This Italian Stuffed Flank Steak is a beautiful combination of tender beef rolled with a melty, flavor-packed filling of fresh mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes, and vibrant spinach. Seasoned with a blend of garlic, oregano, and basil, every bite delivers an irresistible mix of rich and herbaceous flavors. The dish is finished with a quick broil to develop a gorgeous crust while keeping the steak juicy and succulent. Perfect for a special occasion or an elevated weeknight dinner, this stuffed flank steak pairs beautifully with roasted asparagus, creating a complete and balanced meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying something new, this recipe is straightforward, delicious, and guaranteed to impress anyone at your table!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
Dry Rub Mix:
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp coarse sea salt
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic salt
- 1/2 tsp fresh cracked black pepper
For the Steak:
- 1 (2 lb) flank steak, pounded to 1/3 – 1/2 inch thick
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 3 pieces of cooking twine
Stuffing:
- 3 cloves garlic, grated
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, diced
- 1/3 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 tbsp plain breadcrumbs
- 4 – 6 oz fresh shredded mozzarella
For the Pan:
- 1 lb fresh asparagus, woody ends removed
- Additional coarse sea salt and fresh black pepper (for seasoning after cooking)
Directions:
- Remove the flank steak from the refrigerator 30 minutes to 1 hour before cooking. Pat dry and pound to an even 1/3 – 1/2 inch thickness.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C).
- Mix the dry rub ingredients and season both sides of the steak. Lay three pieces of cooking twine under the steak and set aside.
- In a bowl, combine all the stuffing ingredients and mix well.
- Spread the stuffing evenly over the flank steak, leaving a 1-inch border at the edges. Roll the steak with the grain and tie it securely with the twine.
- Heat a cast iron pan and brush it with 1 tbsp olive oil. Place the stuffed steak in the pan, drizzle with another tablespoon of olive oil, and transfer to the oven.
- Roast for 25 minutes. While the steak cooks, toss the asparagus with the remaining olive oil.
- Remove the steak from the oven, add the asparagus to the pan, and sprinkle with a little sea salt. Switch the oven to broil and cook for 10 more minutes.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Medium doneness is 130°F (54°C), which will rise to 137-140°F (58-60°C) while resting.
- Cover with foil and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with the asparagus and pan drippings.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Resting Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: ~420 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 – 6
Italian Stuffed Flank Steak: A Flavorful and Elegant Dinner Option
Italian Stuffed Flank Steak is a dish that beautifully balances flavor, texture, and presentation. It combines the hearty richness of flank steak with a delicious filling of fresh mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and basil, all wrapped up and roasted to perfection. This recipe is an excellent choice for a family dinner, special occasion, or even a casual weekend meal when you want something impressive yet simple to prepare.
Why Choose Flank Steak for This Dish?
Flank steak is an underrated cut of beef that offers incredible versatility. It is lean, relatively inexpensive compared to other steak cuts, and absorbs flavors beautifully. While some might consider it tough, proper preparation such as pounding it to an even thickness and cooking it at the right temperature transforms it into a tender, juicy delight.
One of the biggest advantages of using flank steak for this recipe is how well it holds up to stuffing. The large, flat surface allows for an even distribution of filling, ensuring that every bite contains a perfect mix of meat, cheese, and vegetables. Additionally, when rolled and tied properly, the steak maintains its shape during cooking, making for an attractive final presentation.
The Inspiration Behind Italian Stuffed Flank Steak
This dish is inspired by classic Italian flavors. The combination of garlic, basil, sun-dried tomatoes, and mozzarella mirrors the traditional elements found in many Italian recipes. The stuffing ingredients provide a burst of savory, slightly tangy, and creamy notes that complement the beef’s natural umami.
Italian cuisine is known for its emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients, and this recipe is no exception. Using fresh basil, spinach, and mozzarella ensures that the filling remains vibrant and flavorful. The sun-dried tomatoes add a concentrated sweetness and acidity, while the blend of dried herbs in the seasoning mix enhances the overall depth of the dish.
The Cooking Technique: Baking and Broiling for Perfection
Cooking a stuffed flank steak requires a balance of time and temperature to ensure even doneness. The initial roasting phase allows the beef to cook through gently while keeping the stuffing intact. Since flank steak is a lean cut, overcooking it can make it dry. The goal is to achieve a medium level of doneness where the meat remains tender and juicy.
The final step broiling adds a layer of crispiness to the outside of the steak while enhancing the rich, roasted flavors of the stuffing. This technique mimics the effect of a seared steak but is more convenient since everything is cooked in one pan.
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
Italian Stuffed Flank Steak is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes elevates the dining experience. The recipe often includes roasted asparagus cooked in the same pan, making it an effortless, well-rounded dish. However, there are several other side options that complement the steak beautifully:
- Garlic Roasted Potatoes – The crispy texture and mild garlic flavor enhance the rich, juicy steak.
- Parmesan Risotto – A creamy, cheesy risotto adds a touch of indulgence to the meal.
- Grilled Vegetables – Zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant grilled with olive oil and herbs make for a light, Mediterranean-inspired accompaniment.
- Caesar Salad – A refreshing salad with crisp romaine, parmesan, and homemade croutons provides a nice contrast to the richness of the stuffed steak.
Pairing this dish with a glass of red wine, such as a Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon, further enhances its robust flavors.
Tips for Making the Best Italian Stuffed Flank Steak
To achieve the best results, keep these key tips in mind when preparing the dish:
1. Let the Steak Rest Before Cooking
Allowing the steak to come to room temperature before preparation ensures even cooking. A cold steak placed directly into the oven can result in an uneven temperature throughout the meat.
2. Use Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients
Since this dish relies on simple, bold flavors, the quality of the ingredients makes a significant difference. Fresh mozzarella melts better than pre-shredded varieties, and fresh basil adds a much brighter flavor than dried basil.
3. Do Not Overstuff
While it’s tempting to pack as much filling as possible into the steak, overstuffing can cause the roll to fall apart during cooking. Leaving an inch of space at the edges makes rolling and securing the steak easier.
4. Tie the Steak Securely
Using kitchen twine to tie the steak at multiple points prevents the roll from unraveling. This step is crucial for keeping the stuffing inside while the steak cooks.
5. Check the Internal Temperature
A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure the steak is cooked to perfection. Since flank steak can quickly go from tender to tough, checking for a medium doneness of 130°F (54°C) before resting is ideal.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion
Italian Stuffed Flank Steak is an incredibly versatile dish that can be served for both casual and elegant gatherings. Its stunning presentation makes it feel like a restaurant-quality meal, yet it’s easy enough to prepare at home. Whether you’re looking for a holiday centerpiece, a romantic dinner for two, or a crowd-pleaser for a family gathering, this recipe delivers.
The combination of flavors also appeals to a wide range of palates. Meat lovers enjoy the robust taste of the flank steak, while the cheesy, vegetable-packed filling satisfies those who appreciate a balanced meal. Plus, with a few simple modifications, the recipe can be adjusted to suit different dietary preferences.
Conclusion:
Italian Stuffed Flank Steak is a dish that brings together rich, savory flavors in a visually stunning presentation. It highlights the best aspects of Italian cooking fresh ingredients, simple preparation, and bold taste. The balance between tender beef, melty mozzarella, and aromatic herbs creates a truly satisfying meal.
Whether you’re an experienced home cook or trying stuffed steak for the first time, this recipe is approachable and rewarding. With a few key techniques, you can achieve a beautifully cooked steak roll that impresses both in taste and appearance. If you’re looking for a new way to enjoy steak, this Italian-inspired recipe is definitely worth adding to your repertoire.