When weeknight dinners become chaotic, I find myself seeking out quick yet delicious recipes that can please the whole family. Recently, I came across the perfect solution: a succulent Balsamic Marinated Flank Steak with a delightful blue cheese crust. As I marinated the flank steak, my kitchen filled with an enticing aroma that seemed to promise warmth and comfort. My kids came in wondering what was cooking and even declared their excitement when they heard “steak” was on the menu. This dish not only satisfies those often picky eaters but also helps create a cozy family moment around the dinner table. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or roasted veggies, making it the ultimate weeknight meal. You may also find Baked Pears With Berries Honey Walnuts Blue Cheese useful.
Why Make This Recipe
Choosing to make Balsamic Marinated Flank Steak with Blue Cheese Crust isn’t just about flavor; it’s about creating a meal that is hearty and easy to prepare. The marinade, with its blend of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and Dijon mustard, tenderizes the meat and infuses it with rich flavors. The addition of blue cheese creates a creamy, tangy topping that elevates the dish. This recipe provides an excellent opportunity to impress guests at dinner parties or simply enjoy a favorite family meal at home. For those looking to explore even more delicious steak recipes, you can take a look at a flavorful balsamic skirt steak option that’s also sure to delight.
How to Make Balsamic Marinated Flank Steak with Blue Cheese Crust
Making this recipe is straightforward, and the results are succulent. Start by preparing your marinade by whisking together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar. This mix not only adds flavor but also acts as a great tenderizer for the flank steak.
Place the flank steak into a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish, and pour the marinade over the meat. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate it for at least two hours—overnight is even better. When it’s time to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and let the flank steak come to room temperature while you prepare the grill. Once ready, grill the steak for about 5-7 minutes on each side for medium-rare.
During the last minute of grilling, sprinkle blue cheese directly on top of the steak to melt slightly. After grilling, it’s essential to let the steak rest for about five minutes. This helps retain the juices, making for a juicy and flavorful bite.
Ingredients :
1 1/2 lbs flank steak,
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar,
2 tablespoons olive oil,
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard,
2 cloves garlic, minced,
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce,
1 tablespoon brown sugar,
blue cheese for crust
Directions :
- In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar.
- Place the flank steak in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the steak from the marinade and let it come to room temperature.
- Grill the flank steak for about 5-7 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until desired doneness.
- While grilling, sprinkle blue cheese on top of the steak in the last minute of cooking.
- Remove from the grill, let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice against the grain and serve.
How to Serve Balsamic Marinated Flank Steak with Blue Cheese Crust
When it comes to serving this gorgeous steak, presentation is key. Slice the steak against the grain to ensure tenderness and arrange the slices on a platter. The blue cheese crust adds a lovely color contrast, making it visually appealing. You can accompany the steak with some roasted or grilled vegetables, like bell peppers and zucchini, or a fresh salad.
For another delightful pairing, consider serving it alongside spicy corn and tomato salsa that adds a fresh burst of flavor. This will not only enhance your meal but also create a complete dining experience.
How to Store Balsamic Marinated Flank Steak with Blue Cheese Crust
If you happen to have leftovers — which is often not the case with this dish — you can store them easily. Place the sliced steak in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to three days. The flavors deepen with time, making it a great option for meals later in the week. To reheat, just warm it gently on the stove or in a microwave, taking care to not overcook it.
Tips to Make Balsamic Marinated Flank Steak with Blue Cheese Crust
- Choose Quality Meat: Select a well-marbled flank steak for tenderness and flavor.
- Marinate Longer: For even better flavor and tenderness, marinate the steak overnight.
- Don’t Skip the Resting: Allow the steak to rest after grilling to keep the juices intact.
- Experiment with Sides: Feel free to pair this with different sides, like roasted potatoes or a quinoa salad.
Variation
If your family isn’t a fan of blue cheese, you can substitute it with a different cheese, like feta or goat cheese, for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, try seasoning the steak differently, using a dry rub or other marinades, to customize it to your family’s tastes.
FAQs
Can I use another cut of meat?
Yes, you can use sirloin or skirt steak. Just adjust the cooking times based on the thickness.
How do I know when the steak is done?
Use a meat thermometer; it should read 130°F for medium-rare and 145°F for medium.
Can I grill indoors?
Yes! You can use a grill pan on your stovetop or an electric indoor grill for a similar result.
Conclusion
This Balsamic Marinated Flank Steak with Blue Cheese Crust is a delightful option for any busy weeknight or special occasion. Its balanced flavors and satisfying texture make it a favorite in many households. For even more ways to prepare steak, check out this recipe for Blue Cheese Crusted Flank Steak that brings an extra layer of deliciousness to the table.
Balsamic Marinated Flank Steak with Blue Cheese Crust
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar.
- Place the flank steak in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the steak from the marinade and let it come to room temperature.
- Grill the flank steak for about 5-7 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until desired doneness.
- While grilling, sprinkle blue cheese on top of the steak in the last minute of cooking.
- Remove from the grill, let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice against the grain and serve.