Master The Art Of Grilling Flank Steak On A Gas Grill

Looking to learn how to grill flank steak on a gas grill? Look no further! Grilling a perfectly cooked flank steak that is juicy, tender, and full of flavor may seem like a daunting task, but with the right technique, it’s easier than you think. In this article, we will break down the steps to help you master the art of grilling flank steak on your gas grill. From preparing the steak to getting those beautiful grill marks and achieving the perfect internal temperature, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to impress your friends and family with a delicious grilled flank steak that will have them coming back for seconds!

How to Grill Flank Steak on a Gas Grill

Flank steak is a delicious and flavorful cut of beef that is perfect for grilling. When cooked properly, it can be tender and juicy, making it a favorite choice for many steak enthusiasts. Grilling flank steak on a gas grill is a fantastic way to enjoy this cut of meat, as the high heat helps to develop a flavorful char while retaining the steak’s natural juices. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to master the art of grilling flank steak on a gas grill, ensuring that you achieve a perfectly cooked steak every time.

Choosing a Quality Flank Steak

Before diving into the grilling process, it’s crucial to choose a quality flank steak. Here are some tips for selecting the best flank steak for your grilling session:

• Look for a steak that is thick and well-marbled. The marbling indicates fat content, which adds flavor and tenderness to the steak.
• Ensure that the flank steak has a bright red color. Avoid steaks with a gray or brown hue, as it may indicate poor quality or excessive aging.
• Opt for USDA Prime or Choice grade beef for the highest quality and flavor. While it may be pricier, the taste and tenderness are worth it.
• Consider purchasing organic or grass-fed flank steak if you prefer meat from animals raised on natural diets.

Preparing the Flank Steak

Properly preparing the flank steak before grilling is essential to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor. Follow these steps:

1. Remove the flank steak from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature. This allows for more even cooking throughout the steak.
2. Trim any excess fat from the steak, leaving a thin layer to enhance flavor and juiciness.
3. Score the surface of the steak by making shallow cuts diagonally across the grain. This helps to tenderize the meat and allows marinades and seasonings to penetrate.
4. Season the flank steak generously with your preferred blend of spices, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, or a steak seasoning mix. Rub the seasonings into the meat, ensuring even coverage.
5. Consider marinating the flank steak for added flavor. Place the seasoned steak in a resealable plastic bag or container and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours. Use your favorite marinade or create a simple mixture of olive oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, and Worcestershire sauce.

Preheating and Preparing the Gas Grill

Before placing the flank steak on the gas grill, you need to properly preheat and prepare the grill:

1. Ensure that your gas grill is clean and free from any debris. Use a grill brush to remove any residual food or grease.
2. Preheat the grill by turning all burners to high. Close the lid and let the grill heat up for approximately 10-15 minutes until it reaches a temperature of around 450-500°F (232-260°C).
3. Once preheated, use a grill brush to lightly oil the grates to prevent the flank steak from sticking.

Grilling the Flank Steak

Now comes the exciting part—grilling the flank steak to perfection:

1. Place the prepared flank steak on the preheated grill at a diagonal angle, positioning the steak across the grill grates. This helps to create visually appealing grill marks.
2. Cook the flank steak for approximately 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare or adjust the cooking time based on your desired level of doneness. To determine doneness, use an instant-read meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the steak. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should reach 130-135°F (54-57°C).
3. Avoid excessive flipping and poking of the steak to retain its juiciness. Only flip the steak once during cooking.
4. For added flavor, baste the flank steak with your choice of marinade or sauce during the last few minutes of grilling.

Resting and Slicing the Flank Steak

Resting the flank steak after grilling is crucial to allow the juices to redistribute and ensure optimal tenderness. Here’s what to do:

1. Remove the grilled flank steak from the gas grill and place it on a cutting board.
2. Cover the steak loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for approximately 5-10 minutes. This rest period allows the internal temperature to rise a few degrees and the juices to distribute evenly throughout the meat.
3. After resting, slice the flank steak against the grain. Look for the lines running through the meat fibers and cut across them for the most tender and delicious slices.
4. Cut the steak into thin strips, about 1/4-inch thick, for optimal tenderness.

Serving and Enjoying the Grilled Flank Steak

Now that your delicious grilled flank steak is ready, it’s time to serve and enjoy it:

• Plate the sliced flank steak and garnish with fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley or cilantro, for a pop of color and added flavor.
• Consider serving the grilled flank steak alongside your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or grilled corn on the cob.
• Pair the steak with a glass of red wine or your preferred beverage to enhance the dining experience.
• Sit back, relax, and savor each bite of the tender and flavorful grilled flank steak!

That’s it—now you’re equipped with all the knowledge and steps to master grilling flank steak on a gas grill. With practice, you’ll be able to achieve the perfect balance of charred exterior and juicy interior, satisfying your taste buds with every bite. So fire up the grill, grab a quality flank steak, and get ready to impress your friends and family with your grilling skills!

The Art of Grilling: How to Grill Flank Steak

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prepare flank steak for grilling?

To prepare flank steak for grilling, start by marinating the steak in your preferred marinade for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. Make sure to pat the steak dry before grilling to ensure a nice sear on the meat.

How long should I grill flank steak on a gas grill?

For a medium-rare flank steak, grill it over medium-high heat for about 4-6 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach around 130-135°F (55-57°C) for medium-rare. Adjust the cooking time based on your desired level of doneness.

Should I preheat the gas grill before grilling flank steak?

Yes, it is essential to preheat the gas grill before grilling flank steak. Preheating ensures that the grill grates are hot enough to sear the meat properly and create those beautiful grill marks. Heat the grill to medium-high heat, around 400-450°F (204-232°C) before placing the flank steak on the grates.

How can I achieve a flavorful crust on my grilled flank steak?

To achieve a flavorful crust on your grilled flank steak, pat the meat dry with paper towels before grilling. This helps remove excess moisture and promotes a better sear. Additionally, you can brush the steak with some oil or melted butter before grilling to enhance browning and add extra flavor.

Should I let flank steak rest after grilling?

Yes, it is recommended to let flank steak rest for about 5-10 minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. Tent the cooked steak with aluminum foil to keep it warm during resting.

Can I grill flank steak to well-done on a gas grill?

While grilling flank steak to well-done is possible on a gas grill, it may result in a tougher and less juicy steak. Flank steak is best enjoyed when cooked to medium-rare or medium doneness to preserve its tenderness and flavor. If you prefer well-done steak, consider choosing a different cut of meat that is better suited for longer cooking times.

Final Thoughts

Grilling flank steak on a gas grill is a delicious and straightforward process. To start, marinate the steak for a minimum of 2 hours to enhance its flavor and tenderness. Preheat the gas grill to high heat and oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the steak on the grill and cook for about 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare, flipping once. Once cooked, let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing against the grain. Serve and enjoy your perfectly grilled flank steak! With this simple guide, you can now confidently master the art of grilling flank steak on a gas grill.