Tender Marinated Flank Steak with a Flavorful Sauce

Save this recipe on:

A juicy, melt-in-your-mouth flank steak is always a win at the dinner table, but when it’s marinated to perfection and finished with a rich, savory sauce, it becomes something unforgettable. This dish brings together bold flavors and a touch of elegance, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout with friends.

The marinade seeps deep into the steak, tenderizing each bite while infusing it with garlicky, citrusy, herby notes. When it hits the hot pan or grill, the exterior caramelizes beautifully, locking in those juices and creating a slight crust. Finish it off with a spoonful of warm, flavorful sauce, and you’ve got a plate worthy of applause.

Why You’ll Love This Tender Marinated Flank Steak with a Flavorful Sauce

There are so many reasons to adore this steak. For starters, it’s quick to prepare with just a little bit of planning ahead. The marinade does most of the heavy lifting, so you can relax while it works its magic. It also caters to many tastes, thanks to its balanced blend of sweet, savory, and tangy components.

This recipe is flexible too. You can sear it on the stovetop, grill it outdoors, or broil it in the oven depending on your setup. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day, especially sliced into a salad, stuffed into tacos, or laid across garlic bread.

What Cut of Beef Should I Use for Marinated Flank Steak?

Flank steak is a lean, flat cut taken from the abdominal muscles of the cow. It has a visible grain and lots of beefy flavor, making it ideal for marinades. The key to making flank steak tender is in the prep: a good acidic marinade helps break down the fibers, and slicing it against the grain ensures each bite is silky and easy to chew.

If you can’t find flank steak, skirt steak is a decent substitute. Just keep in mind it’s a bit thinner and can cook faster, so adjust your timing accordingly. Whichever cut you go with, marinating and slicing properly makes all the difference.

Ingredients for the Tender Marinated Flank Steak with a Flavorful Sauce

To create the best flavor and texture, each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role. From the marinade to the sauce, these elements come together to build a dish that’s packed with taste and tenderness.

Flank steak
This is the star of the show. It’s lean, flavorful, and soaks up the marinade beautifully.

Soy sauce
Adds a deep umami flavor and saltiness that seasons the meat perfectly.

Olive oil
Helps carry the flavors and keeps the steak juicy during cooking.

Garlic cloves
Fresh garlic gives a punch of aromatic depth to the marinade.

Fresh lime juice
Provides acidity to tenderize the steak and brighten the overall flavor.

Honey
Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the salty and tangy notes.

Worcestershire sauce
Brings complexity with a blend of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors.

Ground black pepper
A hint of spice that cuts through the richness.

Butter
Used in the finishing sauce for richness and smooth texture.

Beef broth
Creates the base of the sauce, enhancing the meaty flavor.

Fresh herbs (like thyme or parsley)
Adds a fresh, herby finish to the dish.

How To Make the Tender Marinated Flank Steak with a Flavorful Sauce

Step 1: Make the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, lime juice, honey, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper. Place the flank steak in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, pour the marinade over it, and make sure it’s well coated. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce Base

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add a splash of beef broth and simmer for a few minutes until slightly reduced. Stir in chopped fresh herbs and a spoonful of leftover marinade (boiled for food safety) to enhance the flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Steak

Remove the steak from the marinade and let it come to room temperature. Heat a grill or heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the steak for 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness and desired doneness. Let it rest for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

Slice the steak thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness. Spoon the warm sauce over the top, garnish with extra herbs if desired, and serve immediately.

How to Serve and Store Tender Marinated Flank Steak with a Flavorful Sauce

This steak is a showstopper when sliced and served hot with the sauce drizzled generously on top. It feeds about 4 people, depending on appetite and sides. For a casual meal, pair it with mashed potatoes or rice, and for something lighter, serve it atop a salad or in a warm wrap.

If you have leftovers, they keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. The best way to reheat is gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of beef broth or water to keep the meat moist. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the steak rubbery.

You can also freeze the cooked steak slices in a freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat the same way.

What to Serve With Tender Marinated Flank Steak with a Flavorful Sauce?

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic pair beautifully with the savory steak and sauce.

Grilled Asparagus

Lightly charred and seasoned with olive oil, grilled asparagus adds a fresh and crisp contrast.

Chimichurri Rice

Herbaceous and vibrant, chimichurri rice enhances the steak’s flavor with every bite.

Crusty French Bread

Use thick slices of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce left on the plate.

Balsamic Roasted Carrots

Slightly sweet and tangy carrots roasted with balsamic glaze make a colorful and flavorful side.

Simple Arugula Salad

A peppery arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette keeps things light and bright.

Loaded Baked Potato

All the toppings you love on a baked potato make this a hearty and satisfying addition.

Creamed Spinach

Velvety and rich, creamed spinach adds comfort and compliments the boldness of the steak.

Want More Beef Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this marinated flank steak, you’re going to want to try these other hearty and flavor-packed meals too:

• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a comforting pasta night.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta when you’re craving something easy but ultra-satisfying.
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for cheesy, saucy goodness in every bite.
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta to keep the creamy theme going strong.
• One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta for a smoky twist on your next one-pan dinner.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try grilling or stovetop searing? Maybe you gave it a spicy kick or added mushrooms to the sauce?

I love seeing how you make these dishes your own. Questions are always welcome too!

Explore beautifully curated beef dinners and more on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new weeknight favorites: Mia Recipes on Pinterest.

Print

Save this recipe on: