Italian Stuffed Flank Steak

Introduction

Italian Stuffed Flank Steak is the ultimate dish that brings together rich flavors and a hearty, satisfying bite. The combination of tender, juicy flank steak rolled up with a savory filling of herbs, cheeses, and cured meats creates a show-stopping main course. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience—one that’s bursting with bold Italian flavors and a comforting, home-cooked touch.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart. The first time I made it was for a Sunday family dinner, and it quickly became a staple. The aroma of garlic, fresh herbs, and melted cheese wafting from the oven made everyone gather around in anticipation. When sliced, the beautiful spiral of filling is revealed, making every piece as stunning as it is delicious. The steak remains tender, while the filling provides a perfect balance of salty, creamy, and herby goodness.

Italian Stuffed Flank Steak is perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress at the dinner table. It’s fantastic on its own, but when served with a side of roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes, it becomes a truly unforgettable meal. If you’re looking for a dish that combines elegance with comfort, this is the one to make!

Perfect for:

• Elegant dinners
• High-protein, low-carb meals
• Italian cuisine lovers
• Special occasions and celebrations
• Meal prepping for flavorful leftovers

Why You’ll Love This Italian Stuffed Flank Steak

• Tender & Juicy Steak: Flank steak is lean yet full of flavor when cooked properly.
• Savory Italian-Inspired Filling: A delicious combination of cheese, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The rolled and sliced steak makes for a stunning dish that impresses guests.
• Customizable: Easily adjust the filling with your favorite vegetables, cheeses, or seasonings.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Can be made ahead of time and stored for easy weeknight meals.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 45g, Carbs: 10g, Fat: 25g

Ingredients

For the Steak:

• 1 ½ to 2 lbs flank steak, butterflied and pounded thin
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Filling:

• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Sauce (Optional):

• 1 ½ cups crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient Highlights

• Flank Steak: A lean cut of beef that’s perfect for stuffing and rolling.
• Spinach: Adds freshness and nutrients without overpowering the dish.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Provide a concentrated, tangy sweetness.
• Mozzarella & Parmesan: The combination creates a melty, creamy, and slightly salty filling.
• Garlic & Herbs: Essential for enhancing the Italian flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Flank Steak:

1. Butterfly the Steak: Place the flank steak on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the steak horizontally (without cutting all the way through) and open it like a book.
2. Pound to Even Thickness: Cover with plastic wrap and use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the steak to about ¼-inch thickness for even cooking.
3. Season the Meat: Rub both sides of the steak with olive oil, salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and garlic powder.

Prepare the Filling:

4. Sauté the Spinach: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add spinach and cook until wilted (about 2 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Mix the Filling: In a bowl, combine the sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, mozzarella, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes.

Stuff and Roll the Steak:

6. Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the spinach mixture over the prepared flank steak, leaving a small border around the edges.
7. Roll Tightly: Starting from the short end, tightly roll the steak into a log. Secure with kitchen twine at 1-inch intervals.

Sear and Bake:

8. Sear the Steak: Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and sear the steak on all sides until browned (about 2 minutes per side).
9. Bake: Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 130-135°F (55-57°C) for medium-rare or 140-145°F (60-63°C) for medium.
10. Rest & Slice: Remove from the oven, tent with foil, and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing into medallions.

Optional Sauce:

11. Make the Sauce: In a saucepan, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
12. Serve: Drizzle over the sliced stuffed steak or serve on the side.

How to Serve Italian Stuffed Flank Steak

• Classic Italian Style: Serve with roasted vegetables or a fresh arugula salad.
• Low-Carb Meal: Pair with cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles.
• With Pasta: Serve over a bed of linguine with extra sauce for a heartier meal.
• Family-Style: Slice and serve on a platter with extra Parmesan on top.

Additional Tips for Italian Stuffed Flank Steak

• Use a Sharp Knife: A sharp chef’s knife makes butterflying the flank steak much easier.
• Roll Tightly: A firm roll prevents the filling from falling out when slicing.
• Let It Rest: Resting the steak before slicing ensures the juices stay inside, keeping the meat tender.
• Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
• Use Fresh Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella will melt better and provide better flavor.

Recipe Variations for Italian Stuffed Flank Steak

1. Cheesy Mushroom Variation: Replace sun-dried tomatoes with sautéed mushrooms for a richer umami flavor.
2. Mediterranean Twist: Add kalamata olives and feta cheese to the filling.
3. Caprese Style: Use fresh basil and sliced cherry tomatoes in place of sun-dried tomatoes.
4. Extra Cheesy: Swap mozzarella for provolone or fontina for an even creamier filling.
5. Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cheese or skip the cheese and add extra sautéed veggies.
6. Spicy Kick: Add chopped banana peppers or extra red pepper flakes.
7. Grilled Version: Instead of baking, grill over indirect heat for a smoky flavor.
8. Herb-Infused: Rub the steak with fresh rosemary and thyme for deeper aromatics.

Freezing and Storage for Italian Stuffed Flank Steak

• Freezing: Assemble the rolled steak, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm slices in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 300°F until heated through.

Special Equipment for Italian Stuffed Flank Steak

• Meat Mallet – Used to pound the steak to an even thickness, ensuring even cooking and tenderness. This also helps the meat absorb marinades and seasonings more effectively.
• Sharp Knife – Essential for butterflying the steak and slicing it into portions. A well-sharpened knife makes it easier to create clean cuts without tearing the meat.
• Kitchen Twine – Keeps the steak roll secure while cooking, preventing it from unraveling as it sears and bakes. Tying the steak also helps it maintain an even shape for better presentation.
• Cast-Iron Skillet – Ideal for getting a deep, flavorful sear on the steak before transferring it to the oven. Cast iron retains heat well, ensuring even browning and a perfect crust.
• Meat Thermometer – Ensures precise doneness by checking the internal temperature. This prevents overcooking while allowing you to achieve the perfect level of juiciness.

FAQ Section for Italian Stuffed Flank Steak

1. Can I use a different cut of beef? Yes! While flank steak is ideal for rolling, you can also use skirt steak or top round. Skirt steak has a similar texture but may require additional tenderizing, while top round is leaner and may need extra moisture to prevent dryness.
2. Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed steak roll up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld, making it even more delicious when cooked. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before cooking for even results.
3. What cheese melts best inside the steak? Mozzarella, provolone, and fontina are excellent options because they melt smoothly and add a rich, creamy texture. For a sharper flavor, you can also try gouda or gruyère, which provide a more complex taste while still melting well.

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Conclusion for Italian Stuffed Flank Steak

Italian Stuffed Flank Steak is a showstopping dish that transforms a simple cut of meat into a flavorful, elegant masterpiece. The tender flank steak, infused with rich herbs, melted cheese, and savory fillings, delivers a perfect balance of textures and tastes in every bite.

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility—whether you serve it as a centerpiece for a festive gathering or as a comforting weeknight dinner, it never fails to impress. Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables, a crisp salad, or creamy mashed potatoes to create a well-rounded meal that satisfies every craving.

Ideal for both special occasions and everyday indulgence, Italian Stuffed Flank Steak is a recipe you’ll return to time and again. I can’t wait for you to experience the irresistible flavors of this dish! Be sure to share your delicious creations and tag me on social media—I love seeing your take on it. Enjoy every flavorful bite!