Flat iron steak is a fantastic cut for grilling-it’s flavorful, tender, and cooks quickly. If you’ve been wondering how to cook flat iron steak on the grill to get that perfect sear and juicy interior, you’re in the right place. Here’s a friendly, easy-to-follow guide to grilling flat iron steak that will have you serving up mouthwatering steaks in no time.
What Is Flat Iron Steak?
Flat iron steak comes from the shoulder of the cow, also known as the top blade. It’s prized for its rich beefy flavor and relatively tender texture, making it a great choice for grilling. It’s more affordable than premium cuts like ribeye or filet but still delivers great taste and tenderness when cooked right.
Preparing Your Flat Iron Steak for the Grill
1. Choose Your Steak
Look for a flat iron steak about 1 to 2 pounds, with good marbling (thin streaks of fat), which helps keep the meat juicy during grilling.
2. Marinate or Season?
You can grill flat iron steak with just salt and pepper, or you can marinate it for extra flavor.
– Simple seasoning: Pat the steak dry, rub with olive oil, and season generously with kosher salt and black pepper.
– Marinade option: Combine olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, black pepper, and a splash of vinegar or soy sauce. Marinate the steak for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor.
How to Grill Flat Iron Steak Step-by-Step
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill to medium-high (around 400-450°F). This temperature is perfect for searing the steak and locking in juices.
Step 2: Grill the Steak
– Place the steak directly over the hottest part of the grill.
– Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes on the first side. For nice grill marks, you can rotate the steak 45 degrees halfway through this time.
– Flip the steak and grill for another 4 to 5 minutes on the other side. Rotate again if you want crosshatch grill marks.
Step 3: Check for Doneness
Use an instant-read thermometer for best results:
– Rare: 120-130°F
– Medium-rare: 130-140°F
– Medium: 140-150°F
– Well-done: 150-165°F
Aim for medium-rare to medium for the best tenderness and flavor.
Step 4: Rest the Steak
Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest loosely covered with foil for about 5 to 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making the steak juicy and tender.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Slice the steak thinly against the grain (the direction the muscle fibers run) to maximize tenderness. Serve with your favorite sides or sauces.
Tips for Perfect Grilled Flat Iron Steak
– Don’t skip oil: Lightly coat the steak with olive oil before grilling to prevent sticking and help develop a crispy crust.
– Use tongs, not forks: Always flip your steak with tongs to avoid piercing the meat and losing juices.
– Marinate for flavor: While not necessary, marinating adds complexity. A soy sauce, garlic, honey, and ginger marinade works beautifully.
– Watch the heat: If flare-ups happen, move the steak to a cooler part of the grill to prevent burning.
– Use a thermometer: This is the most reliable way to nail the perfect doneness.
Simple Marinade Recipe for Grilled Flat Iron Steak
– ¼ cup soy sauce
– ¼ cup mirin or sweet rice wine
– 1 tablespoon minced ginger
– 4 garlic cloves, grated
– 1 tablespoon honey
Mix all ingredients and marinate the steak overnight in the fridge for a deliciously tender and flavorful result.
Serving Suggestions
Flat iron steak pairs wonderfully with:
– Grilled vegetables like zucchini and corn
– Fresh salads such as cucumber or panzanella
– Chimichurri or blue cheese butter for a flavor boost
– Simple sides like roasted potatoes or garlic bread
Grilling flat iron steak is straightforward and rewarding. With a hot grill, a bit of seasoning or marinade, and proper resting, you’ll enjoy a juicy, tender steak every time. Fire up the grill and enjoy!