How to Make Matambre a la Pizza (Rolled Flank Steak)

In Argentina, matambre a la pizza is a dish that combines the smoky magic of barbecue with the gooey goodness of pizza toppings—all layered over a tender slab of beef.

This is not your average pizza: instead of dough, the base is a thin, juicy cut of beef (matambre), grilled or baked, then loaded with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and herbs. It’s pure Argentinian creativity at its finest.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to master matambre a la pizza, from choosing the perfect cut to nailing the grill (or oven) method.

What Is Matambre?

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Matambre refers to a thin cut of meat:

• It comes from between the cow’s ribs and skin.
• It’s known as flank steak or rose meat.
• In Argentina, it’s prized for grilling, stuffing (matambre arrollado), or, in this case, turning into a “pizza” base.

Ingredients for Matambre a la Pizza

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• 1 whole matambre (flank steak, ~2–3 pounds)
• Salt and black pepper
• 2 cups tomato sauce (simple marinara or pizza sauce)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1–2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp oregano
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Optional toppings:
• Sliced tomatoes
• Roasted red peppers
• Green olives
• Fresh basil leaves

Step-by-Step: How to Make Matambre a la Pizza

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

• Trim excess fat and sinew if needed.
• Lightly score the meat in a criss-cross pattern (to prevent curling during cooking).
• Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Grill or Bake the Matambre

Grilling Method (Traditional)

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Place matambre fat-side down first.
3. Cook for 15–20 minutes, then flip carefully.
4. Cook another 10 minutes until almost done.

Pro Tip: Grill slowly over medium embers for tenderness.

Baking Method (Oven)

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place matambre on a baking tray.
3. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until just cooked through.

Step 3: Add Pizza Toppings

1. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the cooked matambre.
2. Sprinkle minced garlic and oregano.
3. Layer on mozzarella cheese generously.
4. Add optional toppings (tomatoes, peppers, olives, basil).

Step 4: Final Melt

• Return to the grill (indirect heat) or oven.
• Cook until cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden—about 5–7 minutes.

Tips for Perfect Matambre a la Pizza

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• 1. Tenderize the Meat: Some cooks marinate matambre overnight in milk, vinegar, or brine to soften it even more.
• 2. Don’t Overcook: Matambre can get tough if overcooked. Aim for juicy but cooked-through meat.
• 3. Layer Thinly: Keep pizza toppings balanced—not too heavy—or they’ll overpower the delicate beef.

Variations Across Argentina

• Matambre Arrollado (Rolled Matambre)
  Matambre is rolled with vegetables and eggs inside, tied, and baked or boiled.
• Matambre a la Parrilla
  Simply grilled matambre, no toppings—served with chimichurri or salsa criolla.
• Matambre Napolitano
  Like matambre a la pizza, but finished with ham and extra cheese.

Serving Suggestions for Matambre a la Pizza

Traditional Sides

• French fries (papas fritas)
• Grilled vegetables
• Fresh green salad

Perfect Drinks

• Malbec or Cabernet Sauvignon red wines
• Craft beer or Pilsen-style lager

FAQs

Can I Use Another Cut of Beef?

Flank steak works best, but skirt steak or thin sirloin can substitute in a pinch.

Can I Make It Ahead?

Yes—grill or bake the matambre ahead, refrigerate, and then top and reheat with pizza toppings.

What’s the Best Cheese for Matambre a la Pizza?

Mozzarella is classic.
You can also mix with provolone for extra richness.

Conclusion

Matambre a la pizza is Argentinian barbecue genius: a dish that turns a humble cut of beef into a dazzling, cheesy masterpiece.

By combining the deep flavors of the grill with the cheesy satisfaction of pizza, matambre a la pizza delivers the best of both worlds—and then some.

So fire up your grill (or oven) and treat yourself to a true taste of Argentina’s creativity and culinary passion.

Craving more hearty Argentinian dishes? Up next: Pastel de Papa: Argentinian Shepherd’s Pie You Need to Try!

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