If you’re on the hunt for a meal that feels special yet comes together effortlessly, you’ve hit the jackpot with Flank Steak with Creamy Orzo: A Delicious and Easy Weeknight Meal Recipe. This dish perfectly balances the smoky, savory flavors of tender flank steak with a luscious, cheesy orzo that’s loaded with fresh spinach and a hint of lemon brightness. It’s the kind of recipe that turns an ordinary weeknight dinner into a cozy feast, and trust me, once you try it, this one-pan meal will quickly become a favorite go-to for busy evenings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly simple but pack a punch when combined. Each element plays a key role in bringing out rich flavors, creamy textures, and vibrant colors that make every bite satisfying and crave-worthy.
- 1 pound flank steak: This lean, flavorful cut cooks quickly and benefits from slicing against the grain for tenderness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps develop a beautiful crust on the steak.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the savory flavors perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides just the right amount of heat and depth.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Delivers a subtle garlicky aroma that complements the steak beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds warmth and a hint of smokiness.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Brings luscious creaminess to the orzo and balances savory notes.
- 1 small yellow onion (finely chopped): Softens and sweetens the dish naturally during cooking.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic intensifies the flavor and adds a punch to the orzo.
- 1 cup orzo pasta: The star of the creamy side, soaking up all the delicious broth and cream.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Adds flavorful moisture and depth to the orzo.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream: Makes the orzo incredibly rich and silky.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish that melts into the cream.
- 2 cups baby spinach: A fresh, healthy pop of green that wilts beautifully into the orzo.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Brightens the entire dish with a refreshing zing.
- Chopped parsley for garnish: A lovely color contrast and fresh herbal note at the end.
How to Make Flank Steak with Creamy Orzo: A Delicious and Easy Weeknight Meal Recipe
Step 1: Season and Cook the Flank Steak
Start by preheating your grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Rub the flank steak with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and then coat it evenly with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This simple rub locks in flavor while giving that beautiful crust when seared. Cook the steak for 4 to 5 minutes per side until it reaches your preferred doneness. Once cooked, transfer it to a plate and tent it loosely with foil. Letting it rest for 10 minutes is key—it allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender, juicy steak when sliced.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic, Toast the Orzo
While the steak rests, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. This step is essential for building a savory base. Next, stir in the minced garlic and orzo pasta, cooking for another 1 to 2 minutes. Toasting the orzo until it’s lightly golden intensifies its nutty flavor, which pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce to come.
Step 3: Cook Orzo in Broth and Finish with Cream and Spinach
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook the orzo, stirring occasionally, until tender and most of the liquid has absorbed, roughly 10 to 12 minutes. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and baby spinach. Let the spinach wilt and the orzo become luxuriously creamy, about 2 more minutes. The cheese and cream enrich the pasta, while the spinach adds freshness and bright color. Finally, stir in the fresh lemon juice and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper if needed.
Step 4: Slice Steak and Serve
Slice the rested flank steak against the grain into thin strips to ensure tenderness. Plate the creamy orzo and arrange the steak slices on top or beside it. Don’t forget to sprinkle chopped parsley and a little extra Parmesan over the dish for that final touch of flavor and vibrant presentation. This meal comes together in under 40 minutes, perfect for a satisfying but fuss-free weeknight dinner.
How to Serve Flank Steak with Creamy Orzo: A Delicious and Easy Weeknight Meal Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley and grated Parmesan transform this dish from good to wow. Parsley adds a fresh herbal brightness while Parmesan adds a salty finish that rounds out the flavors. If you want to get fancy, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add an exciting twist.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but also pairs wonderfully with a crisp side salad dressed lightly in vinaigrette, or roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts that provide a delightful earthy contrast to the creamy orzo.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the steak slices fanned over the orzo on large white plates to highlight the beautiful creaminess and vibrant spinach. Alternatively, plating the steak on a rustic wooden board beside a bowl of orzo allows guests to serve themselves, making the meal feel both casual and elegant.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The creamy orzo thickens as it cools, so add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to bring back that luxurious texture.
Freezing
While the flank steak is best eaten fresh for optimal tenderness, you can freeze the creamy orzo separately in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat on the stovetop with a bit of liquid to revive its creaminess.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers over low heat on the stove rather than using a microwave to maintain the orzo’s silky texture and prevent the steak from drying out. Adding a touch of broth or cream will keep everything moist and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While flank steak is ideal due to its flavor and quick cooking time, skirt steak or sirloin can also be excellent substitutes. Just be sure to slice against the grain to keep your steak tender.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative and use a dairy-free cheese substitute or simply omit the Parmesan. The dish will still be creamy and flavorful.
Can I prepare this dish entirely on the stovetop?
Definitely. The steak is cooked in a grill pan or skillet, and the orzo is prepared right in the same pan afterward. This limits cleanup and makes for a smooth cooking process that’s perfect for weeknights.
What can I substitute for heavy cream if I want a lighter option?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk as lighter alternatives, though the orzo will be slightly less rich. Adding a little extra Parmesan helps maintain that creamy, indulgent taste.
How do I know when the steak is cooked to the right doneness?
Use a meat thermometer for best results: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium. Remember the steak will continue to cook slightly while resting, so it’s best to remove it just before your target temperature.
Final Thoughts
This Flank Steak with Creamy Orzo: A Delicious and Easy Weeknight Meal Recipe is a true winner for anyone craving hearty comfort food without spending all night in the kitchen. It’s warm, inviting, and effortlessly impressive—a fantastic way to make a weeknight feel like a celebration. Give it a try, and I guarantee it will become a staple in your dinner rotation.
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Flank Steak with Creamy Orzo: A Delicious and Easy Weeknight Meal Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Flank Steak with Creamy Orzo is a delicious and easy weeknight meal combining perfectly grilled, tender flank steak with a rich and creamy orzo pasta cooked with spinach and Parmesan cheese. The dish offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying main course that comes together quickly with simple ingredients.
Ingredients
For the Flank Steak
- 1 pound flank steak
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
For the Creamy Orzo
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Flank Steak: Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Rub the flank steak with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to evenly coat the meat with the seasoning.
- Cook the Steak: Place the seasoned flank steak on the hot grill pan and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Remove the steak from heat, cover loosely with foil, and let it rest for 10 minutes to help retain the juices before slicing.
- Sauté Aromatics: While the steak rests, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil along with the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add Garlic and Orzo: Stir in the minced garlic and orzo pasta, cooking for 1 to 2 minutes until the orzo is lightly toasted and fragrant.
- Cook the Orzo: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let the orzo cook, stirring occasionally, until tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 10 to 12 minutes.
- Make it Creamy: Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and baby spinach. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the spinach has wilted and the orzo becomes creamy.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in fresh lemon juice and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper if needed. Slice the rested flank steak thinly against the grain and plate it atop the creamy orzo. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired, then serve warm.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream to reduce fat content.
- You can substitute baby spinach with arugula or kale for a different flavor and texture.
- Leftovers reheat well when warmed with a splash of broth or cream to maintain creaminess.
