Why You’ll Love This Marinated Steak Recipe
When it comes to juicy, flavorful steak, this marinated recipe is a game-changer. You won’t believe how easy it’s to elevate a simple cut of meat into a mouthwatering dish.
The red wine marinade infuses the steak with rich, robust flavors, making each bite tender and succulent. I love how the garlic and thyme enhance the overall experience, creating a perfect balance.
Plus, the marinating process allows you to prep ahead, freeing up time for friends and family. Trust me, once you try this marinated steak, you’ll be hooked and craving it again and again.
Ingredients of Marinated Steak
When it comes to crafting the perfect marinated steak, the ingredients you choose can make all the difference. This recipe calls for a delightful mix of flavors that not only enhance the taste of the meat but also make the whole cooking experience a joy.
Imagine this: a tender, juicy steak infused with the rich notes of red wine, aromatic garlic, and fragrant thyme. It’s practically a flavor party on your plate. So, let’s gather everything we need to whip up this delicious dish!
Ingredients for Marinated Steak:
- 1/2 cup red wine
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 minced garlic cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 2 lbs boneless top round steaks (1-inch thick)
Now, before you dash off to the store, let’s chat a bit about these ingredients. First off, not all red wines are created equal. Choose a good quality wine that you enjoy sipping, because if it’s not good enough to drink, it’s probably not good enough for your steak.
As for the thyme, fresh is always fantastic if you have it, but dried works just fine too. And don’t be shy with the garlic; it’s what gives the steak that extra kick of flavor.
Finally, when choosing your steak, look for one that has a nice amount of marbling. Trust me, that’s where the magic happens regarding juiciness. So, gather your ingredients, and get ready to impress your taste buds!
How to Make Marinated Steak
To make the mouthwatering Red Wine Marinated Steak, you’ll want to start with a little planning. First off, grab a plastic bag—yep, the trusty kind you can seal. In this bag, combine 1/2 cup of red wine, 2 teaspoons of dried thyme leaves, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. Give it a little shake or a squish to mix everything together. It should look like a flavor explosion waiting to happen.
Now, here’s where the magic starts: add your 2 lbs of boneless top round steaks, making sure they get a good coat of that glorious marinade. Seal the bag tightly and pop it in the fridge. If you can, let it marinate for 8 to 24 hours. Trust me, the longer, the better—just remember to turn the bag occasionally. That steak will be soaking up all that deliciousness.
Fast forward to grill time! Prepare your grill and get it nice and hot. This is where the real fun begins. Once it’s ready, place your marinated steak on the greased grill. Don’t forget to brush it with some of that marinade—more flavor, please.
Now, cover the grill and let it work its magic for about 7 to 8 minutes on each side. You want that steak to reach a lovely medium doneness, but feel free to adjust the time if you like your steak a bit more or less cooked. When it’s done, take it off the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This is key, folks. Letting it rest helps keep all those juicy flavors locked in.
After the wait, carve it up and prepare for the compliments to roll in. It’s going to be so good, you might even start questioning why you ever settled for takeout. Enjoy your culinary triumph!
Marinated Steak Substitutions & Variations
Looking to mix things up with your marinated steak? You can easily swap the red wine for balsamic vinegar or soy sauce for a tangy twist.
If you want a zesty kick, try adding lime juice or orange juice instead. For herbs, feel free to experiment with rosemary or oregano in place of thyme.
I sometimes toss in a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth. If you’re looking to cut calories, replace olive oil with a light cooking spray.
And don’t forget, different cuts of meat like flank or sirloin can also work beautifully with this marinade! Enjoy your culinary creativity!
Additional Tips & Notes
Although marinating steak is straightforward, a few extra tips can elevate your dish.
First, choose a good-quality red wine; it really impacts flavor. Don’t skip the marinating time—letting it sit for at least 8 hours makes a noticeable difference.
When grilling, make certain your grill is hot to achieve a nice sear. I also recommend using a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it takes the guesswork out.
Finally, letting the steak rest for about 5 minutes after grilling allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite tender and juicy.
Enjoy your delicious creation!