Are you looking to elevate your dinner game with a dish that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to make? This Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Stuffed Flank Steak is a mouthwatering combination of tender steak, savory pesto, and creamy cheese, all rolled up and cooked to perfection. It’s a recipe that’s perfect for special occasions or a weekend family dinner, giving you restaurant-quality results from the comfort of your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Imagine slicing into a perfectly seared flank steak to reveal a swirl of vibrant pesto, thinly layered prosciutto, and creamy parmesan. Not only is it a feast for your taste buds, but the visual appeal of this dish will also impress everyone at the table. It’s a surprisingly simple recipe to prepare, requiring only a few key ingredients and some straightforward steps.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying something new, this recipe promises gourmet flavor without the fuss.
Ingredients for Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Stuffed Flank Steak
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Flank steak (pounded thin) | 1 1/2 pounds |
Salt | To taste |
Pepper | To taste |
Prepared pesto | 1/4 cup |
Prosciutto (thinly sliced) | 1/4 pound |
Grated parmesan cheese | 1/3 cup |
Baby spinach leaves | 1 cup |
Olive oil | 1-2 tablespoons |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Flank Steak
- Place the flank steak on a sturdy cutting board.
- Use a meat mallet to pound the steak to an even thickness, about 1/4 inch, ensuring it is thin enough to roll easily.
- Season both sides of the steak generously with salt and pepper.
2. Spread the Pesto
- Evenly spread the prepared pesto over the surface of the steak, making sure to cover the entire piece for maximum flavor.
3. Layer the Fillings
- Lay the thinly sliced prosciutto evenly over the pesto-covered steak.
- Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the prosciutto.
- Arrange the baby spinach leaves on top, spreading them out to cover the surface.
4. Roll and Secure the Steak
- Starting from one of the short ends, carefully roll the steak tightly into a log.
- Use kitchen twine to tie the rolled steak at 1-2 inch intervals to secure it, ensuring it stays intact during cooking.
5. Sear the Steak
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the rolled steak to the skillet.
- Sear on all sides until nicely browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Bake to Perfection
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Transfer the seared steak to a baking dish and place it in the oven.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium, or your desired level of doneness.
7. Rest and Serve
- Remove the steak from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful dish.
- Slice the steak into 1-inch pinwheels, exposing the beautiful layers of stuffing. Serve immediately.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: High-quality pesto, fresh baby spinach, and freshly grated parmesan will elevate the flavor of this dish.
- Don’t Overstuff: Avoid adding too much filling to ensure the steak rolls easily and stays secure.
- Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to achieve your desired level of doneness without overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a Side Salad: A crisp, refreshing side salad with balsamic vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the stuffed flank steak.
- Add a Starch: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes, herbed rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Top with Sauce: A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a dollop of garlic butter enhances the dish’s flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 320 kcal |
Protein | 32 g |
Carbohydrates | 3 g |
Fat | 21 g |
Sodium | 720 mg |
FAQs About Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Stuffed Flank Steak
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffed flank steak up to a day in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. Sear and bake it just before serving.
2. What can I substitute for prosciutto?
Thinly sliced ham or turkey works well as a substitute if you prefer a milder flavor.
3. Can I use a different cut of meat?
Flank steak works best for this recipe, but you can also use skirt steak or butterflied chicken breast.
4. How do I ensure the steak stays rolled during cooking?
Tie the rolled steak securely with kitchen twine, spacing the ties evenly to hold the roll tightly together.
5. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze cooked slices of stuffed flank steak in an airtight container for up to three months. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
6. Can I grill instead of bake?
Absolutely! After searing, transfer the steak to a preheated grill and cook over indirect heat until it reaches your desired doneness.
Final Thoughts
This Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Stuffed Flank Steak is a culinary masterpiece that’s as stunning to look at as it is delicious to eat. It’s a perfect balance of flavors and textures, from the tender steak to the savory pesto and creamy parmesan. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating your family to something special, this dish is sure to impress.
PrintSun-Dried Tomato Pesto Stuffed Flank Steak: A Gourmet Meal Made Simple
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Description
Bring gourmet flavor to your dinner table with this Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Stuffed Flank Steak. Tender, juicy steak is filled with vibrant pesto, savory prosciutto, fresh spinach, and creamy parmesan cheese, rolled to perfection, and baked for a show-stopping presentation. This dish is as impressive as it is simple to prepare, making it ideal for family meals or elegant entertaining.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds flank steak, pounded thin
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup prepared pesto
- 1/4 pound thinly sliced prosciutto
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup baby spinach leaves
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
Prepare the Flank Steak
- Place the flank steak on a cutting board. Use a meat mallet to pound it to an even thickness, about 1/4 inch.
- Season both sides of the steak with salt and pepper to taste.
Spread the Pesto
- Evenly spread the prepared pesto over the entire surface of the steak, ensuring full coverage for maximum flavor.
Layer the Fillings
- Lay the thinly sliced prosciutto evenly over the pesto layer.
- Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the prosciutto.
- Arrange the baby spinach leaves evenly across the top.
Roll and Secure
- Starting from one of the short ends, carefully roll the steak tightly to form a log.
- Use kitchen twine to tie the steak roll at 1-2 inch intervals to secure it and keep the fillings intact during cooking.
Sear the Steak
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the rolled steak to the skillet and sear on all sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Bake to Perfection
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Transfer the seared steak to a baking dish and place it in the oven.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare or your preferred level of doneness.
Rest and Serve
- Remove the steak from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
- Slice into 1-inch pinwheels, revealing the beautifully layered filling.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Adjust the Filling: Feel free to swap prosciutto for ham or add sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Perfect Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature for your preferred doneness.
- Resting is Key: Letting the steak rest ensures the juices redistribute, keeping it moist and flavorful.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing and Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired