London Broil Recipe: A Classic, Flavorful Steak Done Right

Introduction

When it comes to beef, few dishes are as iconic and approachable as the London Broil. Despite its name, this dish doesn’t actually hail from England. Instead, it’s a North American creation that has become a staple in many households thanks to its bold flavors, affordability, and versatility.

Traditionally, London Broil refers to a method of cooking rather than a specific cut of meat. It often uses a lean cut like flank steak or top round that benefits from a flavorful marinade and a high-heat cooking method. The secret lies in marinating the beef to tenderize and infuse it with flavor, then cooking it quickly—usually broiled, grilled, or pan-seared—and slicing it thinly across the grain.

The result? A dish that’s both budget-friendly and packed with flavor. Whether served as the centerpiece of a dinner with roasted vegetables, sliced thin for sandwiches, or layered over salads, London Broil offers endless possibilities for any home cook.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Affordable yet impressive: Uses budget-friendly cuts that taste gourmet when prepared right.
Full of flavor: The marinade infuses the beef with savory, tangy, and slightly sweet notes.
Versatile: Serve it hot, cold, or repurposed into other meals.
Quick cooking: Despite marinating time, the actual cook time is under 20 minutes.
Great for meal prep: Sliced steak keeps well in the fridge for easy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

For the Marinade

⅓ cup soy sauce
¼ cup olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Beef

2 pounds flank steak (or top round, or sirloin tip for variation)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, and spices until well combined.
Place the steak in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the beef, ensuring it’s fully coated.
Seal and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight for maximum flavor. Flip the steak halfway through marinating for even absorption.

Step 2: Preheat and Prepare

Remove the steak from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come closer to room temperature. This ensures even cooking.
Pat the meat dry with paper towels (excess marinade can cause steaming instead of searing).
Preheat the broiler, grill, or cast-iron skillet to high heat.

Step 3: Cook the London Broil

Broiler method: Place steak on a broiler pan about 4 inches from the heat source. Broil 5–6 minutes per side for medium-rare, adjusting based on thickness.
Grill method: Grill steak over high heat for 4–6 minutes per side, depending on doneness preference.
Skillet method: Heat a cast-iron skillet until smoking hot, then sear steak 4–5 minutes per side.

For best results, aim for an internal temperature of 130–135°F for medium-rare or 140–145°F for medium.

Step 4: Rest and Slice

Remove the steak and place it on a cutting board. Tent loosely with foil and let rest for 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute for a tender result.
Slice thinly against the grain at a slight angle. This is crucial for turning a lean cut into a melt-in-your-mouth bite.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Arrange slices on a platter, drizzle with any resting juices, and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve with roasted vegetables, potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Serving Suggestions

London Broil is highly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Some classic options include:

Garlic mashed potatoes with butter and herbs.
Roasted vegetables such as carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts.
Crispy potato wedges or oven fries.
Grilled corn on the cob with a sprinkle of parmesan.
Fresh green salad for a lighter pairing.

For something creative, try slicing the meat thin and layering it into sandwiches, tacos, or grain bowls.

Tips for the Perfect London Broil

Marinate long enough: At least 4 hours, but overnight is best.
Use high heat: Quick cooking ensures a nice crust while keeping the inside juicy.
Slice thinly against the grain: This maximizes tenderness.
Don’t overcook: Lean cuts can become tough if cooked beyond medium.
Rest before slicing: Always allow juices to settle back into the meat.

Variations to Try

Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or chili paste to the marinade.
Herb-Forward: Swap oregano and thyme for fresh rosemary and basil.
Citrus Twist: Replace lemon juice with lime or orange for a different brightness.
Asian-Inspired: Add ginger and sesame oil to the marinade and serve with rice and stir-fried veggies.
Creamy Finish: Top sliced steak with a dollop of garlic-herb butter before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Make ahead: Marinate the steak up to 24 hours in advance.
Refrigerate: Store cooked steak slices in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet or oven to avoid drying out.

Nutrition (Per Serving, Approximate)

Calories: 320
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fat: 16g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 3g

FAQs

What’s the best cut of meat for London Broil?
Flank steak is most traditional, but top round and sirloin tip are also great options.

Can I cook London Broil in the oven without broiling?
Yes, you can roast it at high heat (around 425°F), but broiling or grilling gives the best seared crust.

How do I make my steak more tender?
Marinating, cooking to medium-rare, and slicing against the grain are key.

Can I use the marinade as a sauce?
Yes, but boil it first to make it food-safe. Reduce slightly until thickened.

Conclusion

London Broil is proof that delicious meals don’t need to be expensive or complicated. With just a bit of preparation, you can turn a simple cut of beef into a meal that’s rich, juicy, and full of character. The flavorful marinade, quick cooking method, and thin slicing technique all come together to create a dish that’s both rustic and refined.

Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, prepping meals for the week, or treating yourself to a hearty steak night, this recipe will deliver every time. Serve it with your favorite sides, and you’ll have a dish that feels special without breaking the bank.

So fire up your grill, broiler, or skillet, marinate that steak, and enjoy the classic, timeless pleasure of a perfectly cooked London Broil.