Flank Steak Vegetable Rolls

These air fried steak and asparagus bundles transform plain flank steak into an impressive meal that looks like it took hours to prepare. The combination of tender steak wrapped around crisp vegetables and finished with a rich balsamic glaze creates a restaurant quality dinner right at home.

I originally created this recipe for a small dinner party and was amazed at how quickly I could prepare six impressive individual servings without being stuck in the kitchen all evening.

Ingredients

• Flank steak: perfect for this recipe because its thin profile rolls easily around vegetables while remaining tender when cooked properly
• Tamari sauce: provides a deeper savory flavor than regular soy sauce with less saltiness
• Fresh garlic: adds essential aromatic notes that penetrate the meat during marination
• Asparagus spears: offer the perfect firm texture that stands up to air frying without becoming mushy
• Bell peppers: add sweetness and color contrast making the bundles visually appealing
• Balsamic vinegar: creates a rich tangy glaze that balances the savory meat perfectly
• Beef broth: adds depth to the sauce while extending the meaty flavor profile
• Butter: provides silky richness to finish the sauce giving it restaurant quality appeal

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the Steaks:

Generously sprinkle kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper over both sides of the flank steak pieces. This initial seasoning creates a foundation of flavor that will complement the marinade.

Prepare the Marinade:

Place seasoned steak pieces into a large zip top bag then add tamari sauce and crushed garlic. Press out excess air before sealing the bag completely. The tamari penetrates the meat fibers providing both flavor and tenderization.

Marinade Time:

Massage the sealed bag to ensure each piece of steak is thoroughly coated with the marinade mixture. Refrigerate for at least one hour though overnight provides the best flavor development as the tamari and garlic fully infuse the meat.

Prepare the Vegetable Filling:

Remove steaks from marinade and discard the liquid. Divide trimmed asparagus and sliced bell peppers into six equal portions ready for assembly. The vegetables should be similar lengths for even cooking.

Assemble the Bundles:

Place one steak piece flat on your work surface. Arrange a portion of asparagus and bell peppers in the center running along the grain of the meat. Roll the steak tightly around the vegetables securing with toothpicks. The toothpicks should be inserted parallel to the roll to keep everything compact.

Preheat and Prepare:

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for optimal results. This temperature gives a nice sear while cooking the steak to a perfect medium doneness. A properly preheated air fryer ensures even cooking.

Air Fry the Bundles:

Place prepared bundles in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Lightly spray the exposed vegetables with olive oil to prevent drying. Cook at 400°F for exactly 5 minutes for medium rare results. The controlled environment of the air fryer provides consistent results every time.

Rest the Meat:

Remove the bundles from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.

Prepare the Balsamic Glaze:

While the meat rests combine balsamic vinegar beef broth and butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk continuously until the mixture begins to simmer. Continue cooking until the sauce has reduced by half and coats the back of a spoon approximately 4 to 5 minutes.

Serve and Enjoy:

Remove toothpicks from the bundles and slice each into medallions if desired. Drizzle with the warm balsamic glaze just before serving for maximum visual appeal and flavor.

Pin it

I discovered that securing each bundle with two toothpicks rather than one makes them much easier to handle when transferring to and from the air fryer. My family loves these so much that they've become our traditional anniversary dinner each year.

Perfect Temperature Guide

Achieving the ideal doneness for your steak bundles depends on personal preference. For rare steak air fry for just 4 minutes. Medium rare requires the 5 minutes specified in the recipe. If you prefer medium cook for 6 minutes and medium well needs 7 minutes. Keep in mind that the steak will continue cooking slightly during the resting period so consider removing it just before it reaches your desired doneness.

Make Ahead Options

These elegant bundles are perfect for entertaining because most of the work can be done in advance. Marinate the steak overnight for maximum flavor. You can assemble the bundles up to 4 hours before cooking just keep them covered in the refrigerator. The balsamic sauce can also be made earlier in the day and gently reheated just before serving. This preparation strategy lets you enjoy time with your guests instead of being stuck in the kitchen.

Serving Suggestions

These steak bundles make a stunning presentation on their own but pair beautifully with simple sides. A creamy mashed potato or cauliflower puree creates the perfect canvas for the balsamic sauce to pool around the steak bundles. For a lighter option consider a crisp green salad with a simple lemon vinaigrette. If you want to create a more substantial spread add a side of roasted garlic bread to soak up every last bit of that delicious sauce.

Pin it

Steak bundles are the kind of dish that turns ordinary days into extraordinary meals without complicating your life.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What cut of steak is best for this dish?

Flank steak is ideal because it’s tender and can be easily rolled around the vegetables. Make sure to slice it into equal pieces before marinating.

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Yes, you can substitute or add vegetables like zucchini, green beans, or carrots as long as they are trimmed or thinly sliced.

→ Can I grill instead of air-fry?

Absolutely! Grill the steak bundles over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until the steak is cooked to your desired doneness.

→ How long should the steak marinate?

For the best flavor, marinate the steak for at least 1 hour, but you can leave it overnight for deeper seasoning.

→ How do I know when the steak bundles are done?

The steak bundles should cook for about 5 minutes at 400°F in the air fryer. Alternatively, use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches your preferred internal temperature (e.g., 130°F for medium-rare).

→ What can I serve with steak bundles?

Complement this dish with mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.