Craving a restaurant-worthy meal without the restaurant fuss? Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly juicy steak, smothered in rich marinara sauce and melty cheese, all from the comfort of your own kitchen. Sound too good to be true? Think again! This Easy Steak Parmigiana recipe is here to change your weeknight dinner game.
Why You’ll Love Steak Parmigiana
- It’s unbelievably quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- The combination of tender steak, savory sauce, and gooey cheese is simply irresistible.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s guaranteed to impress, yet it’s so simple to make.
- You can easily customize it with your favorite toppings or cheeses.
- It’s a complete meal on its own or easily paired with your favorite sides.
What Makes Steak Parmigiana Unique?
This isn’t your average chicken parm knock-off! The key here is using pre-cooked steak, which drastically reduces cooking time and ensures a tender, flavorful base. We’re not trying to fry or bake the steak here, just warming it through, letting the sauce and cheese do the heavy lifting of the flavour party! It’s a speedy, hassle-free method that doesn’t sacrifice an ounce of flavor, making it a weeknight win.
Ingredient List for Steak Parmigiana
- 2 pre-cooked steaks (about 6-8 oz each), any cut you prefer
- 1 (15 oz) can of your favorite marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pre-cooked steak: This is the hero of the speed factor, and saves us the trouble of cooking the steak from raw.
- Italian herbs: These add a depth of flavour that elevates the whole dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Steak Parmigiana
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly brush a baking dish with olive oil.
- Place the pre-cooked steaks in the prepared dish.
- Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the steaks.
- Sprinkle the Italian herbs over the sauce.
- Generously top with the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
- Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Optional Toppings/Variations
Want to kick your Steak Parm up a notch? Here are some yummy options:
- Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers to the sauce before baking.
- Sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Use provolone or a mix of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
Expert Tips
- Make sure your steaks are not cold, you don’t want to extend your baking time.
- Don’t overbake! You want the cheese melted and gooey, not dried out.
- If your sauce is thick, thin it out with a tablespoon or two of water.
- For extra flavour, use a good quality marinara sauce.
- If your steaks are thick, make sure to bake them a bit longer, until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use different types of cheese? Absolutely! Provolone, fontina, or a blend of Italian cheeses work great.
- Can I make this ahead of time? You can assemble the dish ahead of time and bake it just before serving.
- How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can I use homemade marinara sauce? Of course! Homemade sauce will only elevate the flavor of the dish.
- Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried? Yes, if using fresh herbs, use approximately one tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs for every teaspoon of dried.
Variations and Customization Options
This recipe is so versatile, it’s easy to adapt to your tastes!
- Spicy Steak Parm: Add red pepper flakes to your sauce or include a drizzle of hot sauce before baking.
- Veggie-Loaded Steak Parm: Toss in some sautéed spinach, artichoke hearts or grilled zucchini into your sauce.
- Garlic Lovers Steak Parm: Add a clove or two of minced garlic to your marinara for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Steak Parmigiana is fantastic served on its own or paired with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or your favorite pasta. For a heartier meal, try serving it with roasted vegetables or a side of mashed potatoes. A glass of red wine also complements it beautifully!
Conclusion
Ready to conquer your craving for an amazing meal without spending hours in the kitchen? This Easy Steak Parmigiana recipe is the answer! It’s a flavor-packed, simple, and satisfying dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. So, go ahead, give it a try, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations with us! Subscribe to our newsletter for more quick and easy recipes like this!