Kahlúa-Marinated Grilled Flank Steak Recipe

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Kahlúa-marinated grilled flank steak features coffee liqueur marinades followed by grilling to preference and serving with matching Kahlúa-flavored sauce throughout. This sophisticated recipe showcases how unique marinades create complex flavor profiles in simple cuts of meat. The coffee notes complement beef's natural richness while tenderizing the meat.

Marinated flank steak on platter with grilled green onions

Flank steak is first marinated with Kahlua, grilled to your liking, and served with Kahlua-flavored sauce. Serve with grilled green onions as a side.

Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
10 mins
Marinate Time:
1 hr
Rest Time:
10 mins
Stand Time:
30 mins
Total Time:
2 hrs
Servings:
4
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Ingredients

1/2x
1x
2x

Original recipe (1X) yields 4 servings

  • 1 cup coffee liqueur  (such as Kahlúa), divided

  • 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder

  • 1 1/2 teaspoon chili powder, divided

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar

  • 3/4 teaspoon salt, divided

  • 3/4 teaspoon black pepper, divided

  • 1 1/4 pound flank steak

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 shallot , minced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1/2 cup low-sodium beef broth

  • 2 tablespoons butter, diced

  • grilled green onions , for garnish

Directions

  1. Whisk together 1/2 cup coffee liqueur, espresso powder, 3/4 teaspoon chili powder, oregano, sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper in a bowl. Pat steak dry with paper towels and transfer to a large resealable plastic bag. Add coffee marinade and seal bag, turning to coat. Chill at least 1 hour or up to overnight.

  2. When ready to cook, let steak and marinade sit at room temperature about 30 minutes. Remove steak from marinade and pat dry; discard marinade. Sprinkle steak with 1/4 teaspoon pepper and 1/4 teaspoon salt.

  3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil grill grates.

  4. Grill steak, uncovered, turning once halfway through, 8 to 10 minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read 130 degrees F (54 degrees C). Let rest about 10 minutes before thinly slicing.

  5. Meanwhile, heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add shallot and garlic; cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Add remaining 3/4 teaspoons chili powder and 1/4 teaspoons each salt and pepper. Cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in remaining 1/2 cup coffee liqueur.

  6. Simmer over medium heat until liquid has reduced by half, 2 to 3 minutes. Add beef broth; cook until sauce reduces to about 2/3 cup, 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat and slowly whisk in butter, one piece at a time, until sauce forms. Serve steak drizzled with sauce. Garnish with green onions.

Cook’s Note:

Kahlúa is a coffee liqueur, made from Arabica coffee beans and sugarcane rum, that got its start in Veracruz, Mexico, in 1936. While often used in cocktails, such as espresso martinis, Kahlúa is an excellent addition to marinades and sauces. The sweet and slightly acidic coffee notes of Kahlúa pair well with salty, spiced steak and help cut through unctuous butter sauces.

Recipe developed by Adam Dolge

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

595 Calories
21g Fat
28g Carbs
40g Protein
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Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe 4
Calories 595
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 21g27%
Saturated Fat 9g45%
Cholesterol 127mg42%
Sodium 661mg29%
Total Carbohydrate 28g10%
Dietary Fiber 1g5%
Total Sugars 25g
Protein 40g81%
Vitamin C 2mg2%
Calcium 54mg4%
Iron 3mg18%
Potassium 619mg13%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

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John Davis
John Davis

Hi, I’m John Davis!
Food has always been my favorite way to connect with people, and that’s why I started blogging about it. I love sharing quick, creative recipes that prove cooking at home can be just as exciting as eating out. Whether it’s a speedy weeknight dinner or a fun snack, I enjoy keeping things simple, flavorful, and approachable for everyone. When I’m not experimenting in the kitchen, I’m usually exploring new cuisines or hunting for fresh inspiration at local markets.

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