The aroma of beautifully roasted beef wafting through the kitchen is like a warm embrace, invoking the joys of family gatherings and shared meals. Today, I’m excited to bring you my Italian Stuffed Flank Steak, a dish that promises not only satisfaction but a captivating experience for everyone at the table. This flavorful recipe combines tender flank steak with a delicious stuffing of rich mozzarella, vibrant vegetables, and fragrant herbs, making it a head-turner whether for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With quick prep time and impressive presentation, you can impress your guests without spending all day in the kitchen. Are you ready to elevate your cooking game with this delightful family favorite?
Why is Italian Stuffed Flank Steak a Must-Try?
Mouthwatering combined flavors: The harmonious blend of rich mozzarella and vibrant vegetables makes every bite a symphony of tastes that delights the palate.
Quick preparation: This recipe is designed not just to impress but also to save you time, perfect for busy evenings or last-minute gatherings.
Impressive presentation: Roll and slice this dish for a stunning display on your dinner table, sure to wow family and guests alike.
Versatile stuffing options: Swap in your favorite ingredients, whether you prefer artichokes or zucchini, allowing for endless creativity and personalization.
Perfect for any occasion: From festive celebrations to simple weeknight dinners, this Italian Stuffed Flank Steak, alongside roasted asparagus or a fresh salad, transforms any meal into a special event.
Italian Stuffed Flank Steak Ingredients
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For the Beef
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Flank Steak (1.2 lb) – Your main protein source, pounded thin for even cooking; alternative cuts like sirloin work well too.
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For the Stuffing
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Fresh Shredded Mozzarella (4-6 oz) – Provides a creamy texture; you can switch to provolone if desired.
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Diced Sun-Dried Tomatoes (1/3 cup) – Adds a tangy kick; feel free to use fresh tomatoes for a lighter taste.
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Diced Red Pepper (1/2) – Enhances sweetness and color; any bell pepper can be a great substitute.
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Fresh Spinach (1 cup) – Offers nutrients without overpowering flavors; kale is a good alternative too.
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Chopped Fresh Basil (1/3 cup) – Brightens the dish; substitute with parsley for a milder profile.
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Egg Yolk (1) – Acts as a binder for the stuffing; flaxseed meal can serve as a vegan alternative.
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Plain Bread Crumbs (2 tbsp) – Adds the necessary texture; gluten-free breadcrumbs can easily work here.
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For the Seasoning
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Coarse Sea Salt – Elevates overall flavor; kosher salt is a good alternative.
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Fresh Cracked Pepper – Adds a lovely spice; adjust amount if using pre-ground.
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Garlic Powder – Provides depth; swap for fresh minced garlic if you prefer.
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Garlic Salt – Boosts garlic flavor; if using fresh garlic, decrease regular salt accordingly.
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Dried Oregano – Infuses an herbaceous flavor; Italian seasoning can be used as a substitution.
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Dried Basil – Delivers a sweet aroma; switch with fresh basil to enhance freshness.
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Dried Rosemary – Imparts a woody essence; thyme can be used for a delightful variation.
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Dried Thyme – Contributes an earthy touch; fresh thyme is a great substitute.
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For Cooking
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Extra Virgin Olive Oil (3 tbsp) – Adds moisture and flavor; feel free to swap with any cooking oil that you prefer.
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Fresh Asparagus (1 lb) – Perfect as a vegetable side; substitute it with Brussels sprouts or green beans if desired.
This beautifully crafted Italian Stuffed Flank Steak marries rich flavors and textures, creating a dish that is both comforting and extraordinary!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Italian Stuffed Flank Steak
Step 1: Prepare the Flank Steak
Remove the flank steak from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to reach room temperature, ensuring even cooking throughout. Meanwhile, place the steak between two sheets of parchment paper and use a meat mallet to pound it to a thickness of about 1/3 to 1/2 inch. This process tenderizes the meat, making it easier to roll and stuff.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) while you prepare the seasoning and stuffing for the Italian Stuffed Flank Steak. This temperature will help achieve a perfectly roasted exterior while keeping the inside juicy. Grab your baking dish or cast iron skillet for the next steps to ensure a seamless transition when you’re ready to roast the steak.
Step 3: Season the Steak
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, garlic salt, coarse sea salt, fresh cracked pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, dried rosemary, and dried thyme. Generously season both sides of the flank steak with this flavorful dry rub, making sure to coat the meat evenly. This will infuse the steak with aromatic flavors while it cooks.
Step 4: Make the Stuffing
In another mixing bowl, combine the grated garlic, diced red pepper, sun-dried tomatoes, chopped fresh basil, fresh spinach, egg yolk, plain bread crumbs, and shredded mozzarella. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. The mixture should be moist yet hold together well, ready to be spread onto the flank steak for your delicious Italian Stuffed Flank Steak.
Step 5: Stuff the Flank Steak
Spread the stuffing mixture evenly across the flank steak, leaving about an inch of space from the edges to prevent spillage during rolling. Begin from one end and tightly roll the steak with the grain, forming a neat cylinder. Once rolled, secure it with cooking twine or kitchen string at several points to maintain its shape while roasting.
Step 6: Sear the Stuffed Steak
Heat 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the rolled steak in the pan and drizzle any remaining oil on top. Sear the steak for about 3–4 minutes on each side until a golden crust forms. This step adds a rich flavor and a beautiful color to your Italian Stuffed Flank Steak before it goes into the oven.
Step 7: Roast the Steak
Transfer the skillet with the seared steak into the preheated oven. Roast for approximately 25 minutes until the steak reaches a medium doneness. During the last few minutes of cooking, prepare your asparagus to roast alongside the steak, which will add vibrant vegetables to your plate when served.
Step 8: Broil for Finishing Touches
After the initial roast, carefully add the asparagus to the skillet. Switch your oven to broil and continue cooking for an additional 10 minutes until the asparagus is tender and slightly charred. This final step enhances the flavors of both the steak and vegetables while giving them a delightful caramelized finish.
Step 9: Check for Doneness
Using a meat thermometer, check the internal temperature of the Italian Stuffed Flank Steak, aiming for 137°F to 140°F for medium doneness. If needed, return the steak to the oven for a few more minutes until it reaches the desired temperature. This ensures a juicy, succulent result that everyone will love.
Step 10: Rest, Slice, and Serve
Once cooked, remove the stuffed steak from the oven and allow it to rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice remains tender. After resting, slice the steak into rounds and serve with roasted asparagus and the pan drippings for a mouthwatering experience.
Italian Stuffed Flank Steak Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor the recipe to your taste and dietary needs, making this dish truly yours!
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Cheese Swap: Substitute mozzarella with goat cheese for a tangy twist that adds a creamy punch.
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Veggie Boost: Add artichokes or olives to the stuffing to deepen the flavor profile; both give a wonderful Mediterranean touch.
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Different Veggies: Use diced zucchini instead of red pepper for a lighter stuffing. Zucchini brings a lovely texture and is often a family favorite.
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Herb Swap: If basil isn’t your thing, fresh parsley can work wonders as a substitution; it provides a milder flavor without sacrificing freshness.
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Gluten-Free: Replace plain breadcrumbs with gluten-free ones for a delicious, adaptable meal perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
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Spice it Up: Want some heat? Toss in crushed red pepper flakes to the stuffing for a zesty kick that turns the flavor up a notch.
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Tomato Alternative: If sun-dried tomatoes don’t tickle your fancy, fresh diced tomatoes can provide a lighter, juicy option in the stuffing.
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Flavor Infusion: Marinate the flank steak in balsamic vinegar for a few hours before stuffing to enhance the richness and tenderness of the meat.
As you explore these delightful variations, you might also want to check out how to jazz things up with an incredible Chinese Pepper Steak or try a flavorful Steak Garlic Sauce to accompany your creation. Enjoy the delicious journey in your kitchen!
Expert Tips for Italian Stuffed Flank Steak
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Even Thickness: Ensure the flank steak is pounded to an even thickness of about 1/3 to 1/2 inch. This guarantees consistent cooking and tenderness throughout.
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Use a Meat Thermometer: Avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium doneness, aim for 137°F to 140°F before resting.
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Resting is Key: Let the stuffed flank steak rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring juiciness in every bite.
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Creative Stuffing Variations: Feel free to swap out ingredients in your stuffing, like adding olives or swapping mozzarella for goat cheese, to tailor this stuffed flank steak to your tastes.
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Don’t Skip the Sear: Searing the rolled steak before roasting adds depth of flavor and a beautiful golden crust, elevating your dish to restaurant-quality at home.
Make Ahead Options
These Italian Stuffed Flank Steaks are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts who want to streamline their dinner routine! You can prepare the stuffing—combining garlic, red pepper, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, spinach, egg yolk, bread crumbs, and mozzarella—up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can season the flank steak and roll it with the stuffing a day prior, sealing it tightly in plastic wrap. When ready to serve, just heat oil in a pan, sear the rolled steak, roast it as instructed, and enjoy the convenience of having an impressive meal ready to impress with minimal last-minute effort!
How to Store and Freeze Italian Stuffed Flank Steak
Fridge: Store leftover Italian Stuffed Flank Steak in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cool before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezer: If you want to freeze the stuffed flank steak, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will maintain its quality for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen, then place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15–20 minutes. This keeps the steak juicy and flavorful.
What to Serve with Italian Stuffed Flank Steak
Complete your meal with pairs that enhance the rich flavors of this dish and tantalize your guests’ taste buds.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These velvety potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the savory steak, soaking up the delicious pan drippings beautifully.
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Roasted Garlic Asparagus: Lightly charred and full of earthy flavors, this side complements the succulent steak while offering freshness and crunch.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and tangy dressing add a zesty contrast, making a delightful accompaniment that will leave everyone wanting more.
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Herbed Couscous: This light, fluffy side delicately balances the hearty steak, infusing every bite with fragrant herbs that echo the dish’s seasoning.
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Stuffed Peppers: Bright and colorful, these can be filled with grains or vegetables, creating a visual feast that harmonizes well with the Italian flavors.
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Sangiovese Wine: This medium-bodied red wine, with its bright acidity and cherry flavors, perfectly complements the richness of the stuffed flank steak.
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Chocolate Fondue: For a sweet finish, indulge in a chocolate fondue dessert, allowing guests to dip fruits and treats while enjoying a romantic end to the meal.
Italian Stuffed Flank Steak Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting flank steak?
Absolutely! When choosing flank steak, look for a cut that is bright red with minimal dark spots or excessive marbling. This indicates freshness and a good texture. The steak should feel firm to the touch and have even thickness, which will ensure more even cooking.
How should I store leftovers of Italian Stuffed Flank Steak?
Very simple! Store any leftover Italian Stuffed Flank Steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should be consumed within 3 days for the best quality. Make sure the steak is completely cooled before placing it in the container to prevent moisture from making the meat soggy.
Can I freeze Italian Stuffed Flank Steak? If so, how?
Yes, you can! To freeze Italian Stuffed Flank Steak, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then cover it with aluminum foil or place it in a freezer bag. This helps prevent freezer burn. It’s best enjoyed within 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15–20 minutes.
What if my flank steak is a bit tough after cooking?
No worries at all! If your steak turns out tough, it may have been overcooked or not rested adequately. To enhance tenderness, try slicing the steak against the grain (perpendicular to the muscle fibers) when serving. Additionally, consider using a meat tenderizer or marinating the steak beforehand for future attempts to help soften it.
Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
Definitely! While Italian Stuffed Flank Steak is a delightful meal for humans, make sure to avoid sharing it with pets as it contains spices and ingredients that may be harmful to them. If you have vegan or vegetarian guests, consider preparing an alternative dish using the same stuffing ingredients but replacing the beef with vegetables or tofu for a satisfying meal.
How can I customize the stuffing for my Italian Stuffed Flank Steak?
The more the merrier! You can personalize your stuffing by adding ingredients like chopped olives, artichokes, or switching the cheese to goat cheese for a tangy flavor. Feel free to play around with different vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or even grated carrots to tailor it to your family’s preferences!
Italian Stuffed Flank Steak: A Cozy Dinner Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Remove the flank steak from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to reach room temperature, ensuring even cooking throughout.
- Meanwhile, place the steak between two sheets of parchment paper and use a meat mallet to pound it to a thickness of about 1/3 to 1/2 inch.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) while you prepare the seasoning and stuffing.
- In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, garlic salt, coarse sea salt, fresh cracked pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, dried rosemary, and dried thyme.
- Generously season both sides of the flank steak with this flavorful dry rub.
- In another mixing bowl, combine the grated garlic, diced red pepper, sun-dried tomatoes, chopped fresh basil, fresh spinach, egg yolk, plain bread crumbs, and shredded mozzarella.
- Spread the stuffing mixture evenly across the flank steak, leaving about an inch of space from the edges.
- Begin from one end and tightly roll the steak with the grain, forming a neat cylinder.
- Secure it with cooking twine or kitchen string at several points.
- Heat 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- Carefully place the rolled steak in the pan and drizzle any remaining oil on top.
- Sear the steak for about 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Transfer the skillet with the seared steak into the preheated oven.
- Roast for approximately 25 minutes until the steak reaches a medium doneness.
- Check the internal temperature aiming for 137°F to 140°F.
- Once cooked, remove the stuffed steak from the oven and allow it to rest for about 10 minutes.
- Slice the steak into rounds and serve with roasted asparagus.
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