Looking for another great grilling recipe to add to your collection? Try our London Broil grill recipe! Whether you're a seasoned griller or just starting out, this recipe will have you impressing friends and family with your culinary skills.
(gluten free, dairy free)
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What is London Broil?
London broil is a popular dish that originated in North America, although its name may suggest otherwise. Contrary to popular belief, London Broil does not come from London, but rather, it is a technique that originated in the United States. Traditionally, London Broil is made from a thick cut of beef, usually top round or flank steak. It is then marinated, grilled, and finally thinly sliced across the grain. This method ensures a tender and flavorful result.
London Broil can be prepared using various marinades and seasonings, allowing for endless flavor combinations. The versatility of this dish makes it a crowd-pleaser at backyard barbecues, dinner parties, and family gatherings.
Benefits of Grilling London Broil
London broil grill offers numerous benefits that make it a popular choice for meat lovers. One of the main advantages is the intense flavor that grilling brings to the meat. The high heat of the grill creates a caramelized crust on the outside of the London Broil, sealing in the juices and creating a smoky, charred flavor. This contrast of textures and flavors adds depth and complexity to every bite.
Another benefit of grilling London Broil is its relatively quick cooking time. Unlike slow-cooking methods, such as braising or roasting, grilling allows you to have a perfectly cooked London Broil in a matter of minutes. This makes it an ideal option for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings when you need a delicious meal on the table in no time.
Preparing your steak
- Start with a high-quality London broil steak, typically a cut from the top round or flank.
- Trim any excess fat from the steak, leaving a thin layer for flavor and moisture.
- Prepare your steak using a marinade or dry rub.
Once you've done this, it's time to get grilling! If you'll be grilling in the winter time, you'll want to check out some of our cold weather grilling tips.
Grilling Instructions
Once you have your london broil steak, it's time to get grilling! There are two ways to make this steak--by grilling and by smoking.
Instructions for grilling on your gas or charcoal grill:
Step 1: Preheat the grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a gas grill, set the burners to medium-high. For charcoal grills, wait until the coals are white-hot and spread them evenly.
Step 2: Grill your steak
- Place the steak directly on the grill grates and close the lid.
- Cook the steak for about 4-6 minutes per side, depending on the thickness and desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 135-145 degrees farenheit.
- Avoid pressing down on the steak while it's cooking, as this can release its juices and result in a drier steak.
- To achieve beautiful grill marks, rotate the steak 90 degrees halfway through each side's cooking time.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. Remember to insert it into the thickest part of the meat, away from the bone or fat.
Step 3: Resting and slicing the steak
- Once the steak reaches your desired level of doneness, remove it from the grill and transfer it to a cutting board.
- Allow the steak to rest for about 5-10 minutes. Resting helps the juices redistribute and ensures a juicy and tender steak.
- Slice the steak against the grain into thin slices, which helps break up the muscle fibers and makes the meat easier to chew.
Instructions for smoking your London broil steak on a gas grill:
Using your gas grill as a smoker is so simple and easy! For more tips on turning your gas grill into a gas grill smoker, check out our gas grill smoker tips.
Step 1: Preheat the grill
Preheat your gas grill to medium-high heat. If your grill has multiple burners, light only one side and leave the other side unlit. This will create a two-zone cooking setup.
Step 2: Prepare the smoking packets
While the grill is preheating, you can prepare smoking packets using wood chips or wood chunks. Soak the wood chips or chunks in water for about 30 minutes, then drain them. Place the drained wood chips or chunks on a large piece of aluminum foil, fold it to create a packet, and poke several holes in the top to allow smoke to escape. If your grill has multiple burners, place the smoking packet directly over the lit burner. If you have a single-burner grill, place the smoking packet on one side of the grill grate.
Step 3: Sear the steak
Place the London broil steak directly over the lit burner or on the opposite side of the grill from the smoking packet. Sear the steak for about 3-4 minutes on each side, with the grill lid open.
Step 4: Move to indirect heat
After searing, move the steak to the cooler side of the grill, away from direct heat. This is the indirect heat zone. Close the grill lid to trap the smoke and heat inside.
Step 5: Add more smoke
If you want a stronger smoky flavor, you can add another smoking packet to the grill.
Step 6: Monitor the temperature
Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the steak to monitor its internal temperature. For a medium-rare London broil steak, cook it until the internal temperature reaches around 135-145 degree farenheit. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the steak.
Step 7: Rest and slice
Once the steak reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. After resting, slice the London broil steak against the grain into thin strips.
Serving London Broil Grill
When it's time to serve your London broil, here are some side dishes that pair well with it:
Roasted Vegetables:
Roasting vegetables like potatoes, carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus can be a delicious and nutritious accompaniment to London broil. Toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs before roasting them in the oven.
Grilled Vegetables:
Grilling vegetables adds a smoky flavor that complements the steak. You can grill bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, or corn on the cob. Brush the vegetables with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and grill them until tender and slightly charred.
Baked Potatoes:
Classic baked potatoes are a great choice. You can serve them with butter, sour cream, cheese, chives, or bacon bits. You can also try sweet potatoes for a healthier twist.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes:
Creamy garlic mashed potatoes are always a hit. Boil potatoes until tender, mash them, and add butter, minced garlic, milk or cream, salt, and pepper to taste.
Rice Pilaf:
A flavorful rice pilaf with aromatic herbs, such as parsley, thyme, and rosemary, can be an excellent side dish. You can also add vegetables like peas, carrots, or mushrooms to the pilaf for added texture.
Grilled Corn on the Cob:
Grilling corn on the cob adds a smoky sweetness that complements the steak. Brush the corn with melted butter, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and grill until lightly charred.
Mixed Green Salad:
A fresh salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the steak. Use a mix of your favorite greens, such as lettuce, spinach, or arugula, and add cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing.
Coleslaw:
Creamy coleslaw made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing is a classic barbecue side dish that pairs well with London broil.
Grilled Asparagus:
Grilled asparagus spears are a simple and tasty side. Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and grill until tender and lightly charred.
Garlic Bread:
A side of garlic bread can be a delicious addition. Slice a baguette, brush with garlic-infused butter, sprinkle with herbs and grated cheese, and toast it on the grill until golden and crispy.
London Broil Grill Recipe
Equipment
- 1 london broil steak
- marinade or rub of choice
Instructions
Instructions for Gas Grilling:
- Step 1: Preheat the grill
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a gas grill, set the burners to medium-high. For charcoal grills, wait until the coals are white-hot and spread them evenly.
- Step 2: Grill your steak
- Place the steak directly on the grill grates and close the lid.
- Cook the steak for about 4-6 minutes per side, depending on the thickness and desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 135-145 degrees farenheit.
- Avoid pressing down on the steak while it's cooking, as this can release its juices and result in a drier steak.
- To achieve beautiful grill marks, rotate the steak 90 degrees halfway through each side's cooking time.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. Remember to insert it into the thickest part of the meat, away from the bone or fat.
- Step 3: Resting and slicing the steak
- Once the steak reaches your desired level of doneness, remove it from the grill and transfer it to a cutting board.
- Allow the steak to rest for about 5-10 minutes. Resting helps the juices redistribute and ensures a juicy and tender steak.
- Slice the steak against the grain into thin slices, which helps break up the muscle fibers and makes the meat easier to chew.
Instructions for Gas Grill Smoker
- Step 1: Preheat the grill
- Preheat your gas grill to medium-high heat. If your grill has multiple burners, light only one side and leave the other side unlit. This will create a two-zone cooking setup.
- Step 2: Prepare the smoking packets
- While the grill is preheating, you can prepare smoking packets using wood chips or wood chunks. Soak the wood chips or chunks in water for about 30 minutes, then drain them. Place the drained wood chips or chunks on a large piece of aluminum foil, fold it to create a packet, and poke several holes in the top to allow smoke to escape. If your grill has multiple burners, place the smoking packet directly over the lit burner. If you have a single-burner grill, place the smoking packet on one side of the grill grate.
- Step 3: Sear the steak
- Place the London broil steak directly over the lit burner or on the opposite side of the grill from the smoking packet. Sear the steak for about 3-4 minutes on each side, with the grill lid open.
- Step 4: Move to indirect heat
- After searing, move the steak to the cooler side of the grill, away from direct heat. This is the indirect heat zone. Close the grill lid to trap the smoke and heat inside.
- Step 5: Add more smoke
- If you want a stronger smoky flavor, you can add another smoking packet to the grill.
- Step 6: Monitor the temperature
- Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the steak to monitor its internal temperature. For a medium-rare London broil steak, cook it until the internal temperature reaches around 135-145 degree farenheit. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the steak.
- Step 7: Rest and slice
- Once the steak reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. After resting, slice the London broil steak against the grain into thin strips.
Marie
Tried this recipe this weekend and it turned out perfect! Still working on using my gas grill as a smoker but loved the tips and will continue trying. It has such a good flavor thank you!
Darcey
This was so good! The entire family loved it. I never knew how to make London Broil tender until following this way. Thanks!
Elizabeth Swoish
I cannot believe how easy and delicious this was! I used a homemade rub for mine and served it with potatoes and a side salad. SO GOOD!
Rini
Gave this recipe to my neighbor who is a huge fan of grilling. He is always looking for good recipes to make, so he tried yours. The verdict is that he LOVED it. He made it for a small dinner party and everyone was very impressed.. This recipe was easy to grill on a gas grill smoker.
Jenn
This came out perfect! It was beautiful and tender, and was so smoky and delecious! It paired perfectly with some asparagus, and It made an amazing dinner main dish. THe instructions were easy to follow too, so I cant wait to make this again soon!
Jane
I'm an easygoing gal, so when it comes to dinner, I love to make something that's tasty and quick. This London Broil is the perfect weeknight meal. It makes everyone happy--even my stomach feels content!