamic vinegar
• ½ small onion, chopped into small chunks
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon minced garlic)
• 2 tablespoons green onions, minced
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning, or fresh thyme and rosemary
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 pounds flank steak (907g)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, olive oil, honey, Worcestershire sauce, lime juice (or vinegar), chopped onion, minced garlic, green onions, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and salt.
2. Stir the mixture well until the honey is dissolved, and all ingredients are fully combined.
3. Place the flank steak in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it’s fully coated.
4. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours, preferably overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
5. Preheat your grill or a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. If grilling, brush the grates with a little oil to prevent sticking.
6. Remove the steak from the marinade, letting any excess marinade drip off. Discard the leftover marinade.
7. Grill or sear the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare, or to your desired doneness.
8. Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing against the grain to serve.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Marinating Time: 1-2 hours (or overnight)
• Cook Time: 8-10 minutes

Variations

• Herb Variations: Swap out the Italian seasoning for fresh thyme and rosemary for a more aromatic flavor.
• Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the marinade for a spicy kick.
• Citrus Kick: Replace the lime juice with orange juice for a sweeter, fruitier twist on the marinade.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: If you have leftover cooked steak, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the steak gently on the stovetop over low heat, or in the microwave in short intervals to prevent it from overcooking.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of meat with this marinade?

Yes, this marinade works great with other cuts like skirt steak, sirloin, or even chicken breasts or thighs. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the meat.

2. How long should I marinate the flank steak?

For best results, marinate the steak for at least 1-2 hours, but overnight is ideal for the most flavorful and tender meat.

3. Can I freeze the marinade?

Yes, you can freeze the marinade before adding the meat. Just thaw it in the refrigerator the night before using.

4. Can I use balsamic vinegar instead of lime juice?

Yes, balsamic vinegar can replace lime juice for a slightly sweeter, tangy flavor.

5. Is it necessary to discard the marinade after use?

Yes, discard the marinade after it’s been in contact with raw meat to avoid cross-contamination.

6. Can I cook the flank steak in the oven instead of grilling?

Yes, you can roast it in the oven at 400°F for 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steak.

7. What is the best way to slice the flank steak?

Always slice the flank steak against the grain to ensure the meat is tender and easy to chew.

8. Can I make this marinade in advance?

Yes, you can make the marinade ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using.

9. What sides go well with flank steak?

Flank steak pairs well with grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad. It also works great in tacos, wraps, or sandwiches.

10. How do I know when the steak is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. 130°F is medium-rare, 140°F for medium, and 160°F for well-done.

Conclusion

This Best Flank Steak Marinade is a simple yet incredibly flavorful way to prepare one of the most popular cuts of beef. With ingredients that balance savory, sweet, and tangy notes, your steak will be juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re grilling for a family dinner or prepping for a barbecue, this marinade is sure to impress everyone at the table.

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