This Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce is a classic dish that combines perfectly cooked steak with a rich, velvety garlic cream sauce. The sauce is luxurious and flavorful, making it the ideal pairing for the juicy ribeye or your favorite cut of steak. It’s easy to prepare, yet elegant enough for a special dinner.
Ingredients
For the Steak:
- 2 ribeye steaks (or your preferred cut)
- Ribeye is tender and juicy, but you can use filet mignon, sirloin, or New York strip for different textures and flavors.
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Simple seasoning lets the natural flavor of the steak shine.
- 2 tbsp butter
- Adds richness and helps create a nice sear on the steak.
For the Garlic Cream Sauce:
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- The star of the sauce, providing robust flavor and aroma.
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Creates the creamy base for the sauce.
- ½ cup beef broth
- Enhances the savory depth of the sauce.
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Adds a tangy complexity that balances the creaminess.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- For a hint of umami and a touch of smokiness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Season and Cook the Steaks
- Remove the steaks from the refrigerator 20 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature. Pat them dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
- Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add the butter and let it melt, swirling to coat the pan.
- Place the steaks in the hot skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust the time for your desired doneness.
- Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest on a plate, tented with foil, to retain their juices.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Cream Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in the beef broth, stirring to deglaze the pan and scrape up any flavorful browned bits. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.
Step 3: Serve
- Place the steaks on individual plates or a serving platter. Spoon the creamy garlic sauce generously over the top of each steak.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired, for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Pair the steaks with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted garlic green beans, or buttery asparagus.
- Wine Pairing: A bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec complements the richness of the dish beautifully.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Pan: A heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan ensures even cooking and a perfect sear.
- Rest the Steaks: Letting the steaks rest after cooking helps redistribute the juices, making the meat more tender and flavorful.
- Adjust Sauce Thickness: If the sauce is too thick, thin it with a splash of broth. If too thin, let it simmer a bit longer.
- Customizable Flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or a splash of white wine while deglazing for a different depth of flavor.
Variations and Substitutions
- Lighter Sauce: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the steak with hearty grilled portobello mushrooms or cauliflower steaks, and use vegetable broth for the sauce.
- Herbaceous Twist: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the sauce for an herby flavor boost.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 600 kcal per serving
- Servings: 2 steaks
This dish is the epitome of indulgence, combining the simplicity of a perfectly cooked steak with the luxuriousness of a creamy garlic sauce. Whether for a special occasion or a treat-yourself dinner, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor right at home. Enjoy!