Name: Juicy Grilled Flank Steak with Burrata and Pesto Bliss
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 280 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Flank Steak (Can substitute with skirt, sirloin, or ribeye.); 1/4 cup Olive Oil (Extra virgin preferred.); 3 cloves Minced Garlic (Can substitute with garlic powder.); 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (Fresh is best.); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 2 cups Fresh Basil Leaves (Can be swapped for parsley.); 1/4 cup Pine Nuts (Substitute with sunflower seeds for nut-free option.); 1 clove Garlic; 1/3 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Nutritional yeast can be used for dairy-free.); 1/2 tablespoon Lemon Juice; 1/3 cup Olive Oil; to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 8 ounces Burrata Cheese (Fresh mozzarella can be a substitute.)

As I stood by the grill, the smoky aroma of seasoned flank steak wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to a sun-drenched Italian terrace. This Grilled Flank Steak with Burrata and Pesto is my go-to creation for impressing friends and indulging in flavorful homemade meals. Not only is it easy to whip up, it pairs beautifully with a vibrant homemade pesto that brightens the dish, making it a showstopper at any gathering. With a delightful balance of textures—the tender steak, the creamy burrata, and the fresh herbs—this meal is perfect for both special occasions and cozy weeknights at home. Ready to elevate your dinner table? Let’s dive into the deliciousness!

Why is this recipe truly special?

Simplicity makes it a breeze to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients yet delivering maximum flavor. Flavorful pesto made from fresh basil adds a zing that perfectly complements the juicy steak. Versatile enough to use various cuts of meat or even grilled veggies, it caters to every palate. Crowd-pleaser status ensures it steals the spotlight at dinner parties or family meals. Time-saving for busy nights, you can marinate while prepping sides! Embrace this easy, gourmet delight that brings a taste of Italy to your kitchen. For other marvelous recipes, check out tips for grilling steak and easy homemade pesto!

Grilled Flank Steak with Burrata & Pesto Ingredients

For the Marinade

Flank Steak – The star protein; provides a rich, juicy base. Substitute with skirt, sirloin, or ribeye based on preference.
Olive Oil – Acts as a marinade base for flavor and moisture. Extra virgin preferred for quality.
Minced Garlic – Adds aromatic depth to the marinade. Can substitute with garlic powder for convenience.
Lemon Juice – Brightens flavor and tenderizes the meat; fresh is best, but bottled can be used.
Salt & Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance flavor; adjust levels to taste.

For the Pesto

Fresh Basil Leaves – Main ingredient for pesto; offers a fragrant herbaceous kick. Can be swapped for parsley if unavailable.
Pine Nuts – Provide texture and nuttiness in pesto; substitute with sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
Parmesan Cheese – Adds creaminess and umami to the pesto; nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free alternative.

For Serving

Burrata Cheese – Creamy topping that complements the dish; fresh mozzarella can be a substitute, but burrata’s unique texture is ideal.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grilled Flank Steak with Burrata and Pesto

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup of olive oil, 3 cloves of minced garlic, the juice of one lemon, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk the mixture until well blended. Place the flank steak in a large resealable bag, pour the marinade over it, and coat evenly. Marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator for maximum flavor penetration.

Step 2: Make the Pesto
While the steak marinates, prepare the vibrant pesto. In a food processor, add 2 cups of fresh basil leaves, 1/4 cup of pine nuts, 1 clove of garlic, 1/3 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and the juice of half a lemon. Drizzle in 1/3 cup of olive oil while pulsing until you have a smooth yet slightly textured mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then set aside to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Get your grill ready by preheating it to medium-high heat, about 400°F (200°C). Ensure your grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. This high temperature will achieve the beautiful sear necessary for the perfectly grilled flank steak, giving it caramelization and a delightful smoky flavor.

Step 4: Grill the Steak
Once the grill is hot, remove the flank steak from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Place the steak on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes on one side, until it develops a nice char and grill marks. Flip and grill the other side for an additional 4-5 minutes for medium-rare. Adjust cooking time according to your desired level of doneness—internal temperature should be around 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.

Step 5: Rest the Steak
After grilling, transfer the flank steak to a cutting board and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes; this allows the juices to redistribute, creating a more tender and flavorful result. While the steak rests, you can prepare any additional garnishes if desired, such as fresh basil or extra pine nuts for serving.

Step 6: Serve
Slice the rested flank steak against the grain into thin strips to maximize tenderness. Arrange the slices on a platter and generously sprinkle the creamy burrata cheese atop the steak. Drizzle a generous amount of the homemade pesto over the top, enhancing the dish’s vibrant appearance. Enjoy your Grilled Flank Steak with Burrata and Pesto, and let the flavors transport you to an Italian terrace!

Storage Tips for Grilled Flank Steak with Burrata & Pesto

Fridge: Store leftover grilled flank steak and pesto in airtight containers, and they can stay fresh for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy the delicious flavors all over again!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the flank steak and pesto separately. Wrapped well, they can last up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, gently reheat steak in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Add the burrata cold on top for the freshest taste!
Pesto Storage: If you have extra pesto, consider freezing it in ice cube trays for easy access later! Pop out a cube whenever you need a burst of flavor for dishes.

What to Serve with Grilled Flank Steak with Burrata & Pesto

Imagine indulging in a tantalizing meal that transports your senses, perfectly complementing the rich flavors of this Italian-inspired dish.

Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and creamy within, these potatoes add a delightful crunch that pairs nicely with the tender steak.
Arugula Salad: Lightly dressed with lemon vinaigrette, this salad adds a peppery freshness that balances the richness of the burrata.
Grilled Vegetables: Charred zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus bring smoky sweetness, enhancing the grilled flavor of the flank steak while adding vibrant color to your plate.
Crusty Italian Bread: Perfect for soaking up any extra pesto, serve slices of this warm, crusty bread as a delightful side to savor every bite.
Sangria: A refreshing glass of sangria, with its fruity notes and chilled goodness, will cleanse your palate and enhance the dining experience.
Tiramisu: End your meal on a sweet note; this classic Italian dessert brings a rich, creamy contrast, perfectly rounding out your dinner adventure.

Make Ahead Options

This Grilled Flank Steak with Burrata and Pesto is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can marinate the flank steak up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine all marinade ingredients and coat the steak, then refrigerate it until you’re ready to grill. The pesto can also be prepared ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge—just press plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent browning. When ready to serve, grill the marinated steak as directed, and top it with the refreshing pesto and burrata for a delicious meal that feels gourmet with minimal effort!

Helpful Tricks for Grilled Flank Steak

Tender Marinade Magic: Marinate the steak for at least 2-4 hours or overnight for maximum tenderness and flavor infusion. This will enhance your grilled flank steak with burrata and pesto experience!
Cut Against the Grain: Always slice the steak against the grain to ensure each bite is tender and easy to chew. This simple trick makes a noticeable difference!
Serve Fresh Burrata: Burrata should be added after grilling; heating it can alter its creamy texture. Serve it fresh for the best flavor contrast with the steak.
Avoid Overcooking: Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness; 135°F (57°C) is ideal for medium-rare. This prevents the steak from becoming tough and chewy.
Storing Leftovers: To keep leftovers fresh, store steak and pesto in airtight containers in the fridge. They can last up to 3 days for an easy meal prep option!

Grilled Flank Steak with Burrata and Pesto Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and customize it to suit your taste and dietary needs!

Cut Swap: Alternate cuts like skirt steak or ribeye for a different texture and flavor.
Veggie Delight: For a vegetarian option, swap the steak for grilled zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers topped with the creamy burrata and pesto.
Crostini Version: Serve the grilled steak on toasted crostini, creating an elegant appetizer perfect for gatherings.
Nut-Free Pesto: Replace pine nuts with sunflower seeds for a nut-free pesto without sacrificing taste or texture.
Herb Infusions: Mix in a little arugula or spinach into the pesto for a peppery twist that adds even more depth.
Spicy Kick: Spice things up by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto, infusing it with a delightful heat.
Cheese Alternatives: Use fresh mozzarella or cashew cheese instead of burrata for a different creamy fix.
Grain Makeover: Serve with fluffy quinoa or couscous as a base, adding extra heartiness to your meal and a gluten-free option.

If you’re interested in experimenting with more mouthwatering options, don’t miss our easy homemade pesto recipe to elevate your dishes even further!

Grilled Flank Steak with Burrata & Pesto Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right flank steak?
Absolutely! When selecting flank steak, look for cuts that are bright red with minimal visible fat. Avoid pieces with dark spots or an overly brown color, as this indicates age. Ideally, the steak should feel firm to the touch. If you can’t find flank, skirt steak, sirloin, or ribeye are excellent alternatives that still deliver juicy flavor.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
Easily! After enjoying your delicious grilled flank steak, allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers. You can store both the steak and pesto in the fridge for up to 3 days. For optimal flavor retention, it’s best to keep them separate until ready to eat.

Can I freeze the grilled flank steak and pesto?
Very much so! To freeze, wrap the cooled grilled flank steak tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. For the pesto, pour it into ice cube trays and freeze, allowing you to pop out a cube whenever needed. Both can be stored for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What do I do if my flank steak is tough?
Don’t you worry! If your flank steak turns out tough, it’s often due to overcooking or cutting against the grain. Always slice against the grain to improve tenderness in each bite! For future attempts, try marinating the steak longer (2-4 hours or overnight) to help tenderize it before grilling. Also, use an instant-read thermometer to monitor the doneness accurately, aiming for 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.

Is this recipe safe for people with dairy allergies?
Great question! This Grilled Flank Steak with Burrata and Pesto isn’t suitable for those with dairy allergies due to the burrata and Parmesan cheese. However, you can easily modify the pesto with nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan, and simply omit the burrata for a delightful dairy-free version. Enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors without any worries!