Chef Mitchell preparing Grilled Steak Caprese
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I first discovered the combination of grilled steak and Caprese flavors during a family trip to Italy. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients inspired me to create this dish for my own kitchen. Over the years, I've perfected the marinade and presentation to ensure that each bite captures the essence of summer. It's a recipe that has become a family favorite!"

With over a decade of experience in Italian cuisine, Chef Mitchell has a passion for creating authentic, flavorful dishes. His expertise extends to various dinner recipes that highlight fresh ingredients and culinary techniques. He loves sharing his culinary adventures with home cooks.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Grilled Steak Caprese served on a plate

Why This Grilled Steak Caprese Recipe Works

This Grilled Steak Caprese recipe stands out due to its balance of flavors and textures. The marinated steak is grilled to perfection, delivering a smoky, savory taste that complements the freshness of the Caprese ingredients. The combination of the juicy steak with the creamy mozzarella and sweet tomatoes creates a harmonious dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing.

The technique of marinating the steak infuses it with flavor and tenderness, while quick grilling locks in moisture. The addition of fresh ingredients like basil and tomatoes enhances the dish’s appeal, making it not just a meal but an experience. This recipe is as much about enjoying the cooking process as it is about the final product.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best flavor, let your steak marinate for at least one hour, or up to overnight if time allows. This allows the meat to absorb the marinade fully, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. Always slice against the grain for the best texture in your final dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Marinate the steak and store it in the fridge. You can also prepare the Caprese salad ingredients in advance; just combine them right before serving to keep everything fresh. However, it's best to grill the steak right before serving for optimal taste and texture.

If you prefer, you can substitute flank steak with skirt steak, sirloin, or ribeye. Each cut brings its unique flavor and texture, so choose based on your preference. Just ensure to adjust cooking times as different cuts may require different grilling durations.

The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C). Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

It's not recommended to freeze the assembled dish as the texture of fresh ingredients like mozzarella and tomatoes will change. However, you can freeze marinated steak before grilling. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before cooking for the best results.

This dish pairs wonderfully with a light arugula salad or grilled vegetables. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious juices. A glass of red wine would complement the flavors beautifully.

Leftovers can last up to 3 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, for the best taste and texture, it’s recommended to eat it within 1-2 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the steak.

While the steak is best grilled fresh, you can prepare the marinade and chop the salad ingredients in advance. Grill the steak just before serving for optimal flavor. The assembled dish can be put together quickly, making it a great option for entertaining.

To reheat, place the sliced steak in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out. Heat gently until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the steak tough.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your steak turns out dry, it may have been overcooked.

Solution: To prevent this, use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature and remove the steak from the grill at the right time. Also, marinating the steak helps retain moisture.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the steak lacks a crispy exterior, it may need a hotter grill.

Solution: Preheat your grill properly and ensure it’s at medium-high heat before placing the steak on it. This helps achieve a nice sear.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooking can lead to a tough and chewy steak.

Prevention: To avoid this, always keep an eye on cooking times, and use a thermometer to ensure you're reaching your desired doneness.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the center of the steak is undercooked, it can be tough to enjoy.

Recovery: After slicing, if you find the center is undercooked, you can quickly sear the slices in a hot pan for a minute or two until they reach your desired doneness.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: If the exterior of your steak is burnt while the inside is undercooked, it indicates too high a heat or too long on the grill.

Prevention: Use a medium-high heat and check the steak regularly to ensure even cooking. Move to a cooler part of the grill if it is cooking too quickly on the outside.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If your dish is too sweet, add a touch of acidity with lemon juice or vinegar to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If it's too salty, serving with a side of unsalted grains can help absorb the excess salt.

Bland: To fix blandness, enhance the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or fresh herbs for added flavor.

Fresh ingredients for Grilled Steak Caprese

Essential Ingredients for Grilled Steak Caprese

The key ingredients in this recipe include flank steak, fresh mozzarella, ripe cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil. Each element contributes to the overall flavor, making it essential to choose high-quality products. The steak should be well-marbled for tenderness, while fresh mozzarella should be creamy and soft.

Using ripe, in-season tomatoes will enhance the sweetness and flavor of the dish. Fresh basil adds a aromatic touch that ties all the ingredients together. Paying attention to ingredient quality is crucial for achieving the best results.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Flank Steak: Flank steak is lean and flavorful. Marinate it properly to enhance its tenderness. Always slice it against the grain to maximize tenderness.
  • Fresh Mozzarella: Use high-quality fresh mozzarella for the best taste. Look for mozzarella packed in water for moisture and flavor. Slice it just before serving to maintain its texture.
  • Cherry Tomatoes: Choose ripe and sweet cherry tomatoes for this recipe. They should be firm yet juicy. If possible, use heirloom varieties for added flavor.
Cooking process for Grilled Steak Caprese

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for Grilled Steak Caprese is straightforward and user-friendly. Start by marinating the steak, allowing it to absorb the flavors. Preheat your grill to ensure even cooking, then grill the steak to your desired doneness.

After grilling, let the steak rest to retain juices before slicing. Combine fresh ingredients for the Caprese salad, and serve them elegantly over the sliced steak. This approach guarantees a delicious meal that looks as good as it tastes.

Key Technique for Perfect Grilled Steak Caprese

The key to a perfect Grilled Steak Caprese lies in the marinating and grilling technique. Marinating helps to tenderize the meat and infuse flavor. Additionally, grilling over medium-high heat for the right amount of time ensures a beautifully charred exterior while keeping the inside juicy. Pay attention to resting the steak after cooking to allow the flavors to meld.

Grilled Steak Caprese

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup balsamic vinegar
    For drizzling
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
    Extra virgin preferred

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs flank steak
    For grilling
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls
    Cut into halves
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes
    Halved
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
    For garnish
  • Salt and pepper to taste
    For seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
    For flavor
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
    For heat

Instructions

  1. Prepare Marinade

    In a bowl, mix olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.

  2. Marinate Steak

    Place the flank steak in a large resealable bag, pour the marinade over it, seal, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

  3. Preheat Grill

    Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

  4. Grill Steak

    Remove the steak from the marinade and grill for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until desired doneness.

  5. Rest the Steak

    Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing.

  6. Prepare Caprese Salad

    In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, and season with salt and pepper.

  7. Slice Steak

    Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips.

  8. Assemble the Dish

    On a serving platter, arrange the arugula, top with sliced steak, and spoon the Caprese salad over the top.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store Grilled Steak Caprese, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. It can last up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the steak. The fresh ingredients may lose their texture, so it’s best consumed within 1-2 days.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Grilled Steak Caprese on a large platter for a family-style meal. Pair it with a light salad or grilled vegetables for a complete dinner. A glass of red wine will elevate the dining experience.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding different vegetables such as grilled zucchini or peppers. You can also switch out the steak for chicken or shrimp for a different protein option. Experiment with various cheeses like burrata or feta for unique flavor combinations.