Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Name: Grilled Cuban Flank Steak
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Cuban
Ingredients: 1 large flank steak (enough marinade for 3 pounds); 1/3 cup fresh lime juice; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp ground chipotle chile powder (or your favorite hot sauce)

Published: July 1, 2025

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can master this recipe.
Bold Flavor: The marinade infuses the flank steak with delicious Cuban spices, creating an irresistible taste.
Versatile Dish: Serve it as the main course or slice it for tacos or salads—this steak fits any occasion.
Quick Cooking Time: You can grill this steak in under 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
Healthy Option: Leaner than many other cuts of beef, flank steak offers a satisfying meal without excessive fat.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Grilled Cuban Flank Steak, gather your essential tools. These will help ensure that your cooking process is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill (gas or charcoal)
Instant Read Meat Thermometer
Ziploc bag
Mixing bowl
Grill brush

Importance of Each Tool

Grill: A good grill allows for even cooking and adds that coveted smoky flavor to your steak.
Instant Read Meat Thermometer: This tool ensures you cook the meat to the perfect doneness without guessing.
Ziploc Bag: Ideal for marinating the flank steak evenly by allowing the marinade to coat every part of the meat.
Mixing Bowl: Perfect for combining marinade ingredients quickly and efficiently.

Ingredients

To make this flavorful dish, you’ll need:

For the Marinade

1 large piece of flank steak (this recipe makes enough marinade for 3 pounds of meat)
1/3 cup fresh lime juice
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. dried oregano
1 tsp. onion powder
1 tsp. garlic powder
1 T soy sauce (see notes)
1/2 tsp. ground chipotle chile powder (or use your favorite hot sauce)
2 tsp. lime zest (optional)

How to Make Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Combine all marinade ingredients in a mixing bowl. Whisk until well blended.

Step 2: Marinate the Flank Steak

Place the flank steak into a Ziploc bag.
Pour the prepared marinade over the meat.
Seal the bag tightly and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours, or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill

Remove the marinated flank steak from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before grilling to bring it to room temperature.

Step 4: Oil and Heat the Grill

Dip a paper towel in olive oil and use it to oil the grill grates.
Preheat your gas or charcoal grill to medium-high heat.

Step 5: Grill the Flank Steak

Place the flank steak on the grill.
Cook for approximately 4–5 minutes per side for rare to medium rare or about 6 minutes per side for medium doneness.
Use an Instant Read Meat Thermometer to check; aim for 140–145°F for medium rare or 155–160°F for medium.

Step 6: Rest and Slice

After grilling, remove the steak from heat and let it rest covered with foil for about 5 minutes.

Step 7: Serve

Slice across the grain into thin strips. Serve hot with fresh lime slices on the side for squeezing over the meat. Enjoy!

How to Serve Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Grilled Cuban flank steak is not only flavorful but also versatile in how it can be served. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a quiet dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Tacos with Flank Steak

Use warm corn tortillas filled with sliced grilled flank steak, topped with fresh cilantro and diced onions for a classic taste.

Steak Salad

Prepare a hearty salad by placing sliced grilled flank steak over mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and avocado, drizzled with a lime vinaigrette.

Rice Bowls

Create a delicious rice bowl by combining grilled flank steak slices with brown rice, black beans, and roasted vegetables, finished with a sprinkle of lime juice.

Sandwiches

Make a flavorful sandwich by piling grilled flank steak on crusty bread with lettuce, tomato, and a zesty mayonnaise sauce for added creaminess.

Skewers

Cut the grilled flank steak into bite-sized pieces and thread onto skewers with bell peppers and onions for easy-to-eat appetizers or snacks.

Serve with Lime Wedges

Enhance the flavors even more by serving lime wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lime juice adds brightness to each bite.

How to Perfect Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

To achieve the best results when grilling your Cuban flank steak, follow these tips for optimal flavor and tenderness.

Marinate Long Enough: Allow the meat to marinate for at least 8 hours or up to 24 hours. This enhances flavor and tenderness.
Bring to Room Temperature: Before grilling, let the flank steak rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps in even cooking.
Preheat the Grill: Make sure your grill is adequately preheated to medium-high heat. This ensures a good sear and prevents sticking.
Use a Meat Thermometer: Invest in an instant-read meat thermometer to accurately gauge doneness. Aim for 140-145°F for medium-rare.
Let It Rest: After grilling, allow the meat to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices within the steak.
Slice Against the Grain: Always slice the meat against the grain. This technique shortens muscle fibers, resulting in more tender bites.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Pairing your grilled Cuban flank steak with complementary side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

Black Beans: Rich in flavor and protein, seasoned black beans make an excellent side that complements the savory notes of the flank steak.
Cilantro-Lime Rice: Lightly flavored rice cooked with cilantro and lime zest provides freshness that balances out the richness of the meat.
Grilled Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and corn adds color and texture to your plate while being easy to prepare on the grill.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled until charred pairs perfectly with flank steak; simply brush it with olive oil and sprinkle with salt before grilling.
Avocado Salad: A refreshing avocado salad made with tomatoes and red onion dressed in lime juice adds creaminess that complements the dish beautifully.
Plantain Chips: Crispy plantain chips provide crunch and sweetness; serve them as an appetizer or snack alongside your main course.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made from cabbage and carrots brings crunchiness that contrasts nicely with the juicy steak flavors.
Sweet Potato Fries: Baked or fried sweet potato fries offer a sweet touch that pairs well with savory meats like grilled flank steak.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Cuban Flank Steak, it’s easy to overlook some key elements that can affect the outcome. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

Skipping the Marinade: Marinating the flank steak is essential for infusing flavor. Don’t rush this step; allow at least 8 hours for the best results.
Not Letting Meat Rest: Cutting into the steak immediately after grilling can cause juices to escape. Always let the meat rest for about 5 minutes before slicing.
Overcooking the Steak: Flank steak can become tough if overcooked. Use an instant-read thermometer for precision and aim for medium-rare doneness.
Ignoring Room Temperature: Grilling cold meat straight from the fridge can lead to uneven cooking. Allow your steak to come to room temperature before grilling.
Using a Dirty Grill: A clean grill ensures even cooking and prevents sticking. Always clean your grill grates before preheating.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover grilled Cuban flank steak in an airtight container.
It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Wrap cooled steak tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Cuban Flank Steak

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place steak on a baking sheet covered with foil and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts of 30 seconds until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat.
Stovetop: Sear on medium heat for a few minutes on each side, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about Grilled Cuban Flank Steak, you’re not alone! Here are some frequently asked questions.

How long should I marinate the flank steak?

Marinate the flank steak for at least 8 hours, but it can be left up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.

What is the best way to slice flank steak?

Always slice across the grain. This helps keep each piece tender and easy to chew.

Can I use other cuts of meat?

Yes! While flank steak is ideal, you can also use skirt steak or sirloin as alternatives for this recipe.

What sides pair well with grilled Cuban flank steak?

Delicious sides include black beans and rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh avocado salad that complements the flavors beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Cuban Flank Steak is a flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. With its vibrant marinade and juicy texture, it’s sure to impress your guests. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite spices or serving it with various sides!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card