When I first unveiled a Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak at a family gathering, the gasps and wide-eyed smiles told me I had struck gold. The succulent beef, bursting with rich cream cheese and tart cranberries, not only dazzled on the plate but also brought everyone together in excited anticipation. With the festive season approaching, this dish makes for an impressive centerpiece that’s surprisingly easy to prepare.
Imagine the aromatic dance of herbs and spices filling your kitchen as you marinate the steak, while the vibrant colors of the cranberry filling beckon. This recipe offers an irresistible blend of flavors—sleek, savory flank steak encasing a creamy interior that whispers celebration with each bite. Plus, its versatility means you can cater to different dietary needs, making it a perfect choice for holiday feasts or cozy dinners with loved ones. Let’s dive into this delicious experience and transform your next meal into a memorable occasion!
Why love Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak?
Impressive Presentation: Serve up elegant pinwheel slices that wow guests at any gathering.
Flavor Explosion: The creamy filling of cheese and tart cranberries creates a mouthwatering contrast with juicy steak.
Versatile Dish: Easily adapt to dietary needs with nut-free or vegetarian options!
Simple Steps: A straightforward marinating and baking process ensures you can impress without stress.
Memorable Gatherings: Make every meal special and bonding, perfect for holidays or intimate dinners with friends and family.
Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak Ingredients
For the Steak
• Flank steak – The star of your dish, make sure to butterfly it for a beautiful, even roll.
• Sea salt – Essential for enhancing the savory flavor of the steak before it’s seared.
• Balsamic vinegar – Adds a zesty contrast to the sweetness of the filling, elevating the flavor profile.
For the Marinade
• Cranberry jelly – This adds a delightful sweetness; feel free to subsitute with homemade cranberry sauce for a fresh twist.
• White onion (sliced) – Infuses sweetness and depth to the steak, balancing flavors beautifully.
• Garlic (minced) – Delivers a rich aroma and flavor that permeates the beef during cooking.
• Rosemary – Fresh herbs that bring aromatic, earthy notes to your marinade.
For the Filling
• Cream cheese – A creamy base that should be at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Blue cheese – Adds a punch; swap for goat cheese if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Shallot – Offers mild onion flavors that enhance the stuffing’s deliciousness.
• Cranberries – Fresh or dried, adding sweetness and a hint of tartness to the filling mix.
• Walnuts – Provides crunch and earthiness; for a nut-free version, simply omit!
• Black pepper – Just the right touch of heat; adjust to taste for complexity.
For the Finish
• Freshly cracked peppercorns – Envelop the outside of the steak for an extra flavor kick that dazzles your palate.
This Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak is not just a meal; it’s a celebration on your plate, bringing warmth and joy to your dining table!
How to Make Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak
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Marinate the Steak:
Begin by combining cranberry jelly, balsamic vinegar, sliced onion, garlic, and rosemary in a ziplock bag. Add your flank steak, ensuring it’s fully coated. Marinate for at least 3 hours, or overnight for the best flavor infusion. -
Prepare the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, blend together cranberries, shallot, walnuts, blue cheese, cream cheese, and black pepper until smooth. This rich filling will be the star of your pinwheels! -
Butterfly and Pound the Steak:
Carefully slice the flank steak open to butterfly it. Use a meat mallet to pound it to an even thickness, making it easier to roll later on. -
Fill and Roll:
Spread the cranberry filling evenly across the butterflied steak. Roll it up tightly starting from one end, and secure with kitchen twine. Chill for a bit to help it hold its shape. -
Sear the Steak:
Roll the stuffed steak in cracked peppercorns, then sear it in a hot oven-proof skillet for about 2 minutes on each side until it’s nicely browned. -
Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Transfer the seared steak to the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 130-135°F for medium-rare. -
Rest and Serve:
Once baked, let the steak rest for 10 minutes. Slice into beautiful pinwheels and serve, showcasing the colorful filling!
Optional: Serve with your favorite sides for a stunning holiday feast.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steaks are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can marinate the flank steak up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen beautifully. Simply combine the marinade ingredients in a ziplock bag with the steak and refrigerate. Additionally, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just be sure to let the cream cheese come to room temperature before mixing it in to achieve a smooth consistency. When ready to serve, roll, sear, and bake the steak as directed, ensuring it remains just as delicious and impressive as if it were freshly made!
Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak Variations
Feel free to make this festive dish your own with these delightful twists and adaptations!
- Nut-Free Version: Omit walnuts completely or substitute with toasted sunflower seeds for delightful crunch without the nuts.
- Cheese Swap: Replace blue cheese with creamy goat cheese for a milder, yet still rich flavor. The softened texture will blend beautifully.
- Vegetarian Version: Use portobello mushrooms instead of flank steak, packing them with the delicious cranberry-cheese mixture to entice even the meat lovers!
- Herb Variations: Experiment by adding thyme or sage alongside rosemary for nuanced herbal notes that can elevate your dish pleasantly.
- Sweet Spice: A dash of cinnamon in the filling creates a warm, cozy flavor that enhances the sweetness of the cranberries, perfect for chilly nights!
- Zesty Kick: Mix some finely chopped jalapeños into the filling for a surprising touch of heat that balances the creaminess beautifully.
- Wine-Infused Marinade: Try adding a splash of red wine to the marinade for an extra layer of flavor and an aromatic twist that sings holiday cheer.
- Fruit Fusion: Use dried cherries or raisins combined with cranberries in the filling for a unique twist that harmonizes beautifully with the other flavors!
Let these variations inspire you to create a personalized, scrumptious experience with your Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak!
Expert Tips for the Best Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak
Butterfly with Care: Ensure the flank steak is properly butterflied for even rolling—this helps avoid tearing. Ask your butcher for assistance if uncertain.
Chill for Shape: After rolling, refrigerate the stuffed steak before searing. This helps maintain its shape and prevents it from unrolling during cooking.
Marinate for Flavor: Don’t rush the marinating process! Allow at least 3 hours, or overnight, for maximum flavor infusion in the Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak.
Meat Thermometer Usage: Invest in a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking and ensure your steak reaches the perfect medium-rare doneness.
Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to customize the amount of black pepper; start small and add more to suit your taste.
How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days to keep the flavors fresh and delicious.
Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. The stuffed flank steak can be frozen for up to 3 months without compromising taste.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, keeping the flavors intact.
Enjoyability: Ensure the Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak is completely cooled before storage to prevent condensation and maintain its scrumptious texture.
What to Serve with Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak?
Create a feast that’s captivating and harmonious, perfectly complementing the rich and vibrant flavors of this delightful dish.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creamy, buttery texture of these potatoes soaks up the savory juices, enhancing each bite of steak.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their crispy edges and sweet, slightly bitter flavor contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the cranberry filling, adding a delightful crunch.
- Green Bean Casserole: This classic dish brings a creamy element with a crispy topping, creating a comforting balance against the rich flank steak.
- Cranberry Sauce: A side of tangy cranberry sauce reinforces the filling flavors, offering a familiar aroma and taste that lightens the meal.
- Quinoa Salad: A fresh, nutty quinoa salad tossed with herbs and citrus dressing adds brightness and a healthy element, perfect for a festive table.
- Red Wine: Pair with a robust red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon, its tannins offsetting the creamy, rich filling while highlighting the steak’s depth.
- Dessert: Finish off with a light, zesty lemon sorbet that cleanses the palate after your wonderful meaty dish, creating a refreshing end.
- Stuffed Acorn Squash: Roasted acorn squash stuffed with grains and cranberries provides a delightful fall-inspired side that complements the festive flavors.
- Herb-Infused Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with fresh herbs complements the steak and adds an aromatic base that soaks up the flavors beautifully.
Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right flank steak?
When choosing flank steak, look for a cut that is bright red with minimal marbling. It should be firm to the touch and free of any dark spots or excessive fat. The ideal steak will be about 1 to 1.5 inches thick for optimal rolling and cooking.
How long can I store leftovers?
Absolutely! You can store leftovers of your Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before sealing.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! To freeze, first allow the stuffed steak to cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.
What should I do if my steak unrolls while cooking?
If your steak unrolls, don’t worry! Try using kitchen twine to secure it before cooking. Additionally, chilling it for about 30 minutes before searing can help the filling hold in place. If it does start to come apart, simply place any filling back inside before slicing.
Is this recipe safe for people with nut allergies?
Definitely! To make the Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak nut-free, simply omit the walnuts. You can substitute these with toasted sunflower seeds if desired, as they provide a similar crunch without the allergy concerns.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Very much so! You can create a stunning vegetarian version by substituting flank steak with large portobello mushrooms. Just fill the mushrooms with the cranberry-cream cheese mixture and bake as directed for an equally delicious alternative!
Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak for Holiday Wow Factor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by combining cranberry jelly, balsamic vinegar, sliced onion, garlic, and rosemary in a ziplock bag. Add your flank steak, ensuring it's fully coated. Marinate for at least 3 hours, or overnight for the best flavor infusion.
- In a mixing bowl, blend together cranberries, shallot, walnuts, blue cheese, cream cheese, and black pepper until smooth. This rich filling will be the star of your pinwheels!
- Carefully slice the flank steak open to butterfly it. Use a meat mallet to pound it to an even thickness, making it easier to roll later on.
- Spread the cranberry filling evenly across the butterflied steak. Roll it up tightly starting from one end, and secure with kitchen twine. Chill for a bit to help it hold its shape.
- Roll the stuffed steak in cracked peppercorns, then sear it in a hot oven-proof skillet for about 2 minutes on each side until it's nicely browned.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Transfer the seared steak to the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 130-135°F for medium-rare.
- Once baked, let the steak rest for 10 minutes. Slice into beautiful pinwheels and serve, showcasing the colorful filling!