Bobby Flay’s Coffee-Rubbed Flank Steak is a bold, flavorful twist on classic grilled steak. The coffee rub adds a rich, smoky bitterness that perfectly balances the steak’s natural juiciness and charred crust. This recipe shows Bobby Flay’s signature flair for combining everyday ingredients into something extraordinary. Ideal for summer grilling, weeknight dinners, or special gatherings, this steak delivers deep flavor and a perfect sear every time.

What is Bobby Flay’s Coffee-Rubbed Flank Steak?

Coffee-rubbed flank steak is a marinated beef dish where finely ground coffee is blended with spices and rubbed onto the steak before grilling. The coffee not only enhances flavor but also helps create a caramelized crust. Bobby Flay’s version includes paprika, brown sugar, chili powder, and cumin for a beautifully balanced flavor profile — smoky, slightly sweet, and savory.

Other Popular Bobby Flay Steak Recipes

Why You Love This Recipe

Deep, smoky flavor – Coffee adds rich bitterness that enhances the steak.
Perfect crust – The rub caramelizes beautifully during grilling.
Quick and easy – Minimal prep, big payoff.
Versatile – Great for tacos, salads, or served on its own.
Restaurant quality – A Bobby Flay classic you can make at home.

Ingredients Needed to Make Bobby Flay’s Coffee-Rubbed Flank Steak

1 ½ lbs flank steak
2 tablespoons finely ground coffee (dark roast preferred)
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions to Prepare Bobby Flay’s Coffee-Rubbed Flank Steak

Prepare the rub – In a bowl, combine ground coffee, brown sugar, paprika, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Rub the steak – Drizzle the flank steak with olive oil and coat evenly with the coffee spice blend. Press the rub into the meat so it adheres.
Marinate – Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours, for a deeper flavor.
Preheat the grill – Heat the grill to medium-high and lightly oil the grates.
Grill the steak – Cook for 4–5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until desired doneness.
Rest before slicing – Transfer to a cutting board and let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
Serve and enjoy – Pair with grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a light salad for a balanced meal.

What Goes Well With Bobby Flay’s Coffee-Rubbed Flank Steak

Grilled corn – Sweetness balances the smoky rub.
Roasted sweet potatoes – Adds warmth and natural sweetness.
Avocado salad – Creamy and refreshing contrast.
Garlic mashed potatoes – Classic, buttery side.
Chimichurri sauce – Bright and tangy addition for extra flavor.

Pro Tips to Make Perfect Bobby Flay Coffee-Rubbed Flank Steak

Use finely ground coffee – Coarse grinds won’t adhere as well.
Don’t skip the sugar – It helps form a beautiful crust.
Grill over high heat – Creates that smoky char without overcooking.
Rest before slicing – Keeps the juices sealed in.
Slice thinly against the grain – Ensures tenderness in every bite.
Adjust spice level – Add cayenne if you prefer more heat.
Try espresso powder – For a deeper, richer flavor.

Variations of Bobby Flay’s Coffee-Rubbed Flank Steak

Espresso rub – Use instant espresso for an intense kick.
Cocoa-coffee blend – Add a teaspoon of cocoa powder for a mole-inspired twist.
Herb coffee rub – Mix in dried oregano or thyme for freshness.
Maple touch – Swap brown sugar for maple sugar for sweetness.
Smoky BBQ twist – Add a hint of liquid smoke or smoked salt.

Storage Guidelines for Bobby Flay Coffee-Rubbed Flank Steak

Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze – Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat gently – Use low heat to preserve tenderness.

Reheating Tips for Bobby Flay Coffee-Rubbed Flank Steak

Skillet method – Warm slices in a non-stick pan over low heat with a splash of broth.
Oven method – Reheat at 275°F (135°C) until warmed through.
Microwave – Use short 30-second bursts, covered to retain moisture.
From frozen – Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Value (per serving)

Calories: ~330
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Iron: 20% of daily needs
Vitamin B12: 30% of daily needs

FAQs

How does coffee enhance the flavor of flank steak?

Coffee adds a rich, smoky bitterness that deepens the flavor of the steak. When grilled, it caramelizes with the brown sugar in the rub, creating a savory crust that enhances the meat’s natural juiciness.

Should I use ground coffee or instant coffee for the rub?

Finely ground coffee works best because it sticks to the steak and helps form a flavorful crust. Coarser grinds don’t adhere well, while instant coffee can make the rub overly bitter.

How long should you marinate coffee-rubbed flank steak?

For best results, marinate the flank steak for at least 1 hour and up to 8 hours. This allows the flavors from the coffee and spices to fully penetrate the meat and tenderize it.

What temperature should coffee-rubbed flank steak be cooked to?

Grill the steak until it reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare or 140°F (60°C) for medium. Overcooking can make the flank steak tough, so it’s best served slightly pink in the center.

Final Words

Bobby Flay’s Coffee-Rubbed Flank Steak is proof that simple ingredients can create big flavor. The coffee rub brings out the steak’s natural richness, giving it an irresistible smoky crust and tender interior. It’s a bold, crowd-pleasing dish that’s just as impressive for a family dinner as it is for weekend grilling. Serve it with your favorite sides, and you’ll have a meal that feels both rustic and gourmet.