If you’re looking for a show-stopping meal that’s as impressive as it is delicious, Italian Stuffed Flank Steak is the perfect choice. This recipe combines tender flank steak with a savory, cheesy filling of Italian ingredients like spinach, roasted red peppers, mozzarella, and prosciutto. The result? A stunning pinwheel of flavors that looks gourmet but is surprisingly simple to prepare.

This dish is ideal for special occasions, family dinners, or even a casual weeknight when you want something extraordinary. Flank steak, with its flat and wide surface, is the ideal cut for stuffing and rolling, allowing you to create a beautiful presentation with minimal effort. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this recipe is a guaranteed success.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish ticks all the boxes for a perfect meal:

Bursting with Flavor: The savory filling of cheese, vegetables, and prosciutto perfectly complements the tender steak.
Visually Impressive: When sliced into pinwheels, this dish is as beautiful as it is tasty.
Customizable: Swap ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Simple Preparation: With a few easy techniques, you’ll create a meal that looks like it came from a fine dining restaurant.

Flank steak is the star of this dish, acting as a canvas for the delicious Italian-inspired filling. Whether you serve it for a festive holiday dinner or a casual family meal, this recipe is sure to earn rave reviews.

Ingredients for Italian Stuffed Flank Steak

The Meat:

Flank Steak: 1-2 pounds, butterflied and pounded to an even thickness.

The Filling:

Cheese: Sliced mozzarella or provolone for gooeyness, and grated Parmesan for sharpness.
Prosciutto: Adds a salty, savory flavor to the filling.
Spinach: Sautéed until tender and slightly wilted.
Roasted Red Peppers or Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Adds sweetness and a pop of color.
Breadcrumbs: Optional, for added texture and to absorb the juices.

The Seasoning:

Olive Oil: For brushing the steak and aiding in roasting.
Garlic: Minced, for an aromatic base.
Italian Herbs: A mix of basil, oregano, and parsley.
Salt and Pepper: To taste.

Optional Garnish:

Fresh parsley or chives for color and freshness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Flank Steak

Lay the flank steak flat on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, butterfly the steak by slicing it horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through.
Open the steak like a book and cover it with plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet to pound it to an even thickness of about ½ inch.

2. Prepare the Filling

Heat a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Sauté the spinach until wilted, then set it aside to cool.
Slice the roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes into thin strips.

3. Assemble the Filling

Spread the sautéed spinach evenly across the surface of the steak, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
Layer with sliced mozzarella or provolone, roasted red peppers, and prosciutto.
Sprinkle grated Parmesan and breadcrumbs over the filling for added flavor and texture.

4. Roll the Steak

Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the steak into a log, keeping the filling intact.
Secure the roll with butcher’s twine at 1-2 inch intervals to prevent it from unraveling during cooking.

5. Sear the Steak

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Sear the rolled steak on all sides until golden brown.

6. Roast the Steak

Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare or 145°F for medium.

7. Rest and Slice

Remove the steak from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
Slice into 1-inch thick pinwheels, cutting against the grain for tender pieces.

Tips for Success

Even Thickness: Ensure the steak is pounded evenly for uniform cooking.
Secure the Roll: Use butcher’s twine to keep the filling in place during cooking.
Let It Rest: Allow the steak to rest before slicing to keep the juices inside.
Don’t Overstuff: Too much filling can make rolling and cooking difficult.

Creative Variations

1. Cheesy Herb-Crusted Flank Steak

Coat the outside of the roll with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan and fresh herbs before roasting for a crispy crust.

2. Vegetarian Twist

Replace the steak with thick slices of eggplant or zucchini and use ricotta cheese with sautéed vegetables for the filling.

3. Spicy Version

Add crushed red pepper flakes or Calabrian chili paste to the filling for a spicy kick.

4. Slow-Cooked Option

Prepare the steak roll as directed and cook it in a slow cooker with marinara sauce on low for 6-8 hours for an ultra-tender dish.

Serving Suggestions

This Italian Stuffed Flank Steak pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:

Creamy Polenta: A rich and comforting base.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Perfect for soaking up the juices.
Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots add color and flavor.
Fresh Salad: A crisp arugula or Caesar salad balances the richness of the steak.

Complete the meal with a loaf of crusty bread and a glass of full-bodied red wine, like Chianti or Barolo, for an authentic Italian dining experience.

Storage and Reheating

Storage:

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

Oven: Reheat slices in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes.
Skillet: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for a quick option.
Microwave: Use sparingly to prevent drying out the meat.

Freezing:

Freeze the uncooked steak roll for up to 2 months. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different cut of meat?

Yes, skirt steak or butterflied sirloin are great alternatives to flank steak.

How do I keep the roll from unraveling?

Securing the roll with butcher’s twine or toothpicks ensures it stays intact while cooking.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, the uncooked steak roll freezes well. Just thaw it before cooking as directed.

What’s the best way to slice the steak?

Always slice against the grain for tender, evenly-sized pinwheels.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the roll and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Why This Recipe is a Showstopper

Italian Stuffed Flank Steak is the perfect combination of flavor, elegance, and ease. With its savory filling and tender meat, this dish delivers restaurant-quality results at home. It’s ideal for celebrations, dinner parties, or a special family meal, bringing a touch of sophistication to your table.

Conclusion

When you’re craving a meal that’s both impressive and delicious, Italian Stuffed Flank Steak delivers every time. With its rich, cheesy filling and tender steak, it’s a dish that’s as satisfying to eat as it is to prepare. Serve it with your favorite sides for a meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Take your dinner game to the next level with this recipe—it’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen!