Italian Stuffed Flank Steak

Italian Stuffed Flank Steak, also known as “Involtini di Manzo”, is a flavorful and visually stunning dish that’s perfect for a special dinner or any occasion when you want to impress your guests. This dish features tender flank steak rolled up with a savory filling of Italian-inspired ingredients like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, breadcrumbs, and melty cheese. The steak is then seared to perfection and baked until tender, creating a meal that’s as delicious as it is impressive.

Not only is this recipe visually appealing with its pinwheel-like presentation, but it’s also bursting with flavor. The filling adds a delicious combination of textures and tastes—from the earthy spinach and the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes to the gooey mozzarella and the aromatic herbs. The stuffed steak is then baked in a tomato-based sauce for an added layer of richness and moisture, making every bite succulent and full of flavor.

Italian Stuffed Flank Steak is versatile enough to pair with a wide range of sides, from creamy mashed potatoes to roasted vegetables or a light green salad. Whether you’re preparing it for a family gathering, holiday dinner, or romantic date night, this recipe is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Elegant and Impressive: The rolled presentation with its colorful filling makes this dish perfect for special occasions.
• Bursting with Italian Flavors: From the garlic and herbs to the sun-dried tomatoes and mozzarella, this dish captures the essence of Italian cuisine.
• Tender and Juicy Steak: The flank steak is seared and baked, resulting in a flavorful and tender meat that melts in your mouth.
• Customizable: You can adjust the filling ingredients to suit your preferences—add mushrooms, swap cheeses, or use prosciutto for an extra savory touch.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the steak ahead of time and simply bake it before serving, making it ideal for entertaining.
• Great for Pairing: This dish goes wonderfully with pasta, roasted vegetables, or crusty Italian bread.
• Beginner-Friendly Technique: While it looks fancy, rolling and stuffing flank steak is surprisingly easy with the right steps.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 6 servings
• Serving Size: 1 slice of stuffed flank steak

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 380 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 5 g
• Protein: 36 g
• Fat: 23 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 2 g

Ingredients

For the Steak:

• 1 ½ pounds flank steak, butterflied or pounded flat
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)

For the Filling:

• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 cup frozen, thawed and squeezed dry)
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed or rehydrated in hot water)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-seasoned)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Sauce:

• 1 ½ cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• ½ cup beef or chicken broth (optional, for thinning the sauce)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Butterfly or Flatten the Flank Steak

1. If your flank steak is not already butterflied, place it on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the steak horizontally, stopping just short of cutting all the way through. Open the steak like a book.
2. Place a sheet of plastic wrap or parchment paper over the steak and pound it gently with a meat mallet until it’s an even thickness, about ¼ inch thick. This ensures even cooking and makes it easier to roll.

Step 2: Season the Steak

1. Season both sides of the steak evenly with salt and black pepper. Set it aside while you prepare the filling.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

1. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and parsley. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Steak Roll

1. Spread the filling evenly over the prepared flank steak, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges. This prevents the filling from spilling out as you roll the steak.
2. Starting from one of the short ends, carefully roll the steak tightly into a log. Tuck in any filling that tries to escape as you roll.
3. Once rolled, secure the steak with kitchen twine at 1-inch intervals to hold it together during cooking.

Step 5: Sear the Steak

1. Preheat a large oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and heat until shimmering.
2. Place the rolled steak in the skillet seam-side down. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. This step locks in the juices and adds flavor.
3. Remove the skillet from the heat.

Step 6: Add the Sauce

1. Pour the marinara sauce over and around the steak in the skillet. If desired, thin the sauce with ½ cup of beef or chicken broth for a lighter consistency.
2. Spoon some of the sauce over the top of the steak roll to keep it moist during baking.

Step 7: Bake the Steak

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the steak reaches 130-135°F (55-57°C) for medium-rare, or 140°F (60°C) for medium. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
3. Baste the steak with the sauce once or twice during baking to keep it moist and flavorful.

Step 8: Rest and Slice

1. Remove the steak from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute and makes slicing easier.
2. Carefully cut the twine and discard it. Using a sharp knife, slice the steak into 1-inch-thick rounds to reveal the pinwheel filling.

Step 9: Serve and Garnish

1. Arrange the sliced steak on a serving platter and spoon the sauce over the top.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.

Ingredient Background

• Flank Steak: This lean cut of beef is perfect for stuffing and rolling due to its long, flat shape. Its robust flavor pairs wonderfully with the Italian-inspired filling and sauce.
• Spinach: Adds a fresh, earthy flavor and pairs well with the richness of the cheese and sun-dried tomatoes.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These little flavor bombs add sweetness and a concentrated tomato flavor to the filling.
• Mozzarella and Parmesan Cheese: Mozzarella melts beautifully, creating a gooey texture, while Parmesan adds a nutty, salty kick.
• Marinara Sauce: A simple tomato-based sauce that complements the flavors of the steak and filling. Homemade or high-quality store-bought marinara works well.

Technique Tips

• Flattening the Steak: Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to ensure the steak is evenly thin, which makes rolling and cooking easier.
• Tying the Steak: Kitchen twine is the best tool for securing the roll. Avoid using thread or floss, as they can burn or break during cooking.
• Even Rolling: Spread the filling evenly and roll tightly to create uniform pinwheels when sliced.
• Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak is cooked to your desired doneness without overcooking.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Individual Rolls: Instead of one large roll, cut the flank steak into smaller pieces, fill and roll them individually for single-serving portions.
• Grilled Stuffed Steak: After searing, grill the steak instead of baking it for a smoky flavor. Finish with the sauce on the side.
• Open-Faced: Lay the steak flat and bake it without rolling for an easier preparation.

Additional Tips for Success

• For a richer filling, add thin slices of prosciutto or pancetta before rolling the steak.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor—it melts better and tastes fresher than pre-grated varieties.
• Let the steak rest after cooking to retain its juices and make slicing easier.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetable-Stuffed Steak: Add roasted red peppers, mushrooms, or artichokes to the filling for a veggie-packed version.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a hint of heat.
• Cheesy Variation: Use provolone or fontina cheese in place of mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the stuffed, uncooked steak for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
• Reheating: Reheat slices in a skillet with a little sauce over low heat to keep them moist.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use whole wheat breadcrumbs for added fiber and nutrients.
• Substitute low-fat mozzarella for a lighter version.
• Add extra vegetables like zucchini or kale to the filling for more vitamins and minerals.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Pair Italian Stuffed Flank Steak with garlic mashed potatoes or creamy polenta for a hearty, comforting meal.
• Serve it alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a light, refreshing contrast.
• Add a loaf of crusty Italian bread to soak up the delicious marinara sauce.

Special Equipment

• Meat mallet or rolling pin for flattening the steak.
• Kitchen twine for securing the roll.
• Oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan for searing and baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use a different cut of meat?
Yes, you can use skirt steak, top round, or even chicken breasts as alternatives to flank steak.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the roll and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q3: How do I prevent the filling from spilling out?
Leave a 1-inch border around the edges when spreading the filling and roll the steak tightly.

Q4: Can I cook this without marinara sauce?
Absolutely! You can sear and bake the steak without the sauce, or use a different sauce like Alfredo or a red wine reduction.

Q5: What if I don’t have kitchen twine?
You can use toothpicks to secure the roll in place if twine is unavailable.

Q6: Can I grill the steak instead of baking it?
Yes, after searing, grill the steak over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally.

Q7: Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, fresh herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme add even more flavor to the filling.

Q8: How do I know when the steak is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F; for medium, 140°F.

Conclusion

Italian Stuffed Flank Steak is a delicious and versatile recipe that combines tender steak with bold, flavorful ingredients. Its elegant presentation and rich flavors make it the perfect centerpiece for any dinner party or special occasion. Whether served with pasta, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad, this dish is guaranteed to impress your guests and become a favorite in your kitchen. Try it tonight and enjoy the authentic flavors of Italy in every bite!

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