The Ultimate Guide: Perfectly Cooking Flank Steak in a Cast Iron Skillet

I’ve always been a fan of cooking flank steak in a cast iron skillet. The sear you can achieve is unmatched, creating a delicious crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy. But one question I often hear is, how long do you actually cook a flank steak in a cast iron skillet? Well, in this article, I’ll share my tried and tested method for achieving the perfect cook on a flank steak using a cast iron skillet.

When it comes to cooking flank steak in a cast iron skillet, timing is crucial. You want to make sure you cook it long enough to develop that beautiful sear, but not so long that it becomes tough and chewy. So, how long should you cook a flank steak in a cast iron skillet? The answer depends on a few factors, such as the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness. I’ll break down the cooking times for different levels of doneness and provide some tips for achieving the perfect cook every time.

Before we dive into the specifics of cooking times, let’s talk about the importance of preheating your cast iron skillet. A hot skillet is essential for achieving that perfect sear on your flank steak. I recommend preheating your skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes before adding the steak. This will ensure that the skillet is evenly heated and ready to sear the steak to perfection. So, now that we have our skillet hot and ready, let’s move on to the cooking times for flank steak in a cast iron skillet.

What is Flank Steak?

Flank steak is a popular and flavorful cut of beef that is derived from the abdominal muscles of the cow. It is known for its distinctive long, flat shape and pronounced grain, making it an ideal choice for grilling or searing in a cast iron skillet.

This lean and fibrous cut offers a rich beefy flavor that can be enhanced with marinades or seasonings. It is typically cooked to medium-rare or medium doneness to ensure tenderness, as overcooking can result in a tough and chewy texture. Flank steak is versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, such as fajitas, stir-fries, tacos, or even sliced thinly for sandwiches.

When it comes to cooking flank steak, achieving the perfect balance between a well-seared exterior and a tender interior is key. The heat and timing are crucial factors in achieving this balance, and using a cast iron skillet can help attain a delicious crust on the steak while retaining its juiciness.

Why Cook Flank Steak in a Cast Iron Skillet?

Using a cast iron skillet to cook flank steak offers a myriad of benefits that contribute to a delicious and perfectly cooked meal. Here are a few reasons why I highly recommend cooking flank steak in a cast iron skillet:

Excellent Heat Retention:

Cast iron is known for its exceptional heat retention properties. When preheated properly, a cast iron skillet can maintain a consistent high temperature, allowing for a beautiful sear on the outside of the flank steak while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

Versatility in Cooking Methods:

A cast iron skillet offers versatility in cooking methods, making it ideal for cooking flank steak. It can be used on the stovetop or transferred directly into the oven for further cooking, allowing you to achieve different levels of doneness to suit your preferences.

Superior Heat Distribution:

The even heat distribution of a cast iron skillet helps ensure that the flank steak cooks evenly throughout. No more worrying about uneven cooking or overcooking certain parts of the meat. With a cast iron skillet, you can achieve a consistent and perfectly cooked flank steak every time.

Incredible Flavor Enhancement:

One of the distinctive advantages of cooking flank steak in a cast iron skillet is the incredible flavor enhancement it provides. The intense heat and the natural fats in the steak create a mouthwatering caramelized crust that adds depth and complexity to the overall flavor profile of the meat.

Durability and Longevity:

Cast iron skillets are renowned for their durability and longevity. With proper care and maintenance, a cast iron skillet can last for generations. Investing in a high-quality cast iron skillet is a worthwhile decision that will continue to pay off as you enjoy deliciously cooked flank steak for years to come.

Cooking flank steak in a cast iron skillet is an excellent choice if you’re looking to achieve a perfectly cooked, flavorful, and tender steak. The heat retention, versatility in cooking methods, superior heat distribution, flavor enhancement, and durability of a cast iron skillet all contribute to a satisfying cooking experience and a mouthwatering end result.

Preparing the Flank Steak

When it comes to cooking a delicious flank steak in a cast iron skillet, proper preparation is key. Follow these steps to ensure your steak turns out tender, flavorful, and perfectly cooked:

1. Choose the right flank steak: Look for a steak that is bright red in color, with minimal marbling. A steak that is about 1 to 1.5 inches thick is ideal for cooking in a cast iron skillet.
2. Season the steak: Before cooking, generously season both sides of the flank steak with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. You can also add additional seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or your favorite steak seasoning blend for extra flavor.
3. Let the steak come to room temperature: Take the seasoned flank steak out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Allowing the steak to come to room temperature ensures more even cooking.
4. Preheat the cast iron skillet: Place your cast iron skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat and let it preheat for a few minutes. You want the skillet to be hot before adding the steak.
5. Add oil to the skillet: Once the skillet is hot, add a high smoke point oil like canola or vegetable oil. Swirl the oil around the skillet to coat the bottom evenly.
6. Sear the steak: Carefully place the flank steak in the hot skillet and let it cook undisturbed for about 4 minutes, or until a nice crust forms on the bottom. Then, flip the steak using tongs and cook for another 3-4 minutes for medium-rare doneness.

That’s it! By following these simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to cooking a mouthwatering flank steak in a cast iron skillet. Remember, the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness. It’s always a good idea to use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak reaches your desired internal temperature. Keep reading to learn more about cooking times for different levels of doneness.

Seasoning the Flank Steak

When it comes to cooking flank steak in a cast iron skillet, seasoning is key. This step not only enhances the flavor of the steak but also helps to tenderize the meat. Here’s how I season my flank steak for optimal taste and tenderness:

1. Choose the right seasoning: I like to keep things simple and let the natural flavors of the steak shine. A classic combination of salt, black pepper, and garlic powder works wonders. However, feel free to get creative and experiment with different spices and herbs to suit your taste.
2. Generously apply the seasoning: Make sure to coat both sides of the steak with the seasoning mixture. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. Don’t be afraid to be generous with the seasoning, as some of it will be left behind in the skillet during cooking.
3. Let the steak absorb the flavors: After seasoning, allow the flank steak to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows the seasoning to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful steak.
4. Massage the seasoning into the meat: To ensure that the seasoning is evenly distributed, gently massage it into the surface of the steak. This not only helps to enhance the flavor but also aids in tenderizing the meat.
5. Cover and refrigerate (optional): If you have the time, you can cover the seasoned steak with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for a few hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to develop even further. However, if you’re short on time, you can skip this step and proceed with cooking immediately.

By taking the time to season the flank steak properly, you’ll be rewarded with a delicious and flavorful result that complements the unique cooking properties of a cast iron skillet.

How Long to Cook Flank Steak in a Cast Iron Skillet

When it comes to cooking flank steak in a cast iron skillet, the cooking time is crucial to ensure that the steak is perfectly cooked and tender. As an expert in cooking, I can tell you exactly how long you should cook your flank steak in a cast iron skillet.

The cooking time for flank steak depends on a few factors, such as the thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness. Generally, for a 1-inch thick flank steak cooked to medium-rare, I would recommend cooking it for about 4-5 minutes per side. If you prefer a medium level of doneness, you can cook it for an additional minute on each side.

It’s important to note that these cooking times are just a guideline and can vary depending on your stove’s heat level and the specific cut of flank steak you have. To ensure that your steak is perfectly cooked, I would advise using an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, the temperature should be around 130-135°F (54-57°C), and for medium, it should be around 140-145°F (60-63°C).

Remember, cooking times can vary, so it’s always best to use a thermometer to ensure the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness. Additionally, be sure to let the flank steak rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute and the steak to become even more tender.

Tips for Cooking Flank Steak in a Cast Iron Skillet

When it comes to cooking flank steak in a cast iron skillet, there are a few tips and tricks that can help you achieve the best results. Here are some expert suggestions to ensure a mouthwatering and perfectly cooked steak:

1. Choose the right thickness: Flank steak is typically around 1 inch thick. For the best cooking experience, try to select a steak that is as close to this thickness as possible. This will ensure even cooking and prevent overcooking or undercooking.
2. Season generously: Seasoning is key when it comes to enhancing the flavor of flank steak. Be generous with your seasoning, making sure to coat both sides of the steak evenly. This will help to create a delicious crust and infuse the meat with flavor.
3. Let the steak come to room temperature: Before cooking your flank steak, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help the steak to cook more evenly, as the cold meat straight from the refrigerator can lead to uneven cooking.
4. Preheat your skillet: Before searing your flank steak, make sure to preheat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. This will ensure a superior sear and caramelization on the outside of the steak.
5. Use the right amount of oil: While cast iron skillets are known for their non-stick properties, it’s still important to use a bit of oil to prevent the steak from sticking. Add just enough oil to coat the bottom of the skillet.
6. Monitor the cooking time: The cooking time for flank steak will depend on its thickness and your desired level of doneness. It’s always a good idea to use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C).
7. Let it rest: After cooking, allow your flank steak to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a tender and juicy steak.

Resting and Slicing the Flank Steak

Once the flank steak is cooked to perfection, the next crucial step is to let it rest before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender and juicy steak. To rest the flank steak, remove it from the heat and transfer it to a cutting board. It’s best to tent it loosely with aluminum foil to retain its heat while it rests.

The resting period for a flank steak should be about 5 to 10 minutes. This allows the internal temperature to even out and the juices to settle. Don’t rush this step, as slicing the steak immediately after cooking will cause the juices to escape, leaving you with a dry and less flavorful result.

While the flank steak is resting, take this opportunity to prep your other ingredients or prepare any side dishes you plan to serve. Resist the temptation to slice into the steak too soon, as this could compromise its tenderness and juiciness.

When it’s time to slice the flank steak, cut it against the grain. This is important for achieving optimal tenderness. The grain refers to the lines you see on the surface of the meat. To identify the direction of the grain, look for the long strands of muscle fibers. Cutting against the grain means slicing perpendicular to these muscle fibers, resulting in shorter and more tender strands.

Using a sharp knife, make clean, thin slices to maximize tenderness. This will ensure that each bite is flavorful and easy to chew. If the flank steak has been properly rested and sliced against the grain, you’ll have a mouthwatering and melt-in-your-mouth steak ready to be savored.

Remember, mastering the art of resting and slicing the flank steak is just as important as the cooking process itself. These steps will elevate your dish, leaving you with a tender, juicy, and delicious steak that will impress your family and friends.

Tips on How Long to Cook

In this article, I have shared expert tips for cooking flank steak in a cast iron skillet. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a delicious and tender steak every time. Remember to choose the right thickness of steak, season generously, and let the steak come to room temperature before cooking. Preheating the skillet and using the right amount of oil will help achieve a perfect sear. Monitoring the cooking time and allowing the steak to rest before slicing are crucial steps for optimal tenderness. Resting the flank steak for 5 to 10 minutes allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicy and flavorful steak. When it comes to slicing, cutting against the grain with a sharp knife and making thin slices will maximize tenderness and enhance the overall eating experience. So, next time you cook flank steak in a cast iron skillet, don’t forget to master the art of resting and slicing to elevate your dish to the next level.