Pan-Seared Flank Steak with Mushroom Sauce and Mashed Potatoes

Prep: 35 minCook: 15 min2 servingsmediumAmerican
Pan-Seared Flank Steak with Mushroom Sauce and Mashed Potatoes

This pan-seared flank steak features a honey-soy marinade that tenderizes the meat while adding savory-sweet depth. The accompanying mushroom sauce transforms the pan drippings into a rich, umami-packed accompaniment with balsamic vinegar adding brightness. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining, this complete meal pairs the perfectly cooked medium-rare steak with creamy mashed potatoes. The key to success lies in proper marinating time and allowing the steak to rest, ensuring maximum tenderness and flavor absorption.

Ingredients

2 servings
  • 12 ounce Mashed Potatoes
  • 1 pound Flank Steak
    Skirt Steak1:1protein

    Similar texture and cooking method

    Full guide →
  • 1 tablespoon Soy Sauce
  • ½ Lemon
  • 1 teaspoon Honey
  • 2 tablespoon Neutral Oil
  • 4 sprig Fresh Thyme(optional)
  • 2 tablespoon Butter
  • 1 clove Garlic
  • 8 ounce Button Mushroom
    Cremini or Baby Bella1:1umami

    Similar earthy flavor

  • ¼ teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper
  • ½ tablespoon All-Purpose Flour
  • ½ cup Beef Broth
    Chicken Broth1:1base

    Lighter flavor profile

    Full guide →
  • ½ tablespoon Balsamic Vinegar

Instructions

  1. 1

    Combine honey, oil, soy sauce, and lemon in a small bowl

  2. 2

    Poke holes in both sides of flank steak with a fork and brush with marinade

  3. 3

    Cover and marinate steak for 30 minutes, reserving marinade

  4. 4

    Pat steak dry and heat cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat with oil

  5. 5

    Sear steak for 3-4 minutes per side until 130°F for medium-rare

  6. 6

    Transfer steak to tray, cover with foil, and rest for 5-10 minutes

  7. 7

    Add butter to same pan over medium-high heat

  8. 8

    Add mushrooms and cook until softened and browned, 2-3 minutes

  9. 9

    Season mushrooms with black pepper

  10. 10

    Reduce heat to medium and add flour, stirring to coat mushrooms

  11. 11

    Add remaining marinade, beef broth, balsamic vinegar, lemon, and garlic

  12. 12

    Cook for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens

  13. 13

    Slice steak against the grain and pour sauce over top

  14. 14

    Garnish with fresh thyme and serve with mashed potatoes

Tips

Tip 1

Poking holes in the steak helps the marinade penetrate deeper for more flavor

Tip 2

Let the steak rest after cooking to redistribute juices and ensure tenderness

Tip 3

Use the pan drippings for the mushroom sauce to maximize flavor

Good to Know

Storage

Refrigerate cooked steak and sauce separately for up to 3 days

Make Ahead

Marinate steak up to 24 hours in advance for deeper flavor

Serve With

Serve immediately while steak is warm and sauce is hot

Common Mistakes

Watch

Don't skip the resting period or juices will run out when sliced

Watch

Avoid overcooking the mushrooms or they'll become rubbery

Substitutions

Button Mushroom
Cremini or Baby Bella1:1umami

Similar earthy flavor

Flank Steak
Skirt Steak1:1protein

Similar texture and cooking method

Full guide →
Beef Broth
Chicken Broth1:1base

Lighter flavor profile

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes, skirt steak or hanger steak work well with similar cooking times. Adjust thickness and cooking time accordingly for best results.

What if I don't have a cast-iron skillet?

A heavy-bottomed stainless steel pan works well. Avoid non-stick pans as they won't develop the proper sear and fond for the sauce.

How long will the leftovers keep?

Store steak and sauce separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the steak.