“Did you catch that delicious aroma wafting through the neighborhood last weekend? It was my London Broil with Herb Butter sizzling away in the broiler, making even the pickiest eaters stop and drool. This simple recipe transforms a humble flank steak into a mouthwatering masterpiece, perfect for any occasion. Not only is this London Broil budget-friendly, but it also boasts a quick prep time that lets you spend more moments enjoying dinner with your loved ones instead of slaving away in the kitchen. The blend of tangy, sweet, and savory marinade brings out the best in the beef, offering a meal that feels effortlessly gourmet. Curious how to get that steakhouse-quality dinner on your own table? Let’s dive into this easy and flavorful adventure!”
Why is London Broil a Game Changer?
Budget-Friendly: This recipe proves that delicious meals don’t have to break the bank. You can enjoy a steakhouse-quality dish without overspending.
Quick Preparation: With minimal prep time, you can have a scrumptious dinner ready before you know it, leaving more time for family and friends.
Flavor Explosion: The marinade combines tangy, sweet, and savory notes, ensuring every bite is bursting with mouthwatering flavor.
Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer grilling or broiling, this recipe adapts beautifully to your cooking style, making it suitable for any occasion.
Perfectly Tender: The tenderizing step guarantees a melt-in-your-mouth experience that will impress even the most discerning steak lovers.
Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, this London Broil will have everyone coming back for seconds! Make it a complete meal with Company Mashed Potatoes and Honey Garlic Roasted Carrots for a feast they’ll remember!
London Broil Ingredients
For the Marinade
• Flank Steak – A fantastic cut that absorbs flavors beautifully; aim for at least 2 pounds.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps the marinade coat the steak evenly.
• Reduced Sodium Soy Sauce – Best for enhancing umami notes; adjust for saltiness to taste.
• Balsamic Vinegar – Delivers essential tanginess; avoid substitutes for the richest flavor.
• Lemon Juice – Freshly squeezed is preferred for balancing the marinade’s sweetness and acidity.
• Brown Sugar – Helps caramelize the meat and balances the acidity from the vinegar.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Imparts a complex depth of flavor, providing a slight tang.
• Dijon Mustard – Adds an extra layer of tang without a strong mustard flavor.
• Spices and Herbs (e.g., onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, thyme) – These enhance the overall flavor profile significantly.
For the Herb Butter
• Unsalted Butter – The key ingredient for a creamy and rich herb butter; helps control seasoning.
• Fresh Herbs (Chives, Parsley, etc.) – Customize to your liking, adding brightness and fragrance.
For Seasoning
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for flavor enhancement; season to taste before cooking.
Transform your cooking experience and impress your loved ones with this flavorful London Broil recipe!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for London Broil
Step 1: Tenderize the Steak
To begin your London Broil, place the flank steak on a cutting board and use a meat mallet to pound it gently, tenderizing the meat further. This step ensures that the steak will be juicy and melt-in-your-mouth flavorful. Aim for an even thickness of about 1-inch, which will also help during the cooking process.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
In a large Ziploc bag, whisk together ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil, ¼ cup of reduced sodium soy sauce, ¼ cup of balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. Add onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, and thyme to enhance the marinade’s flavor. Reserve 2 tablespoons of this mixture for later.
Step 3: Marinate the Flank Steak
Place the tenderized flank steak into the marinade-filled Ziploc bag, ensuring it’s completely coated. Seal the bag tightly and massage the marinade into the meat. For the best flavor, refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours, although marinating overnight will yield even more intense flavors. Take a moment to plan ahead and let those flavors meld!
Step 4: Preheat the Broiler
Before cooking the London Broil, preheat your broiler to high, about 550°F (288°C). Line a baking dish with aluminum foil for easy cleanup and to catch any drippings. While the broiler heats up, take a deep breath and get ready to savor the aromatic wonder that’s about to unfold!
Step 5: Broil the Steak
Once the broiler is hot and ready, remove the flank steak from the marinade and place it on the lined baking dish. Broil the steak for 4-6 minutes on one side until a beautiful char develops. Flip the steak, and broil for another 5-7 minutes. The goal here is to reach an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C) for a perfect medium-rare finish.
Step 6: Let it Rest
After broiling, remove the London Broil from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each slice is tender and flavorful. You can take this time to prepare your herb butter if you haven’t done so already!
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Using a sharp knife, slice the London Broil thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness. Drizzle the sliced meat with the reserved marinade and top generously with herb butter for those delightful, rich flavors. Pair with your favorite sides for a truly mouthwatering meal that celebrates the essence of homemade cooking!
What to Serve with London Broil with Herb Butter
The perfect accompaniment can elevate your London Broil dinner experience, transforming it into a delightful feast for the senses.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness and smooth texture provide a comforting contrast to the savory steak, making each bite irresistible.
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Honey Garlic Roasted Carrots: Sweet and tender, these vibrant carrots add a lovely pop of color and a hint of natural sweetness that balances the savory flavors of the beef.
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Garlicky Green Beans Almondine: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with garlic and almonds create a delightful crunch and freshness that enhances the overall meal.
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Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad with a tangy dressing can cleanse the palate between bites of juicy steak, bringing a refreshing element to your meal.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn, charred to perfection, complements the richness of the London Broil and adds a fun, summery vibe to your plate.
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Red Wine Pairing: A full-bodied red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec, not only elevates the dining experience but harmonizes beautifully with the rich flavors of the steak.
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Chocolate Lava Cake: To top off your meal, a warm, rich chocolate lava cake will surely satisfy any sweet tooth and leave your guests raving.
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions for a wonderfully rounded meal that will have everyone reaching for seconds!
Expert Tips for London Broil
Tenderizing Matters: Ensure you tenderize the flank steak thoroughly; this step is crucial for achieving a melt-in-your-mouth experience with your London Broil.
Marinade Timing: Avoid marinating for more than 12 hours. While flavors deepen, over-marinating can lead to a mushy texture.
Use a Thermometer: Always use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness. Aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F for a deliciously medium-rare steak.
Resting Period: Never skip the resting step! Allowing the steak to rest for 10 minutes helps redistribute juices, ensuring tender and flavorful slices.
Slice Against the Grain: For maximum tenderness, always slice the London Broil against the grain. This simple step will elevate your serving experience!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your London Broil in advance is a fabulous way to save time during busy weeknights! You can marinate the flank steak up to 24 hours ahead of time, giving the flavors ample opportunity to infuse into the meat. Simply follow the marinade instructions, then refrigerate the marinated steak in a sealed bag. For an even more efficient process, create the herb butter up to 3 days in advance; just keep it tightly wrapped in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, all that’s left is to broil the steak to perfection, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort! Rest assured, your London Broil will be just as tender and flavorful as if it were made fresh.
London Broil Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you explore these delightful twists on the classic London Broil!
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Citrus Burst: Swap lemon juice with lime or orange juice for a refreshing zing that brightens the marinade.
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Vinegar Swap: Replace balsamic vinegar with red wine vinegar for a sharper acidity; it adds a different flavor depth.
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Spicy Kick: Amp up the heat by adding red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade for a fiery twist that tantalizes the palate.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with other fresh herbs like rosemary or basil in your herb butter, introducing a whole new aromatic layer to your steak.
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Sweet Touch: Add a tablespoon of honey to the marinade in place of brown sugar for a richer sweetness that enhances the overall flavor profile.
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Garlic Lover’s Dream: Incorporate minced fresh garlic into the herb butter for a fragrant burst that complements the savory notes beautifully.
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Texture Twist: Grill your London Broil instead of broiling for a deliciously smoky flavor; just keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
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Soy Sauce Alternative: Try coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option that maintains a savory profile.
These variations invite you to craft an unforgettable dining experience, making the London Broil a versatile main course worthy of any gathering!
How to Store and Freeze London Broil
Fridge: Store cooked London Broil in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This keeps the meat fresh and ready to enjoy at a moment’s notice.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the London Broil tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the steak in the fridge overnight. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through to maintain tenderness.
Leftovers: Use sliced leftover London Broil in salads, sandwiches, or stir-fries for a quick and delicious meal that simplifies your weeknight dinners!
London Broil with Herb Butter Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right flank steak?
Absolutely! When selecting flank steak, look for a piece that is well-marbled with a deep red color and minimal dark spots. Freshness is key! Aim for at least a 2-pound cut, as this will ensure ample servings for your family or guests. If possible, buy from a reputable butcher who can provide you with high-quality meat.
What’s the best way to store leftover London Broil?
Very! To keep your cooked London Broil fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you have more to save, wrap the steak tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. This way, it can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its delicious flavor or texture!
Can I freeze the marinated flank steak?
Absolutely! Freezing the marinated flank steak is a great idea for meal prep! To do this, place the marinated steak in a resealable freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before broiling. This method allows the flavors to really infuse into the meat!
Why is my London Broil tough after cooking?
Oh no! If your London Broil ends up tough, it might be due to a couple of factors. Make sure you tenderized the meat properly before marinating, and always slice against the grain. This step is crucial, as slicing with the grain can lead to chewy pieces. Also, double-check that the internal temperature didn’t exceed 135°F for medium-rare, as overcooking can result in a dry, tough texture.
Can I modify the marinade for dietary restrictions?
Very! Feel free to modify the marinade ingredients to suit dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, replace reduced sodium soy sauce with tamari. If you have allergies to certain spices or even simpler tastes, you can reduce the spice levels or choose alternative ingredients, like using lime juice instead of lemon. Recipe adjustments are super easy, just make sure you maintain that flavor balance!
How long should I marinate the flank steak?
For the best flavor infusion, marinate your London Broil for at least 4 hours and up to 12 hours. Marinating overnight will help deepen the flavors, but be cautious of going beyond 12 hours, as it can lead to a mushy texture due to the acid in the marinade. Planning ahead is key to a delicious meal!
Irresistible London Broil with Herb Butter for Flavor Lovers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Tenderize the steak by placing the flank steak on a cutting board and using a meat mallet to pound it gently until about 1-inch thick.
- In a large Ziploc bag, whisk together the marinade ingredients and reserve 2 tablespoons for later.
- Marinate the flank steak in the Ziploc bag, making sure it’s well coated. Refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours.
- Preheat the broiler to high, about 550°F (288°C), and line a baking dish with aluminum foil.
- Broil the steak for 4-6 minutes on one side, flip, and broil for another 5-7 minutes until an internal temperature of 130-135°F is reached.
- Remove the steak from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board for 10 minutes.
- Slice the London Broil thinly against the grain, drizzle with reserved marinade, and top with herb butter.
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