Pan-Seared Flank Steak with Herb Sauce is a simple yet elegant dish that takes a lean cut of steak and transforms it with a flavorful, herb-infused sauce. The steak is seared to a perfect medium-rare on the outside, while remaining tender and juicy inside. The accompanying sauce, made with fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, and garlic, adds a burst of flavor that complements the richness of the steak beautifully.
I first made this dish when I wanted to elevate a flank steak but keep things quick and easy. The pan-searing process gave the steak a lovely crust, and the herb sauce brought everything together with its vibrant flavors. It was one of those dishes that felt fancy but was surprisingly simple to prepare. The steak was the star of the show, but the herb sauce was the perfect finishing touch.
What I love most about this recipe is how versatile the herb sauce is. You can switch up the herbs depending on what you have on hand or even add some fresh lemon juice for extra brightness. This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad. Pan-Seared Flank Steak with Herb Sauce is a perfect way to impress guests or enjoy a satisfying dinner at home!
Perfect for:
- Family dinners
- Celebratory meals
- Outdoor gatherings
- Steak lovers
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why this Pan-Seared Flank Steak with Herb Sauce will become your go-to meal:
- Quick and Easy Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
- Perfectly Seared Crust: Achieved with a hot skillet, locking in all the juices.
- Herbaceous Flavor Explosion: The herb sauce elevates the steak with fresh and tangy notes.
- Versatile Pairing Options: Goes well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
- Budget-Friendly: Flank steak is a cost-effective yet delicious cut.
- Customizable Herb Sauce: Use your favorite herbs or what you have on hand.
- Impressive Presentation: Looks and tastes like a gourmet dish.
- Healthy and Nutrient-Rich: High in protein and customizable to be low-carb.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Works as a casual weeknight meal or an elegant dinner.
- Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Universally loved by meat enthusiasts.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 32g, Carbs: 2g, Fat: 25g
Ingredients
For the Steak:
- 1½ pounds flank steak
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For the Herb Sauce:
- ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- ½ teaspoon salt
Ingredient Highlights
- Flank Steak: A lean and flavorful cut that’s easy to cook.
- Fresh Herbs: Key to creating the vibrant and aromatic sauce.
- Olive Oil: Adds richness to the sauce and helps sear the steak.
- Red Wine Vinegar: Provides tangy brightness to balance the richness of the steak.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Steak:
- Season the Steak: Pat the flank steak dry with paper towels. Rub with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.
- Heat the Skillet: Preheat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until hot.
- Sear the Steak: Place the steak in the hot skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for your desired doneness.
- Rest the Steak: Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Make the Herb Sauce:
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix parsley, cilantro, oregano, garlic, red pepper flakes, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and salt.
- Adjust to Taste: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve the Steak:
- Slice Against the Grain: Slice the rested steak thinly against the grain for tenderness.
- Top with Herb Sauce: Spoon the herb sauce over the sliced steak and serve immediately.
How to Serve
Here are 10 serving suggestions for Pan-Seared Flank Steak with Herb Sauce:
- With Grilled Vegetables: Pair with zucchini, asparagus, or bell peppers for a healthy side.
- On a Salad: Serve slices over a bed of greens with a balsamic vinaigrette.
- In Tacos: Use as a flavorful filling with corn tortillas and fresh toppings.
- With Mashed Potatoes: For a classic, comforting meal.
- Over Rice or Quinoa: Adds a hearty base to soak up the herb sauce.
- With Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping into the herb sauce.
- With a Side of Fries: Make it a steak-and-fries dinner.
- As a Sandwich: Use slices in a baguette with lettuce and tomatoes.
- As a Protein-Packed Breakfast: Pair with eggs and avocado.
- For Meal Prep: Prepare ahead for lunches or quick dinners.
Additional Tips
- Room Temperature is Key: Allow the flank steak to sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking and a perfect sear.
- Pat Dry Before Searing: Use paper towels to pat the steak dry before seasoning. A dry surface promotes better browning.
- Generous Seasoning: Season the steak generously with salt and pepper right before cooking to enhance the natural flavors.
- Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: A heavy skillet like cast iron retains heat better, creating an even sear with a flavorful crust.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the steak in batches or use a large enough skillet to avoid steaming. A single layer is best for a proper sear.
- Check for Doneness: Use an instant-read thermometer for accuracy: 125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, and 145°F for medium.
- Let It Rest: Allow the steak to rest for 5–10 minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the steak tender and flavorful.
- Slice Against the Grain: Cutting the steak against the grain ensures each slice is tender and easy to chew.
- Customize the Herb Sauce: Add a personal touch by mixing in ingredients like chili flakes for heat or lemon zest for brightness.
- Pair It Right: Serve with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad to balance the rich flavors of the steak and sauce.
Recipe Variations
- Chimichurri Sauce: Swap the herb sauce for a traditional chimichurri.
- Garlic Butter Steak: Top with melted garlic butter instead of herb sauce.
- Grilled Flank Steak: Cook on a grill instead of a skillet for a smoky flavor.
- Spicy Version: Add extra chili flakes or fresh jalapeños to the herb sauce.
- Asian-Inspired Sauce: Use soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger in place of herbs.
- Steak Bowl: Serve over rice with avocado, salsa, and beans for a burrito bowl.
- Mediterranean Style: Add feta cheese and sun-dried tomatoes to the herb sauce.
- Marinated Steak: Marinate the steak in the herb sauce for 1 hour before cooking.
- Lemon Herb Sauce: Replace vinegar with fresh lemon juice for a citrusy twist.
- Vegan Option: Use the herb sauce on grilled tofu or portobello mushrooms.
Special Equipment
- Cast-Iron Skillet: For the best sear and even cooking.
- Sharp Knife: Essential for slicing the steak thinly against the grain.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy surface for resting and slicing the steak.
- Mixing Bowl: For preparing the herb sauce.
- Tongs: To handle the steak while cooking.
- Meat Thermometer: For checking the internal temperature of the steak.
FAQ Section
- Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, skirt steak or hanger steak work well as substitutes. - What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Gently reheat slices in a skillet over low heat to preserve moisture. - Can I make this dish ahead?
Yes, cook the steak and prepare the sauce in advance; assemble just before serving. - What can I substitute for red wine vinegar?
Use apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for a similar tangy flavor. - How do I prevent the steak from being tough?
Avoid overcooking and always slice against the grain. - Can I freeze the steak?
Yes, freeze cooked slices in an airtight container for up to 3 months. - What can I do with leftovers?
Use in sandwiches, salads, or tacos for a delicious second meal. - How do I make the sauce spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. - Can I grill the steak instead of searing?
Absolutely, grilling adds a smoky flavor to the dish. - What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
Use dried herbs, but reduce the quantity to avoid overpowering the flavor.
Conclusion
Pan-Seared Flank Steak with Herb Sauce is a tender, flavorful dish that’s as impressive as it is easy to prepare. The juicy, perfectly seared steak is paired with a vibrant herb sauce, creating a harmonious balance of savory and fresh flavors.
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the boldness of the herb sauce. The flank steak is seasoned with salt, pepper, and a hint of garlic before being seared to perfection in a hot skillet. The herb sauce—made with parsley, cilantro, garlic, olive oil, and a splash of lemon—adds a zesty and aromatic finish. Serve this dish with roasted vegetables or crusty bread to complete the meal.
I’d love to see your Pan-Seared Flank Steak with Herb Sauce creations! Share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I can’t wait to see your deliciously seared steaks. Don’t forget to leave a comment and share how you personalized your herb sauce with your favorite ingredients!