Flank Steak with Creamy Orzo Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and impressively delicious, you’ve got to try this Flank Steak with Creamy Orzo. It brings together the rich, juicy flavors of perfectly seared flank steak with the luscious creaminess of orzo pasta enhanced by sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. This combination offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes that suit any weeknight dinner or special occasion. Once you try it, this recipe will become one of your favorite go-to meals that’s satisfying both in heartiness and in the elegance of its presentation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together simply but thoughtfully, each playing a crucial role in building the unforgettable flavors and textures of Flank Steak with Creamy Orzo. From aromatic spices to creamy dairy, everything works harmoniously in this dish.

• 1 pound flank steak: the star protein, lean and full of flavor, perfect for searing;
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika: adds subtle smoky warmth to the steak;
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder: delivers just a hint of spice for depth;
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: essential for seasoning and enhancing natural flavors;
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: adds a bright, peppery kick;
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: for searing the steak and cooking the orzo smoothly;
• 4 ounces sun-dried tomatoes, packed in olive oil and drained: these bring bursts of tangy sweetness and chewiness;
• 1 cup uncooked orzo: a small pasta that cooks quickly and becomes wonderfully creamy;
• 5 cloves minced garlic: infuses aromatic richness throughout the dish;
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: a blend of herbs that tie the flavors together;
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: for seasoning the orzo perfectly;
• 2 cups chicken broth: cooks the orzo and adds savory depth;
• 5 ounces fresh spinach: offers vibrant color and nutritious green goodness;
• 1/2 cup half-and-half: brings luxurious creaminess to the orzo;
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): for an added subtle heat;
• Fresh thyme, for garnish: a fragrant, fresh herb finish to brighten the plate.

How to Make Flank Steak with Creamy Orzo

Step 1: Sear the Steak

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat until hot—this usually takes about 2 minutes. Add the olive oil and carefully place the flank steak in the pan. Let it cook undisturbed for 5 minutes to develop a beautiful crust, then flip and cook for another 5 minutes, or until you reach your preferred doneness. After cooking, transfer the steak to a plate and let it rest. Resting helps the juices redistribute, making every bite tender and juicy when sliced against the grain.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Orzo

Using the same skillet to capture all those leftover flavors, add the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Stir in the orzo, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, Italian seasoning, and salt. Reduce the heat and allow the orzo to simmer gently for 5 to 10 minutes until tender and the broth is mostly absorbed. This slow simmer lets the flavors marry while the pasta cooks evenly.

Step 3: Add Fresh Spinach and Cream

Once the orzo is tender, stir in the fresh spinach along with the half-and-half for that creamy texture everyone loves. If you’re a fan of a slight kick, this is the moment to sprinkle in red pepper flakes. Continue stirring over low heat until the spinach wilts and the orzo is lush and creamy. This stage turns simple pasta into a comforting and decadent base for the steak.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

Now, slice the rested flank steak thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness. Plate generous portions of the creamy orzo, top with slices of the steak, and finish with fresh thyme for an herbaceous aroma that complements every bite. This presentation makes Flank Steak with Creamy Orzo a meal worth savoring.

How to Serve Flank Steak with Creamy Orzo

Garnishes

Fresh thyme sprigs add a pop of green and an enticing aroma, but you can also experiment with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan to elevate the creamy orzo. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil at the end brings a lovely sheen and richness that ties all components beautifully together.

Side Dishes

This dish stands well on its own, but if you want to round it out, light and crisp side salads with lemon vinaigrette or roasted seasonal veggies like asparagus or green beans work wonderfully. Their freshness cuts through the richness of the creamy orzo and steak, providing balance and extra nutrition.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant dinner party, consider serving the Flank Steak with Creamy Orzo on warm plates with a garnish of microgreens or edible flowers for a burst of color. Layering the steak slices over the orzo in a stack or fan shape adds visual appeal and shows off the dish’s textures clearly.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers of Flank Steak with Creamy Orzo, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The orzo will absorb some of the sauce, so you might want to add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to bring back that creamy consistency.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked flank steak and orzo separately for up to 2 months. Wrap the steak tightly in foil or freezer-safe wrap, and place the orzo in a freezer container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat the orzo on low heat in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally and adding a little broth or half-and-half as needed to keep it creamy. Warm the flank steak slices briefly in a pan or microwave just until heated through to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?

Absolutely! While flank steak is ideal for its texture and flavor when sliced thinly, skirt steak or sirloin can also work well. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to avoid toughness.

Is sun-dried tomatoes essential for the recipe?

Sun-dried tomatoes add a unique tangy sweetness that complements the creamy orzo beautifully, but if you don’t have them on hand, you can substitute with roasted red peppers or omit them entirely for a milder flavor.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Definitely! Simply skip the steak and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For added protein, toss in sautéed mushrooms or grilled tofu alongside the creamy orzo and spinach.

How do I know when the flank steak is cooked perfectly?

Cooking times can vary, but generally, 5 minutes per side on medium heat should yield medium-rare to medium. Using a meat thermometer, look for about 130-135°F internal temperature for medium-rare.

Can I prepare the creamy orzo ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the orzo in advance and gently reheat it just before serving, adding a touch of cream or broth to refresh its texture. Just keep the spinach and half-and-half stirring until last to maintain freshness.

Final Thoughts

This Flank Steak with Creamy Orzo is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. From the perfectly seasoned and seared steak to the silky and dreamy orzo speckled with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, every bite tells you it’s worth making again and again. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe soon—you’ll find that it’s not just a meal but a delightful experience worth sharing with friends and family.

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