How to Cook Flat Iron Steak: Easy, Juicy, Tender & Flavorful

• Flat iron steak comes from the cow's shoulder, specifically the chuck primal. Despite coming from a hardworking muscle, it can be remarkably tender when properly prepared.
• The steak is usually relatively thin and has a consistent shape, making it ideal for quick cooking. It also has a rich beef flavor that pairs well with simple seasonings.
• Because flat iron steak cooks quickly, it's important to keep an eye on the internal temperature. A minute or two can make a noticeable difference, especially with a thinner steak.

What You Need to Cook Flat Iron Steak

You don't need a long ingredient list to make a delicious flat iron steak. Simple seasonings let the beef's natural flavor shine.

Ingredients

• 1 flat iron steak, about 1 to 1½ pounds
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 garlic cloves, lightly crushed
• Fresh rosemary or thyme, optional
• You can adjust the seasonings according to your taste. If you prefer to keep things simple, salt and black pepper may be all you need.

How to Prepare Flat Iron Steak

• Before cooking, remove the steak from the refrigerator and pat it dry with paper towels.
• Removing excess moisture is important because a dry surface helps the steak brown instead of steam in the pan.
• Lightly brush the steak with olive oil. Combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika, then season both sides evenly.
• For the best results, let the seasoned steak sit at room temperature for about 20 to 30 minutes before cooking. Don't leave raw meat at room temperature for an extended period.
• While the steak rests, prepare your skillet, grill, or other cooking surface.

A cast-iron skillet is one of the best options for cooking flat iron steak. It gets very hot and helps create a deeply browned, flavorful crust.

Step 1: Heat the Skillet

• Place a heavy skillet over medium-high to high heat. Allow it to become very hot before adding the steak.
• You want the cooking surface hot enough to immediately begin browning the meat.
• Add a small amount of high-heat cooking oil if needed.

Step 2: Add the Steak

• Place the flat iron steak in the hot skillet.
• You should hear an immediate sizzling sound. If the steak doesn't sizzle, the pan may not be hot enough.
• Cook the first side for approximately 3 to 4 minutes without moving the steak too much.

Step 3: Flip the Steak

• Turn the steak over and cook the other side for another 3 to 4 minutes.
• The exact cooking time depends on the thickness of the steak and your preferred level of doneness.
• For extra flavor, add the butter, crushed garlic, and fresh rosemary or thyme during the final minute or two of cooking.
• Tilt the skillet slightly and spoon the melted butter over the steak several times.
• This creates a flavorful finish and adds richness to the crust.

How Long to Cook Flat Iron Steak

• Cooking time varies depending on the steak's thickness and your preferred level of doneness. Instead of relying only on time, use an instant-read thermometer for the most accurate results.
• For medium-rare, remove the steak from the heat when it reaches approximately 125–130°F. The temperature will continue to rise slightly while the steak rests.
• For medium, aim for approximately 135–140°F before resting.For medium-well, remove it at approximately 145–150°F.
• The USDA recommends cooking whole cuts of beef to a minimum internal temperature of 145°F, followed by a three-minute rest.
• If you prefer your steak medium-rare, keep in mind that this is below the USDA's recommended minimum temperature.

How to Grill Flat Iron Steak

• Grilling is another excellent way to cook flat iron steak. The high heat creates a delicious smoky flavor and attractive grill marks.
• Preheat your grill to high heat.Pat the steak dry and season it as described above. Lightly oil the steak or grill grates to help prevent sticking.
• Place the steak directly over the hottest part of the grill.
• Cook for about 3 to 5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness and desired doneness.
• Avoid repeatedly flipping the steak. One flip is generally enough, although you can rotate it slightly during cooking if you want crosshatch grill marks.
• Once the steak reaches your desired internal temperature, remove it from the grill and place it on a clean cutting board.

• If you don't have a grill or cast-iron skillet, your oven broiler can also work well.
• Position an oven rack several inches below the broiler and preheat it.
• Place the seasoned steak on a broiler-safe pan or a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
• Broil for approximately 4 to 6 minutes per side, depending on the thickness.
• Because broilers can vary significantly in temperature, watch the steak carefully and use a thermometer to check the internal temperature.

Why You Should Rest Flat Iron Steak

• One of the most important steps when cooking steak is also one of the easiest to skip.
• Let your flat iron steak rest for about 5 to 10 minutes after cooking.
• Resting gives the juices time to redistribute throughout the meat. If you slice the steak immediately after removing it from the heat, more of those juices can run onto the cutting board.
• A short resting period helps keep the steak juicy when you cut into it.

How to Slice Flat Iron Steak

• Slicing correctly can make a noticeable difference in tenderness.
• Look closely at the steak and identify the direction of the muscle fibers. 
• These visible lines are commonly called the grain.Using a sharp knife, slice against the grain rather than parallel to it.
• Cutting across the fibers shortens them, making each bite easier to chew.
• For serving, thin slices are usually ideal for flat iron steak.

Best Seasonings for Flat Iron Steak

• Flat iron steak has plenty of natural flavor, so it doesn't need complicated seasoning.
• A simple combination of salt, black pepper, and garlic works beautifully.
• For a smoky flavor, add smoked paprika and a small amount of chili powder.
• For an herb-forward steak, use rosemary, thyme, garlic, and butter.
• You can also marinate the steak before cooking. A marinade made with olive oil, garlic, citrus juice, herbs, and spices can add another layer of flavor.
• However, don't feel like you have to marinate it. A properly cooked and seasoned flat iron steak can be excellent with a simple dry seasoning.

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