Flank steak is a popular cut of meat that many people enjoy grilling during the summer months. It’s a lean and flavorful cut that can be cooked to perfection with just a few simple steps. However, one of the most common questions people have is, “how long does it take flank steak to cook on the grill?”
The answer to this question depends on several factors, including the thickness of your steak, the temperature of your grill, and how well-done you prefer your meat. In this article, we’ll explore these factors in more detail and provide you with a step-by-step guide to grilling the perfect flank steak.
Factors That Affect Cooking Time
As mentioned earlier, there are several factors that can affect how long it takes for your flank steak to cook on the grill. Here are some of the most important ones:
- Thickness: Thicker cuts of meat will take longer to cook than thinner ones.
- Temperature: The temperature of your grill will also play a role in how long it takes for your flank steak to cook. Higher temperatures will result in faster cooking times.
- Desired doneness: How well-done you prefer your meat will also impact cooking time. Rare steaks will take less time to cook than well-done steaks.
Step-by-Step Guide
Now that we’ve covered the factors that can affect cooking time, let’s dive into our step-by-step guide for grilling a perfect flank steak.
Step 1: Prepare Your Grill
Before you begin grilling your flank steak, make sure your grill is clean and preheated to medium-high heat (around 400-450 degrees Fahrenheit). You may also want to oil the grates to prevent your steak from sticking.
Step 2: Season Your Steak
Season your flank steak with salt and pepper (or your favorite seasoning blend) on both sides. You can also marinate your steak for added flavor, but keep in mind that this may add extra moisture and increase cooking time.
Step 3: Grill Your Steak
Place your seasoned flank steak on the grill and close the lid. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for a rare to medium-rare steak, or 6-7 minutes per side for a medium to well-done steak. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of your steak – rare steaks should be around 125 degrees Fahrenheit, while well-done steaks should be around 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 4: Rest Your Steak
Once your flank steak is cooked to perfection, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
Conclusion
Grilling flank steak is a simple process that can yield delicious results if done correctly. The key is to pay attention to factors like thickness, temperature, and desired doneness when determining cooking time. By following our step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to grill a perfect flank steak every time.