Best Ways to Season & Grill Thin Cut Steak

Thin cut steak is a weeknight hero—quick to cook, easy to season, and packed with juicy flavor when done right. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or searing on a stovetop, thin steak can be your go-to for satisfying, budget-friendly meals. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to season, grill, and enjoy thin cut steak like a pro. Plus, we’ve got expert tips, serving ideas, and reheating tips to keep things delicious even after dinner.

Why Thin Cut Steak Is So Popular

Thin cut steak has become a favorite among busy home cooks because it delivers flavor fast. With shorter cooking times and great versatility, it works well for tacos, sandwiches, steak salads, and more. You don’t need fancy marinades or complicated techniques—just a good seasoning, a hot grill or pan, and a few minutes.

Ingredients for Grilling Thin Cut Steak

Here’s everything you need to get started:

• 1 to 1.5 lbs thin cut steak (sirloin, flank, or ribeye)
  
• 1 tbsp olive oil
  
• 1 tsp kosher salt
  
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  
• 1 tsp garlic powder
  
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  
• 1 tsp fresh chopped herbs (rosemary or thyme)
  

How to Grill Thin Cut Steak in 5 Easy Steps

1. Prep the Steak

Pat your thin steak dry with paper towels. This lets the seasoning cling to the meat and helps create a nice, flavorful crust.

2. Season Generously

Rub the steak with olive oil, then sprinkle on salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Finish with fresh herbs. Allow it to sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes so the flavors can settle in.

3. Preheat the Grill or Pan

Get your grill or skillet very hot before adding the steak. Cranking up the heat gives you that quick, tasty sear while keeping the inside tender.

4. Grill for 1–2 Minutes Per Side

Cook the steak for just 1–2 minutes per side. Thin steaks cook fast—don’t walk away! Use tongs to flip only once.

5. Rest and Slice

Take the steak off the heat and give it about 5 minutes to rest before slicing.Cut the steak against the grain to keep each bite nice and tender.

Pro Tips for Perfect Thin Cut Steak

• Use room temperature meat: Cold steak won’t cook evenly.
  
• Don’t overcook: Thin steak can go from perfect to dry in seconds—watch closely.
  
• Give it time to rest—this helps keep all those tasty juices sealed in when you slice.
  
• Finish with a bit of garlic butter after grilling for that rich, steakhouse-style flavor.
  

Serving Ideas for Thin Steak

Thin steak is incredibly versatile! Here are some easy ideas:

• Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes and crisp green beans for a timeless steak dinner.
  
• Slice for tacos, burritos, or quesadillas.
  
• Add it to a steak salad with flavorful arugula, ripe cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette.
  
• Make steak sandwiches with caramelized onions and provolone.
  

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Keep any leftover steak in a sealed container in the fridge—it’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days.
  
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or butter to retain moisture. Avoid microwaving, as it can toughen the meat.
  
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked steak slices for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
  

Conclusion

Grilling thin cut steak is easier than you think! With the right seasoning, quick cooking technique, and a little attention, you’ll have tender, flavorful steak in minutes. Whether you’re making tacos or plating a full steak dinner, thin cut steak is a delicious and efficient way to satisfy any craving.

Try it out tonight and let us know your favorite way to enjoy it!