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. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy weeknight meal, this recipe stands out with its rich flavors and stunning presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Impressive Presentation: Stuffed flank steak looks beautiful when sliced, making it a fantastic centerpiece for any dining table.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of spinach, cheeses, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a delightful explosion of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Dish: This recipe can be adapted with different fillings to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps, you can create a gourmet meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Great for Leftovers: Enjoy the delicious flavors again as leftovers; this dish tastes even better the next day!

Tools and Preparation

To make stuffed flank steak successfully, having the right tools on hand is essential. These tools will help ensure an effortless cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Baking dish
• Meat mallet
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Sharp knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts when slicing the flank steak and makes preparing the filling much easier.
• Baking dish: Using a baking dish helps contain any juices that may spill out during cooking while also allowing even heat distribution.
• Meat mallet: A meat mallet is crucial for tenderizing the flank steak, making it easier to roll and stuff.

Ingredients

For the Flank Steak

• 1.5 pounds of flank steak
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Filling

• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

How to Make Stuffed Flank Steak

Step 1: Prepare the Flank Steak

First, place the flank steak on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to butterfly the steak by cutting it horizontally but not all the way through. Open it like a book and pound it gently with a meat mallet to even out its thickness.

Step 2: Season the Steak

After butterflying the steak, season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor of your stuffed flank steak.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. Chopped spinach
2. Ricotta cheese
3. Shredded mozzarella cheese
4. Chopped sun-dried tomatoes
5. Olive oil
6. Minced garlic

Mix all ingredients until well combined.

Step 4: Stuff the Steak

Spread the filling evenly over one side of the butterflied flank steak. Leave about an inch border around the edges to prevent spilling during cooking.

Step 5: Roll and Secure

Carefully roll up the flank steak from one end to the other. Use kitchen twine or toothpicks to secure it tightly so that it holds together while cooking.

Step 6: Bake in Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place your stuffed flank steak in a baking dish and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until cooked through. Use a meat thermometer for best results; aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Once cooked, remove from oven and let rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute for maximum flavor! Serve slices warm with your favorite sides. Enjoy your delicious stuffed flank steak!

How to Serve Stuffed Flank Steak

Stuffed flank steak is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the palate. When serving this dish, consider pairing it with complementary sides or sauces to enhance its flavors. Here are some creative ideas to elevate your dining experience.

Fresh Garden Salad

• This light and crisp salad balances the rich flavors of the stuffed steak. Use mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a zesty vinaigrette.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

• Silky mashed potatoes provide a comforting side that pairs perfectly with the savory filling of the flank steak. Consider adding garlic or herbs for extra flavor.

Roasted Seasonal Vegetables

• Roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers add color and nutrients to your plate. Toss them with olive oil and herbs before roasting for maximum taste.

Garlic Bread

• Crispy garlic bread is an excellent addition that can soak up any juices from the steak. It’s simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

Chimichurri Sauce

• Drizzle vibrant chimichurri sauce over your sliced steak for a fresh and tangy kick. This sauce made from parsley, garlic, and vinegar adds brightness to each bite.

Red Wine Reduction Sauce

• A rich red wine reduction can be served on the side for those who enjoy robust flavors. Just simmer red wine with shallots and herbs until it thickens.

How to Perfect Stuffed Flank Steak

To create the ultimate stuffed flank steak, it’s essential to focus on preparation techniques and flavor balance. Here are some valuable tips you can follow.

• Choose quality meat: Select a fresh flank steak that has good marbling. This will ensure tenderness and flavor during cooking.

• Pound the steak: Gently pound the flank steak to an even thickness before stuffing. This helps it cook uniformly and makes rolling easier.

• Use room-temperature ingredients: Ensure that your filling ingredients are at room temperature before assembling. This helps them meld together better inside the steak.

• Secure tightly: Use kitchen twine or toothpicks to secure the rolled steak tightly. This prevents any filling from escaping while cooking.

• Rest after cooking: Allow the stuffed flank steak to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Resting allows juices to redistribute for a juicier result.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Flank Steak

When enjoying stuffed flank steak, pairing it with delicious side dishes can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: A low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, creamy garlic mashed cauliflower offers great taste without compromising your meal’s richness.

2. Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with garlic provide a fresh crunch that complements the savory flavors of the steak.

3. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with herbs, diced vegetables, and lemon dressing brings a nutty texture that’s perfect alongside beef.

4. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted to perfection add natural sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory stuffed flank steak flavor profiles.

5. Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf cooked with fragrant herbs makes an excellent bed for sliced stuffed flank steak, soaking up any delicious juices.

6. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots dressed in a tangy vinaigrette provides an excellent balance of textures and flavors.

7. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts offer earthy flavors that pair wonderfully with beef dishes while adding nutritional value to your meal.

8. Creamy Mushroom Risotto: Rich risotto featuring mushrooms creates a luxurious side dish that enhances the overall dining experience when served with stuffed flank steak.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Stuffed flank steak is a delicious dish, but mistakes can compromise its flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the steak properly can lead to blandness. Always use enough salt and pepper on both the steak and filling.
• Bold overstuffing: Adding too much filling can cause the steak to burst during cooking. Aim for a balanced amount that allows for even cooking.
• Bold cutting against the grain: Slicing with the grain leads to tough pieces. Always cut against the grain for tender bites.
• Bold not resting: Skipping the resting period after cooking can dry out the meat. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
• Bold ignoring doneness: Overcooking the steak results in dryness. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 145°F (medium rare).

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Stuffed Flank Steak

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Stuffed Flank Steak

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place wrapped steak in foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of broth to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about stuffed flank steak:

What is stuffed flank steak?

Stuffed flank steak is a savory dish where flank steak is filled with various ingredients like spinach, cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes before being rolled up and cooked.

How do I choose the right flank steak?

Select a flank steak that is bright red with minimal fat. A good cut will enhance the flavor of your stuffed flank steak.

Can I customize the filling for stuffed flank steak?

Absolutely! You can use different vegetables, cheeses, or spices based on your preferences, making this dish versatile.

What should I serve with stuffed flank steak?

Stuffed flank steak pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Stuffed flank steak is not only delicious but also highly customizable to suit your taste preferences. Whether you enjoy classic flavors or want to experiment with new fillings, this dish is sure to impress at any dinner table. Give it a try and make it your own!