Name: Grilled Flank Steak with Cilantro Lime Butter Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup salted butter, room temperature (1 stick); 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro; 1 tbsp fresh lime juice (from ½ lime); 2 tsp lime zest (from 1 lime); 1 tsp finely chopped green onion; 1 tbsp garlic paste; 1 tsp kosher salt; ½ tsp ground black pepper; 1 tsp mustard powder; 1 tbsp garlic paste; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 lbs flank steak, at room temperature; Canola oil for brushing grill or grill pan

↓ Jump to Recipe

If you are looking for a dish that brings vibrant flavors and tender, juicy meat together in perfect harmony, then the Grilled Flank Steak with Cilantro Lime Butter Recipe is absolutely for you. This recipe expertly combines the smoky char of a perfectly grilled flank steak with the fresh, zesty brightness of cilantro lime butter, delivering a taste experience that is both refreshing and indulgent. Every bite bursts with a delicate balance of citrus, garlic, and herbaceous notes, making it an unforgettable meal that’s as impressive for weeknight dinners as it is for weekend gatherings with friends.

Ingredients You'll Need

A large, raw red beef piece is laid flat on a light brown wooden board with fine vertical lines. The beef has a shiny, uneven surface with some white fat patches on the upper right side. It is sprinkled with rough textured yellowish garlic bits and black pepper specks on top. The wooden board is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe relies on a handful of simple yet essential ingredients, each carefully chosen to enhance the steak’s natural flavor and add layers of brightness and richness. From fresh herbs and citrus to the buttery spread that finishes the dish, these components work together to elevate every aspect of the meal.

Salted butter (½ cup, room temperature): The creamy base for the cilantro lime butter that adds smooth richness.

Fresh cilantro (1 tbsp, chopped): Brings a fresh, herbaceous punch that’s unmistakably bright.
Fresh lime juice (1 tbsp): Adds zesty acidity that wakes up the palate.
Lime zest (2 tsp): Concentrates the lime’s citrus aroma for extra flavor depth.

Green onion (1 tsp, finely chopped): Provides a mild onion flavor for subtle complexity.
Garlic paste (2 tablespoon total): Infuses both the butter and steak seasoning with a bold garlicky warmth.
Kosher salt (1 tsp): Essential seasoning to enhance all the flavors.

Ground black pepper (½ tsp): Adds a gentle heat and earthiness.
Mustard powder (1 tsp): Creates a subtle tangy undertone in the steak rub.
Olive oil (1 tbsp): Helps the rub adhere to the steak and promotes even cooking.

Flank steak (2 lbs, room temperature): The star protein of the dish, prized for its flavor and texture when grilled properly.

How to Make Grilled Flank Steak with Cilantro Lime Butter Recipe

Step 1: Make the Cilantro Lime Butter

Start by grabbing your softened butter and popping it into a medium bowl. Then stir in the fresh cilantro, lime juice, lime zest, finely chopped green onion, and garlic paste. Use a fork or spoon to mash everything together until it forms a perfectly blended, vibrant herb butter. Once combined, shape the butter into a log wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. Let it chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour so it firms up and is ready to melt beautifully over the steak later.

Step 2: Prepare the Flank Steak

Next, heat your grill or grill pan on high until it's very hot — this is crucial for getting that gorgeous sear. While waiting, combine kosher salt, black pepper, garlic paste, olive oil, and mustard powder in a small bowl to create a savory paste. Rub this mixture all over the steak, coating both sides evenly. This rub not only seasons the meat but adds an aromatic punch and helps form a delicious crust during grilling.

Step 3: Grill the Steak

Place your steak onto the smoking-hot grill and let it cook undisturbed for about 3 to 4 minutes per side if you prefer it rare, or 6 to 8 minutes per side for well done. For most, somewhere in between is just perfect—tender with a nice char. Once it’s grilled to your liking, remove the steak from heat and allow it to rest. Resting is essential as it lets the juices redistribute, resulting in a succulent, juicy cut.

Step 4: Serve with Cilantro Lime Butter

Before slicing, cut a few medallions from the chilled cilantro lime butter log. Place these slices atop the hot flank steak so they melt slowly over the surface, infusing every bite with luxurious, tangy flavor. Slice the steak thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness and get ready to enjoy a meal bursting with layers of fresh, bold, and comforting tastes.

How to Serve Grilled Flank Steak with Cilantro Lime Butter Recipe

A black grill pan holds a sliced steak arranged in a single layer, showing a brown grilled outside with a pink middle. On top of the steak, there are six small dollops of pale green herb butter evenly placed along the center. Bright green cilantro sprigs are on the left side of the steak with two lime wedges nearby, and two more lime wedges are visible on the bottom right of the pan. Around the pan are scattered lime wedges, fresh cilantro, and a glass of amber-colored beer. The surface is a white marbled texture and a striped napkin lies partially under the pan. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding garnishes can elevate this already spectacular dish. Sprinkling extra chopped cilantro or scattering thinly sliced green onions across the top adds fresh color and a hint of crunch. For a touch of bright contrast, finely shredded radishes or a light squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving can awaken the flavors even more.

Side Dishes

The Grilled Flank Steak with Cilantro Lime Butter Recipe pairs wonderfully with vibrant, fresh sides. Consider a crisp mixed greens salad with citrus vinaigrette, grilled vegetables like asparagus or corn, or creamy mashed potatoes that soak up the flavorful butter. Even simple steamed rice or quinoa works beautifully, creating balance and a complete, satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleasing presentation, arrange the sliced steak on a wooden board with the butter melting enticingly on top. Surround it with colorful garnishes and side dishes in rustic bowls. Alternatively, turn this into a taco night by offering warm tortillas, avocado slices, and fresh salsa so guests can build their own flavorful creations from the centerpiece of grilled steak and cilantro lime butter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover grilled flank steak and cilantro lime butter in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The steak will stay juicy and flavorful for up to 3 days, and the butter will maintain its punchy brightness, ready to be enjoyed again soon.

Freezing

If you want to preserve either the steak or the cilantro lime butter for longer, freezing is an option. Wrap the steak tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing to prevent freezer burn, and the butter can be frozen in its log form. Both will keep well for up to 2 months, allowing you to enjoy this special recipe anytime.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm steak slices in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven wrapped in foil to keep them moist. Top with slices of the cilantro lime butter right before serving so the butter melts delectably. Avoid microwaving if possible as this can dry out the steak and dull the butter’s flavor.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of steak instead of flank steak?

Yes, while flank steak is ideal for its flavor and texture with this recipe, you can use skirt steak or flat iron steak as alternatives. Just adjust grilling times accordingly since thickness and fat content may vary.

How do I know when the steak is cooked perfectly?

Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure perfect doneness: 125°F for rare, 135°F for medium rare, and 145°F for medium. Always slice against the grain to maximize tenderness regardless of cooking level.

Can I prepare the cilantro lime butter ahead of time?

Absolutely! Making the cilantro lime butter a day ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just keep it wrapped in the fridge until you’re ready to grill and serve.

Is there a substitute for garlic paste?

If you don’t have garlic paste, finely minced fresh garlic works well too. Use about one large clove minced, and massage it into the butter and steak rub as you would the paste.

What’s the best way to serve leftovers?

Leftover grilled flank steak with cilantro lime butter is fantastic sliced thin for sandwiches, tossed into salads, or chopped for grain bowls. The butter adds an instant flavor boost even when cold or reheated.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely hope you give the Grilled Flank Steak with Cilantro Lime Butter Recipe a try soon because it’s one of those meals that instantly feels special yet comes together with simple ingredients and straightforward steps. The thoughtful combination of fresh lime, herbaceous cilantro, and rich butter takes this steak from great to unforgettable. Trust me, once you taste that first juicy, buttery bite, this recipe will quickly become a favorite go-to for any occasion where you want to impress your family or friends with bold, fresh flavors!

Grilled Flank Steak with Cilantro Lime Butter Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need