Pan Seared Flank Steak

Flank steak is one of those cuts that can absolutely shine when prepared with love and attention. If you haven’t tried making Pan Seared Flank Steak at home, you’re in for a real treat! This recipe will guide you through crafting a deliciously juicy, smoky steak that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a lively gathering. With a simple marinade marrying balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and fresh herbs, your taste buds are set for a delightful explosion of flavor. Plus, cooking it in a cast iron skillet gives that gorgeous brown crust, sealing in all the juicy goodness. So grab your apron and get ready; it’s cooking time!

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Why This Recipe Works

This Pan Seared Flank Steak recipe delivers a juicy, tender cut of meat bursting with flavor through a simple marinade. The combination of balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and aromatic herbs elevates the natural richness of the flank steak. Such bold flavors are complemented beautifully by the high-heat searing, which creates a delightful crust while locking in moisture. When you take a bite, you experience the richness and depth that’s almost irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Pan Seared Flank Steak

Flank steak is not only budget-friendly, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can whip it up quickly for a weeknight dinner or make it the star of a dinner party. What really shines here is that with this recipe, anyone can impress their friends and family with a restaurant-quality dish right at home. The straightforward preparation allows even novice cooks to shine. You’ll gain confidence in the kitchen as you cook up this fantastic meal!

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds flank steak
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Preparation

Combine Marinade Ingredients

To kick things off, grab a small bowl and whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried rosemary, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mixing them until well blended will set the foundation for a super flavorful steak.

Marinate the Flank Steak

Next, take the flank steak and place it in a shallow dish or a large zip-lock bag. Pour that amazing marinade over the steak, making sure it’s completely coated. Seal the bag tightly or cover the dish. At this point, you’ll want to let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour. For the best results, leaving it overnight is perfect; this way, the flavors really infuse into the meat.

Heat the Skillet

When you’re ready to cook, heat a 14-inch cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s sizzling hot. This step is essential to developing that delicious crust that’s so satisfying.

Cook One Side of the Steak

Once the skillet is hot, remove the steak from the marinade. It’s time to place it in the skillet. Feel free to discard the remaining marinade, or drizzle a bit over the top of the steak for extra flavor. Cook for about 5 minutes until a rich, brown crust forms on one side.

Flip the Steak

Now it’s time to grab those tongs and carefully flip the steak. Cook the other side for another 5 minutes. This allows the surface to caramelize beautifully, creating an attractive presentation.

Finish Cooking with Lid

To make sure your steak gets cooked through, place a lid on the skillet. Now, let it cook for an additional 2 minutes. This helps create that medium-rare finish we all crave.

Let it Rest

Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the skillet and cover it with foil. This resting step, which should last at least 5 minutes, is crucial as it retains juices and amplifies tenderness. Trust me; you don’t want to skip this part.

Slice and Serve

Finally, it’s time for the big moment! Slice the steak against the grain to ensure each bite is tender and easy to chew. Serve immediately, and don’t forget to top it with any remaining pan juices—flavor overload!

Serving Suggestions

To make your meal even more satisfying, pair your pan-seared flank steak with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes. It also makes an excellent filling for steak sandwiches or tacos. The possibilities are endless, and each option brings a beautiful balance to the rich steak flavor.

Tips for Success

• Marinate Longer: For maximum flavor impact, marinate the steak overnight.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: This tool helps ensure you reach perfect doneness.
• Resting is Key: Don’t rush the resting step; it truly makes a huge difference in the juiciness of your meat.

Variations

Got a bit of culinary creativity in you? Try these fun variations:
– Spicy Twist: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the marinade for heat and excitement.
– Herb Infusion: Swap out the rosemary for thyme or oregano to give it a different flavor profile.
– Citrusy Kick: Incorporate a tablespoon of orange juice or zest into the marinade for a fresh, bright note.

FAQs

How do I know when the flank steak is done?
Use a meat thermometer; aim for 130°F for a perfect medium-rare.

Can I cook flank steak on a grill?
Absolutely! Preheat your grill and cook over direct heat for 5-6 minutes per side.

What should I serve with flank steak?
It pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables, rice, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.

How can I store leftover steak?
Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Can flank steak be frozen?
Yes, if wrapped in freezer-safe packaging, it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

This Pan Seared Flank Steak is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings family and friends together, turning every dinner into a memorable occasion. Drizzle on homemade sauces or savor it plain; either way, you’re in for a fulfilling treat. Celebrate straightforward cooking and invest in flavors that will make your guests rave!

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