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These steak and asparagus bundles cooked in the air fryer turn basic flank steak into a showstopping meal that seems way more complicated than it is. When tender beef wraps around crunchy veggies and gets topped with tangy balsamic glaze, you'll feel like you're eating at a fancy restaurant without leaving home.
I first whipped up this dish for friends coming over and couldn't believe how I managed to make six impressive individual portions without being chained to the stove all night.
Ingredients
- Flank steak: works amazingly here since it's thin enough to roll around veggies while staying juicy when you cook it right
- Tamari sauce: brings a richer umami kick than regular soy sauce without going overboard on salt
- Fresh garlic: creates those must-have flavor notes that soak into the meat as it sits
- Asparagus spears: stay wonderfully crisp in the air fryer instead of turning to mush
- Bell peppers: bring a pop of sweetness and bright color that makes these bundles look amazing
- Balsamic vinegar: makes a deeply flavorful glaze that cuts through the richness of the beef
- Beef broth: adds more meaty goodness while stretching the sauce further
- Butter: gives the sauce that velvety finish that makes it taste like something from a steakhouse
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Season the Steaks:
- Throw a good amount of kosher salt and fresh black pepper on both sides of your flank steak pieces. This first layer of seasoning builds the base that'll work with everything else.
- Prepare the Marinade:
- Toss your seasoned steak into a big ziplock bag with tamari sauce and smashed garlic. Push out the air before you seal it up. The tamari works its way into the meat, making it tasty and tender.
- Marinade Time:
- Squish the bag around so the marinade coats all the meat. Stick it in the fridge for at least an hour, but leaving it overnight really lets those flavors sink in as the tamari and garlic do their thing.
- Prepare the Vegetable Filling:
- Take the steaks out of the marinade and throw the liquid away. Split your trimmed asparagus and sliced peppers into six equal piles ready for rolling. Try to keep the veggies about the same length so they cook evenly.
- Assemble the Bundles:
- Lay a steak piece flat on your counter. Put some asparagus and peppers in the middle going with the grain of the meat. Roll everything up tight and stick toothpicks in to hold it all together. Put the toothpicks in parallel to the roll so everything stays snug.
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Get your air fryer hot at 400°F for the best results. This temp gives you a nice crust while cooking the steak to a perfect pink middle. Making sure the air fryer is properly heated helps everything cook the same.
- Air Fry the Bundles:
- Put your meat bundles in the air fryer basket with some space between them. Spray the exposed veggies lightly with olive oil so they don't dry out. Cook at 400°F for just 5 minutes if you want them medium rare. The air fryer gives you the same results every time you make these.
- Rest the Meat:
- Take the bundles out and let them sit for 5 minutes. This super important step lets all the juices spread back through the meat so it's juicier and tastier when you eat it.
- Prepare the Balsamic Glaze:
- While your meat's resting, mix balsamic vinegar, beef broth, and butter in a pan over medium heat. Keep stirring until it starts bubbling. Let it cook until it's half as much as when you started and coats a spoon, usually about 4-5 minutes.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Pull out the toothpicks and cut each bundle into rounds if you want. Pour the warm balsamic glaze over top right before you serve them so they look and taste amazing.
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I found out that using two toothpicks instead of just one makes handling these bundles way easier when you're moving them in and out of the air fryer. My family can't get enough of these, so they've become what we always have for our anniversary dinner each year.
Cooking Time Chart
Getting your steak bundles just how you like them depends on what you prefer. If you want them rare, only air fry for 4 minutes. For medium rare, go with the 5 minutes I mentioned in the recipe. If medium is more your style, cook for 6 minutes, and for medium well you'll need 7 minutes. Remember that the steak keeps cooking a bit during the rest time, so take it out just before it hits your perfect doneness.
Prep Ahead Ideas
These fancy bundles are great when you've got company because you can do most of the work beforehand. Let the steak sit in the marinade overnight for the best flavor. You can roll up the bundles up to 4 hours before you need to cook them, just keep them covered in the fridge. You can even make the balsamic sauce earlier in the day and warm it up right before serving. This way, you can actually hang out with your guests instead of hiding in the kitchen all night.
What to Serve With It
These steak bundles look awesome by themselves but taste even better with simple sides. Creamy mashed potatoes or whipped cauliflower make the perfect base for that balsamic sauce to puddle around your meat. For something lighter, try a fresh green salad with a simple lemony dressing. If you want to go all out, add some garlic bread on the side to soak up every last drop of that yummy sauce.
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These steak bundles can turn any regular day into something special without making your life complicated.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What steak works best for this meal?
Flank steak is perfect since it's soft and great for rolling. Just slice it into even pieces before adding the marinade.
- → Can I swap out the vegetables?
Sure! You can go for green beans, zucchini, or even thin carrot strips. Just ensure they’re sliced small enough to roll easily.
- → Can I cook these on the grill?
Definitely! Grill the bundles on medium-high, turning a few times, until the steak is cooked how you like it.
- → How long does the steak need to marinate?
A minimum of an hour is good, but leaving it overnight makes the flavors stronger.
- → When are the steak bundles fully cooked?
They’ll be ready in about 5 minutes at 400°F in an air fryer. If unsure, check with a thermometer and aim for 130°F for medium-rare.
- → What sides go well with this?
Mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or a crisp salad would all pair great with these rolls.