Chef Mitchell preparing Grilled Steak with Tomato Mozzarella
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

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

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this Grilled Steak with Tomato Mozzarella recipe during a family gathering in Italy. The combination of fresh ingredients and traditional grilling techniques inspired me to create a version that suits my family’s tastes. Over the years, I've perfected it, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor. It has become a staple in our household, especially during summer barbecues."

Chef Mitchell has spent over a decade mastering Mediterranean cuisine, focusing on fresh, seasonal ingredients. He has created countless dishes that celebrate the vibrant flavors of this region. His passion for cooking shines through every meal, especially those inspired by traditional recipes.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Grilled Steak with Tomato Mozzarella served on a plate

Why This Grilled Steak with Tomato Mozzarella Recipe Works

This recipe stands out due to its combination of high-quality ingredients and simple techniques. The marinated steak is grilled to perfection, locking in flavors and juices. Fresh mozzarella and ripe tomatoes add a refreshing touch that balances the richness of the beef. Together, they create a dish that is not only delicious but visually appealing.

The key to this dish is the marination process, which infuses deep flavors into the steak. Grilling it at the right temperature ensures a beautifully seared crust while keeping the inside tender. Each component complements the others, making it a well-rounded meal that pairs perfectly with a side salad or crusty bread.

💡 Professional Tip

For the juiciest steak, let it rest after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful. Additionally, using room temperature ingredients can enhance the overall cooking experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can marinate the steak ahead of time, up to 24 hours, to enhance the flavor. However, it’s best to grill the steak fresh for the best texture. You can prepare the tomato and mozzarella mixture in advance as well, just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.

If you can’t find fresh mozzarella, you can use regular mozzarella cheese or even burrata for a creamier texture. Feta cheese also works well but has a stronger flavor, so adjust the seasoning accordingly.

To check if your steak is done, use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of about 135°F. Alternatively, you can use the finger test method to check for doneness, feeling for a soft but firm texture.

It’s best to freeze the steak separately from the toppings. Cooked steak can be frozen for up to 3 months. However, the fresh mozzarella and tomatoes do not freeze well, so it's best to add them after reheating.

This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread. A light pasta dish or some grilled asparagus also complements the flavors well.

Cooked steak can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. However, the tomato and mozzarella topping is best enjoyed fresh and should be consumed within 1-2 days.

While the steak is best grilled fresh, you can prepare the marinade and the tomato topping ahead of time. Grill the steak shortly before serving for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheat the steak gently in the oven at a low temperature, around 250°F, to prevent it from drying out. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the steak tough. Add the tomato and mozzarella topping after reheating.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your steak turns out dry, it may have been overcooked or not marinated long enough.

Solution: To prevent this, make sure to monitor the cooking time closely and consider marinating for a longer period to enhance moisture retention.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the exterior of the steak is not crispy, it may not have been seared at high enough heat.

Solution: Ensure your grill is preheated adequately, and consider using a cast iron skillet for better heat retention if grilling indoors.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: An overcooked steak can result in a tough and chewy texture.

Prevention: Use a meat thermometer for precise cooking times, and let the steak rest after grilling to allow it to recover some moisture.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: An undercooked steak may have a raw center.

Recovery: If you find the steak undercooked, return it to the grill for a few more minutes on each side, checking the temperature regularly.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: A burnt exterior can occur if the grill temperature is too high or if the steak is left on the grill too long.

Prevention: To prevent this, ensure even heat distribution on the grill and avoid placing the steak directly over high flames.

✅

Flavor Balance

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

Too Salty: To fix an overly salty dish, serve it with a side of unsalted ingredients, like rice or salad.

Bland: If the dish is bland, enhance the flavors with more herbs, spices, or a drizzle of good olive oil.

Fresh ingredients for Grilled Steak with Tomato Mozzarella

Essential Ingredients for Grilled Steak with Tomato Mozzarella

The key to this dish is selecting high-quality ingredients. Fresh mozzarella and ripe tomatoes make a significant difference in flavor. Choose steaks with good marbling for tenderness and taste.

Using organic or locally sourced produce enhances the overall quality of the dish. Fresh herbs like basil add a burst of flavor and freshness, making the meal truly memorable.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Steak: Choose a well-marbled cut for flavor and tenderness. Ribeye and sirloin are excellent choices for grilling.
  • Fresh Mozzarella: Opt for ball-form mozzarella packed in water for the best texture and taste. It melts beautifully and complements the steak perfectly.
  • Tomatoes: Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for maximum flavor. Cherry or heirloom varieties work particularly well in this recipe.
Cooking process for Grilled Steak with Tomato Mozzarella

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Cooking Grilled Steak with Tomato Mozzarella involves simple steps to achieve a perfect result. Marinating the steak allows flavors to penetrate deeply, while grilling properly ensures a juicy, tender texture.

Pay attention to cooking times and temperatures for the best outcome. Resting the steak after grilling is crucial for maintaining juiciness. Topping with fresh ingredients right before serving elevates the dish.

Key Technique for Perfect Grilled Steak with Tomato Mozzarella

The marinade is the heart of this recipe. Allowing the steak to soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes enhances its flavor and tenderness. Also, grilling at a consistent medium-high heat helps achieve that perfect sear.

Grilled Steak with Tomato Mozzarella

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (optional)
    Chopped parsley or basil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    For extra flavor
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    Freshly squeezed
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
    For color

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs steak (ribeye or sirloin)
    Marinated
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes
    Halved
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella
    Sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    For marinating
  • 2 cloves garlic
    Minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
    For flavor
  • Salt and pepper to taste
    For seasoning
  • Fresh basil leaves
    For garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade

    In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and balsamic vinegar. Add the steak and marinate for at least 30 minutes.

  2. Preheat the Grill

    Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Ensure the grates are clean and lightly oiled.

  3. Grill the Steak

    Remove the steak from the marinade and grill for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until desired doneness.

  4. Prepare Topping

    While the steak is grilling, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella slices, and Italian seasoning in a bowl.

  5. Rest the Steak

    Once cooked, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes to retain its juices.

  6. Slice the Steak

    Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips.

  7. Assemble the Dish

    Place the sliced steak on a serving platter and top with the tomato and mozzarella mixture. Garnish with fresh basil.

  8. Serve

    Serve immediately while warm, optionally drizzled with more olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

Store any leftover steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The tomato and mozzarella topping should be consumed within two days for optimal freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Grilled Steak with Tomato Mozzarella with a side of grilled vegetables or a light salad to enhance the Mediterranean experience. A glass of red wine pairs beautifully with this dish.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to experiment with different toppings, such as a pesto drizzle or a sprinkle of feta cheese. You can also try marinating with different herbs such as rosemary or thyme for a unique twist.