Italian Stuffed Flank Steak

This Italian Stuffed Flank Steak is a rustic showstopper that brings together classic Mediterranean flavors in one delicious, oven-baked roll. The tender flank steak is rolled up with salty prosciutto, vibrant spinach, sweet roasted red peppers, and creamy provolone cheese. Once seared and roasted, the steak is sliced into pinwheel-style medallions that reveal a beautiful cross-section of color and flavor.

The result is a hearty dish that’s perfect for holidays, date nights, or weekend dinners with loved ones. It’s rich and filling, yet balanced with the freshness of vegetables and herbs. Serve it alongside roasted potatoes, garlic bread, or a crisp Italian salad for a well-rounded meal that feels both indulgent and comforting.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2–2.5 lbs flank steak, butterflied and pounded thin

• 6 slices prosciutto

• 1½ cups fresh spinach, chopped

• 1 red bell pepper, roasted and sliced

• 1 cup provolone cheese, shredded or sliced

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Butcher’s twine for tying

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Lay the butterflied flank steak flat on a cutting board and cover with plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet to pound the steak until about ½ inch thick throughout.

3. Season the steak with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.

4. Layer the prosciutto slices over the steak, followed by chopped spinach, roasted red bell peppers, and provolone cheese.

5. Carefully roll the steak up tightly, starting from the short end, and secure it with butcher’s twine at 1–2 inch intervals.

6. Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed steak on all sides for 2–3 minutes until browned.

7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 130–135°F (medium-rare) or 140°F (medium).

8. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Cut into 1-inch medallions and serve.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 355 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings

The Charm of Italian Cooking in Every Bite

Italian cuisine is globally adored for its balance of simplicity, bold flavors, and a deep-rooted connection to fresh, wholesome ingredients. This Italian Stuffed Flank Steak perfectly captures those qualities. It’s a rustic, home-cooked dish that looks and tastes like it came straight from a countryside kitchen in Tuscany. Combining tender, rolled flank steak with savory prosciutto, melty provolone, roasted red peppers, and fresh spinach, this recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a culinary experience. Every slice reveals a vibrant spiral of colors and flavors that reflect the heart of Italian cooking.

This dish blends the appeal of slow-cooked, comfort-style meals with a visual presentation that makes it ideal for entertaining. Whether it’s a special weekend dinner, a holiday celebration, or just a way to make a weeknight feel like a feast, Italian Stuffed Flank Steak delivers on both taste and elegance.

The History Behind the Flank Steak Roll

Stuffed meats have long been a part of European culinary tradition. In Italy, this style of preparation is often referred to as Involtini, where thin slices of meat—often veal, chicken, or beef—are wrapped around flavorful fillings like cheese, vegetables, and cured meats. The concept evolved from a need to use affordable cuts of meat and transform them into celebratory dishes by enhancing them with savory ingredients and careful cooking techniques.

Flank steak, in particular, is prized for its bold, beefy flavor and relatively low cost compared to premium cuts. While it can be tough if overcooked or sliced improperly, its thinness and large surface area make it ideal for stuffing and rolling. Once sliced into medallions, it reveals a beautiful, tightly packed pinwheel of savory goodness that makes the dish visually impressive as well as delicious.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

There are countless stuffed meat recipes, but what sets this Italian Stuffed Flank Steak apart is the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and ease of preparation.

• Balanced Flavors: The saltiness of the prosciutto pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the provolone and the slight sweetness from roasted red peppers. Fresh spinach adds a hint of bitterness and a nutritious boost, creating a well-rounded flavor profile in every bite.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: Rolled and tied, then sliced into medallions, this dish naturally forms elegant spirals of color. It’s a feast for the eyes before it even hits the palate—making it perfect for special occasions or when you simply want to impress.
• Versatile and Customizable: While the recipe is distinctly Italian in inspiration, it’s easy to adapt. You can substitute ingredients to suit your dietary preferences or what you have on hand—try swapping spinach for arugula, provolone for mozzarella, or adding sun-dried tomatoes for a deeper umami kick.
• Efficient Yet Elegant: With a total time of around 50 minutes, it’s surprisingly quick for such a refined dish. The cooking method—searing for flavor, then baking for even doneness—helps maximize taste while keeping the preparation relatively straightforward.

Health and Nutritional Benefits

Despite being indulgent in flavor, this dish offers several nutritional benefits:

• Protein-Packed: Flank steak is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle maintenance and repair.
• Iron and B Vitamins: Red meat provides vital nutrients such as iron, vitamin B12, and zinc, supporting energy levels and immune function.
• Greens and Antioxidants: The inclusion of spinach and roasted peppers not only adds color but also contributes fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins like vitamin C, A, and K.
• Lower in Carbs: This recipe is naturally low-carb, making it a great choice for those following keto or paleo-inspired diets.

Serving Suggestions

Italian Stuffed Flank Steak pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Some of the best accompaniments include:

• Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: A creamy and rich side to soak up the meat’s flavorful juices.
• Grilled Asparagus or Green Beans Almondine: Adds freshness and a satisfying crunch.
• Garlic Bread or Rustic Italian Loaf: To round out the meal with some classic Italian comfort.
• A Simple Arugula Salad: Tossed with olive oil, lemon, and shaved Parmesan to balance the richness of the steak.

And don’t forget the wine—this dish is a natural partner for a bold red such as Chianti, Cabernet Sauvignon, or even a rustic Montepulciano.

Tips for Perfect Results

• Pound the Steak Evenly: This ensures uniform cooking and easier rolling. Use a meat mallet to flatten it to about ½ inch thickness.
• Secure Tightly with Twine: Keeping the roll tight prevents the filling from spilling and ensures an even spiral when sliced.
• Rest Before Slicing: Letting the steak rest for 10 minutes after baking helps the juices redistribute and makes slicing cleaner.
• Cut Against the Grain: This step is key for tenderness. Always slice flank steak perpendicular to the direction of the muscle fibers.

Variations You Can Try

• Add Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms can be added to the filling for an earthy twist.
• Swap the Cheese: Try Fontina, mozzarella, or even a blue cheese for different flavor profiles.
• Go Herby: Add fresh basil, oregano, or parsley for an aromatic lift.
• Stuff with Pesto: Spread a layer of basil or sun-dried tomato pesto before adding the fillings for a bold, zesty flavor.

Conclusion

Italian Stuffed Flank Steak is the kind of dish that effortlessly combines elegance and comfort. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, when thoughtfully combined, can create a memorable and mouthwatering meal. Whether you’re a beginner home cook or a seasoned culinary enthusiast, this recipe offers an approachable way to bring the flair of Italian cuisine to your dinner table.

With every juicy bite revealing savory layers of cheese, cured meat, and vibrant veggies, this dish turns an ordinary cut of meat into something truly extraordinary. It’s a recipe that will quickly become a favorite in your rotation—beloved for its flavor, its beauty, and the way it makes any meal feel like a celebration.