If you’re craving a dish that boldly marries simplicity with flavor, then this Grilled Flank Steak with Simple Garlic Marinade Recipe is your new best friend. Juicy, tender, and infused with the perfect garlic punch, this steak showcases how minimal ingredients can create an unforgettable meal. It’s an ideal choice for those who want impressive results without complicated techniques, turning an ordinary dinner into a memorable feast for friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large piece of raw red meat lies flat on crinkled white paper in the center of a white marbled surface, showing a smooth but slightly fibrous texture with subtle fat lines. Surrounding it are five small white bowls and one wooden bowl arranged neatly: minced garlic in the top left white bowl, coarse black pepper in the wooden bowl below it, white salt in a small black bowl next, light brown sugar in the white bowl to the right, a glass cup with golden liquid above it, and a small white cup to the top right holding light yellow oil. The scene is bright and clean, with soft, natural lighting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, elevating the natural flavor of the flank steak while adding just the right balance of tang, sweetness, and seasoning. These simple pantry staples come together to unlock the steak’s full potential with a vibrant garlic marinade that will have you returning for seconds.

Flank steak (2½ pounds): This lean cut has great texture and soaks up marinades beautifully, perfect for grilling.
Unfiltered apple cider vinegar (¼ cup): Adds a subtle acidity that tenderizes the meat and brightens flavors.
Extra-virgin olive oil (2 tablespoons): Helps the marinade coat the steak evenly and keeps it juicy during grilling.
Garlic cloves, minced (8 cloves, about 2 tablespoons): The star ingredient, infusing the steak with bold, aromatic notes.
Kosher salt (3 teaspoons): Essential for enhancing the beef’s natural flavor, used in both marinade and seasoning.
Brown sugar (2 teaspoons, optional): Adds a hint of sweetness to balance the acidity and tenderize the meat.
Freshly cracked black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a mild heat and depth to the overall dish.

How to Make Grilled Flank Steak with Simple Garlic Marinade Recipe

Step 1: Make the marinade

Start by whisking together the apple cider vinegar, extra-virgin olive oil, minced garlic, two teaspoons of kosher salt, and brown sugar if you’re using it. This simple mix forms the backbone of the marinade, infusing the meat with vibrant flavor and helping tenderize it gently as it rests.

Step 2: Marinate the steak

Season your flank steak all over with freshly cracked black pepper and the remaining teaspoon of kosher salt. Place it in a large baking dish or seal it in a zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the steak, making sure it’s well coated on both sides. Pop it in the refrigerator for at least one hour or up to four if you want the garlic flavor to penetrate more deeply. Patience here really pays off.

Step 3: Grill the steak

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat to get those perfect grill marks. Remove the steak from the marinade, letting any excess drip off before discarding the used liquid. Grill the steak for about 5 to 8 minutes per side if you’re aiming for medium-rare—a juicy, tender outcome. Using an instant-read thermometer, look for 135°F to know it’s just right.

Step 4: Rest and slice

Once off the grill, transfer your flank steak to a cutting board and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your steak moist and flavorful. Then, using a sharp knife, slice thinly against the grain on the diagonal. This technique ensures each bite remains tender and easy to chew.

How to Serve Grilled Flank Steak with Simple Garlic Marinade Recipe

A large piece of raw red meat lies flat in a white enamel baking dish with a black trimmed edge. The meat is covered with small pieces of chopped garlic and sprinkled with coarse black pepper. The dish holds a layer of yellowish marinade with oil and seasoning, partially soaking the meat. The background shows a white marbled surface, giving a clean and bright contrast to the rich red meat and golden oil. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a bright, fresh touch, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro on top right before serving. A squeeze of lemon juice adds a zesty contrast that compliments the garlic beautifully. Thinly sliced green onions or a dash of flaky sea salt can add delightful textural interest and an extra-pop of flavor.

Side Dishes

This steak pairs wonderfully with vibrant side dishes like grilled vegetables, garlic-roasted potatoes, or a crisp garden salad. For an added burst of flavor, try a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad dressed with olive oil and a hint of lemon juice—a perfect counterpoint to the rich, garlicky steak.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform this Grilled Flank Steak with Simple Garlic Marinade Recipe into sliders or wrap slices in warm tortillas with avocado and salsa for a casual taco night. You can also layer thin slices over a bed of mixed greens or use the steak as the centerpiece on a charcuterie board for an elegant yet approachable appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover grilled flank steak tastes fantastic the next day and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Slice it before storing for easy access in sandwiches or salads, and keep it chilled to maintain its texture and flavor.

Freezing

If you want to save steak for longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months while preserving much of its original taste and tenderness. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm steak slices in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out. Avoid high heat or the microwave for reheating to keep the texture tender and juicy as when freshly grilled.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of steak for this marinade?

Absolutely! While flank steak is a great choice for its texture and ability to soak up marinades, you can also use skirt steak or hanger steak with excellent results. Just adjust grilling times based on thickness.

How long should I marinate the steak for best flavor?

Marinating for at least one hour is essential to infuse the garlic and vinegar flavors, but up to four hours is ideal. Avoid marinating overnight since the acid can begin to break down the meat excessively, affecting the texture.

What if I don’t have a grill? Can I cook this steak another way?

No grill? No problem! You can cook the steak in a hot cast-iron skillet or under a broiler. Just watch closely to achieve that delicious sear and cook to your preferred doneness.

Is the brown sugar necessary in the marinade?

Brown sugar is optional but highly recommended as it balances the acidity of the vinegar and helps create a slight caramelized crust when grilling, enhancing flavor and giving a lovely color.

How do I slice flank steak properly to keep it tender?

Always slice the steak against the grain in thin diagonal slices. This cuts through the muscle fibers and makes each bite easier to chew and more tender, fully showcasing the juicy texture.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Flank Steak with Simple Garlic Marinade Recipe is a game changer for anyone looking to impress with minimal fuss. Its bold garlic flavor, perfect grill char, and juicy finish make it a standout that you’ll want to share over and over. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight star!