Creamy Parmesan Flank Steak with Orzo Recipe
Introduction
Flank Steak with Creamy Orzo is a simple yet elegant dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The tender, seared flank steak pairs beautifully with a rich, creamy orzo infused with garlic and Parmesan.
Ingredients
- 1 flank steak (about 1 to 1.5 pounds)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for searing
Instructions
- Step 1: Season the flank steak generously with salt and pepper. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired doneness. Remove from heat and let it rest while you prepare the orzo.
- Step 2: In a separate pot, cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 3: In the same skillet used for the steak, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Step 4: Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and stir to combine. Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until the orzo is creamy and well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 5: Slice the rested flank steak thinly against the grain. Serve the steak slices over the creamy orzo for a satisfying meal.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, marinate the flank steak in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a few hours before cooking.
- Swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but reduce the quantity slightly to avoid thinning.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the orzo for a vegetable boost.
- If you prefer, finish the steak in the oven after searing to ensure even cooking.
Storage
Store leftover steak and orzo separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the orzo gently on the stove with a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce. Reheat steak slices briefly in a warm pan or microwave to avoid overcooking.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, skirt or hanger steak can be used similarly, though cooking times may vary slightly. Choose cuts that are thin and cook quickly for best results.
How do I know when the steak is done?
Use a meat thermometer for precision: 125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, and 145°F for medium. Rest the steak after cooking to let the juices redistribute before slicing.
PrintCreamy Parmesan Flank Steak with Orzo Recipe
A delicious and satisfying meal featuring tender seared flank steak served over a bed of creamy, buttery orzo pasta enriched with garlic and Parmesan cheese. This dish combines rich flavors and a comforting texture, perfect for a hearty dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Steak
- 1 lb flank steak
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Creamy Orzo
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups water or broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Steak: Season the flank steak generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Sear the Steak: Place the steak in the skillet and sear for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for 5-10 minutes to retain juices.
- Cook the Orzo: In a separate saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or broth to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain any excess liquid if necessary.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: While the orzo is cooking, melt butter in a pan over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the cooked orzo, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well to combine and heat through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Slice and Serve: Slice the rested flank steak thinly against the grain. Serve the steak slices over the creamy orzo, spooning any pan juices on top for extra flavor.
Notes
- Allowing the steak to rest after cooking helps keep it juicy and tender.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Use chicken or vegetable broth instead of water to add more depth to the orzo.
- For extra flavor, add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the orzo before serving.
- Ensure you slice the steak against the grain to maximize tenderness.
Keywords: Flank steak recipe, creamy orzo, easy dinner, garlic Parmesan orzo, seared steak
