Are you tired of the same old boring steak recipes? Look no further! Flank steak, a lean and flavorful cut of beef, is often overlooked but deserves to be in your culinary repertoire. Pan-searing is one of the best ways to cook flank steak, as it allows for even cooking and a nice crust to form on the outside.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering flank steak recipes that are sure to impress your family and friends. From classic pairings like garlic butter and chimichurri sauce to more adventurous combinations like red wine reduction and soy-ginger glaze, there’s something for everyone here. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes will guide you through the process of cooking flank steak to perfection.
Pan-Seared Flank Steak with Garlic Butter
Pan-Seared Flank Steak with Garlic Butter: A flavorful and tender steak recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 pounds flank steak
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter and minced garlic until well combined.
3. Season the flank steak with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Add the steak to the preheated pan and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. Remove the steak from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.
6. Serve the sliced steak with the garlic butter spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Flank Steak Stir-Fry in a Pan
This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes. With just a few ingredients and some simple cooking steps, you’ll have a delicious and protein-packed meal on the table.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb flank steak
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 2 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the flank steak to the pan and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
5. Remove the steak from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing against the grain.
6. Add the mixed bell peppers and soy sauce (and oyster sauce if using) to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the peppers are tender.
7. Slice the flank steak into thin strips and serve with the stir-fry.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Flank Steak with Chimichurri Sauce Pan Recipe
Add a flavorful twist to your steak dinner with this Argentine-inspired recipe that combines tender flank steak with a bright and herby chimichurri sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh parsley leaves and stems
– 1 cup fresh oregano leaves
– 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, combine garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the flank steak to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
4. Remove the steak from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes.
5. In the same pan, add the olive oil, vinegar, and herb mixture. Simmer over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Slice the flank steak against the grain and serve with the warm chimichurri sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pan-Cooked Flank Steak with Red Wine Reduction
Pan-Cooked Flank Steak with Red Wine Reduction Recipe Summary:
This recipe yields a tender and flavorful flank steak cooked to perfection with a rich red wine reduction.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 pounds flank steak, trimmed of excess fat
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the flank steak with salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Sear the flank steak for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until browned. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
5. Cook the steak for 10-12 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. While the steak cooks, reduce the red wine in a small saucepan over medium heat until thickened and syrupy (about 5-7 minutes).
7. Remove the skillet from the oven and add the butter. Once melted, spoon the red wine reduction over the steak.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Flank Steak Fajitas in a Skillet
A flavorful and quick meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. This recipe is a classic take on traditional fajitas, using flank steak and colorful bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb flank steak
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add olive oil, then cook flank steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your liking.
3. Remove steak and set aside. Add sliced onions and bell peppers to the skillet; cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add garlic, cumin, and chili powder to the skillet; stir for 1 minute.
5. Slice cooked flank steak against the grain and add to the skillet with vegetables.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble fajitas by placing sliced steak and vegetable mixture onto tortillas.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-18 minutes.
Flank Steak and Veggie Pan Hash
A hearty breakfast or brunch option that’s packed with protein, veggies, and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb flank steak, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), diced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 eggs, beaten
– 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add steak strips and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion, garlic, bell peppers, and mushrooms to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Push vegetables to one side of the skillet. Crack in eggs and scramble them until cooked through.
5. Stir eggs into vegetable mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using).
6. Slice cooked steak against the grain. Serve on top of veggie pan hash.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pan-Seared Flank Steak with Mushroom Sauce
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and tender flank steak recipe, served with a rich and earthy mushroom sauce. Perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 8 oz mushrooms (button, cremini, or shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season flank steak with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned. Transfer to the preheated oven and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until desired level of doneness.
4. In a separate pan, sauté mushrooms and garlic in butter until tender. Add wine (if using) and simmer for 1 minute.
5. Stir in beef broth and bring sauce to a simmer.
6. Serve flank steak with mushroom sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Flank Steak Tacos with Pan-Charred Peppers
Savor the bold flavors of grilled flank steak, paired with sweet and smoky pan-charred peppers, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell. This recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb flank steak
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season flank steak with salt, pepper, and cumin.
3. Grill steak for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness. Let rest for a few minutes before slicing thinly.
4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced peppers and onion; cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until charred and tender.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by slicing steak, adding pan-charred peppers, and topping with desired ingredients.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Flank Steak and Onion Pan Sandwich
This classic sandwich recipe combines tender flank steak with caramelized onions and crispy bread, perfect for a satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb flank steak
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 slices of bread (preferably crusty)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: mustard, mayonnaise, or cheese for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the flank steak with salt and pepper.
2. Add the olive oil to the skillet and cook the flank steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the sliced flank steak on two slices of bread, followed by a spoonful of caramelized onions.
5. Top with additional ingredients of your choice (mustard, mayonnaise, or cheese).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Pan-Fried Flank Steak with Herb Rub
A flavorful and tender flank steak recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 oz) flank steak
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp herb rub (see below)
– Salt, to taste
Herb Rub:
– 2 tbsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the herb rub ingredients.
3. Rub both sides of the flank steak with the olive oil, then coat evenly with the herb rub.
4. Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Flank Steak with Pan-Roasted Potatoes
A flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering, this recipe pairs tender flank steak with crispy pan-roasted potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 pounds flank steak
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your choice of herbs (such as thyme or rosemary) for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Season flank steak with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear flank steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness. Transfer to a plate and let rest.
4. In the same skillet, add potato wedges and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve flank steak with pan-roasted potatoes and your choice of sides (such as roasted vegetables or salad).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Flank Steak and Asparagus Skillet Dinner
Flank Steak and Asparagus Skillet Dinner Recipe
A flavorful and healthy one-pan meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb flank steak, sliced into thin strips
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup chicken broth or white wine (for added moisture)
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Sear the steak strips in batches, if necessary, for 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium and add the asparagus to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until tender, stirring occasionally.
- Pour any accumulated juices from the steak back into the skillet with the asparagus.
- Serve the flank steak slices atop the asparagus, garnished with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add a splash of chicken broth or white wine for added moisture.
Cooking Time:
Approximately 15-20 minutes total, including prep time.
Pan-Seared Flank Steak with Balsamic Glaze
This recipe elevates a flavorful flank steak to new heights with the sweet and tangy addition of balsamic glaze. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 oz) flank steak
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the flank steak with salt and black pepper on both sides.
3. Add olive oil to the preheated pan and sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
4. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside.
5. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and honey. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened slightly.
6. Serve the steak with the warm balsamic glaze spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Flank Steak and Bell Pepper Pan Stir-Fry
A flavorful and quick stir-fry recipe that combines tender flank steak with sweet bell peppers, perfect for a weeknight dinner. This dish is ready in under 30 minutes, making it an excellent option for busy households.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb flank steak
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the flank steak and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, bell peppers, and garlic. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until the bell peppers are tender.
4. Add the cooked flank steak back into the pan, along with soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Stir to combine and cook for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped green onions (if desired).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Flank Steak with Pan-Seared Tomatoes
This recipe combines the rich flavor of flank steak with the sweetness and juiciness of pan-seared tomatoes, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner. The result is a flavorful and textured dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb flank steak
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the flank steak with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the flank steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Transfer to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes.
4. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the tomato slices and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re tender and lightly caramelized.
5. Serve the flank steak with the pan-seared tomatoes and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Flank Steak and Zucchini Skillet Medley
Savory and flavorful, this one-pan dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the zucchini slices and cook for 3-4 minutes, until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Season the flank steak with salt, pepper, and oregano.
6. Place the steak in the skillet and add the chicken broth.
7. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the steak reaches desired doneness (145°F/63°C).
8. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.
9. Serve with the zucchini medley spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Pan-Cooked Flank Steak with Soy-Ginger Glaze
A flavorful and savory twist on traditional flank steak, this recipe combines the bold flavors of soy sauce and ginger for a mouthwatering result.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tsp grated fresh ginger
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and grated ginger.
3. Season the flank steak with salt and pepper.
4. Add 1 tbsp of vegetable oil to the preheated pan and sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Remove the steak from the pan and brush with the soy-ginger glaze.
6. Return the steak to the pan and cook for an additional minute, basting occasionally.
7. Serve hot, garnished with minced garlic if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total
Flank Steak and Spinach Pan Salad
Savor the bold flavors of grilled flank steak paired with a vibrant spinach pan salad, all in one delicious dish.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season flank steak with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add onion and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until softened.
5. Stir in spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
6. Slice flank steak against the grain. Serve with pan salad and drizzle with lemon juice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your flank steak game with these 18 mouthwatering recipes! From classic pan-seared dishes like Garlic Butter and Red Wine Reduction, to international-inspired flavors like Chimichurri Sauce and Soy-Ginger Glaze, there’s something for every taste bud. Whip up a quick Stir-Fry or Fajitas in a Skillet, or try your hand at more complex creations like Flank Steak and Veggie Pan Hash or Flank Steak Tacos with Pan-Charred Peppers. Whatever you choose, be assured that each dish is pan-seared to perfection for a tender and juicy result.
