Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak is a culinary masterpiece that marries the savory depth of flank steak with the sweet and tangy notes of cranberry cream cheese. Imagine slicing into this succulent steak, revealing a vibrant swirl of creamy goodness, while the aroma dances around you like a well-rehearsed ballet troupe. It’s not just dinner; it’s a flavor experience that promises to make your taste buds sing.
I remember the first time I made this dish for my family—it was during the holidays, and let’s be honest, I was trying to impress everyone. Like a culinary superhero, I donned my apron, armed with cream cheese and cranberries, ready to conquer the kitchen. The moment we sat down to eat, the reactions were priceless. Laughter mingled with delighted exclamations as each bite melted into smiles. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, holiday feasts, or even an intimate dinner date where you want to show off your cooking skills without breaking a sweat.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation makes this dish accessible for even novice cooks while still impressing guests.
- The rich flavor profile combines savory steak with sweet cranberries and creamy cheese for a delightful contrast.
- Visually stunning when plated, it elevates any dining experience to gourmet status.
- Versatile enough for special occasions or casual weeknight dinners, it fits perfectly into any meal plan.
Ingredients for Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Flank Steak: A lean cut of beef that’s perfect for stuffing and rolling up for maximum flavor absorption.
- Cream Cheese: Soften this creamy delight ahead of time so it’s easier to mix and spread onto the steak.
- Dried Cranberries: These little gems add sweetness and chewiness that complement the savory steak beautifully.
- Fresh Herbs: Use rosemary or thyme for added aromatic depth in the stuffing mixture.
- Garlic Powder: A dash enhances the flavor profile without overpowering other ingredients.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning to bring all flavors together harmoniously.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your stuffed flank steak will cook evenly and get that lovely caramelization on the outside.
Step 2: Prepare the Flank Steak
Lay out your flank steak on a clean cutting board. With a sharp knife, carefully slice it horizontally without cutting all the way through—like you’re making a big meaty pocket.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, dried cranberries, chopped fresh herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well incorporated and looks creamy and inviting.
Step 4: Stuff It Up
Spread your delicious cream cheese mixture generously inside that lovely flank steak pocket. Roll it tightly like a burrito—because who doesn’t love burritos?
Step 5: Secure the Roll
Use kitchen twine or toothpicks to secure your rolled-up masterpiece. This keeps all those tasty flavors inside where they belong during cooking.
Step 6: Bake It
Transfer your stuffed flank steak onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until cooked through and slightly browned on top.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with pan juices for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every bite of your Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak—it’s sure to be a hit!
You Must Know
- This cranberry cream cheese stuffed flank steak is not just a dish; it’s an experience!
- The juicy flank steak combined with the creamy filling brings a delightful surprise to every bite.
- Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating your flank steak to infuse flavor while preheating your oven. Sear the steak on high heat for a beautiful crust, then stuff it with the tangy cream cheese and cranberry mix. Finish cooking in the oven for tender perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cranberries for figs or even apricots if you’re feeling adventurous. You can also add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the cream cheese for an extra aromatic kick. Get creative and make this dish truly yours!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover stuffed flank steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring it stays juicy and flavorful.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cooked flank steak, aim for medium rare to retain its tenderness.
- Let it rest before slicing to keep juices intact.
- Experiment with different fillings for unique flavors that suit your palate.
Cooking this cranberry cream cheese stuffed flank steak reminded me of a family gathering where everyone was raving about my culinary skills— I felt like a rockstar chef, and it tasted even better than I expected!
FAQs:
What is Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak?
Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak is a delicious and elegant dish that combines the rich flavors of flank steak with a creamy, tangy filling made from cream cheese and cranberries. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or a satisfying family dinner. The sweetness of the cranberries balances the savory taste of the beef, creating a delightful harmony of flavors. Preparing this dish may seem daunting, but it is quite simple and can impress your guests with minimal effort.
How do I prepare the flank steak for stuffing?
To prepare the flank steak for your Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak, start by placing it on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to carefully slice the steak horizontally, creating a pocket for the filling. Be sure not to cut all the way through; leave about half an inch at one side. Once you have created the pocket, gently pound the steak with a meat mallet to even out its thickness, which allows for even cooking and better flavor absorption.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely make Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak ahead of time! To do this, stuff and roll the flank steak as instructed, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. When you’re ready to cook, simply remove it from the fridge, let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, and then follow your cooking instructions. This makes meal prep easier and allows flavors to meld beautifully.
What side dishes pair well with this stuffed flank steak?
Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Consider serving it alongside garlic mashed potatoes or roasted seasonal vegetables for a hearty meal. A fresh green salad with vinaigrette adds brightness and balances richness. For an extra touch, try making a cranberry sauce as a condiment to enhance both flavor and presentation.
Conclusion for Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak:
In summary, Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak brings together unique flavors that elevate any meal. Creating this dish involves preparing the flank steak properly and filling it with a delightful mixture of cream cheese and cranberries. It can be made ahead of time for convenience and pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Whether it’s a special occasion or just dinner at home, this recipe will surely impress everyone at your table!
Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak is a savory delight, featuring tender flank steak filled with creamy cranberry goodness. This dish is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1.5 lbs flank steak
- Salt and pepper for seasoning
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, dried cranberries, fresh herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the flank steak on a cutting board and slice it horizontally without cutting all the way through to create a pocket.
- Spread the cream cheese filling generously inside the flank steak pocket.
- Roll the flank steak tightly and secure it with kitchen twine or toothpicks.
- Season the outside with salt and pepper.
- Place the rolled steak on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 30-35 minutes, until cooked through.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, marinate the flank steak for at least an hour before preparation. - Feel free to substitute dried cranberries with figs or apricots for a different twist. - Let the meat rest for about 10 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
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