[GUIDE] How Long To Cook Stuffed Flank Steak In Oven

Stuffed flank steak is a delicious and impressive dish that is perfect for any special occasion or dinner party. It is a popular choice for its tender and juicy meat, combined with flavorful ingredients stuffed inside. However, getting the cooking time just right can be a challenge. In this article, we will guide you through the process of cooking stuffed flank steak in the oven, providing you with all the information you need to achieve the perfect result every time.

Quick Answer: How Long To Cook Stuffed Flank Steak In Oven

When cooking stuffed flank steak in the oven, the cooking time will depend on the thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness. As a general guideline, you can expect to cook a stuffed flank steak in the oven for approximately 25-30 minutes at 375°F (190°C) for medium-rare doneness. However, it is important to note that this is just an estimate, and factors such as oven temperature accuracy, stuffing ingredients, and personal preference can affect the cooking time.

To ensure that your stuffed flank steak is cooked to perfection, it is recommended to use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature. The USDA recommends cooking beef to a minimum internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare doneness. However, if you prefer your steak to be cooked a little more, you can aim for an internal temperature of 155°F (68°C) for medium doneness. Keep in mind that the steak will continue to cook slightly after it is removed from the oven, so it is crucial to allow for a few minutes of resting time before slicing and serving.

Key Takeaways

• The cooking time for stuffed flank steak in the oven will depend on the thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness.
• A general guideline for cooking stuffed flank steak in the oven is 25-30 minutes at 375°F (190°C) for medium-rare doneness.
• Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature and ensure it reaches a minimum of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare or 155°F (68°C) for medium doneness.
• Allow the steak to rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

The Science Of Cooking Stuffed Flank Steak

Understanding the science behind cooking stuffed flank steak can help you achieve the best results. Flank steak is a lean cut of meat that comes from the abdominal muscles of the cow. It is known for its rich, beefy flavor and distinctive grain. The challenge with flank steak is its tendency to toughen if overcooked. When cooked properly, the meat should be tender and juicy.

When you stuff flank steak, it becomes thicker and denser, requiring a longer cooking time to reach the desired level of doneness. Additionally, the stuffing ingredients can affect the cooking time as they may release moisture or impact the heat transfer within the steak. It is important to consider these factors when determining the cooking time for your stuffed flank steak.

Choosing Stuffed Flank Steak

Before you start cooking, it is important to choose the right cut of stuffed flank steak. Look for flank steak that is uniform in thickness, ideally around ½ to ¾ inches (1.3 to 1.9 cm) thick. This thickness allows for even cooking and ensures that the stuffing ingredients will be cooked through.

When purchasing flank steak, try to find a piece that is well-marbled with fat. The marbling will add flavor and tenderness to the meat when cooked. Avoid flank steak that has a lot of connective tissue or thick silver skin, as these can make the meat tough and chewy.

Preparing Stuffed Flank Steak

Preparing the stuffed flank steak properly is essential for even cooking and optimal flavor. Follow these steps to prepare your stuffed flank steak:

1. Pound the steak: Place the flank steak between two sheets of plastic wrap and use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound it to a uniform thickness. This will ensure that the steak cooks evenly.

2. Season the meat: Sprinkle both sides of the flank steak with your desired seasonings, such as salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This will add flavor to the meat and enhance the overall taste of the dish.

3. Add the stuffing: Lay the stuffing ingredients evenly along the length of the flank steak, leaving a small border around the edges. Be creative with your stuffing choices – you can use a combination of ingredients like cheese, vegetables, herbs, or even bacon for added flavor.

4. Roll and secure: Starting from one end, tightly roll the flank steak around the stuffing, similar to rolling a jelly roll. To keep the roll intact, you can use kitchen twine or toothpicks to secure it.

Ideal Cooking Temperature For Stuffed Flank Steak

The ideal cooking temperature for stuffed flank steak in the oven is 375°F (190°C). This temperature allows for even cooking and helps to develop a delicious crust on the outside of the steak. It is important to preheat your oven before cooking to ensure consistent heat throughout the cooking process.

Stuffed Flank Steak Cooking Time

The cooking time for stuffed flank steak in the oven can vary depending on several factors, including the thickness of the steak, the stuffing ingredients, and your desired level of doneness. As a general guideline, the cooking time for a stuffed flank steak is approximately 25-30 minutes at 375°F (190°C) for medium-rare doneness. However, it is crucial to use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature and ensure the steak is cooked to your preference.

Here is a table to give you a rough idea of the cooking time based on the weight and thickness of the stuffed flank steak:

Weight of stuffed flank steak	Thickness	Approximate Cooking Time
1 lb (450g)	½ inch	20-25 minutes
1.5 lb (680g)	¾ inch	25-30 minutes
2 lb (910g)	1 inch	30-35 minutes

Please note that these times are estimates and should be adjusted accordingly based on your specific circumstances.

Cooking Techniques

When cooking stuffed flank steak in the oven, there are two primary techniques you can use: searing and slow-roasting. These techniques can enhance the flavor and texture of the meat while ensuring even cooking.

Searing:

Searing involves browning the stuffed flank steak in a hot skillet or pan before placing it in the oven. This technique creates a flavorful crust on the outside of the steak and helps to lock in the juices. Here’s how to sear a stuffed flank steak:

1. Heat a skillet or pan over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil.
2. Carefully place the stuffed flank steak in the hot skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned.
3. Transfer the seared steak to a preheated oven and continue cooking at 375°F (190°C) until the desired level of doneness is reached.

Slow-Roasting:

Slow-roasting involves cooking the stuffed flank steak in the oven at a lower temperature for an extended period. This technique allows for gentle cooking, resulting in tender and juicy meat. Here’s how to slow-roast a stuffed flank steak:

1. Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. Place the stuffed flank steak directly on a baking sheet or in a baking dish.
3. Cook the steak for approximately 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches the desired level of doneness.

Both searing and slow-roasting are effective cooking techniques for stuffed flank steak but offer slightly different results. Searing provides a more caramelized and flavorful crust, while slow-roasting results in a more tender and evenly cooked steak.

Monitoring And Troubleshooting

To ensure that your stuffed flank steak is perfectly cooked, it is essential to monitor the internal temperature throughout the cooking process. Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to determine the doneness of the steak. Here are the recommended internal temperatures for different levels of doneness:

• Medium-rare: 145°F (63°C)
• Medium: 155°F (68°C)

Insert the meat thermometer into the thickest part of the stuffed flank steak, avoiding contact with the stuffing ingredients. Take multiple readings from various spots to ensure an accurate reading.

If you find that your stuffed flank steak is cooking too quickly on the outside but still raw on the inside, you can try the reverse sear technique. Start by slow-roasting the steak at a lower temperature (around 275°F/135°C) until the internal temperature is a few degrees below your desired doneness. Then, transfer the steak to a hot skillet or grill to quickly sear the outside and create a delicious crust.

Stuffed Flank Steak Cooking Instructions

Now that you understand the science, techniques, and timing involved, here is a step-by-step guide to cooking stuffed flank steak in the oven:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Season the flank steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings.

3. Lay the stuffing ingredients evenly along the length of the flank steak, leaving a small border around the edges.

4. Roll the flank steak tightly around the stuffing, securing it with kitchen twine or toothpicks.

5. Place the stuffed flank steak on a baking sheet or in a baking dish.

6. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding contact with the stuffing ingredients.

7. Transfer the steak to the preheated oven and cook for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches your desired level of doneness.

8. Remove the stuffed flank steak from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a moist and flavorful result.

9. Slice the stuffed flank steak into even portions and serve immediately.

Variations

Now that you have mastered the basic technique for cooking stuffed flank steak in the oven, feel free to experiment with different stuffing variations to suit your taste. Here are a few popular variations to try:

• Blue cheese and caramelized onions
• Spinach and feta cheese
• Sun-dried tomatoes and goat cheese
• Mushrooms and Swiss cheese
• Bacon-wrapped and stuffed with cream cheese and jalapenos

Get creative with your stuffing ingredients and explore different flavor combinations to make your stuffed flank steak truly unique!

When Things Go Wrong

Cooking can be unpredictable, and sometimes things don’t go as planned. If you find that your stuffed flank steak is overcooked, resulting in a dry and tough texture, there are a few things you can do to salvage it:

• Slice the steak thinly against the grain: This can help break up the tough muscle fibers and make the meat more tender.
• Serve with a flavorful sauce: A delicious sauce or gravy can add moisture and flavor to the steak, making it more enjoyable to eat.

If your stuffed flank steak is undercooked and you’re running out of time, you can finish cooking it in a preheated skillet or grill to quickly sear the outside and then transfer it back to the oven to cook through.

Serving Stuffed Flank Steak

Stuffed flank steak makes an elegant and impressive main course. To serve it, slice the steak into even portions and place it on a platter or individual plates. Remember to remove any kitchen twine or toothpicks before serving.

You can serve the stuffed flank steak on its own, or pair it with side dishes such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. The flavors of the stuffing ingredients will complement a wide range of side dishes, so feel free to get creative with your menu.

Best Practices For Stuffed Flank Steak Cooking

To ensure the best results when cooking stuffed flank steak in the oven, here are some additional tips and best practices to keep in mind:

• Use a meat thermometer: This is the most accurate way to determine the doneness of the steak and avoid overcooking or undercooking.

• Let the steak rest: Allowing the stuffed flank steak to rest for a few minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute and results in a more flavorful and tender steak.

• Experiment with seasonings: The seasonings you choose can greatly enhance the flavor of the meat. Don’t be afraid to try different combinations and spices to suit your taste.

• Use high-quality ingredients: The quality of the ingredients you use, including the steak and stuffing ingredients, will greatly impact the final result. Opt for fresh and flavorful ingredients for the best outcome.

• Practice food safety: Ensure that the stuffing ingredients are cooked to a safe internal temperature to prevent foodborne illnesses. Avoid cross-contamination by handling raw meat and stuffing ingredients separately.

Conclusion

Cooking stuffed flank steak in the oven is a wonderful way to create a flavorful and impressive dish. By understanding the science, techniques, and timing involved, you can achieve perfectly cooked and delicious stuffed flank steak every time. Whether you prefer a medium-rare or medium level of doneness, using a meat thermometer is the key to obtaining the desired results. Remember to let the steak rest before slicing and serving to ensure a moist and juicy outcome. With the right preparation and cooking techniques, you are well on your way to becoming a stuffed flank steak master chef. Enjoy!

FAQS

How Do I Know When My Stuffed Flank Steak Is Cooked Thoroughly?

You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak, ensuring it reaches 145°F. Also, cutting into the thickest part of the steak can reveal a medium well-done center and pink juices are not present.

Should I Use A Low Heat Or High Heat To Cook My Stuffed Flank Steak In The Oven?

Start with a high heat (400°F) to initially sear the outside of the steak, then lower the heat to 350°F or 375°F for the remainder of the cooking time.

Can I Cook Stuffed Flank Steak For A Shorter Amount Of Time If I Use A Convection Oven?

With a convection oven, the cooking time may be reduced by 25% or more. Check the steak regularly and adjust cooking times accordingly.

What Ingredient Combinations Work Best When Stuffing Flank Steak?

Most recipes for stuffed flank steak involve spinach, cheese, sundried tomatoes, and various herbs and spices. You can also use mushrooms, prosciutto, and even bread stuffing for a heartier option.

How Should I Let My Stuffed Flank Steak Rest Before Serving?

After removing the steak from the oven, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the steak moist and tender.

Sources

Stuffed Flank Steak – The Midnight Baker – Holiday Recipe

Cheesy Stuffed Flank Steak – I Am Homesteader

Italian Stuffed Flank Steak – The Chunky Chef