Flank steak is a flavorful, lean cut of beef that can be a bit tricky to cook perfectly. But don’t worry-cooking flank steak in the oven is easier than you think, and it can yield juicy, tender results that rival any restaurant. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this guide will walk you through the best ways to cook flank steak in your oven with simple steps and tasty tips.
What Is Flank Steak?
Flank steak comes from the lower abdominal area of the cow. It’s long, flat, and has a distinctive grain. Because it’s lean, it can be tough if overcooked or not prepared properly. The key to a delicious flank steak is marinating it well and slicing it thinly against the grain after cooking to maximize tenderness.
Preparing Your Flank Steak for the Oven
Step 1: Marinate or Season
Marinating your flank steak for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) helps tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. A simple marinade might include olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, and your favorite herbs and spices. If you’re short on time, a dry spice rub with chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper works beautifully too.
Step 2: Bring to Room Temperature
Before cooking, take the steak out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 to 45 minutes. This helps the steak cook evenly in the oven.
How to Cook Flank Steak in the Oven: Two Popular Methods
Method 1: Broiling (High Heat, Quick Cooking)
Broiling is like upside-down grilling and is perfect for flank steak because it cooks the meat quickly while creating a nice crust.
– Preheat your oven’s broiler and position the rack about 4 to 6 inches from the heat source.
– Place the steak on a rimmed baking sheet or broiler pan. Pat it dry to remove excess marinade.
– Broil the steak for about 4 to 6 minutes per side, depending on thickness and desired doneness.
– Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium.
– Once done, remove the steak and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
This method gives a beautiful char and juicy interior in about 10 to 15 minutes total cooking time.
Method 2: Baking (Roasting at High Temperature)
Baking flank steak in the oven is a hands-off method that’s also very effective.
– Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
– After marinating, place the steak in a shallow baking dish.
– Bake for about 15 to 20 minutes for medium-rare, or 20 to 25 minutes for medium doneness.
– Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the baking dish to cook alongside the steak for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Oven-Cooked Flank Steak
– Dry the steak before cooking: Patting the steak dry helps it sear better and develop a flavorful crust.
– Use a meat thermometer: This ensures you don’t overcook the steak. Aim for 130°F to 135°F for medium-rare.
– Rest your steak: Letting the steak rest after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
– Slice against the grain: This breaks up the muscle fibers and makes each bite tender.
– Spice it up: A spice rub with chili powder, paprika, garlic, and a pinch of cayenne adds a punch of flavor without fuss.
Easy Spice Rub Recipe for Oven Flank Steak
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– ½ tsp coriander
– 1 tsp dry mustard
– ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp oil
Rub this mixture all over your steak before cooking for a flavorful crust.
Serving Suggestions
Oven-cooked flank steak is versatile. Serve it with:
– Rice or quinoa and a fresh vegetable medley
– Tossed in fajitas or tacos with peppers and onions
– Thinly sliced over salads for a protein boost
Cooking flank steak in the oven is straightforward and yields delicious results with minimal effort. By following these simple steps and tips, you can enjoy a juicy, tender steak any night of the week.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked flank steak!