Seared Balsamic Steak Caprese Recipe

If you’re looking for a showstopper of a dinner that brings together juicy steak, vibrant tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil, this Seared Balsamic Steak Caprese Recipe is destined to become one of your favorites! Every bite is savory, tangy, and bursting with the sunny flavors of summer—yet it’s weeknight easy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this Seared Balsamic Steak Caprese Recipe so addictive is the harmony of wholesome, seasonal ingredients. Each one plays a key role in delivering the ideal balance of taste and texture, so don’t skip a thing if you can help it!

• Flank steak or skirt steak (2.5 lbs): These cuts are perfect for searing—they’re just the right thickness and turn tender after marinating.
• Coarse salt: Helps form a savory crust and brings out the steak’s natural beefy flavor.
• Balsamic vinegar: Infuses tangy sweetness into the steak and stars in the caprese topping, too.
• Worcestershire sauce: Lends a deep, umami punch to the marinade for extra savoriness.
• Brown sugar: Just a bit creates delicious caramelized edges.
• Garlic (minced): Earthy, aromatic notes that build unmistakable depth.
• Dijon mustard: Adds subtle heat and ties the marinade flavors together.
• Cherry tomatoes (halved): Juicy and sweet—these burst with freshness in every bite.
• Fresh basil (ripped): The classic Caprese herb, peppery and fragrant.
• Mini mozzarella balls (8 oz): For creamy, milky contrast that pairs beautifully with tangy steak and tomatoes.
• Sea salt: A sprinkle over the salad brings all the flavors to life.
• Olive oil: Rounds out the salad and helps everything shine (literally and figuratively!)
• Fresh lemon juice: A squeeze right at the end brightens up the caprese topping.

Variations

The wonderful thing about this Seared Balsamic Steak Caprese Recipe is how easy it is to tailor to your mood, what’s in your fridge, or your guests’ dietary needs. Don’t be afraid to make it your own—the possibilities are seriously delicious.

• Swap the steak cut: Try ribeye, sirloin, or even chicken breast for a different twist—just adjust the cooking time.
• Dairy-free version: Use a plant-based mozzarella or skip the cheese entirely for a lighter take.
• Herb it up: Toss in chopped parsley, oregano, or chives alongside the basil for extra fragrant greens.
• Roasted caprese topping: For deeper flavor, quickly roast the tomatoes and mozzarella in the oven before adding to the salad.

How to Make Seared Balsamic Steak Caprese Recipe

Step 1: Salt and Marinate the Steak

Begin by generously sprinkling both sides of your flank or skirt steak with coarse salt. Take a moment to gently work the salt into the surface—this builds amazing flavor and helps tenderize the meat. Place your salted steak in a bag or shallow dish so it’s ready for its flavorful balsamic bath.

Step 2: Whisk the Marinade

In a medium bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard. Whisk until smooth and glossy—that tangy aroma alone will have your mouth watering! Pour the marinade all over the steak, turning it to fully coat each side. Cover and pop in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, though two hours (or up to overnight) works wonders.

Step 3: Prep the Caprese Topping

While your steak is soaking up big flavor, toss together halved cherry tomatoes, mini mozzarella balls, ripped fresh basil, a sprinkling of sea salt, a drizzle of olive oil, a splash of balsamic, and a little squeeze of fresh lemon. Mix well and let this vibrant bowl chill in the fridge until dinner time—it’s like summer in every spoonful.

Step 4: Sear the Steak

Remove the marinated steak from the fridge and let it rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. Meanwhile, heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high with a bit of oil until it just shimmers. Sear the steak for 4–7 minutes per side (depending on thickness), aiming for a gorgeous caramelized crust and an internal temp of 135–140°F for perfect medium-rare.

Step 5: Rest, Slice, and Assemble

Once beautifully seared, transfer your steak to a cutting board and allow it to rest for at least 10 minutes—the wait is worth it for tender, juicy slices. Slice against the grain into thin strips. Lay the steak on a serving platter and load it up with your Caprese topping. That mingling of savory, tangy, creamy, and fresh is what makes this Seared Balsamic Steak Caprese Recipe unforgettable!

How to Serve Seared Balsamic Steak Caprese Recipe

Garnishes

A final scatter of torn basil, a drizzle of good-quality balsamic reduction, or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt makes this dish irresistible. If you really want to dazzle, add some extra lemon zest or a few grinds of fresh black pepper just before serving—each detail takes the Seared Balsamic Steak Caprese Recipe up another notch.

Side Dishes

This dish shines beside simple sides like crusty bread for sopping up those juices, or a bed of peppery arugula. Roasted potatoes or grilled asparagus are fabulous partners, and if you’re feeling indulgent, a creamy risotto rounds out the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the steak and arranging it “family style” down the center of a platter, topped generously with the Caprese salad for a colorful centerpiece. For parties, serve the steak in bite-sized pieces with picks and a dollop of Caprese on top as a hearty appetizer. Or, make it picnic-friendly by piling everything into a baguette for the best steak sandwich of your life.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to find yourself with leftovers, simply store the steak and Caprese topping separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The steak will keep well for up to 3 days, and the salad stays fresh for a day or so (just give it a quick toss before serving again).

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked steak—just slice and wrap tightly, then store for up to 2 months. The Caprese topping is best made fresh, as freezing cheese or tomatoes will change their texture and flavor.

Reheating

Gently reheat steak slices in a skillet over low heat or zap very briefly in the microwave—just enough to warm them through. Top with fresh Caprese salad just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you crave a dinner that feels like a special occasion but can fit into your busy week, this Seared Balsamic Steak Caprese Recipe will absolutely delight you. I hope you try it soon—invite friends, pour a glass of something good, and enjoy every vibrant bite!

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