As summer whispers its sweet secrets, there’s nothing quite like the sizzle of steak on the grill. My latest culinary adventure features Balsamic Caprese Grilled Steak, a dish that perfectly captures the essence of warm evenings spent outdoors. With every bite, the robust flank steak is elevated by a delightful medley of fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. What I love most is how quickly this dish comes together—ideal for spontaneous dinners or summer barbecues. Plus, it’s gluten-free, making it a wonderful option for a variety of dietary needs! Are you ready to transform your grilling game with this mouthwatering recipe?

Why Is This Steak Recipe a Must-Try?

Elevated Flavor: The balance of hearty flank steak with the freshness of cherry tomatoes and mozzarella creates an unforgettable taste experience. Tangy balsamic glaze ties it all together, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

Quick Preparation: With minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy nights or those unexpected guests.

Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment with vegetarian substitutes, like grilled portobello mushrooms; everyone can enjoy a slice of summer!

Gluten-Free Delight: Ideal for gluten-sensitive diets, this dish doesn’t compromise on flavor or satisfaction.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether for a backyard barbecue or a cozy weeknight dinner, this Balsamic Caprese Grilled Steak will impress everyone at the table. Pair it with sides like Grilled Chicken Broccoli for a well-rounded meal!

Balsamic Caprese Grilled Steak Ingredients

For the Steak

Flank Steak – A rich-flavored cut ideal for absorbing marinades; consider skirt steak or sirloin as substitutes.
Olive Oil – Adds moisture and aids in marinating; avocado oil works well too.
Garlic (minced) – Infuses garlic flavor; fresh is more aromatic than powdered.
Dijon Mustard – Adds tanginess to the marinade; yellow mustard can be swapped in if needed.
Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings; kosher salt is a great alternative for less saltiness.

For the Caprese Topping

Cherry Tomatoes – Offers sweetness and acidity; choose firm, vibrant tomatoes for the best flavor.
Bocconcini (Mozzarella balls) – Provides a creamy texture; dairy-free mozzarella can replace it for lactose intolerance.
Fresh Basil – Elevates freshness; dried basil can be used in a pinch but lacks vibrancy.

For the Balsamic Glaze

Balsamic Glaze – Unifies flavors with sweet and tangy notes; consider a homemade balsamic reduction for extra flair.

This Balsamic Caprese Grilled Steak is not only a feast for the senses but also an easy-to-make dish that brings summer’s essence right to your table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Balsamic Caprese Grilled Steak

Step 1: Marinate the Steak
In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or Italian herbs. Place the flank steak in a resealable bag, pour in the marinade, and seal it tight. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for 1 to 4 hours, turning occasionally for even coverage.

Step 2: Prepare the Grill
While the steak marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high, aiming for about 400°F (204°C). Once hot, clean the grill grates with a brush to remove any residue, then oil them lightly to prevent sticking. This preheating ensures a perfect sear, which is key to achieving that mouthwatering flavor in your Balsamic Caprese Grilled Steak.

Step 3: Grill the Steak
Remove the flank steak from the marinade, shaking off any excess, and place it directly on the grill. Grill the steak for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare. Look for a beautiful char and grill marks, indicating the steak is ready to come off the heat.

Step 4: Rest the Steak
Once grilled to perfection, transfer the steak onto a cutting board and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and juicy bite. After resting, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips for maximum tenderness, which is crucial for your Balsamic Caprese Grilled Steak.

Step 5: Prepare Caprese Topping
In a mixing bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, bocconcini, and shredded fresh basil for a vibrant Caprese topping. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to combine, allowing the flavors to meld. This fresh topping perfectly elevates your grilled steak.

Step 6: Plate the Dish
To serve, arrange the sliced flank steak on a large platter, artfully spooning the Caprese mixture over the top. For an added touch, drizzle balsamic glaze across the steak and toppings. This not only adds visual appeal but enhances the delightful flavors of your Balsamic Caprese Grilled Steak, inviting everyone to dig in!

Make Ahead Options

These Balsamic Caprese Grilled Steak preparations are perfect for busy home cooks seeking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can marinate the flank steak up to 24 hours in advance—just place the seasoned steak in a resealable bag and refrigerate. For the Caprese topping, prepare the cherry tomatoes and bocconcini up to 3 days ahead; store them in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh. Assemble the topping just before serving to maintain the vibrant flavors. When you’re ready to cook, simply grill the marinated steak and let it rest before slicing, ensuring that every bite is just as delicious as if made fresh. Enjoy a tasty meal with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Balsamic Caprese Grilled Steak

Marinate Long Enough: Allow the flank steak to marinate for at least 1 hour, but 4 hours will deepen the flavor and tenderness, enhancing the taste of your Balsamic Caprese Grilled Steak.
Grill Temperature Matters: Always preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures a perfect sear and prevents the steak from sticking, leading to a beautiful char.
Use a Meat Thermometer: For consistent results, check the steak’s internal temperature—aim for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare. Overcooking will lead to a tough texture.
Slice Against the Grain: After resting, slice the steak against the grain to maximize tenderness. This small step can significantly elevate the eating experience of your Balsamic Caprese Grilled Steak.
Fresh Ingredients Shine: Choose the ripest cherry tomatoes and freshest basil for the topping; they can make all the difference in brightness and flavor in your dish.

What to Serve with Balsamic Caprese Grilled Steak?

Elevate your summer dining experience with delightful sides that perfectly balance the flavors of the juicy steak and fresh Caprese topping.

Garlic Bread: The warm, crispy texture complements the tender steak, perfect for soaking up any leftover balsamic glaze.
Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes echo the salad elements of the dish, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Smoky, charred vegetables add a satisfying crunch and enhance the outdoor grilling vibe you’re aiming for.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Light and velvety mashed potatoes offer a comforting contrast to the bold flavors of the steak.
Quinoa Salad: Nutty quinoa mixed with cucumber, herbs, and a lemon vinaigrette introduces a healthy, refreshing component to the meal.
Charred Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky with a juicy bite, charred corn adds a festive summer feel to your plate.
Crisp Green Beans: A side of bright, sautéed green beans provides a crunchy texture and vibrant color, enhancing the overall aesthetics.
Red Wine: A robust Cabernet Sauvignon pairs beautifully, enriching the flavors of the balsamic glaze and beef.

Consider these pairings to create a delightful, well-rounded meal that your family and friends will rave about!

Balsamic Caprese Grilled Steak Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine when preparing this delicious dish! Here are some fun twists you can try for a personalized touch.

Vegetarian Option: Substitute flank steak with grilled portobello mushrooms or eggplant for a hearty and delicious dish. The smoky flavor of the mushrooms truly complements the Caprese topping.
Cheese Swap: Burrata or Feta: Try using burrata for an ultra-creamy texture, or crumbled feta to add a tangy kick and unique flavor profile.
Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted Peppers: Add roasted bell peppers or zucchini to the Caprese topping. They provide an irresistible sweetness that brightens up every bite.
Herb Variations: Italian Herbs or Oregano: Mix in fresh herbs like oregano or thyme instead of basil for a different aromatic experience that still captures that summery essence.
Zesty Kick: Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the Caprese mix. That little extra spice will elevate the overall flavor beautifully.
Fruit Infusion: Peach Addition: Incorporate diced fresh peaches or nectarines into the Caprese topping for a sweet and juicy twist that pairs wonderfully with the balsamic glaze.
Low-Carb Twist: Cauliflower Steak: For a low-carb alternative, use cauliflower steaks grilled until golden. They offer a lovely texture and can absorb the marinade’s rich flavors.
Serve with Sides: Consider pairing your steak with a delicate salad or sides like Grilled Chicken Broccoli to create a complete meal that everyone will savor!

Experiment and enjoy the process, because cooking should bring joy and excitement to your kitchen!

How to Store and Freeze Balsamic Caprese Grilled Steak

Fridge: Store leftover grilled steak in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the Caprese topping separate until ready to serve for maximum freshness.

Freezer: If you want to save your grilled steak for later, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw the steak in the fridge overnight. Warm it gently in a skillet over low heat or reheat in the oven until warmed through to avoid drying out.

Caprese Topping: Prepare the Caprese topping fresh each time, as it’s best enjoyed immediately to maintain the taste and texture of the tomatoes and basil.

Balsamic Caprese Grilled Steak Recipe FAQs

What type of flank steak should I pick?
When selecting flank steak, look for cuts that are deep red in color with good marbling. This marbling will help keep the steak juicy during grilling. Avoid any pieces that have dark spots or are overly tough to the touch — they might not provide the best flavor and tenderness.

How should I store leftover Balsamic Caprese Grilled Steak?
Store leftover grilled steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the Caprese topping separate until you’re ready to enjoy it again, as this helps maintain its freshness and texture.

Can I freeze the grilled steak for later use?
Absolutely! To freeze your grilled steak, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then follow with a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. This way, it can last for up to 3 months.

What’s the best way to reheat the grilled steak?
To reheat, first thaw the steak in the fridge overnight. Then, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, or place it in the oven on a low setting until heated through. This helps avoid drying out the meat. Always remember, a quick visit back to the grill can help revive that delicious char if you’re extra careful!

Can I make the Caprese topping in advance?
It’s best to prepare the Caprese topping fresh just before serving. This ensures that the tomatoes maintain their color, texture, and flavor. If you have leftover topping, store it in the fridge for no more than a day as the ingredients may become mushy over time.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diets?
Yes! This Balsamic Caprese Grilled Steak recipe is entirely gluten-free, making it perfect for those with gluten sensitivities. Just ensure that any additional ingredients, like the balsamic glaze, are specifically labeled as gluten-free. Enjoy this flavorful dish worry-free!