10 Irresistible London Broil Recipes You’ll Crave

Discover mouthwatering marinades and cooking tricks to transform this budget-friendly steak into a tender, flavor-packed showstopper.

Ever bite into a steak so good that you pause mid-chew just to appreciate life? That’s the magic of a perfectly cooked London broil. This dish takes a tough cut and turns it into something guests will be Instagramming before the plates even hit the table. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you look like a pro chef without the army of sous chefs. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t want applause—both literal and metaphorical—after dinner? So if you’re ready, buckle in for a flavor journey you’ll actually want to brag about.

Why This Recipe Works

The genius of London broil lies in its balance: simple prep, affordable meat, and big flavors. Through marinating, you tame the tougher fibers, making the steak juicy instead of jaw-breaking. A quick high-heat sear locks in moisture, while careful slicing against the grain keeps each bite tender. It’s practically a hack—turning budget beef into prime-time dining material.

Shopping List – Ingredients

• 2 pounds flank steak or top round
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley

How to Make It – Instructions

1. Mix the marinade: Whisk soy sauce, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, Worcestershire, oregano, pepper, and salt in a bowl.
2. Marinate the meat: Place steak in a sealable bag with the marinade and refrigerate for 4–8 hours.
3. Preheat your grill or broiler: Aim for high heat—London broil deserves a quick, intense cook.
4. Cook the steak: Grill or broil each side for 5–7 minutes, depending on thickness and desired doneness.
5. Rest before slicing: Let the meat rest for 10 minutes so juices redistribute (trust me, worth the wait).
6. Slice against the grain: Cut thin slices for maximum tenderness, then garnish if desired.

Keeping It Fresh

London broil tastes amazing right after cooking, but it also holds up surprisingly well. Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To refresh the flavor, reheat gently in a skillet or wrap in foil and warm in the oven—avoid blasting it in the microwave unless you enjoy chewing leather. For longer storage, freeze slices in portion-sized bags.

What’s Great About This

• Cost-effective: Uses cheaper cuts but delivers premium taste.
• Flexible: Works with grills, broilers, or even cast-iron pans.
• Flavor-packed: Marinade punches well above its weight.
• Quick cook time: You get steak night without a long kitchen marathon.

Don’t Make These Errors

• Skipping the marinade—IMO, that’s culinary sabotage.
• Overcooking until it resembles shoe leather.
• Slicing with the grain, which basically makes beef floss.
• Ignoring the rest time—patience really does pay here.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy kick: Add chili flakes or hot sauce to the marinade.
• Herb-forward: Swap oregano for rosemary and thyme.
• Asian-inspired: Use sesame oil and ginger for a twist.
• Citrus burst: Include lemon or lime juice for brightness.

FAQ

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, flank steak or top round are classic, but sirloin can work too. Just adjust cooking time so it doesn’t dry out.

Is marinating overnight okay?

Absolutely—overnight can deepen flavor. Just don’t exceed 24 hours or the texture might get funky.

Can I cook it in the oven without broiling?

You can roast it, but you’ll miss that char. If broiling isn’t an option, sear in a pan first, then finish in the oven.

What side dishes pair best?

Roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad all vibe well with London broil. It’s basically a versatile flavor sponge.

How do I know when it’s done?

Use a meat thermometer. Medium-rare lands around 130–135°F; overdo it and you’ll regret it.

In Conclusion

London broil isn’t just a recipe—it’s a transformation. With smart marinating, hot-and-fast cooking, and proper slicing, you turn modest beef into an unforgettable meal. Whether you stick to the classic marinade or get wild with variations, you’ll have a dish that’s crowd-pleasing, budget-friendly, and downright delicious. So grab that steak, get your grill fired up, and make magic happen tonight.