Stuffed Flank Steak is a delectable and impressive dish that’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or even a fancy weeknight meal. This recipe combines tender flank steak with a savory bread crumb stuffing, creating a mouthwatering experience that is sure to impress. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can easily create a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- Flank Steak: 2 lbs
- Soft Bread Crumb Stuffing: 2 cups
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon, for basting
- String: For tying the steak
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Flank Steak
- Butterfly the Flank Steak: Lay the flank steak on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the steak horizontally, stopping about 1/2 inch from the edge to keep it intact. Open the steak like a book, creating a larger, thinner piece of meat.
- Pound the Steak: Place the butterflied steak between two pieces of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet to gently pound the steak to an even thickness, about 1/4 inch. This helps tenderize the meat and makes it easier to roll.
Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing
- Make the Stuffing: In a mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of soft bread crumb stuffing. You can use store-bought stuffing mix or make your own by combining breadcrumbs with herbs and seasonings of your choice.
- Season the Stuffing: Optionally, add herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Assemble the Stuffed Flank Steak
- Spread the Stuffing: Lay the butterflied flank steak flat on a clean surface. Spread the bread crumb stuffing evenly over the steak, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Roll the Steak: Starting from one of the long sides, carefully roll the steak up tightly, encasing the stuffing inside.
- Tie the Steak: Use kitchen string to tie the rolled steak at 1-2 inch intervals. This will help keep the stuffing inside during cooking.
Step 4: Cook the Stuffed Flank Steak
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sear the Steak: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the rolled and tied steak and sear on all sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Bake the Steak: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the steak reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, or to your desired level of doneness.
Step 5: Serve
- Rest the Steak: Remove the steak from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- Slice and Serve: Slice the steak into 1-inch thick slices and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious stuffed flank steak with your favorite sides!
Cooking Notes and Variations
Cooking Notes:
- Flank Steak: Ensure the steak is of good quality and properly trimmed. Flank steak can be tough if not cooked correctly, so be mindful of cooking times and temperatures.
- Stuffing: Feel free to customize the stuffing with additional ingredients such as sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or cheese for added flavor and texture.
Variations:
- Herb and Cheese Stuffing: Add a blend of grated cheeses (like mozzarella and Parmesan) and fresh herbs (like basil and oregano) to the stuffing for an Italian twist.
- Mushroom and Spinach Stuffing: Sauté finely chopped mushrooms and spinach with garlic and mix into the bread crumb stuffing for a hearty and nutritious filling.
- Keto Version: Replace the bread crumb stuffing with a mixture of finely chopped nuts, grated cheese, and sautéed vegetables for a low-carb option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I prepare the stuffed flank steak ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the stuffed flank steak a day in advance. Store it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before searing and baking.
Q: Can I freeze stuffed flank steak?
A: Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled and uncooked stuffed flank steak. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
Q: How do I ensure the steak stays juicy?
A: Avoid overcooking the steak. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, and let the steak rest for 10 minutes after cooking to retain its juices.
Q: What sides go well with stuffed flank steak?
A: Stuffed flank steak pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, a fresh green salad, or steamed asparagus.
Q: Can I use a different cut of meat?
A: While flank steak is recommended for this recipe, you can also use other cuts like skirt steak or even a butterflied pork tenderloin.
Stuffed Flank Steak is a show-stopping dish that combines the rich flavors of tender steak and savory stuffing. With its impressive presentation and delicious taste, it’s perfect for any special occasion or family meal. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make it accessible to home cooks of all levels. Try out different variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs, and enjoy a meal that’s sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking!