Italian Stuffed Flank Steak: A Flavorful and Impressive Main Course

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dish that’s packed with flavor and perfect for a special occasion, Italian Stuffed Flank Steak is the answer. This recipe takes a humble cut of beef and transforms it into a gourmet masterpiece by stuffing it with a savory blend of Italian-inspired ingredients like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and cheese. Rolled, seared, and baked to perfection, this dish is as impressive as it is delicious. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to make this dish, share tips for perfecting it, and explore why it’s a must-try for any home cook.

What Is Italian Stuffed Flank Steak?

Italian Stuffed Flank Steak is a rolled and stuffed beef dish that combines the rich flavors of Italian cuisine with the hearty texture of flank steak. The steak is butterflied, filled with a mixture of spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and cheese, then rolled and secured before being seared and baked. The result is a tender, flavorful roast that’s perfect for slicing and serving. It’s an elegant yet approachable dish that’s sure to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Impressive Presentation: Perfect for dinner parties or holiday meals.
• Flavor-Packed: Combines Italian-inspired ingredients for a bold taste.
• Versatile: Pair with a variety of sides to create a complete meal.
• Customizable: Swap out fillings to suit your preferences.
• Leftover-Friendly: Sliced leftovers make great sandwiches or salads.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make Italian Stuffed Flank Steak. Feel free to adjust the quantities or add your own twist.

For the Steak:

• 1 flank steak
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Filling:

• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

For the Sauce (Optional):

• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1/4 cup beef broth

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

1. Butterfly the Steak: Lay the flank steak flat on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, slice horizontally through the side of the steak, stopping about 1/2 inch from the edge. Open the steak like a book to create a larger, flat surface.
2. Season: Season both sides of the steak with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. Sauté Spinach: In a skillet, sauté the spinach and garlic until the spinach is wilted. Turn off the heat and let it cool for a moment.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix the sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Step 3: Assemble and Roll

1. Spread the Filling: Lay the butterflied steak flat and spread the filling evenly over the surface, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
2. Roll the Steak: Starting from one long side, tightly roll the steak into a log. Secure with kitchen twine or toothpicks at 1-inch intervals.

Step 4: Sear and Bake

1. Sear the Steak: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the rolled steak on all sides until browned, about 2–3 minutes per side.
2. Bake: Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
3. Rest: Remove the steak from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Step 5: Make the Sauce (Optional)

1. Combine Ingredients: In the same skillet, add marinara sauce and beef broth. Simmer for 5 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
2. Serve: Slice the steak into 1-inch rounds and serve with the sauce drizzled on top.

Tips for Perfect Italian Stuffed Flank Steak

• Butterfly Carefully: Use a sharp knife and work slowly to ensure an even cut.
• Secure Tightly: Use kitchen twine or toothpicks to keep the steak rolled during cooking.
• Avoid Overcooking: Flank steak turns tough if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer for perfect results.
• Customize the Filling: Add roasted red peppers, artichokes, or prosciutto for extra flavor.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the steak up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to cook.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

Italian Stuffed Flank Steak is a flavorful and elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender beef, savory filling, and rich sauce creates a meal that’s both satisfying and impressive. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to elevate your weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to delight.

Serving Suggestions

To turn this dish into a complete meal, consider pairing it with the following:

1. Pasta: Serve with a side of spaghetti or fettuccine tossed in olive oil and garlic.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted asparagus, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts.
3. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a comforting side.
4. Crusty Bread: Serve with warm crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Health Benefits of Italian Stuffed Flank Steak

While this dish is rich and satisfying, it also provides some nutritional perks:

• High in Protein: Flank steak is a great source of lean protein.
• High in Iron: Beef offers heme iron, which the body absorbs efficiently.
• Packed with Vitamins: Spinach and sun-dried tomatoes add vitamins A, C, and K.
• Low in Carbs: A great choice for low-carb or keto lifestyles.

Variations and Customizations

Here are some ideas to customize it to your taste:

1. Add Cheese: Use provolone or fontina instead of mozzarella for a different flavor.
2. Make It Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
3. Use Different Greens: Swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard.
4. Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pine nuts or walnuts into the filling for added crunch.
5. Make It Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients, including the sauce, are gluten-free.

The History of Stuffed Meats

Stuffed meats have a long history in many cuisines, from Italian involtini to French paupiettes. The technique of rolling and stuffing meats was originally a way to stretch expensive cuts of meat and add flavor. Today, stuffed dishes like this Italian Stuffed Flank Steak are celebrated for their creativity and elegance.

FAQs

Q: Can I substitute the flank steak with another cut of beef?
A: Yes! You can use skirt steak or even a butterflied chicken breast for a lighter option.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?
A: Absolutely. Assemble the steak, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store sliced steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Warm leftovers gently in the oven or microwave to retain moisture.

Conclusion

Italian Stuffed Flank Steak is a quick, easy, and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its savory filling, tender beef, and rich sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to elevate your weeknight dinner, this recipe is a must-try. So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a taste of Italy in every bite. Buon appetito!

This dish is a testament to the power of simple, high-quality ingredients. With minimal effort, you can create a meal that’s both comforting and exciting, making it a staple in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves bold, flavorful food.

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