Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a mouthwatering dish that brings the heart of Italy right to your kitchen! The "Family Freezer Steak Italiano Marinara" is not just a meal; it's an experience that your family will crave time and time again. Imagine succulent flank steak, perfectly seared and topped with a rich, savory marinara sauce bursting with flavor from sautéed onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Whether you're prepping for a busy week ahead or hosting a cozy dinner, this recipe is the perfect solution. With just 45 minutes from prep to plate, you’ll be serving up a delightful Italian feast that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak
- 1 jar marinara sauce
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Remove flank steak from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to reach room temperature, which ensures more even cooking.
- Pat the flank steak dry with paper towels and season generously on both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, pressing the seasonings into the meat.
- Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Sear the flank steak for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or adjust cooking time based on desired doneness. Use tongs to flip the steak carefully.
- Remove steak from the pan and let it rest on a cutting board, tented with aluminum foil, for 10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- In the same skillet, sauté sliced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic until vegetables are soft and slightly caramelized, about 5-6 minutes.
- Pour marinara sauce into the skillet with vegetables and simmer on low heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Slice the rested steak against the grain into thin strips to ensure tenderness.
- Serve sliced steak topped with marinara vegetable sauce, optionally garnishing with fresh basil or grated Parmesan cheese.
- For meal prep, allow steak and sauce to cool completely before storing in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips
- Bring It to Room Temperature: Take the flank steak out of the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking. This simple step helps achieve a more even cook and enhances the flavor.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning! Press the seasonings into the meat for a flavor-packed crust.
- Sear for Perfection: Use a hot skillet and a small amount of olive oil to get a beautiful sear on your steak. This locks in the juices and creates a delicious crust.
- Rest the Steak: After cooking, let the steak rest covered with aluminum foil for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy.
- Slice Against the Grain: For the most tender slices, always cut the steak against the grain. This technique breaks up the muscle fibers, making it easier to chew.
- Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or herbs to the marinara sauce for a personal touch. Fresh basil or grated Parmesan cheese can elevate the flavors even more!
- Meal Prep Friendly: If you're planning for the week, let the steak and sauce cool completely before storing them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 95mg
