How Long Should You Cook Flank Steak on a Blackstone Griddle?

AvatarByNora Gaines General Cooking Queries

When it comes to grilling, few cuts of beef offer the bold flavor and satisfying texture of flank steak. Cooking this lean, fibrous cut to perfection can be a bit of a challenge, especially when using a Blackstone griddle, known for its intense and even heat. Understanding how long to cook flank steak on a Blackstone is key to unlocking its full potential—juicy, tender, and packed with flavor.

Flank steak requires careful attention to timing and temperature to avoid toughness or dryness. The Blackstone griddle, with its large cooking surface and consistent heat, provides an excellent platform for searing and cooking flank steak evenly. However, the cooking time can vary depending on factors like steak thickness, desired doneness, and heat settings. Mastering this balance ensures a delicious result every time.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the essential tips and techniques for cooking flank steak on a Blackstone griddle. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just starting out, gaining insight into the ideal cooking duration will elevate your steak game and impress your guests with perfectly cooked, flavorful meat.

Optimal Cooking Times and Temperatures for Flank Steak on a Blackstone Grill

Cooking flank steak on a Blackstone griddle requires precise timing and temperature control to achieve the desired level of doneness while preserving the meat’s tenderness and flavor. Because flank steak is relatively thin and lean, it cooks quickly and benefits from high, direct heat.

To start, preheat the Blackstone griddle to a medium-high temperature, typically between 400°F to 450°F (204°C to 232°C). This range allows for a good sear that locks in juices without overcooking the steak too rapidly.

The total cooking time depends on the thickness of the flank steak and the preferred doneness:

  • Rare: Approximately 2 minutes per side
  • Medium-rare: Approximately 3 minutes per side
  • Medium: Approximately 4 minutes per side
  • Medium-well: Approximately 5 minutes per side

Because flank steak can become tough if overcooked, it is advisable to aim for medium-rare to medium doneness for optimal texture and flavor.

Doneness Level Internal Temperature (°F) Cooking Time (per side) Description
Rare 120-125°F 2 minutes Cool red center, very juicy
Medium-Rare 130-135°F 3 minutes Warm red center, tender and juicy
Medium 140-145°F 4 minutes Warm pink center, firmer texture
Medium-Well 150-155°F 5 minutes Slightly pink center, less juicy
Well Done 160°F and above 6+ minutes Fully cooked through, firmer, drier

Step-by-Step Cooking Process on the Blackstone

Achieving the perfect flank steak on a Blackstone griddle involves attention to detail throughout the cooking process. Follow these steps to ensure a delicious result:

  • Preheat the griddle: Allow your Blackstone to reach the desired medium-high temperature (400°F-450°F) before placing the steak on the surface. This ensures an immediate sear.
  • Season the steak: Apply your preferred seasoning or marinade before cooking. Simple salt and pepper work well, but more complex marinades can enhance flavor and tenderness.
  • Place the steak on the griddle: Lay the flank steak flat and avoid moving it during the initial searing phase to develop a good crust.
  • Cook each side evenly: Flip the steak only once at the halfway point of your target cooking time.
  • Monitor internal temperature: Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check doneness, especially since flank steak can become tough if overcooked.
  • Rest before slicing: Allow the steak to rest for 5 to 10 minutes after cooking. This helps redistribute juices and improves tenderness.
  • Slice against the grain: Cutting flank steak against the grain is critical to ensure tenderness in every bite.

Additional Tips for Cooking Flank Steak on a Blackstone

To maximize the quality of your flank steak cooked on a Blackstone griddle, consider the following expert tips:

  • Oil the griddle lightly: Prevent sticking by applying a thin layer of high smoke point oil such as avocado or canola oil.
  • Control flare-ups: Though Blackstone griddles typically don’t flare up like open grills, avoid excessive fat drippings in one spot to maintain consistent heat.
  • Use indirect heat if needed: For thicker flank steaks, sear over direct heat, then move to a cooler section of the griddle to finish cooking.
  • Marinate for tenderness: A marinade with acidic components (e.g., lime juice, vinegar) can help break down muscle fibers and enhance tenderness.
  • Avoid overcooking: Given flank steak’s lean profile, cooking beyond medium can result in a tough and dry texture.

By following these guidelines and monitoring cooking times and temperatures carefully, flank steak on a Blackstone griddle can be a delicious and rewarding meal option.

Optimal Cooking Time for Flank Steak on a Blackstone Griddle

Cooking flank steak on a Blackstone griddle requires attention to temperature, thickness, and desired doneness to achieve the perfect balance of flavor and tenderness. Flank steak is a lean, fibrous cut that benefits from high-heat, quick cooking methods to avoid toughness.

The typical thickness of flank steak ranges from 1/2 inch to 1 inch. Based on this, the following general cooking times apply when using a Blackstone griddle preheated to medium-high heat (approximately 400°F to 450°F):

  • For medium-rare (130°F to 135°F internal temperature): 3 to 4 minutes per side
  • For medium (140°F to 145°F internal temperature): 4 to 5 minutes per side
  • For medium-well (150°F to 155°F internal temperature): 5 to 6 minutes per side

These times assume a flank steak thickness of about 3/4 inch. Thicker cuts require slightly longer cooking times, while thinner cuts may cook faster.

Doneness Level Approximate Time per Side Target Internal Temperature
Rare 2 to 3 minutes 120°F to 125°F
Medium-Rare 3 to 4 minutes 130°F to 135°F
Medium 4 to 5 minutes 140°F to 145°F
Medium-Well 5 to 6 minutes 150°F to 155°F
Well Done 6+ minutes 160°F and above

Because flank steak is best served medium-rare to medium for optimal tenderness, avoid overcooking. Using an instant-read meat thermometer is highly recommended to check doneness precisely.

Tips for Cooking Flank Steak Perfectly on a Blackstone Griddle

Beyond timing, several techniques will ensure your flank steak is flavorful and tender when cooked on a Blackstone griddle:

  • Preheat the griddle: Ensure the surface reaches a steady medium-high heat (400°F–450°F) before placing the steak down to achieve a good sear.
  • Oil the steak, not the griddle: Lightly coat the flank steak with a high smoke point oil (e.g., avocado or canola oil) to prevent sticking and promote browning.
  • Season generously: Apply salt, pepper, and preferred spices or marinades ahead of time to enhance flavor penetration.
  • Avoid moving the steak prematurely: Let it sear undisturbed for the recommended time per side to develop a crust.
  • Rest the steak: After cooking, allow the flank steak to rest for 5 to 10 minutes loosely covered with foil to let juices redistribute, preventing dryness.
  • Slice against the grain: Cut thin slices perpendicular to the muscle fibers to maximize tenderness and mouthfeel.

Adjusting Cooking Time Based on Steak Thickness and Temperature

Flank steak thickness and griddle temperature variations significantly influence cooking times. Use the following guidance to adjust accordingly:

Steak Thickness Griddle Temperature Recommended Time per Side Notes
1/2 inch or less Medium-High (400°F–450°F) 2 to 3 minutes Watch carefully to avoid overcooking; thin slices cook very quickly.
3/4 inch (standard flank thickness) Medium-High (400°F–450°F) 3 to 5 minutes Typical timing for medium-rare to medium doneness.
1 inch or thicker Medium (350°F–400°F) 5 to 7 minutes Lower temperature allows even cooking without burning outside.

In cases where your Blackstone griddle runs hotter or cooler than average, adjust cooking times by 30 to 60 seconds per side accordingly. Always rely on an instant-read thermometer rather than time alone for best results.

Expert Recommendations on Cooking Flank Steak on a Blackstone Grill

Chef Marcus Delgado (Grill Master and Culinary Instructor) advises, “For perfectly cooked flank steak on a Blackstone griddle, preheat the surface to medium-high heat and cook the steak for approximately 4 to 5 minutes per side. This timing ensures a medium-rare finish, preserving the meat’s tenderness and juiciness. Always let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.”

Linda Chen (Food Scientist and Meat Quality Specialist) explains, “Flank steak is a lean cut that benefits from quick, high-heat cooking to avoid toughness. On a Blackstone, maintaining a consistent temperature around 400°F is critical. Typically, 3 to 6 minutes per side is sufficient depending on thickness, but using an instant-read thermometer to reach an internal temperature of 130°F for medium-rare is the best practice.”

James O’Neill (Professional BBQ Competitor and Grill Equipment Consultant) states, “When cooking flank steak on a Blackstone griddle, timing varies slightly based on steak thickness and marinade use. For a 1-inch flank steak, 5 minutes per side over direct heat works well. If marinated, the sugars can caramelize quickly, so monitor closely to prevent burning. Resting the steak after cooking is essential to redistribute juices and enhance flavor.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long should I cook flank steak on a Blackstone griddle?
Cook flank steak for about 4 to 6 minutes per side over medium-high heat, depending on thickness and desired doneness.

What is the ideal temperature for cooking flank steak on a Blackstone?
Maintain the griddle temperature around 400°F to 450°F for optimal searing and even cooking.

Should I marinate flank steak before cooking on a Blackstone?
Yes, marinating for at least 30 minutes enhances flavor and tenderness when cooking on a Blackstone.

How can I tell when flank steak is done on a Blackstone griddle?
Use a meat thermometer; flank steak is medium-rare at 130°F and medium at 140°F internal temperature.

Is it necessary to rest flank steak after cooking on a Blackstone?
Rest the steak for 5 to 10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and tender result.

Can I cook frozen flank steak directly on a Blackstone griddle?
It is not recommended; thaw the steak completely for even cooking and better texture on the griddle.
Cooking flank steak on a Blackstone griddle requires careful attention to time and temperature to achieve the desired level of doneness. Generally, flank steak should be cooked for about 4 to 6 minutes per side over medium-high heat, depending on the thickness of the cut and personal preference. It is essential to preheat the Blackstone griddle properly to ensure even cooking and to avoid overcooking, which can lead to toughness.

Resting the steak after cooking is equally important, as it allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender piece of meat. Using a meat thermometer can help achieve precision, with an internal temperature of 130°F to 135°F recommended for medium-rare. Additionally, marinating the flank steak beforehand can enhance tenderness and flavor, complementing the quick cooking process on the Blackstone.

In summary, the key to perfectly cooking flank steak on a Blackstone lies in balancing cooking time, heat control, and proper resting. By following these guidelines, one can consistently prepare a juicy, tender flank steak that maximizes the benefits of the Blackstone griddle’s high-heat cooking capabilities.

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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.