What Is Flat Iron Steak and How to Cook It to Perfection

When it comes to delicious and easy-to-cook steak cuts, the flat iron is definitely worth exploring. Also known as the top blade steak, this cut is taken from the shoulder of the cow and is known for its rich, beefy flavor and tender texture.

While it's not as popular as other cuts like the ribeye or filet mignon, it's definitely a hidden gem that every steak lover should try at least once in their life.

In this article, we'll explore what makes the flat iron steak so special and provide tips on how to cook it to perfection.

What Is a Flat Iron Steak and Why Is It So Special?

A flat iron steak is a cut that stands out from the rest, not only in taste but also in appearance. Its thinner profile may not be as impressive-looking as other steaks, but the flavor it offers is simply exceptional.

Sometimes referred to as oyster blade steak, butlers’ steak, or top blade steak, the flat iron was once deemed too tough for steak lovers. However, through modern cutting techniques, the tough connective tissues are now removed, leaving a tender and juicy steak. Its size also makes it perfect for unique dishes like salads, sandwiches, and fajitas.

Why is it so popular nowadays? Simply put, it combines the tenderness of a filet mignon with the flavor of a sirloin steak, making it the best of both worlds. Plus, it's more affordable than some of the other premium cuts, so it's a great choice for those who want a delicious steak without breaking the bank.

How to Cook Flat Iron Steak on the Grill

One of the best ways to cook a flat iron steak is simple and classic - right on the grill. Here's one fun way to grill up a flat iron steak:

1. Remove the flat iron steak from the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes.
2. Preheat your grill to high heat.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, black pepper, and minced garlic to make a marinade.
4. Brush both sides of the steak with the marinade.
5. Place the steak on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
7. Slice the steak against the grain and serve.

How to Pan-Sear Flat Iron Steak

If you want something a bit fancier, and to some people, more delicious, then try pan-searing your flat iron steak with the following recipe:

1. Remove the steak from the fridge and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking.
2. Preheat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes.
3. Pat the steak dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
4. Add a tablespoon of oil to the hot skillet, and carefully place the steak in the pan.
5. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the steak is seared and browned to your desired level of doneness.
6. If you want to add extra flavor, you can also add some minced garlic, thyme, or rosemary to the pan while the steak is cooking.
7. Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the pan and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

How to Prepare Flat Iron Steak in the Oven

Yet another easy but popular way to cook a flat iron steak is right in your oven. Here's how:

1. Remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
3. Season the steak with your desired seasoning blend, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
4. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil to the skillet and swirl to coat.
5. Once the skillet is hot, add the seasoned steak and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until a nice crust forms.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook the steak for 6-8 minutes for medium-rare or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
7. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, the temperature should be around 130-135°F, and for medium, it should be around 140-145°F.
8. Remove the skillet from the oven and let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

How to Smoke Flat Iron Steak

If you're more adventurous and happen to have a smoker in your backyard, you could try smoking your flat iron steak to really impress your guests!

To start off, make sure you have the proper ingredients to smoke your steak:

• 2-4 flat iron steaks
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Wood chips (hickory or mesquite), soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
• Meat thermometer

After that, it's not too dissimilar to cooking other kinds of meat in the smoker. 

1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. Season the flat iron steaks generously with salt and pepper.
3. Add the soaked wood chips to the smoker.
4. Place the flat iron steaks on the smoker rack, making sure they aren't touching each other.
5. Close the smoker lid and let the steaks smoke for 1-2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches your desired level of doneness (135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium, and 155°F for well-done).
6. Once the steaks are done, remove them from the smoker and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

What’s the Highest Quality Flat Iron Steak in the World?

If you're interested in trying the highest quality flat iron steak in the world, head over to the Wagyuman website, where we import only the finest Wagyu beef directly from Japan. Experience the unparalleled flavor, tenderness, and marbling that sets Japanese Wagyu beef apart from any other beef in the world!