Balsamic Marinated Flank Steak with Blue Cheese Crust: A Flavorful Feast in 90 Minutes

JUMP TO RECIPE

Picture this: You’re in your kitchen, preparing to make a delicious, mouthwatering steak. The tangy scent of balsamic vinegar fills the air as you marinate your flank steak. In the oven, a beautiful blue cheese crust is bubbling away, turning golden brown. With just a few simple ingredients, you’re about to create a meal that feels as luxurious as it tastes—perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. If you’ve ever wanted to wow your guests or satisfy your cravings with something unique and flavorful, Balsamic Marinated Flank Steak with Blue Cheese Crust is the dish for you.

This recipe isn’t just about the rich, complex flavors of balsamic vinegar, blue cheese, and perfectly broiled steak—it’s about creating an unforgettable meal without hours of preparation. Ready to take your cooking game to the next level? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about making this irresistible dish.

Why You’ll Love This Balsamic Marinated Flank Steak with Blue Cheese Crust

Perfect Balance of Bold Flavors

The Balsamic Marinated Flank Steak with Blue Cheese Crust combines the sharp tang of balsamic vinegar with the creamy richness of blue cheese. The marinade, infused with brown sugar, green onions, and black pepper, tenderizes the flank steak while adding layers of flavor. The final touch—crunchy panko breadcrumbs topped with melted butter and crumbled blue cheese—creates a crust that is both flavorful and satisfying. The result is a steak that’s savory, slightly sweet, and oh-so-tender with a crispy finish. Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Baked Spinach Mushroom Quesadillas

Quick & Easy

This recipe isn’t only about great flavors—it’s about efficiency. From marinating the steak to broiling it in your oven, this dish can be prepared in 90 minutes or less, making it an ideal choice for both busy nights and relaxed weekends. Plus, there’s minimal active cooking time involved. Once you’ve prepped everything, the steak is practically hands-off!

Visually Stunning

Let’s face it: who doesn’t love a gorgeous plate of food? The Balsamic Marinated Flank Steak with Blue Cheese Crust is a dish that will surely turn heads. The vibrant colors of the balsamic-marinated steak paired with the golden-brown topping create an impressive visual feast. It’s a perfect centerpiece for any gathering or family dinner.

Healthier Yet Indulgent

While it feels indulgent, this recipe remains on the healthier side. Flank steak is lean, providing protein without the excess fat. The balsamic vinegar adds a tangy depth without adding heavy calories. Meanwhile, the small amount of blue cheese and panko breadcrumbs balance richness with a light, crunchy texture.

Ingredients for Balsamic Marinated Flank Steak with Blue Cheese Crust

Before we dive into the steps, let’s break down the ingredients you’ll need. You may already have most of them in your pantry!

The Steak and Crust Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Flank Steak	1.5 – 2 lbs
Blue Cheese, crumbled	1 cup
Panko Bread Crumbs	2 tbsp
Butter	½ tbsp

For the Marinade

Ingredient	Quantity
Olive Oil	½ cup
Balsamic Vinegar	½ cup
Salt	½ tsp
Black Pepper (fresh)	½ tsp
Green Onions, chopped	2
Brown Sugar	2 tbsp

Step-by-Step Instructions for Balsamic Marinated Flank Steak with Blue Cheese Crust

1. Preparing the Marinade

Start by getting the marinade ready. In a glass baking dish, mix together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, fresh black pepper, green onions, and brown sugar. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined. The marinade should smell rich and slightly sweet from the balsamic vinegar and brown sugar, with a nice kick from the pepper and green onions.

• Tip: The glass dish helps you see the steak as it marinates, ensuring that it’s fully covered by the marinade.

2. Marinating the Steak

Next, it’s time to prepare your flank steak. Use a sharp knife to score the smooth side of the steak in 1-inch intervals. This helps the marinade penetrate more deeply, ensuring that the meat absorbs all the flavors.

Place the steak in the baking dish, scored side up, so the marinade can seep into the cuts. Spoon extra marinade into the scored areas to really infuse the steak with flavor. Let the steak marinate for 30-45 minutes. While the steak marinates, you’ll have time to preheat your oven and prep the blue cheese crust.

• Pro Tip: Don’t marinate for too long, as the acidity of the balsamic vinegar can start to break down the texture of the meat if left for over an hour.

3. Broiling the Steak

Preheat your oven to high broil, and position the rack close to the top. A high heat will help give the steak a crispy outer layer while keeping the inside tender. After preheating, take the marinated steak out of the dish and place it scored side up on a broiler pan.

Broil the steak for about 3 minutes per side. Depending on the thickness of your steak and how well-done you like it, the broiling time may vary. For a medium-rare steak, look for an internal temperature of 130°F. For medium, aim for 140°F.

• Note: If you’re not sure about the doneness, use a meat thermometer. It’s a quick way to get your steak just right!

4. Adding the Blue Cheese Crust

After broiling the steak, melt butter in a small saucepan. Combine the melted butter with the panko breadcrumbs until the crumbs are evenly coated. Next, sprinkle the blue cheese into the scored marks on the steak. Then, top the steak with the breadcrumb mixture.

Once you’ve added the topping, return the steak to the broiler for about 5 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and bubbly.

• Visual Check: The panko breadcrumbs should be a golden-brown color, and the blue cheese should be perfectly melted and bubbly.

5. Resting and Serving

Once the steak is done, remove it from the broiler and allow it to rest for 10-15 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your steak tender and juicy. After resting, slice the steak thinly against the grain for the best texture and presentation.

Serve the steak on a platter, and be prepared for the compliments to roll in!

Key Tips for Perfect Balsamic Marinated Flank Steak with Blue Cheese Crust

Marinate Just Right

Marinating the steak correctly is essential. Don’t leave it in the marinade for more than 45 minutes. While the vinegar works wonders in tenderizing the steak, leaving it too long can make it overly soft and lose its natural texture.

Use a Meat Thermometer for Precision

A meat thermometer is a handy tool to ensure your steak is cooked to perfection. Whether you prefer it rare, medium, or well-done, using a thermometer guarantees you get the steak exactly how you like it.

Don’t Skip the Resting Step

Allowing the steak to rest after broiling is key to keeping it juicy. Cutting into the steak immediately will cause the juices to spill out, leaving it dry and less flavorful. Give it time to rest before slicing, and your steak will be tender and juicy every time.

Health Benefits of Balsamic Marinated Flank Steak with Blue Cheese Crust

This dish might taste indulgent, but it’s also packed with nutrients.

Flank Steak: Lean Protein for Muscle Repair

Flank steak is lean yet packed with protein, which makes it a great choice for anyone looking to build muscle or maintain a healthy diet. Plus, it’s a good source of iron, which is essential for oxygen transport in your blood.

Blue Cheese: A Rich Source of Calcium

While blue cheese adds a rich, creamy flavor to the crust, it also provides a significant amount of calcium. Calcium is essential for strong bones and teeth, and it’s a key part of nerve function.

Olive Oil & Balsamic Vinegar: Healthy Fats and Antioxidants

Olive oil is loaded with monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy. It’s also rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation. Balsamic vinegar offers a tangy kick, and it’s packed with antioxidants that have been shown to improve blood circulation and promote healthy digestion.

Serving Suggestions for Your Balsamic Marinated Flank Steak with Blue Cheese Crust

This steak is rich and flavorful, so pair it with simple sides that will balance the meal.

Side Dish Pairings

• Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or sweet potatoes. Their natural sweetness complements the tangy steak.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting side that will absorb the balsamic marinade, adding another layer of flavor.
• Fresh Salad: A simple salad of arugula with a balsamic vinaigrette works wonderfully to lighten up the richness of the steak.

Wine Pairing

A full-bodied red wine pairs best with the bold flavors of this steak. Look for a Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec to match the richness of the steak and the tang of the balsamic vinegar.

FAQ Section: Balsamic Marinated Flank Steak with Blue Cheese Crust

Q: How do I make my Balsamic Marinated Flank Steak more tender?
A: Scoring the steak helps the marinade penetrate the meat, resulting in a more tender bite. Be sure to marinate it for no more than 45 minutes to keep the texture intact.

Q: Can I use a different cheese for the crust?
A: Absolutely! If blue cheese isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with goat cheese or even a milder cheese like mozzarella.

Q: How long does it take to cook Balsamic Marinated Flank Steak with Blue Cheese Crust?
A: The total time for prep, marinade, and cooking is approximately 90 minutes.

Q: Can I prepare the steak in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the marinade and refrigerate it overnight. Just marinate the steak on the day of cooking to save time.

Conclusion: A Dish to Remember

Your Balsamic Marinated Flank Steak with Blue Cheese Crust is more than just a meal—it’s a statement. From the first bite, you’ll experience a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just treating yourself to something extraordinary, this dish will impress.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, marinate the steak, and get ready for a delicious dining experience that’s both simple and stunning.

Print