Grilling London broil to perfection can transform this affordable cut into a tender and flavorful meal you’ll want to enjoy again and again. Knowing exactly how long to cook it on the grill ensures you get that ideal balance of a juicy interior and a nicely charred exterior.
Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just getting started, understanding the right cooking times and temperatures is key to avoiding toughness or dryness. With the right technique, you’ll impress your guests and make the most of every bite. Let’s dive into the best grilling practices to help you master London broil every time.
Understanding London Broil
London broil refers to a cooking method and a specific cut of beef known for its bold flavor. Knowing what it is and how to select the right piece helps you grill it to perfection.
What Is London Broil?
London broil involves marinating and grilling lean, tough cuts of beef, typically top round or flank steak. This method tenderizes the meat and enhances its flavor. After grilling, it’s best to slice the beef thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness. Understanding this helps you avoid overcooking and ensures a juicy result.
Choosing the Right Cut for Grilling
Select cuts with consistent thickness such as top round, flank steak, or sirloin tip for even cooking. Top round offers a balance of flavor and affordability, while flank steak provides a slightly richer taste but requires thorough marination. Avoid cuts with excessive marbling since London broil benefits from leaner meat. Choosing the right cut lays a foundation for grilling success.
Preparing London Broil for the Grill
Proper preparation enhances grilling results by boosting flavor and tenderness. Focus on marinating techniques and grill setup to maximize your London broil’s potential.
Marinating Tips for Flavor and Tenderness
Choose a marinade with acidic ingredients like vinegar, lemon juice, or wine to break down muscle fibers. Include oil and seasonings—such as garlic, herbs, and soy sauce—for balanced taste. Marinate your London broil for 4 to 24 hours in the refrigerator, ensuring full coverage by using a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Avoid marinating beyond 24 hours since it can alter texture negatively. Pat the meat dry before grilling to promote better searing and reduce flare-ups.
Prepping the Grill for Best Results
Heat your grill to medium-high, approximately 400°F (204°C), before placing the meat. Clean the grates thoroughly to prevent sticking, then oil them lightly using a brush or paper towel dipped in oil. Position the London broil over direct heat to sear both sides for 4 to 6 minutes each, depending on thickness. If your cut exceeds 1.5 inches in thickness, move it to indirect heat to finish cooking slowly without drying. Use a meat thermometer to monitor internal temperature, targeting 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare or 140°F (60°C) for medium doneness. Let the meat rest for 5 to 10 minutes after grilling to redistribute juices evenly.
How Long to Cook London Broil on Grill
Knowing the precise cooking time for London broil on the grill ensures a juicy and flavorful result. Cooking times depend on the meat’s thickness, grill temperature, and your preferred doneness level.
Thickness and Temperature Considerations
Start with London broil cuts between 1 to 1.5 inches thick for even cooking. Preheat the grill to medium-high, around 400°F to 450°F. Thicker cuts require slightly lower heat or indirect grilling after searing to avoid burning the exterior while the interior cooks. Consistent grill temperature prevents uneven cooking and toughness.
Cooking Times for Different Doneness Levels
Adjust grilling times based on thickness and desired doneness:
| Doneness | Time per Side (1-inch thick) | Time per Side (1.5-inch thick) |
|---|---|---|
| Rare (125°F) | 3 to 4 minutes | 4 to 5 minutes |
| Medium Rare (135°F) | 4 to 5 minutes | 5 to 6 minutes |
| Medium (145°F) | 5 to 6 minutes | 6 to 7 minutes |
| Medium Well (150°F) | 6 to 7 minutes | 7 to 8 minutes |
Flip the meat once to maintain juices and form a charred crust. Avoid pressing or flipping repeatedly, as this releases moisture and dries the meat.
Using a Meat Thermometer for Accuracy
Rely on a digital meat thermometer to check internal temperature. Insert it into the thickest part of the London broil without touching bone or fat. Remove the meat from the grill when it reaches 5°F below your target temperature, as residual heat raises it during resting. Rest the meat for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing against the grain to maximize tenderness and juiciness.
Resting and Serving Tips
Resting your London broil after grilling locks in juices and ensures tender, flavorful meat. Proper slicing further enhances the eating experience.
Why Resting Is Important
Resting allows the meat’s internal juices to redistribute evenly, preventing them from spilling out when you cut. It also helps the temperature stabilize, continuing to cook the meat slightly for optimal doneness. Leaving your London broil to rest for 5 to 10 minutes after removing it from the grill retains moisture and improves tenderness consistently.
Best Ways to Slice London Broil
Slicing against the grain breaks up muscle fibers, making each bite less chewy and more tender. Identify the direction of the muscle fibers—running lengthwise along the steak—and cut perpendicular to them. Use a sharp knife to create thin slices, roughly 1/8 inch thick, to maximize tenderness and ease of chewing. Serving sliced London broil this way emphasizes its juicy texture and bold flavor.
Conclusion
Grilling London broil is all about timing and technique. When you get the temperature and cooking time right, you’ll enjoy a juicy, flavorful steak every time. Remember to monitor the internal temperature closely and give the meat time to rest before slicing.
With these tips, you’ll turn this affordable cut into a standout dish that’s perfect for any grill session. Your efforts will pay off with tender, delicious results that impress. Enjoy the process and the great taste that comes with mastering London broil on the grill.