Figuring out How Long To Grill Flank Steak On Gas Grill can seem tricky, especially if you’re new to cooking steak outdoors. You want it perfectly cooked, not tough or dry. Many people wonder about the exact time needed for that juicy, flavorful result.
This guide makes it simple with easy steps. We will show you the best way to get it right every time, so you can enjoy delicious grilled flank steak.
Grilling Flank Steak Perfectly
Grilling flank steak on a gas grill can be super rewarding. This cut of meat is lean and flavorful, making it great for quick grilling. The biggest challenge for many is nailing the cooking time.
Too little time, and it’s undercooked. Too much, and it can become tough. Getting the temperature just right is key.
What is Flank Steak?
Flank steak comes from the belly of the cow. It’s a long, flat cut. Because it’s lean, it cooks best with high heat for a short period.
This method helps keep it tender and juicy. It has a lot of muscle fibers running lengthwise, so slicing it against the grain is very important for tenderness.
Choosing the Right Steak
When you buy flank steak, look for one that is bright red and has some marbling. Marbling is the little white flecks of fat within the meat. More marbling means more flavor and moisture.
About 1 to 1.5 inches thick is ideal for grilling.
Preparing Your Flank Steak
Before you grill, let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 to 60 minutes. This helps it cook more evenly. Pat it dry with paper towels.
This step is important for getting a good sear on the outside.
Seasoning is next. You can use a simple rub of salt and pepper. For extra flavor, try garlic powder, onion powder, or your favorite steak seasoning.
You can also marinate flank steak. Marinades help tenderize the meat and add lots of taste. Good marinade ingredients include olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and herbs.
Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to a few hours in the refrigerator.
Setting Up Your Gas Grill
Preheat your gas grill to high heat. You want the grill grates to be very hot. This is crucial for searing the steak quickly.
Most gas grills have a temperature gauge; aim for around 450°F to 500°F (230°C to 260°C).
Clean the grill grates thoroughly. Use a grill brush to remove any old food bits. Then, oil the grates.
You can do this by dipping a paper towel in high-heat oil (like vegetable or canola oil) using tongs and rubbing it over the grates. This prevents the steak from sticking.
How Long To Grill Flank Steak On Gas Grill
Now for the main question: How Long To Grill Flank Steak On Gas Grill. The exact time depends on how you like your steak cooked and the thickness of the steak. For a 1-inch thick flank steak on a hot gas grill, here are general times:
Grilling Times for Different Doneness Levels
These times are for one side of the steak before flipping. They are approximate and can vary based on grill heat and steak thickness.
- Rare: 3-4 minutes per side. The internal temperature should be around 120-125°F (49-52°C).
- Medium-Rare: 4-5 minutes per side. Internal temperature should be 130-135°F (54-57°C). This is often considered ideal for flank steak.
- Medium: 5-6 minutes per side. Internal temperature should be 140-145°F (60-63°C).
- Medium-Well: 6-7 minutes per side. Internal temperature should be 150-155°F (66-68°C).
- Well-Done: 7-8 minutes per side. Internal temperature should be 160°F (71°C) or higher. For flank steak, going past medium can make it tough.
Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature for the most accurate results. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding any bone or fat.
The Importance of Searing
Searing the steak on high heat for the first few minutes on each side creates a delicious crust. This crust adds flavor and helps lock in juices. After the initial sear, you might move the steak to a slightly cooler part of the grill if it’s cooking too quickly.
However, for thin cuts like flank steak, maintaining high heat for the short cooking time is usually best.
Resting Your Steak
This is a super important step that many people skip. Once the steak is off the grill, let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. Cover it loosely with foil.
This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. If you cut into it too soon, all those delicious juices will run out onto your plate, leaving the steak dry.
Slicing Flank Steak Correctly
After resting, slice the flank steak against the grain. The grain refers to the direction the muscle fibers are running. You’ll see these lines in the steak.
Cutting across these lines shortens the fibers, making the steak much easier to chew and more tender. Slice it thinly, about 1/4 inch thick.
Factors Affecting Grill Time
Several things can change how long you need to grill your flank steak. Knowing these will help you adjust your timing.
Steak Thickness
The most common factor influencing grill time is the thickness of your flank steak. A 1-inch thick steak will cook much faster than a 1.5-inch or 2-inch thick cut. Always adjust your times based on how thick your steak is.
Grill Temperature Consistency
Gas grills can have hot spots and cooler spots. The overall temperature can also fluctuate. If your grill runs hotter than you expect, you’ll need less time.
If it’s running cooler, you’ll need a bit more. A reliable grill thermometer or an infrared thermometer can help you know your grill’s true temperature.
Marbling and Cut Quality
As mentioned, steaks with better marbling tend to cook a bit faster and stay juicier. A higher quality cut might also cook more quickly due to its tenderness and density.
Marinade and Moisture
If you marinated your steak, the moisture content can slightly affect cooking time. A very wet steak might take a tiny bit longer to sear and get that nice crust.
Tips for Flank Steak Success
Here are some extra tips to make your flank steak grilling experience fantastic.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your steak is cooked to your desired doneness without guessing.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Give each steak enough space so heat can circulate evenly around it.
- Flip Once: For best results, flip the steak only once. This helps create a good crust on both sides.
- Know Your Grill: Get to know how your specific gas grill heats up. Every grill is a little different.
- Experiment with Marinades: Flank steak takes well to many flavors. Try different marinades to find your favorite.
Comparing Grilling Methods
While this guide focuses on gas grills, it’s helpful to know how other methods compare, though the core principle of cooking time and resting remains similar.
| Grill Type | Heat Control | Ease of Use | Typical Flank Steak Time (Medium-Rare) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gas Grill | Excellent (quick adjustments) | Very Easy | 8-10 minutes total (4-5 per side) |
| Charcoal Grill | Good (requires managing coals) | Moderate | 8-10 minutes total (4-5 per side) |
| Pellet Grill | Excellent (precise digital control) | Very Easy | 8-10 minutes total (4-5 per side) |
The table shows that for medium-rare, the total grilling time for flank steak on a hot grill is quite consistent across different types. The main difference lies in how you control and maintain that heat. Gas grills offer the easiest and quickest adjustments for temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What is the best internal temperature for flank steak?
Answer: For the best flavor and tenderness, aim for medium-rare, which is an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C) after resting. If you prefer it more cooked, medium (140-145°F or 60-63°C) is still good, but going past that can make flank steak tough.
Question: How long should I marinate flank steak?
Answer: You can marinate flank steak for as little as 30 minutes for a quick flavor boost, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator for more tenderizing and flavor. Avoid marinating for too long (like overnight) with acidic ingredients, as it can make the meat mushy.
Question: Do I need to trim flank steak before grilling?
Answer: Flank steak is typically lean. You may want to trim off any large, thick pieces of silverskin or excess fat, but most of the thin fat layers can stay as they add flavor. Just make sure the surface is smooth for even cooking.
Question: Can I grill flank steak from frozen?
Answer: It is not recommended to grill flank steak from frozen. For even cooking and good searing, the steak should be thawed and ideally at room temperature. Grilling from frozen will result in uneven cooking and poor texture.
Question: How do I prevent flank steak from being tough?
Answer: To prevent toughness, always slice flank steak thinly against the grain after it has rested. Proper cooking to medium-rare or medium, and not overcooking it, also makes a huge difference.
Final Thoughts
Grilling flank steak on a gas grill is simple when you know the right steps. Focus on preheating your grill to high heat, aiming for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. Always use a meat thermometer and let your steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing against the grain.
This ensures a tender, flavorful steak every time.