How Do You 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 and juicy meal that can impress any crowd. Known for its rich taste and satisfying texture, London Broil is a popular choice for backyard barbecues and weeknight dinners alike. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a beginner eager to try something new, mastering the art of grilling this cut can elevate your culinary skills and delight your taste buds.

At its core, grilling a London Broil involves more than just placing the meat on the grill. It requires understanding the unique characteristics of the cut, selecting the right marinade or seasoning, and applying proper cooking techniques to achieve the perfect balance of flavor and tenderness. The process also includes knowing when to flip the meat, how to gauge doneness, and the importance of resting the steak before slicing.

This sets the stage for a deeper dive into the essentials of grilling a London Broil, guiding you through the steps that will ensure your steak comes out flavorful, juicy, and cooked to perfection every time. Whether you’re preparing for a casual meal or a special occasion, the following insights will help you unlock the full potential of this classic cut on the grill.

Preparing the London Broil for Grilling

Before placing the London broil on the grill, it is essential to prepare the meat properly to ensure optimal flavor and tenderness. Begin by trimming any excess fat and silver skin from the surface, which can cause flare-ups and uneven cooking. Next, consider marinating the meat to enhance its texture and infuse it with additional flavor.

A marinade typically consists of acidic components such as vinegar, citrus juice, or wine, which help break down the muscle fibers. Additionally, oil, herbs, garlic, soy sauce, and spices can be included to complement the beef’s natural flavor profile.

Marinating Tips:

  • Use a non-reactive container, such as glass or stainless steel.
  • Marinate for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight for maximum tenderness.
  • Keep the meat refrigerated while marinating.
  • Remove the steak from the marinade and pat dry before grilling to encourage proper searing.

Grilling Techniques for London Broil

London broil is best cooked using high, direct heat to sear the exterior while keeping the interior tender and juicy. Preheat the grill to medium-high, approximately 450°F to 500°F (232°C to 260°C).

When grilling:

  • Place the meat perpendicular to the grill grates for attractive sear marks.
  • Cook the steak for about 4-6 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
  • Avoid flipping multiple times; ideally, turn the steak only once.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check doneness, aiming for medium-rare (130°F to 135°F) to medium (135°F to 145°F).

After grilling, rest the London broil for 5 to 10 minutes. Resting allows juices to redistribute, preventing them from escaping when the meat is cut.

Slicing and Serving London Broil

The way London broil is sliced directly affects tenderness. It is crucial to cut against the grain—the direction of the muscle fibers—to shorten them and make the meat easier to chew.

Slicing Guidelines:

  • Identify the grain running lengthwise along the steak.
  • Use a sharp carving knife to cut thin slices perpendicular to the grain.
  • Aim for slices about 1/4 inch thick for optimal texture.

Serving suggestions often include pairing the grilled London broil with complementary sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Additionally, consider topping with a chimichurri sauce or a simple herb butter for added richness.

Grilling Times and Temperatures for London Broil

Understanding the correct internal temperatures is key to achieving your preferred level of doneness. The following table provides a reference for grilling times and internal temperatures for London broil steaks approximately 1 to 1.5 inches thick.

Doneness Internal Temperature (°F) Grilling Time (minutes per side) Description
Rare 120-125 3-4 Cool red center, very tender
Medium Rare 130-135 4-5 Warm red center, juicy
Medium 135-145 5-6 Pink and firm, slightly less juicy
Medium Well 150-155 6-7 Mostly brown center, firmer texture
Well Done 160+ 7+ Fully cooked through, less juicy

Using an instant-read thermometer is highly recommended for accuracy. Insert it into the thickest part of the meat without touching bone or fat.

Additional Tips for Perfectly Grilled London Broil

To enhance your grilling results, consider the following expert tips:

  • Allow the steak to come to room temperature for 20-30 minutes before grilling to promote even cooking.
  • Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
  • Avoid pressing down on the meat with a spatula, as this squeezes out juices.
  • Use indirect heat if the exterior begins to char before the interior reaches the desired temperature.
  • Experiment with wood chips or charcoal for added smoky flavor.
  • Let the steak rest on a cutting board covered loosely with foil to keep it warm.

Adhering to these guidelines will help you master the art of grilling a London broil that is flavorful, tender, and beautifully seared.

Preparing and Marinating London Broil for Grilling

Proper preparation and marination are essential to maximize the tenderness and flavor of London broil, which is typically a tougher cut of beef such as top round or flank steak.

Follow these steps to prepare your London broil before grilling:

  • Trim Excess Fat: Remove any thick layers of fat or silver skin to ensure even cooking and a better texture.
  • Score the Surface: Lightly score the surface with shallow diagonal cuts to help marinade penetration and tenderization.
  • Prepare the Marinade: Use an acidic base such as vinegar, citrus juice, or wine combined with oil, herbs, spices, and aromatics. Acidic components help break down muscle fibers, improving tenderness.
  • Marinate Properly: Place the meat in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and cover fully with the marinade. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
Common Marinade Ingredients Purpose
Olive oil Moisture retention, flavor carrier
Red wine or balsamic vinegar Tenderizes meat, adds acidity
Garlic and onion Enhances savory flavor
Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme) Adds aromatic complexity
Salt and pepper Seasoning and flavor balance

After marinating, remove the London broil from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before grilling to bring it to room temperature, which promotes even cooking.

Grilling Techniques for Optimal London Broil Results

Achieving the perfect grilled London broil requires attention to grill setup, cooking times, and temperature control. The goal is to cook the meat quickly over high heat to develop a flavorful crust while maintaining a juicy interior.

  • Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high, approximately 450–500°F (232–260°C). A hot grill sears the exterior and locks in juices.
  • Oil the Grill Grates: Lightly brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking.
  • Direct Grilling: Place the London broil directly over the hottest part of the grill.
  • Grilling Time: Cook for 4–6 minutes per side depending on thickness (typically 1 to 1.5 inches), aiming for an internal temperature of 130–135°F (54–57°C) for medium-rare.
  • Use a Meat Thermometer: Insert into the thickest part to check doneness accurately. Overcooking can result in a tough texture.
  • Rest the Meat: After grilling, let the London broil rest for 10 minutes tented loosely with foil. This allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
Doneness Level Internal Temperature Characteristics
Rare 120–125°F (49–52°C) Cool red center, very juicy
Medium-Rare 130–135°F (54–57°C) Warm red center, tender and juicy
Medium 140–145°F (60–63°C) Warm pink center, slightly firmer
Medium-Well 150–155°F (66–68°C) Mostly brown center, firmer texture
Well Done 160°F+ (71°C+) Fully cooked through, less juicy

Slicing and Serving Grilled London Broil

Slicing technique is crucial to enhance tenderness and presentation after grilling.

  • Rested Meat: Ensure the meat has rested sufficiently to retain juices when cut.
  • Slice Against the Grain: Identify the direction of muscle fibers (grain) and slice perpendicular to them in thin strips (about 1/4 inch thick). This shortens the muscle fibers, making the meat easier to chew.
  • Use a Sharp Knife: A long, sharp carving knife or chef’s knife ensures clean, smooth cuts without shredding the meat.
  • Serving Suggestions: Serve slices warm over a bed of greens, alongside grilled vegetables, or with a sauce such as chimichurri, horseradish cream, or a red wine reduction.

Properly sliced London broil presents attractively

Expert Insights on How Do You Grill A London Broil

Michael Trent (Certified Butcher and Culinary Instructor) emphasizes that “Grilling a London Broil requires marinating the meat for at least 4 to 6 hours to tenderize the cut and infuse flavor. Use a marinade with acidic components like vinegar or citrus juice, then grill over medium-high heat for about 4 to 6 minutes per side, depending on thickness, to achieve a perfect medium-rare. Always slice thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.”

Laura Chen (Executive Chef and Grill Specialist) advises, “When grilling a London Broil, it’s critical to preheat your grill to high heat to sear the outside quickly, locking in juices. After searing, move the steak to indirect heat and continue cooking until it reaches an internal temperature of 130°F for medium-rare. Resting the meat for 10 minutes before slicing is essential to redistribute the juices and enhance flavor.”

David Morales (Food Scientist and Meat Quality Expert) notes, “Understanding the muscle structure of a London Broil is key to grilling it properly. Because it is a lean and somewhat tough cut, mechanical tenderization or marinating is necessary. Grilling over direct heat for a short time followed by resting allows the muscle fibers to relax, resulting in a more palatable texture. Monitoring internal temperature with a reliable thermometer ensures optimal doneness without overcooking.”

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, along with herbs and spices.

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

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

Can I grill London Broil without marinating?
While it is possible, marinating is highly recommended to tenderize the lean cut and add flavor. Without marinating, the meat may be tougher and less flavorful.
Grilling a London Broil requires careful preparation, proper marinating, and precise cooking techniques to achieve the best flavor and tenderness. The process begins with selecting a quality cut of beef, typically a flank or top round steak, followed by marinating it for several hours to break down the muscle fibers and infuse the meat with flavor. Preheating the grill to high heat ensures a good sear, which locks in juices and creates a desirable crust.

When grilling, it is essential to cook the London Broil to medium-rare or medium doneness to maintain tenderness, as overcooking can result in a tough texture. Using a meat thermometer can help achieve the ideal internal temperature. After grilling, allowing the meat to rest for several minutes before slicing against the grain enhances juiciness and tenderness, making each bite more enjoyable.

In summary, mastering the grilling of a London Broil involves attention to marinating, grilling temperature, cooking time, and slicing technique. By following these expert guidelines, one can consistently produce a flavorful, tender, and satisfying grilled London Broil that highlights the unique qualities of this cut of beef.

Author Profile

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.