Grilled Flank Steak with Burrata Pesto Recipe: 5 Delicious Tips

Grilled Flank Steak with Burrata Pesto Overview

What Makes This Dish Special

This dish stands out due to its exquisite balance of flavors and textures. The robust, savory notes of perfectly grilled flank steak are beautifully complemented by a fresh, creamy burrata pesto sauce. Unlike traditional pesto, the addition of burrata cheese creates a velvety, melt-in-your-mouth experience that truly elevates the entire meal. It’s a culinary delight that impresses guests while remaining surprisingly simple to prepare, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The distinct combination of tender beef and herbaceous, rich sauce provides a satisfying and memorable eating experience that showcases fresh ingredients.

Quick Look at Prep Time

Preparing this meal is more efficient than you might think. From start to finish, you can have this impressive dish on the table in under an hour. Most of the active time involves quick grilling and blending the pesto, leaving plenty of room for hands-off cooking while the steak rests. This makes it an excellent choice for those seeking high-quality, flavorful meals without spending excessive time in the kitchen. For more main course ideas, explore our collection of main course recipes.

Servings and Dietary Info

This recipe is designed to serve four people generously, making it perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering. Nutritionally, it offers a good source of protein from the flank steak, while the fresh ingredients in the pesto provide healthy fats and vitamins. It is naturally gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs without compromising on taste. If you’re looking for other gluten-free options, many of our recipes, like crispy parmesan chicken, can be adapted. Always check ingredient labels to ensure all components meet specific dietary requirements.

Getting Ready: Ingredients for This Recipe

Steak and Pesto Essentials

To create this grilled flank steak with burrata pesto, selecting high-quality ingredients is paramount. For the steak, you’ll need one piece of flank steak, typically weighing around 1.5 to 2 pounds. Flank steak is known for its lean texture and rich beefy flavor, perfect for grilling. You can learn more about flank steak characteristics and cuts. Beyond the steak, the pesto requires a few key items. Good quality extra virgin olive oil is crucial for the sauce’s body and flavor. You’ll also need pine nuts, which add a subtle nutty crunch and richness, along with fresh garlic cloves for that pungent kick. A touch of Parmesan cheese provides a salty, umami depth that balances the other ingredients beautifully. Salt and freshly ground black pepper will season both the steak and the pesto, bringing out their best qualities. Having all your ingredients prepped and measured before cooking, known as mise en place, will make the entire cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Fresh Basil and Burrata Cheese

The stars of the pesto, fresh basil and burrata cheese, deserve special mention. You’ll need a generous amount of fresh basil leaves—typically two large bunches or about two cups packed. The vibrant green leaves provide the signature aromatic and slightly peppery flavor that defines pesto. Ensure your basil is fresh, bright green, and free from any wilting or browning for the best results. For the creamy element, burrata cheese is indispensable. Burrata is an Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream, offering an incredibly soft, rich, and buttery interior that melts into the pesto, creating an unbelievably smooth texture. This distinguishes it from traditional pesto, which typically uses only Parmesan or Pecorino. If burrata isn’t available, fresh mozzarella can be a substitute, though it won’t yield the same creamy consistency. You can read more about the origins of pesto and its variations.

Prepping Your Flank Steak for Grilling

Seasoning the Meat Simply

Proper preparation of your flank steak before it hits the grill is crucial for achieving a tender, flavorful outcome. The first step involves seasoning the meat simply yet effectively. Flank steak has a naturally robust flavor, so it doesn’t require complex marinades to shine. A generous application of coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides is often all you need. You can also add a touch of garlic powder or onion powder if you wish, but keep it minimal to let the steak’s natural taste, and later the pesto, dominate. Pat the steak dry with paper towels before seasoning; this helps the spices adhere better and promotes a superior sear on the grill, leading to a more appetizing crust. Rub the seasoning firmly into the meat to ensure it penetrates the surface.

Letting Steak Come to Room Temp

Once seasoned, an often-overlooked but vital step is letting the steak come to room temperature before grilling. Remove the flank steak from the refrigerator at least 30 minutes to an hour before you plan to cook it. Placing a cold steak directly on a hot grill can lead to uneven cooking, where the outside might char before the inside reaches your desired doneness. Allowing it to warm up slightly ensures that the heat penetrates more evenly, resulting in a perfectly cooked steak from edge to edge. This process helps relax the meat fibers, contributing to a more tender finished product. While the steak is resting at room temperature, it also provides an ideal window to start preparing your burrata pesto or any accompanying side dishes, streamlining your cooking process for a smooth dinner preparation. This simple step makes a significant difference in the final texture and taste, making it a habit worth adopting for all your grilled meats. Consider pairing this with a simple side dish like crispy cauliflower for a balanced meal.

Grilling the Flank Steak to Perfection

Setting Grill Temperature

Grilling flank steak to perfection requires attention to detail, especially regarding grill temperature and cooking times. Start by setting your grill to a high heat. For gas grills, this means turning all burners to high and letting it preheat for 10-15 minutes until it reaches about 450-500°F (230-260°C). For charcoal grills, aim for coals that are glowing orange with a light layer of ash, creating a very hot zone. A screaming hot grill is essential for creating that beautiful, flavorful crust on the outside of the steak while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Ensure your grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking and ensure clear grill marks.

How Long to Grill Each Side

Once your grill is hot, place the seasoned flank steak directly over the high heat. For a medium-rare doneness, which is often recommended for flank steak to maintain its tenderness, grill each side for approximately 4-6 minutes. The exact timing can vary based on the thickness of your steak and the actual heat of your grill. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; for medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F (54-57°C). If you prefer medium, cook until 135-140°F (57-60°C). Remember to flip the steak only once to allow a good sear to form. Over-flipping can prevent the formation of a desirable crust. Once it reaches your desired internal temperature, remove it from the grill immediately.

Importance of Resting Steak

The importance of resting steak after grilling cannot be overstated. After removing the flank steak from the heat, transfer it to a cutting board and tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes, or even up to 15 minutes for a thicker cut. This resting period allows the muscle fibers to relax and the juices, which have been pushed to the center during cooking, to redistribute evenly throughout the meat. Slicing too early will result in a loss of these precious juices, leading to a drier, tougher steak. Resting ensures every bite is succulent and tender. While it rests, you can finalize your creamy burrata pesto. For other quick dinner ideas, check out our easy honey garlic chicken recipe.

Crafting the Creamy Burrata Pesto Sauce

Blending All Pesto Items

The creamy burrata pesto sauce is the vibrant, fresh counterpoint to the rich grilled flank steak. Its preparation is straightforward, mainly involving a food processor or blender. To begin blending all pesto items, gather your fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic cloves, grated Parmesan cheese, and a generous amount of good quality extra virgin olive oil. Place the basil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan into the food processor. Pulse a few times to roughly chop and combine the ingredients. Then, with the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture forms a thick, somewhat chunky paste. Avoid over-processing, as you want some texture, not a completely smooth puree. The key is to achieve a consistency that is spreadable yet still vibrant and green.

Adjusting Pesto Seasoning

Now comes the star ingredient: burrata cheese. Once your basic pesto has formed, add the burrata cheese, torn into smaller pieces, to the food processor. Pulse again a few times until the burrata is just incorporated and creates a creamy, luxurious consistency. The burrata adds an incredible richness and silkiness that transforms traditional pesto into something truly special and decadent. Unlike regular mozzarella, its creamy interior melts perfectly into the sauce, giving it an unparalleled texture.

After blending, it’s time for adjusting pesto seasoning. Taste the pesto and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. The Parmesan cheese and burrata already provide some saltiness, so add additional salt cautiously. You might find it beneficial to add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at this stage; it brightens the flavors and helps maintain the vibrant green color of the basil. If the pesto seems too thick, you can add another tablespoon or two of olive oil or even a tiny splash of water to reach your desired consistency. This simple, fresh sauce is a highlight of the dish, delivering an explosion of herbaceous, garlicky, and creamy flavors that complement the grilled steak perfectly. Remember, a good pesto can also elevate other dishes, like a simple pasta salad or a sandwich. You can find more dinner inspiration on our Instagram page.

Putting It All Together: Serving the Dish

Slicing Steak Against Grain

Once your flank steak has rested sufficiently and your burrata pesto is ready, it’s time to assemble this incredible dish for serving. The way you slice flank steak is critically important for its tenderness. Flank steak has long, visible muscle fibers, and if you slice with the grain, the meat will be chewy. Therefore, you must always slice steak against the grain. Identify the direction of these fibers running through the meat, then position your knife perpendicular to them. Use a sharp knife and slice the steak into thin strips, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. This technique shortens the muscle fibers, making each bite much more tender and enjoyable. The beautiful medium-rare interior will be visible, showcasing your perfect grilling technique.

Topping with Fresh Pesto

After slicing, arrange the tender flank steak slices on a serving platter or individual plates. The final, and arguably most delicious, step is topping with fresh pesto. Spoon generous dollops of the creamy burrata pesto sauce over the warm slices of steak. The heat from the steak will slightly warm the pesto, releasing its aromatic qualities even further. You can also offer extra pesto on the side for those who prefer more sauce with their meal. For a visually appealing finish, you might sprinkle a few extra pine nuts or a fresh basil leaf over the top. This combination of rich, savory grilled steak and bright, creamy pesto creates a symphony of flavors and textures that is truly irresistible. Serve immediately to enjoy the steak at its peak tenderness and the pesto at its freshest. This dish works wonderfully as the centerpiece of a meal, perhaps alongside a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. For more recipe inspiration and visual treats, be sure to follow us on Pinterest.

Helpful Tips for Grilling Flank Steak

Achieve Medium-Rare Doneness

Mastering the grill can take practice, but a few key tips can ensure your flank steak is perfect every time. To achieve medium-rare doneness, which is ideal for flank steak, precision is key. Flank steak is relatively thin, so it cooks quickly over high heat. The best way to guarantee your desired doneness is by using a reliable instant-read meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding any fat or bone. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C). Remember that the temperature will continue to rise a few degrees after the steak is removed from the grill (carryover cooking), so pull it off slightly before it reaches the target. This ensures a juicy, tender interior without overcooking, which can make flank steak tough. Practicing with a thermometer will quickly build your confidence in grilling various cuts of meat.

Rest Steak Before Slicing

As mentioned earlier, resting steak before slicing is a non-negotiable step for a truly succulent result. Even if you’re eager to dig in, resist the temptation to cut into your beautifully grilled flank steak immediately. Transfer the steak to a cutting board, ideally one with a juice groove, and tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Allowing it to rest for at least 5-10 minutes, or even up to 15 minutes, permits the muscle fibers to reabsorb the juices that have migrated to the center during cooking. This redistribution of juices leads to a more uniformly moist and flavorful steak from edge to edge. Cutting too soon will cause those delicious juices to run out onto the board, leaving you with a drier, less enjoyable piece of meat. This simple waiting period makes all the difference, transforming a good steak into a great one. Don’t skip it!

Quick Burrata Pesto Recipe: Time Breakdown

Total Prep and Cook Time

This recipe for grilled flank steak with burrata pesto is designed for efficiency, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want an impressive meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The total prep and cook time is surprisingly minimal for such a flavorful dish. You can expect to spend approximately 15-20 minutes on active preparation, which includes seasoning the steak, chopping garlic, picking basil, and blending the pesto. The actual cooking time on the grill for the flank steak is around 8-12 minutes, followed by a crucial 5-10 minute resting period. So, from start to finish, you’re looking at a delightful meal ready in roughly 45-50 minutes. This quick turnaround doesn’t compromise on quality or taste, offering a gourmet experience with practical timing.

Planning Your Meal Schedule

Planning your meal schedule around this recipe is straightforward and can help streamline your cooking process. Begin by taking the flank steak out of the refrigerator to allow it to come to room temperature while you prepare the pesto ingredients. While the steak rests, you can quickly assemble and blend the burrata pesto. Once the steak has rested at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, you can preheat your grill. The steak will grill relatively quickly, allowing you to focus on any side dishes or a simple salad during that short cooking window. After grilling, the steak needs to rest for 5-10 minutes, giving you the perfect opportunity to finish plating and add any last-minute garnishes. This phased approach ensures that everything is ready at the same time, allowing for a relaxed and enjoyable meal. This efficient scheduling makes it possible to enjoy high-quality homemade meals even on the busiest days.

Delicious Sides for Flank Steak with Pesto

Ideas for Best Accompaniments

Pairing the grilled flank steak with burrata pesto with the right side dishes can truly complete the meal, balancing the rich flavors and offering varied textures. Given the robust taste of the steak and the creamy, herbaceous pesto, simple and fresh accompaniments tend to work best. One excellent choice is a light and crisp green salad. Think mixed greens with a simple vinaigrette, perhaps incorporating cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a sprinkle of toasted nuts. The acidity of the dressing will cut through the richness of the steak and pesto beautifully, refreshing the palate. Roasted vegetables are another fantastic option. Asparagus, broccolini, bell peppers, or zucchini roasted with olive oil, salt, and pepper will complement the grilled flavors of the steak without overpowering the dish. Their slightly charred edges and tender interiors provide a wonderful textural contrast. For something more substantial, consider a simple rice pilaf or couscous. These grains absorb some of the pesto’s flavor and offer a neutral base that rounds out the meal. Alternatively, roasted new potatoes or a creamy polenta could provide a comforting starch component. If you’re looking for a quick and easy side, a crusty baguette or focaccia bread is perfect for soaking up any extra pesto on the plate. No matter your choice, aim for sides that enhance rather than compete with the star of the show. For another fantastic dinner idea, try our cheesy chicken and rice casserole.

Understanding Nutrition of Your Grilled Steak

Calories and Protein per Serving

Understanding the nutritional aspects of your grilled flank steak with burrata pesto can help you incorporate this delicious meal into a balanced diet. While exact values can vary based on portion size, specific ingredients, and preparation methods, we can provide a general idea. Flank steak is known for being a relatively lean cut of beef, making it an excellent source of high-quality protein. A typical 4-ounce serving of grilled flank steak, before the pesto, can provide approximately 25-30 grams of protein and around 180-200 calories, depending on any marinades or oils used during grilling. Protein is crucial for muscle repair, growth, and overall satiety, making this dish a satisfying option.

Fat and Carbohydrate Details

When considering the full dish, including the burrata pesto, the fat and carbohydrate details become important. The burrata pesto, while packed with flavor, will contribute significant calories and fats. Burrata cheese itself is rich and creamy, contributing saturated and unsaturated fats. Extra virgin olive oil, a cornerstone of pesto, is a source of healthy monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. Pine nuts also add healthy fats. A typical serving of burrata pesto might add another 150-250 calories, primarily from fat. This would bring the total calories per serving of the complete dish to roughly 330-450 calories, with a good proportion coming from healthy fats. Carbohydrates in this dish are relatively low. Flank steak contains virtually no carbohydrates. The pesto will contribute a minimal amount from the basil, garlic, and pine nuts. This makes the meal suitable for those monitoring carbohydrate intake. The overall nutritional profile suggests a hearty, protein-rich meal with beneficial fats, and a low carbohydrate count, making it a flavorful and fulfilling option for many dietary preferences.

Flank Steak with Burrata Pesto: Notes & More

Author and Recipe Category

This Grilled Flank Steak with Burrata Pesto recipe is brought to you by Carina Recipes, your trusted source for inspiring and delicious homemade meals. Designed as a main course, it fits perfectly into our collection of offerings, providing an excellent option for dinners that impress without excessive effort. Our aim is always to deliver recipes that are not only incredibly tasty but also accessible to home cooks of all skill levels. We believe that good food should be an enjoyable experience from preparation to the last bite. This dish exemplifies our philosophy by combining fresh, high-quality ingredients with straightforward techniques to achieve a gourmet result in your own kitchen. We hope this recipe becomes a new favorite in your culinary repertoire, inspiring many delightful meals to come.

Gluten-Free and Italian Style

One of the significant advantages of this recipe is its inherent suitability for various dietary needs and its clear culinary influences. This flank steak and burrata pesto dish is naturally gluten-free, provided all individual ingredients (like any pre-packaged Parmesan cheese) are certified as such. This makes it an excellent choice for individuals with gluten sensitivities or those following a gluten-free lifestyle, ensuring everyone can enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal. Furthermore, the dish strongly embraces an Italian style. Pesto, originating from Genoa, Italy, is a classic Italian sauce, and the inclusion of burrata cheese further cements its Mediterranean roots. The use of fresh basil, olive oil, garlic, and pine nuts are all hallmarks of vibrant Italian cuisine. This recipe marries the heartiness of grilled steak with the fresh, aromatic flavors of Italy, offering a delightful fusion that is both comforting and sophisticated. It’s a testament to how simple, quality ingredients can be combined to create something truly special and universally appealing.

Storing and Reheating Leftover Flank Steak

Keeping Steak Fresh

If you happen to have any leftover grilled flank steak with burrata pesto, proper storage is key to maintaining its freshness and flavor for future enjoyment. To keep steak fresh, allow the steak and pesto to cool completely to room temperature within two hours of cooking. Once cooled, store the sliced steak and any remaining pesto in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. Keeping them separate helps preserve the texture of the steak and prevents the pesto from discoloring or losing its vibrant flavor. Properly stored, the grilled flank steak will remain fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator, while the burrata pesto is best consumed within 3-5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze cooked flank steak slices in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months. It’s not recommended to freeze the pesto with burrata, as the cheese and basil may change texture upon thawing.

Tips for Reheating Safely

When it comes to tips for reheating safely, careful methods will help maintain the quality of your leftover flank steak. Reheating steak can often lead to it becoming dry or tough if not done correctly. For the best results, gently reheat the sliced steak.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to a low temperature, around 250-275°F (120-135°C). Place the steak slices on a baking sheet, possibly with a splash of beef broth or water to add moisture, and cover loosely with foil. Heat for 10-15 minutes, or until just warmed through. Avoid high heat, which will dry out the meat.
• Skillet Method: Heat a lightly oiled skillet over medium-low heat. Add the steak slices and cook for a few minutes per side, just until warmed. Covering the skillet can help retain moisture.
• Microwave (Use with caution): While quickest, the microwave can easily overcook steak. If using, reheat in short 30-second bursts at a lower power setting, checking frequently.

Once the steak is reheated, you can refresh it by adding a fresh dollop of the burrata pesto. Remember that reheating changes the texture, so enjoy it knowing it won’t be exactly like fresh off the grill, but still delicious! This method allows you to enjoy another delightful meal with minimal effort, even days later.