Mouthwatering Southwest Flat Iron Steak Recipe

As a BBQ chef, I’m passionate about creating delicious, mouth-watering dishes that are bursting with flavor. And that’s exactly what you’ll get with my Southwest Flat Iron Steak Recipe. This recipe is perfect for those who want to add some heat and spice to their meal without sacrificing taste.

What makes this recipe unique is the combination of ingredients I use to create the southwest-style rub for the flat iron steak. My secret blend of garlic, cumin, brown sugar, and chili powder creates a rich and complex flavor that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. And the Worcestershire sauce and lime juice helps to tenderize the meat even more, ensuring that it’s both flavorful and juicy.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or new to grilling, you’ll find that this recipe is simple to make yet incredibly satisfying. You can easily grill or broil the flat iron steak using your preferred method of cooking, so it’s perfect for any occasion.

So if you’re looking for a delicious steak recipe that will impress your family and friends, try out my Southwest Flat Iron Steak Recipe today! Your taste buds will thank you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Southwest Flat Iron Steak
Southwest Flat Iron Steak

Looking for a mouth-watering recipe that’s sure to please your taste buds? Look no further than this Southwest Flat Iron Steak Recipe! As an assistant to a seasoned BBQ chef, I can tell you that this recipe is a cut above the rest.

First of all, it’s made with flat iron steak, which is known for its exceptional tenderness and rich flavor. And when combined with our special southwest rub recipe–which features cumin, chili powder, garlic, and other tantalizing seasonings–this steak becomes a true culinary masterpiece.

But what really sets this recipe apart is its versatility. You can enjoy it grilled or broiled to perfection. Or you can use it in classic Southwest-style dishes like steak fajitas or even salads (trust me on this one!). It’s also perfect as part of any homemade beef recipe or can be paired with other sides to make a hearty, nutritious meal.

And the best part is that the recipe is incredibly simple to make. With easy-to-find ingredients like Worcestershire sauce and brown sugar, you’ll be able to whip up this delicious dish in no time.

So what are you waiting? Try this Southwest Flat Iron Steak Recipe today and discover why so many people love it!

Ingredient List

 Sizzling and juicy Southwest-inspired Flat Iron Steak
Sizzling and juicy Southwest-inspired Flat Iron Steak

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make this savory Southwest Flat Iron Steak recipe:

  • 1-2 lbs. flat iron steak
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons cumin
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 4 teaspoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Note: If you can’t find flat iron steak, flank steak or skirt steak can be good substitutes.

All of these ingredients come together to create a perfect southwest rub for your flat iron steak. The Worcestershire sauce adds a deep umami flavor to the steak, while the garlic provides a robust aroma that spreads throughout the entire dish. The cumin and chili powder lend a warm and earthy quality to the rub, which is then balanced by the sweetness provided by the brown sugar. Finally, smoked paprika gives a rich smoky essence, while lime juice injects just enough tartness into the mix, making for an unforgettable meal.

The Recipe How-To

 Get ready for a flavor explosion with this spicy and bold steak
Get ready for a flavor explosion with this spicy and bold steak

Now that we have our Southwest Flat Iron steak ready, let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:

  • 1-2 pound Flat Iron steak
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 4 teaspoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 cup lime juice
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt (to taste)

Instructions:

  1. Begin by mixing the dry rub ingredients together. In a small bowl or container, combine the ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, brown sugar, garlic powder and salt. Mix everything together thoroughly.
  2. Once done, take your flat iron steak and use a knife to score the meat’s surface every inch or so. This is to help tenderize the meat and also help the rub penetrate better.
  3. Spread olive oil on both sides of the meat.
  4. Coat the steak with the mixed ingredients generously and rub it all over to ensure that all parts of the meat are evenly covered in the seasoning mix.
  5. Preheat grill to medium-high heat or heat a cast-iron skillet on medium heat on stovetop.
  6. Grill/broil steak for 5-7 minutes per side depending on your desired doneness level.
  7. Remove from heat, then let rest for about 5 minutes before cutting into pieces across the grain of the meat.
  8. Garnish with lime wedges and serve.

This Southwest Flat Iron Steak recipe is perfect for those who love a smoky and spicy steak flavor that is well balanced with just enough sweetness from brown sugar now go ahead and give it a try!

Substitutions and Variations

 A mouth-watering cut of beef that will impress your family and friends
A mouth-watering cut of beef that will impress your family and friends

The beauty of cooking is that there’s always room for experimentation and customization, so don’t be afraid to make this Southwest Flat Iron Steak recipe your own. Here are a few substitutions and variations you can try:

– Instead of flat iron steak, use flank steak or skirt steak. These cuts are also great for grilling and have a similar texture and flavor profile to flat iron steak.

– If brown sugar isn’t your thing, try using honey or maple syrup instead. Both will add a touch of sweetness to the recipe.

– Want to add a smoky flavor to the dish? Try using smoked paprika in the rub instead of regular paprika.

– For those who enjoy a little kick in their dishes, add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the rub mixture to make it spicier.

– If you’re short on time, marinate the steak in the rub mixture for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This is a quick and easy way to infuse the meat with flavor if you don’t have time for overnight marinating.

– Lastly, if you’re looking for a healthier alternative, swap out the Worcestershire sauce for soy sauce or coconut aminos. These ingredients are lower in sodium than Worcestershire sauce and can give the dish an umami flavor.

Remember, cooking is all about having fun in the kitchen and making the recipe your own. Don’t be afraid to make substitutions or try new things – you never know what delicious creation you might come up with!

Serving and Pairing

 Perfectly grilled with a beautiful char on the outside and tender on the inside
Perfectly grilled with a beautiful char on the outside and tender on the inside

Once your Southwest Flat Iron Steak is cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve up this mouthwatering dish! For the best presentation, slice the cooked steak against the grain so that it’s easier to eat and looks more appetizing. Serve the sliced flat iron steak on a platter with any extra rub on top of it or sprinkle some fresh cilantro for added flavor and color.

As for pairing, you can never go wrong with a cold beer or a bold red wine. The savory flavors of this steak go well with a refreshing lager or a full-bodied Malbec. If you prefer non-alcoholic beverages, you can try making some fresh limeade or mixing up a fruity sangria with lots of sliced fresh fruit.

To complete the meal, add some delicious sides such as grilled corn on the cob, roasted veggies like bell peppers and squash, or crispy oven-baked fries. For those who love spicy food, try making some homemade salsa or guacamole to add some heat to the dish.

One fun way to serve this Southwest Flat Iron Steak is by turning it into steak fajitas! Simply layer the steak strips onto warm flour tortillas and top them off with grilled onions and peppers. Add in your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or even chopped tomatoes for an explosion of flavors and colors.

No matter how you choose to serve it, this Southwest Flat Iron Steak recipe is sure to impress your guests and leave everyone coming back for more.

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

 The ultimate crowd-pleaser for any summer BBQ or dinner party
The ultimate crowd-pleaser for any summer BBQ or dinner party

When it comes to make-ahead, storing and reheating this Southwest Flat Iron Steak recipe, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. This recipe is perfect for meal prep because it can easily be cooked in advance and stored for later consumption.

To make ahead, simply follow the recipe instructions up until cooking the steak. Instead of grilling or broiling the steak, keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to cook it. When you’re ready to enjoy your steak, simply grill or broil as directed in the recipe.

Storing this dish is also very easy. Once cooked, slice the steak into portions and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors of the spices will meld together even further, making this dish even more delicious on day two!

When reheating this steak, use a microwave or oven set at a low temperature to avoid overcooking the meat. However, be aware that reheating will continue to cook the steak — so be careful not to overcook it! For best results, reheat leftover steaks slowly by gently warming them in a skillet and adding any additional spices, like chopped garlic or chili powder.

Overall, this Southwest Flat Iron Steak recipe is perfect for meal prep since it’s easy to make-ahead and store for several days at a time without sacrificing quality. Enjoy this flavorful recipe all week long!

Tips for Perfect Results

 Packed with smoky, tangy, and savory flavors from the marinade
Packed with smoky, tangy, and savory flavors from the marinade

You don’t need to be an experienced BBQ chef to cook the perfect southwest flat iron steak. With a few tips and tricks, you can ensure that your steak is juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked every time.

One crucial tip is to tenderize the flat iron steak before cooking it. Flat iron is a lean cut of meat, which means it can be tough if not prepared correctly. To tenderize it, you can use a meat mallet or a fork to pierce small holes all over the surface of the steak. This process will help to break down the muscle fibers and make the meat more tender.

Another tip that I highly recommend is to let the steak rest after cooking. You should always let your cooked steak rest for at least five minutes before serving it. This step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, giving you a more moist and flavorful final product.

When seasoning your steak for the southwest flavor, be sure to use enough of each ingredient in your rub. Ensure that each side of the steak is thoroughly coated in seasoning by pressing it firmly into the meat.

Lastly, always preheat your grill or broiler before placing your steak on it. A seared exterior is essential when cooking a flat iron steak so you must place it on hot surfaces for best results. You should also keep a close eye on the cooking time as overcooking will lead to dry and chewy meat.

By following these simple tips, you’re guaranteed to achieve perfect southwest flat iron steak every time you cook it!

FAQ

As you get ready to cook this delicious Southwest Flat Iron Steak recipe, you may have a few lingering questions. In this section, I will provide answers to some of the frequently asked questions that have come up while preparing this dish. From ingredient swaps to cooking times, I’ve got you covered with all the information you need to make this steak as tasty as possible. So, let’s jump right in!

What is a good way to cook flat iron steak?

To make the perfect steak, begin by seasoning it with salt, pepper, and steak seasoning, as per your preference. Next, place the steaks in a skillet and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side. If the steaks need more cooking time to reach the desired level of doneness, reduce the heat to low and cook for 2-5 minutes more. Once done, allow the steaks to rest on a plate while covered with foil for 5 minutes. This step ensures that the juices are evenly distributed, resulting in a flavorful and tender steak.

What is flat iron steak best used for?

When it comes to preparing a delicious steak, the flat iron cut is definitely one of the most versatile options available. This type of steak can be prepared in a variety of ways, making it perfect for dishes such as steak fajitas, stir-frys, and more. One of the great things about cooking a flat iron steak is that the intramuscular fat will cook into the meat during the cooking process, resulting in a juicy and flavorful steak that is best enjoyed when cooked to a perfect medium-rare.

Do you need to tenderize flat iron steak?

When it comes to grilling flat iron steak, it already has enough tenderness and marbling to make your taste buds dance. Many people automatically reach for a marinade when cooking all types of beef, but it’s not necessary with flat iron steak. However, it’s important to take care not to overcook this cut of meat. Finding the perfect balance is key to achieving mouthwatering results.

Is flat iron steak a good cut of beef?

Flat iron steak is well-known for its delicious, robust flavor that is deeply infused with the beef’s natural essence. While it boasts a moderate amount of marbling, it remains relatively lean due to the shoulder muscle, from which it is cut, getting good exercise. This results in a flavorful, yet sufficiently healthy steak.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, this Southwest Flat Iron Steak Recipe is sure to be a hit at your next barbecue or family dinner. With its savory and bold flavors of garlic, cumin, brown sugar, chili powder, and Worcestershire sauce, it’s hard not to love this grilled flat-iron steak. The tender meat cooked to perfection in just 5 minutes is sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for more.

This recipe’s versatility allows for variations and substitutions depending on personal preferences, making it a go-to option for those who enjoy experimenting with different ingredients. You can also easily double the recipe if you’re feeding a larger crowd.

Aside from being delicious, this recipe is also healthy, making it an excellent option for those looking to watch their diet. It’s a great source of protein but low in fat and carbs.

So what are you waiting for? Give this Southwest Flat Iron Steak Recipe a try today! Your taste buds will thank you, and your guests will be impressed by the delectable flavors of southwestern-style spices.

Southwest Flat Iron Steak

Southwest Flat Iron Steak Recipe

This rub and be used on all cuts of beef, but is especially good on the flat iron cut.
5 from 2 votes
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Fusion
Calories 255.4 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (packed)
  • 1 tablespoon cumin
  • 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground red pepper
  • 1 -1 1/2 lb flat iron steak

Instructions
 

  • Combine all ingredients (except steak) in a small bowl.
  • Press rub evenly onto flat iron steaks. Let set for 1- 2 hours.
  • Grill over hot fire, turning often to avoid burning, being careful not to overcook.
  • Cut across the grain.

YOUR OWN NOTE

Nutrition

Serving: 131gCalories: 255.4kcalCarbohydrates: 10.7gProtein: 22.2gFat: 13.8gSaturated Fat: 4.9gCholesterol: 73.7mgSodium: 168.7mgFiber: 1.6gSugar: 7.6g
Keyword < 30 Mins, High In…, High Protein, Meat, Steak
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

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Shara

Shara @The Bird BBQ

Shara loves to experiment with different flavors and techniques when it comes to BBQ. She has been perfecting her craft for years and loves hosting backyard BBQs with friends & family. She often comes up with creative recipes that her guests rave about.