Best Spicy Grilled BBQ Steak Recipe

Looking for something a little different than the same old grilled steak? Well, this Spicy BBQ Steak definitely kicks things up several notches!

I’m not usually one to use sauce on a grilled steak, but it works so well in this case that I’m glad I gave it a shot.

As a big fan of grilling steak, I’ve always enjoyed the classic flavors, but this summer, I wanted to push the boundaries and explore new, exciting recipes that would tantalize the taste buds.

Imagine a perfectly grilled steak, seared to perfection, then generously slathered with a spicy BBQ sauce that brings a symphony of flavors to every bite. 

Key Takeaways

• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Main Ingredients: Steak, olive oil, garlic powder, onion, powder, Worcestershire sauce, and more
• Servings: 4+
• Extras: Make Brussels sprouts, homemade fries, grilled corn, garlic potatoes, and more as tasty sides.
• Tip: Seriously- let the steak rest before you cut it so you don’t lose all those juices!

Best Spicy Grilled BBQ Steak Recipe

Trust me, once you try this Spicy BBQ Steak, it’ll become a new favorite in your summer grilling repertoire!

Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, having a family dinner, or just treating yourself to a special meal, this recipe is sure to impress.

The BBQ sauce’s smoky, spicy, and tangy notes complement the rich, juicy steak, making it a true showstopper.

Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.

You don’t need an expensive steak for this recipe—unless you really want filet mignon—and many steaks will get a great flavor from this BBQ sauce.

If you have a leaner cut of beef, like a Flank Steak, Sirloin, or London broil, this Spicy BBQ grilled steak recipe will hit the spot!

Marinade the steak in the steak seasoning for a few hours (or overnight if you can), grill it, and then make the BBQ sauce while the steak is resting. It really couldn’t be any easier.

For some grilling tips with a steak like this, you want to grill it hot, fast, and medium rare (or more done if that’s your thing).

I preheat and grill it on high the whole time, and I typically flip steaks 4 times— I like to get both sides seared first to lock in juices, making the perfect grilled steak every time.

Then I cook on each side for about 5 minutes to get medium rare. Using a meat thermometer will help you grill steak perfectly to your desired doneness- I recommend this one!

If your steak is thicker or thinner, you’ll have to take that into account for cook time.

While the steak rests, it’s time for the sauce—it really doesn’t take long, maybe 10 minutes tops.

In a saucepan (yes, on the grill if you’re comfortable!), add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. (You can also use vegetable oil, totally up to you!)

In the olive oil, soften the onion, garlic, and peppers. Add the other ingredients and heat to a boil. Then it’s all done, ready to go in no time!

Now your steak should be properly rested, the sauce is done, and it’s time to dig in. Slice the steak thinly against the grain and pour some of the sauce over it.

I made this with some homemade potato fries and Brussels sprouts, and the sauce was awesome for dipping those, too.

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Spicy BBQ Sirloin Flank Steak

Course: Main

Cuisine: American

Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes minutes

Author: Brittany Kline

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Ingredients

• 2 lbs. steak 1-inch thick piece(s)
• 1/4 cup olive oil or vegetable oil
• 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp paprika
• 2 Tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• [for the sauce] 2 Tbsp olive oil
• [for the sauce] 1/2 finely chopped jalapeno pepper
• [for the sauce] 1/4 cup finely chopped red pepper
• [for the sauce] 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• [for the sauce] 1 Tbsp minced garlic
• [for the sauce] 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• [for the sauce] 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• [for the sauce] 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
• [for the sauce] 1 tsp brown sugar
• [for the sauce] 1/2 tsp cumin

Instructions

• Combine the steak seasoning ingredients (#s 2-8) in a mixing bowl and blend.
• Place the steak and the combined ingredients in a freezer bag. Make sure the steak is coated!
• Marinade in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours (overnight is best).
• Preheat the grill to medium-high. Then turn it up to high once it's time to grill the steak.
• Cook the steak for 8-12 minutes (depending on how rare or not rare you like it).
• Flip the steak at least 4 times- I sear both sides to lock in juices at the beginning, then cook on both sides to medium-rare.
• Once the steak is done to your liking, remove it from the grill and let it rest.
• While the steak rests- in a small saucepan, heat the olive oil for the sauce over medium heat.
• Add the jalapeno, peppers, and onions and cook for a few minutes until they are a bit tender.
• Add all of the other ingredients and slowly bring to a boil.
• Slice steak against the grain and top with the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

When I made this steak, I got to pick one side, and the girls got to pick the other- I picked Brussels sprouts, and they picked french fries (big surprise, LOL).

But there are many sides that would be tasty with a classic steak and my spicy twist:

• Grilled Corn on the Cob: Complement your Spicy BBQ Steak with the sweetness of grilled corn on the cob. Brush the corn with a mixture of melted butter, lime juice, and a sprinkle of chili powder before grilling to add an extra layer of flavor.
• Refreshing Cucumber Salad: Balance the spice with a light and refreshing cucumber salad. Combine sliced cucumbers, red onions, cherry tomatoes, and fresh dill with a simple vinaigrette made of olive oil, vinegar, and a touch of honey.
• Creamy Coleslaw: A classic side for BBQ, creamy coleslaw made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy mayonnaise-based dressing will add a delightful crunch and creaminess to your meal.
• Roasted Garlic Potatoes: Serve your steak with a side of roasted garlic mashed potatoes. The creamy, buttery texture of the potatoes, combined with the rich flavor of roasted garlic, will perfectly complement the boldness of the spicy BBQ steak.
• Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Skewer chunks of bell peppers, red onions, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, then brush them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a hint of garlic before grilling to perfection. These colorful and flavorful veggies will add a healthy and tasty element to my grilled steak recipe.

Other Easy Recipes (Low Effort!)

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FAQs

What are the best steaks for BBQ?

The best steaks for BBQ are flank steak, sirloin, and London broil.

Flank steak offers an intense beefy flavor and benefits from marinating.

Sirloin is tender and versatile, great with simple seasoning.

London broil, often a top round or flank steak, is budget-friendly and flavorful, especially when marinated.

Not only do they all taste great on the grill and absorb the tasty BBQ sauce we made, but they’re also very cost-effective!

How long do I need to grill a BBQ steak for?

Grilling times for BBQ steak can vary depending on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness.

Here’s a general guide for grilling a 1-inch thick steak over medium-high heat:

• Rare (125°F / 52°C)
  • Grill time: 4-5 minutes per side
  • Description: Cool red center
• Medium Rare (135°F / 57°C)
  • Grill time: 5-6 minutes per side
  • Description: Warm red center
• Medium (145°F / 63°C)
  • Grill time: 6-7 minutes per side
  • Description: Warm pink center
• Medium Well (150°F / 66°C)
  • Grill time: 8-9 minutes per side
  • Description: Slightly pink center
• Well Done (150+°F / 71°C)
  • Grill time: 10-11 minutes per side
  • Description: Little or no pink

If your steak is thicker, you’ll need to add time- maybe an extra minute for each half-inch of meat. Should I use a gas or charcoal grill to grill steak?

Both gas and charcoal grills are great for grilling steak. Gas grills offer convenience and control over temperature, while charcoal grills provide a smoky flavor and high heat for a perfect sear.

Here are some notes on using either type to grill a steak:

Gas Grill:

• Convenience: Gas grills are easy to ignite and allow for precise temperature control, making it simpler to achieve consistent cooking results.
• Flavor: While gas grills provide a clean, straightforward flavor, they don’t impart the smoky taste that charcoal grills do. However, you can use wood chips in a smoker box to add some smokiness.
• Cook Time: Gas grills heat up quickly, usually within 10-15 minutes, and maintain a steady temperature, which can make the cooking process faster and more predictable.

Charcoal Grill:

• Watchful Eyes: Charcoal takes time to reach temperature, and it can also be more challenging to maintain a consistent temperature, requiring more attention during the cooking process. 
• Flavor: Charcoal grills are renowned for the rich, smoky flavor they impart to the meat. The high heat from the coals can create a flavorful crust on the steak, often referred to as the “char”.
• Cook Time: Charcoal grills take longer to heat up, generally about 20-30 minutes. However, the high heat they produce can result in a superior sear and caramelization of the steak.

Do you have some quick tips for grilling steaks?

Here are some quick tips to grill steaks perfectly every time:

• Preheat the Grill: Ensure your grill is preheated to the right temperature before placing the steaks on it.
• Oil the Grates: Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
• Rest the Steak: After grilling, let the steak rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to be redistributed, ensuring a juicy steak.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: For the most accurate results, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak.
• Thickness Matters: Adjust the times slightly if your steaks are thicker or thinner than 1 inch. Enjoy your perfectly grilled Spicy BBQ Steak!
• Avoid Flare-Ups: Watch for flare-ups caused by dripping fat. If they occur, move the steak to a cooler part of the grill until they subside.
• Use Tongs: Turn your steak with tongs instead of a fork to avoid piercing the meat and losing its juices.
• Rest the Steak: After grilling, let the steak rest on a cutting board covered loosely with foil for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Final Thoughts

My Spicy Grilled BBQ Steak is a must-try for your summer cookouts; it’s the perfect grilled steak recipe to level up your picnic game!

Its unique blend of spices and BBQ sauce creates a mouthwatering experience that’s both bold and delicious.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply enjoying a family meal, this steak is sure to be a hit.

With straightforward preparation and incredible flavor, it’s an ideal way to elevate your grilling game this season.

Gather your ingredients, light up the grill, and savor the taste of summer with this standout steak recipe. Enjoy every bite!

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