If you’re craving a dish that combines smoky, tender meat with a vibrant, zesty butter topping, the Grilled Flank Steak with Cilantro Lime Butter Recipe is going to be your new go-to favorite. This recipe blends the robust flavors of a perfectly grilled flank steak with the bright, fresh notes of cilantro, lime, and garlic in a butter that melts indulgently over every slice. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but impressive enough to serve at a backyard party or special dinner. You’re about to discover how a handful of fresh, quality ingredients can transform a humble cut of beef into something unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this dish are straightforward but packed with purpose, each contributing layers of flavor, texture, and color that make the steak sing. From the rich creaminess of butter to the citrus zing of lime, these essentials come together beautifully on your plate.
- ½ cup salted butter (room temperature): The base for your flavorful cilantro lime butter, creating a creamy coating that enhances every bite.
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro: Adds a bright, herbal freshness essential to balancing the richness of the butter and steak.
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice (from ½ lime): Brings a tangy zing that elevates the butter’s flavor with a citrus punch.
- 2 tsp lime zest (from 1 lime): Provides concentrated lime aroma and flavor to complement the juice perfectly.
- 1 tsp finely chopped green onion: Offers a subtle sharpness and crunch to the butter mix.
- 1 tbsp garlic paste: Infuses a mellow garlicky depth, amplifying the savory notes without overpowering.
- 1 tsp kosher salt: Essential for seasoning the steak and butter, helping all flavors shine through.
- ½ tsp ground black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that rounds out the spice profile.
- 1 tsp mustard powder: Brings a subtle tangy warmth that enhances the steak’s natural flavor.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps to sear the flank steak perfectly, ensuring a delicious crust.
- 2 lbs. flank steak (at room temperature): The star of the dish – lean, flavorful, and perfect for grilling.
How to Make Grilled Flank Steak with Cilantro Lime Butter Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cilantro Lime Butter
Start by combining the room temperature butter with the chopped cilantro, fresh lime juice, lime zest, finely chopped green onion, garlic paste, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and mustard powder. Mix these ingredients thoroughly to create a smooth, vibrant butter that bursts with flavor. Once combined, place the butter mixture in the fridge or freezer to firm up while you focus on the steak. This chilling step ensures it won’t melt away too quickly once on the hot meat.
Step 2: Season and Marinate the Flank Steak
Pat the flank steak dry with a paper towel and rub it evenly with olive oil. Sprinkle kosher salt and ground black pepper on both sides to draw out the meat’s rich flavor. Let the steak rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes to help it cook evenly on the grill. This simple seasoning is crucial because with high-quality meat and a flavorful butter, less is absolutely more.
Step 3: Grill the Flank Steak to Perfection
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat—about 400°F (200°C)—to get a nice sear on your steak. Place the flank steak directly over the heat and grill each side for about 4-5 minutes for medium-rare, or longer depending on your preferred doneness. Remember to flip only once for the best even crust formation. Use a meat thermometer if you want precise cooking: 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare is ideal.
Step 4: Rest and Top with Cilantro Lime Butter
Once off the grill, transfer the flank steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 10 minutes. This resting allows the juices to redistribute for juicier slices. While resting, place generous dollops of the chilled cilantro lime butter over the steak so it slowly melts over the warm meat, infusing it with its fresh and buttery goodness.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Slice the steak thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness. Arrange the slices on a platter and spoon any remaining melted butter from the cutting board over the top. This finishing touch makes every bite rich, flavorful, and downright irresistible.
How to Serve Grilled Flank Steak with Cilantro Lime Butter Recipe
Garnishes
For a visually stunning and flavor-enhancing garnish, sprinkle extra chopped fresh cilantro and a few thin slices of lime around the plate. A light scattering of flaky sea salt also makes the steak’s flavors pop. These simple touches add freshness and highlight the citrus and herbal notes from the butter.
Side Dishes
The bright and rich flavors of this Grilled Flank Steak with Cilantro Lime Butter Recipe pair beautifully with crisp and creamy sides. Grilled vegetables such as asparagus or bell peppers balance the savory steak, while a light avocado salad or creamy mashed potatoes serve as comforting complements. For a touch of carb love, garlic butter rice or warm tortillas make fantastic options to soak up any extra butter.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the steak as fajitas with warmed tortillas, grilled onions, and your favorite toppings. Alternatively, slice the steak thin and layer it in open-faced sandwiches topped with a handful of fresh greens and a drizzle of extra cilantro lime butter. No matter how you plate it, the vibrant flavors will shine in every presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, wrap the grilled flank steak tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness. The cilantro lime butter will keep the meat moist and flavorful even after cooling, making it perfect for next-day meals.
Freezing
You can freeze sliced grilled flank steak wrapped in plastic wrap and then foil or stored in a freezer-safe container. The cilantro lime butter may separate slightly after freezing, but stirring it gently as it thaws will bring back most of its luscious texture. Frozen steak is best used within 2-3 months.
Reheating
For reheating, gently warm the steak slices in a skillet over low heat, adding a small pat of cilantro lime butter to refresh the flavors and prevent drying out. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid overcooking. Reheating with the butter keeps everything tender and delicious.
FAQs
Can I make the cilantro lime butter ahead of time?
Absolutely! The cilantro lime butter can be made several days ahead and stored in the refrigerator or frozen for longer. Having it ready beforehand will save you time on grilling day.
What if I don’t have flank steak? Can I use another cut?
Flank steak is perfect for this recipe because of its lean texture and ability to absorb marinades well. However, skirt steak or hanger steak can be good substitutes with similar results.
How do I know when the flank steak is done?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer. Medium rare is achieved at 130°F (54°C). Without a thermometer, look for a nicely browned crust and a slight springiness when you press the steak.
Can I grill this steak indoors?
Definitely. You can grill the flank steak on a stovetop grill pan or under the broiler. Just keep an eye on cooking times, and aim for a nice sear while not overcooking.
Is the cilantro lime butter necessary? Can I substitute something else?
While the cilantro lime butter is the signature finish for this dish, you could substitute with compound butters of other flavors, like garlic herb or chili lime. However, the fresh brightness of cilantro and lime perfectly complements the grilled steak’s smoky flavor.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Grilled Flank Steak with Cilantro Lime Butter Recipe enough for anyone looking to impress with a simple yet utterly mouthwatering meal. It’s one of those dishes that feels special but comes together with surprising ease. Whether you’re grilling for family or friends, this vibrant, flavorful steak will have everyone asking for seconds and your recipe secrets. Give it a try — I promise you won’t regret it!
Print
Grilled Flank Steak with Cilantro Lime Butter Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Grilled Flank Steak with Cilantro Lime Butter is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners. The flank steak is marinated with a blend of spices and grilled to perfection, then topped with a zesty and creamy cilantro lime butter that melts over the warm steak, enhancing every bite with fresh citrus and herb notes.
Ingredients
Cilantro Lime Butter
- ½ cup salted butter (room temperature, 1 stick)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice (from ½ lime)
- 2 tsp lime zest (from 1 lime)
- 1 tsp finely chopped green onion
- 1 tbsp garlic paste (Gourmet Garden brand or similar)
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp mustard powder
Steak and Marinade
- 1 tbsp garlic paste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 lbs flank steak (at room temperature)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cilantro Lime Butter: In a medium bowl, combine the softened salted butter with chopped fresh cilantro, fresh lime juice, lime zest, finely chopped green onion, garlic paste, kosher salt, black pepper, and mustard powder. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Set aside or refrigerate to allow the flavors to meld.
- Prepare the Steak for Grilling: Pat the flank steak dry and rub it evenly with the additional garlic paste and olive oil to ensure it stays moist and flavorful on the grill. Let the steak sit at room temperature for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Grill the Flank Steak: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the flank steak on the grill grates and cook for about 8-10 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness (medium-rare to medium is recommended for flank steak). Use a meat thermometer to check: 130-135°F for medium-rare, 135-145°F for medium.
- Rest the Steak: Remove the steak from the grill and place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- Slice and Serve: Slice the steak thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness. Top each serving with a generous dollop of the cilantro lime butter, allowing it to melt over the warm steak. Serve immediately.
Notes
- The butter can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated; just bring it to room temperature before serving for ideal spreading.
- Make sure to slice the flank steak against the grain to ensure tenderness.
- If you don’t have fresh lime, bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch but fresh is preferable for best flavor.
- To add extra char and smokiness, consider using a charcoal grill or adding wood chips to your gas grill.
- For a lower sodium version, reduce the kosher salt in the butter.
