Stuffed Flank Steak

Elevate your family dinner with stuffed flank steak, a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress! This flavorful favorite features tender flank steak stuffed with a delicious blend of spinach, cheeses, and sun-dried tomatoes. Stuffed flank steak is perfect for special occasions or an ordinary weeknight meal. Its standout flavors and beautiful presentation make it a dish everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can have this dish ready without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spinach, cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a rich taste that will delight your taste buds.
• Versatile Option: Stuffed flank steak is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home. It’s suitable for any occasion!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with greens and lean protein, this dish provides both flavor and nutrition.
• Impressive Presentation: The stuffed flank steak looks stunning when sliced, making it a great centerpiece for your dining table.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into cooking, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Oven-safe skillet or roasting pan
• Meat tenderizer or mallet
• Toothpicks or kitchen twine

Importance of Each Tool

• Sharp knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts through the flank steak, allowing for easy stuffing.
• Oven-safe skillet: Using an oven-safe skillet lets you sear the steak before finishing it in the oven, enhancing flavor.
• Meat tenderizer: Tenderizing the meat helps break down fibers, leading to a more tender final dish.

Ingredients

For the Stuffing

• Fresh spinach
• Cream cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Sun-dried tomatoes

For the Flank Steak

• Flank steak
• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

How to Make Stuffed Flank Steak

Step 1: Prepare the Flank Steak

1. Lay the flank steak on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to slice it horizontally, creating a pocket for stuffing without cutting all the way through.
2. Pound the steak gently with a meat tenderizer to ensure even thickness.

Step 2: Make the Stuffing

1. In a mixing bowl, combine fresh spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
2. Mix until well combined; season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Stuff the Flank Steak

1. Spoon the stuffing mixture into the pocket of the flank steak.
2. Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the edges of the steak to keep the stuffing inside during cooking.

Step 4: Sear and Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sear each side of the stuffed flank steak until browned (about 3-4 minutes per side).
4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes or until cooked to your desired doneness.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Once cooked, remove from oven and let rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
2. Slice into rounds and serve warm with your favorite side dishes. Enjoy your delicious stuffed flank steak!

How to Serve Stuffed Flank Steak

Serving stuffed flank steak is all about enhancing its rich flavors while ensuring a delightful dining experience. Pair the dish with complementary sides and sauces to elevate your meal.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens: A light salad with arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes can balance the richness of the steak.
• Caesar Salad: A classic choice, this salad adds a creamy texture that pairs well with the savory stuffing.

Add a Flavorful Sauce

• Balsamic Reduction: Drizzle this sweet and tangy sauce over the steak for an extra layer of flavor.
• Garlic Herb Butter: Melted butter infused with garlic and herbs can enhance the taste of each slice.

Serve with Grains

• Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa dish with herbs can be a nutritious side that complements the steak’s flavors.
• Herbed Couscous: Light and fluffy, couscous is an excellent base to soak up juices from the stuffed flank steak.

How to Perfect Stuffed Flank Steak

Perfecting your stuffed flank steak involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Choose Quality Meat: Start with fresh, high-quality flank steak for better flavor and tenderness.
• Butterfly Carefully: Cut the steak evenly to create a pocket for stuffing without slicing through completely.
• Season Generously: Use salt and pepper on both the inside and outside of the meat for maximum flavor enhancement.
• Don’t Overstuff: Fill the steak just enough to hold everything together; overstuffing can lead to spills during cooking.
• Rest Before Slicing: Let the cooked steak rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing to retain juices and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Flank Steak

Pairing side dishes with stuffed flank steak can enhance your meal significantly. Consider these delicious options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes mashed with roasted garlic create a comforting side that complements beef well.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon juice offers a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the steak.
4. Sautéed Spinach: Quick sautéed spinach in olive oil brings out its natural flavors while adding nutrients.
5. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf made with broth and herbs provides a hearty side that absorbs flavors beautifully.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with herb butter makes for a fun, summer-inspired side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your stuffed flank steak experience. Here are some mistakes to keep in mind:

• Bold seasoning: Many overlook the importance of seasoning the flank steak itself. Make sure to season both the meat and stuffing for a well-rounded flavor.

• Bold overstuffing: Stuffing too much filling can cause the steak to burst during cooking. Use just enough filling to allow for even cooking without spilling over.

• Bold improper cooking time: Cooking the steak for too long can make it tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness, aiming for medium-rare at 135°F (57°C).

• Bold skipping rest time: Allowing the steak to rest after cooking is crucial. This lets the juices redistribute, ensuring a juicy and flavorful slice.

• Bold inadequate sealing: Not securing the filling properly can lead to leakage. Use kitchen twine or toothpicks to tightly seal the opening before cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover stuffed flank steak in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Stuffed Flank Steak

• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• Frozen stuffed flank steak can last up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Stuffed Flank Steak

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the steak in a baking dish with a splash of broth, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.

• Microwave: Slice the stuffed flank steak into pieces and place in a microwave-safe dish with a bit of broth. Heat on medium power until warm, checking frequently.

• Stovetop: In a skillet, add a little oil or broth, then warm slices over medium heat until heated through, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about stuffed flank steak that might help you further.

How do I choose the best flank steak?

Select a flank steak that is bright red with marbling. Look for one that feels firm but not overly tough.

Can I use different fillings for stuffed flank steak?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with fillings like mushrooms, bell peppers, or different cheeses based on your taste preferences.

How do I know when my stuffed flank steak is done?

Use a meat thermometer; aim for around 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare. This ensures tenderness and juiciness without drying out.

What sides pair well with stuffed flank steak?

Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal that’s full of flavor.

Final Thoughts

Stuffed flank steak is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit any occasion. Its rich flavors and satisfying texture make it a favorite among family dinners. Customize your stuffing with seasonal ingredients or personal favorites to make this dish truly yours!