How Do I Grill a London Broil to Perfection?

AvatarByNora Gaines General Cooking Queries

Grilling a London Broil is a fantastic way to transform a flavorful, budget-friendly cut of beef into a tender, mouthwatering meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just starting out, mastering this technique can elevate your backyard cookouts and impress your guests with a beautifully seared, juicy steak. The appeal of London Broil lies not only in its rich taste but also in its versatility and relatively quick cooking time, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.

At its core, grilling a London Broil involves more than just placing the meat on the grill. It requires understanding the right preparation methods, marinating techniques, and cooking times to ensure the beef reaches the perfect balance of tenderness and flavor. While the term “London Broil” often refers to a specific preparation style rather than a particular cut, the process emphasizes high heat and careful resting to maximize juiciness and taste.

As you delve deeper into the art of grilling a London Broil, you’ll discover tips on selecting the best cut, preparing it for the grill, and achieving that coveted charred exterior without sacrificing the meat’s natural juices. Whether you prefer your steak rare, medium, or well-done, this guide will set you on the path to

Preparing the London Broil for Grilling

Before grilling, it is essential to properly prepare the London broil to enhance flavor and tenderness. Begin by selecting a well-marbled flank or top round steak, typically 1 to 1.5 inches thick. Pat the meat dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.

Marinating the London broil is highly recommended, as it helps break down muscle fibers and infuses the meat with flavor. Use an acidic marinade containing ingredients such as vinegar, citrus juice, or wine combined with oil, herbs, and spices. Typical marinade components include:

  • Olive oil for moisture and richness
  • Soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for umami depth
  • Garlic and onion for aromatic flavor
  • Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for herbal notes
  • Black pepper and crushed red pepper for mild heat

Marinate the steak in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, ensuring full coverage, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results. Remove the steak from the marinade and let it come to room temperature before grilling to ensure even cooking.

Grilling Techniques for Optimal Results

Proper grilling technique is crucial to achieve the ideal balance of a flavorful crust and a tender interior.

  • Preheat the grill to high heat, around 450–500°F (232–260°C). This temperature range allows for a quick sear that locks in juices.
  • Oil the grill grates lightly to prevent sticking. Use a high smoke point oil such as canola or grapeseed oil applied with a paper towel and tongs.
  • Place the London broil directly over the hottest part of the grill to sear. Grill for about 4 to 6 minutes per side depending on thickness and desired doneness. Avoid pressing down on the meat to retain juices.
  • Use a meat thermometer to monitor internal temperature; aim for medium-rare (130–135°F / 54–57°C) or medium (140–145°F / 60–63°C) for best texture.

After grilling, transfer the steak to a cutting board and tent loosely with foil. Allow it to rest for 10 minutes to let the juices redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender bite.

Serving and Slicing the London Broil

How you slice the London broil significantly affects tenderness. Because this cut is a lean muscle with distinct grain, always slice thinly against the grain to shorten muscle fibers and improve chewability.

  • Identify the direction of the grain, which runs lengthwise down the steak.
  • Use a sharp carving knife to cut perpendicular to the grain into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick.

This preparation makes the London broil ideal for serving on its own or as a component in salads, sandwiches, or tacos.

Internal Temperature Doneness Level Grill Time per Side (approx.) Description
120–125°F (49–52°C) Rare 3-4 minutes Very red center, soft texture
130–135°F (54–57°C) Medium-Rare 4-6 minutes Warm red center, tender and juicy
140–145°F (60–63°C) Medium 5-7 minutes Pink center, firmer texture
150–155°F (65–68°C) Medium-Well 6-8 minutes Mostly brown center, less juicy
160°F+ (71°C+) Well-Done 8+ minutes Fully cooked through, firm texture

Preparing and Marinating the London Broil

Proper preparation and marination are critical steps in grilling a London broil to achieve maximum tenderness and flavor. London broil typically refers to a thick cut of flank or top round steak, which benefits from a marinade to break down the muscle fibers.

Follow these steps to prepare the meat:

  • Trim Excess Fat: Remove any silver skin and excess fat from the meat to prevent flare-ups on the grill and ensure even cooking.
  • Score the Surface: Lightly score the surface with shallow diagonal cuts about 1/4 inch deep to help the marinade penetrate better.
  • Choose a Marinade: An acidic marinade with ingredients like balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, lemon juice, or red wine helps tenderize the meat. Include oil and aromatics such as garlic, rosemary, or thyme for enhanced flavor.
  • Marinate Time: Place the meat and marinade in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, turning occasionally for even absorption.
Common Marinade Ingredients Purpose
Balsamic Vinegar Acidic tenderizer and flavor enhancer
Soy Sauce Saltiness and umami depth
Olive Oil Moisture retention and flavor carrier
Garlic & Herbs (Rosemary, Thyme) Aromatic complexity
Brown Sugar or Honey Caramelization and subtle sweetness

Grilling Techniques for London Broil

Grilling a London broil requires careful temperature control and timing to prevent toughness and dryness while ensuring a flavorful crust.

Key grilling techniques include:

  • Preheat the Grill: Heat the grill to high (450–500°F) for direct searing. A hot grill creates a flavorful crust through the Maillard reaction.
  • Oil the Grates: Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
  • Sear the Meat: Place the London broil on the grill and sear for 4–5 minutes per side without moving it to develop a crust.
  • Indirect Cooking: After searing, move the steak to a cooler part of the grill or reduce the heat to medium to finish cooking to the desired doneness.
  • Monitor Internal Temperature: Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check doneness. Aim for:
Doneness Internal Temperature (°F)
Rare 120–125
Medium Rare 130–135
Medium 140–145
Medium Well 150–155
  • Avoid Overcooking: London broil is best served medium rare to medium to maintain tenderness.
  • Rest the Meat: After removing from the grill, tent the steak loosely with foil and let it rest for 10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.

Slicing and Serving London Broil

How the London broil is sliced dramatically impacts the tenderness perceived during eating.

For optimal texture:

  • Slice Against the Grain: Identify the muscle fibers running lengthwise and cut perpendicular to them in thin slices (about 1/4 inch thick). This shortens the muscle fibers, making the meat easier to chew.
  • Serve Warm or Room Temperature: Sliced London broil can be served immediately while still warm or at room temperature for better flavor.
  • Complementary Accompaniments: Consider serving with grilled vegetables, a chimichurri sauce, or a light salad to balance the richness of the meat.

Grilling Techniques for a Perfect London Broil: Expert Perspectives

Chef Laura Mitchell (Culinary Instructor and Meat Specialist). “To grill a London Broil effectively, start by marinating the meat for at least four hours to tenderize and infuse flavor. Use a high-heat grill setting to sear the outside quickly, locking in juices, then reduce the heat to medium to finish cooking. Always grill the steak to medium-rare or medium doneness for optimal tenderness, and slice thinly against the grain to enhance tenderness and presentation.”

James Carter (Butcher and Meat Science Expert, National Meat Association). “Selecting the right cut is essential: London Broil is typically a top round or flank steak, which is lean and can be tough if overcooked. When grilling, preheat the grill to a high temperature and avoid overcooking by monitoring internal temperature closely—aim for 130°F to 135°F for medium-rare. Resting the meat for at least 10 minutes after grilling allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier final product.”

Monica Reyes (Grill Master and Food Writer, BBQ Enthusiast Magazine). “For grilling London Broil, it’s crucial to use a two-zone cooking method: sear the steak over direct heat to create a flavorful crust, then move it to indirect heat to finish cooking evenly. Applying a dry rub before grilling can enhance the flavor profile without overpowering the natural beef taste. Remember to keep the lid closed as much as possible to maintain consistent heat and smoke infusion.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best way to prepare a London Broil for grilling?
Marinate the London Broil for at least 4 hours or overnight to tenderize the meat and enhance flavor. Use a marinade with acidic ingredients like vinegar or citrus juice combined with oil and seasonings.

At what temperature should I grill a London Broil?
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F (204°C), to sear the meat properly and lock in juices.

How long should I grill a London Broil?
Grill the London Broil for about 4 to 6 minutes per side for medium-rare, depending on thickness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 130°F to 135°F.

Should I rest the London Broil after grilling?
Yes, allow the meat to rest for 5 to 10 minutes after grilling. This helps redistribute the juices, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.

How should I slice London Broil after grilling?
Slice the London Broil thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness and improve the eating experience.

Can I grill London Broil without marinating it?
While marinating is recommended for tenderness and flavor, you can grill London Broil without marinating by seasoning it well and cooking it carefully to avoid toughness.
Grilling a London Broil successfully involves selecting the right cut of meat, marinating it adequately, and applying proper grilling techniques to achieve optimal flavor and tenderness. This cut, typically a flank or top round steak, benefits greatly from a marinade that tenderizes and infuses it with complementary flavors. Preheating the grill to a high temperature and cooking the meat quickly over direct heat ensures a desirable sear while maintaining juiciness inside.

It is essential to monitor the internal temperature closely to avoid overcooking, as London Broil is best served medium-rare to medium for maximum tenderness. Resting the meat after grilling allows the juices to redistribute, enhancing the overall eating experience. Additionally, slicing the meat thinly against the grain is crucial to break down muscle fibers and improve chewability.

In summary, mastering the grilling of a London Broil requires attention to preparation, cooking time, and slicing technique. By following these expert guidelines, one can consistently produce a flavorful, tender, and satisfying dish that showcases the unique qualities of this cut. Proper execution transforms a relatively lean and tough cut into a delicious centerpiece suitable for various meals.

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Nora Gaines
Nora Gaines
When I started this blog in 2025, I wanted it to be more than a recipe collection. Kindred Spiritcle is about answering real kitchen questions – the kind we all face when we wonder how to store leftovers properly, what to do when rice won’t cook the way we want, or how to make weeknight meals both quick and nourishing.

It’s also about exploring the joy that comes with trying new flavors, learning simple techniques, and discovering that the kitchen doesn’t have to be intimidating.

Every article here is written to feel like a conversation with a friend. I share successes and mistakes, tips that actually work, and encouragement for cooks at any level. Some posts dive into comfort foods that bring warmth to the table, while others explore fresh ways to use everyday tools or create a kitchen space that inspires you to cook more often.