Steaks with Garlic Cream Sauce is an indulgent and flavorful dish that brings together the rich taste of perfectly seared steaks and a creamy, garlicky sauce that will leave your taste buds wanting more. The tender steaks are coated in a velvety garlic cream sauce, making for a satisfying meal that feels like a special treat, whether it’s for a casual dinner or an elegant occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe allows you to create a gourmet dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you’ll need 1/4 cup of water, 3 teaspoons of cornstarch, 2 teaspoons of red wine vinegar (or any vinegar of your choice), and 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda. These ingredients are used to marinate the steaks, enhancing their texture and flavor. You’ll also need 1 1/4 pounds of thin-cut steak, which can be cut into 4 individual pieces or 4 thin-cut steaks, approximately 5 ounces each. Don’t forget to season the steaks with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. For the sauce, gather 4 tablespoons of butter, which will add richness to the dish, and 2 cloves of garlic, minced, for that aromatic depth. The creamy base is made with 1/2 cup of heavy cream (or half-and-half), which will create a silky smooth sauce. Finally, you can top the dish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Instructions
Start by preparing the steak marinade. In a zip-top bag, combine 1/4 cup of water, 3 teaspoons of cornstarch, 2 teaspoons of red wine vinegar, and 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda. Once the ingredients are mixed, add the thin-cut steak to the bag, seal it, and gently turn the bag to coat the steaks evenly. Let the steak marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and tenderize the meat.
After the marinating time, remove the steaks from the bag and discard the marinade. Season both sides of the steaks with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Next, heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the butter is melted and starts to sizzle, add the steaks in batches. Cook each steak for about 30 to 45 seconds per side, or until they are nicely browned. Be careful not to overcook the steaks—you’re looking for a perfect sear and a juicy interior. Transfer the cooked steaks to a plate and set them aside.
With the steaks resting, return the skillet to the heat and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Use a spatula to scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan, as they carry a lot of flavor. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until it becomes fragrant and golden. Next, pour in the 1/2 cup of heavy cream (or half-and-half) and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow the cream to reduce slightly, which will thicken the sauce and intensify the flavors.
Once the sauce has simmered for a few minutes, return the steaks to the skillet, along with any juices that have accumulated on the plate. Let the steaks simmer in the sauce for about 1 minute to ensure they are heated through and coated in the creamy garlic sauce.
To finish, sprinkle the steaks with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve immediately, enjoying the tender steaks with the rich, flavorful garlic cream sauce.
Tips for Making Steaks with Garlic Cream Sauce
For the best results, use thin-cut steaks that cook quickly and develop a nice sear on the outside while remaining tender on the inside. If you prefer thicker steaks, you can adjust the cooking time accordingly, but be mindful not to overcook them.
If you like a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic cream sauce. This will give the dish a subtle heat that complements the richness of the cream sauce.
Make sure to let the steaks rest for a few minutes after cooking. This resting time helps the juices redistribute within the meat, ensuring that the steaks are as juicy and tender as possible.
For a smoother sauce, you can whisk the cream mixture as it simmers to prevent any lumps and ensure a creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Steaks with Garlic Cream Sauce pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a complete meal, serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. The richness of the garlic cream sauce will complement the earthy flavors of roasted mushrooms, asparagus, or broccoli.
If you prefer a more decadent option, consider serving the steaks with a side of buttered noodles or creamy polenta. Both options will soak up the luscious garlic cream sauce, making for an indulgent and satisfying meal.
Storage
If you have leftovers, store the steaks with garlic cream sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm the steaks and sauce in a skillet over low heat to prevent them from drying out. You can also microwave the leftovers, but be sure to cover the container to retain moisture.
While the dish can be stored in the fridge, it’s best enjoyed fresh. Reheating may alter the texture of the steak, so it’s ideal to prepare only what you plan to eat.
FAQ
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, you can use other cuts of steak such as ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon. However, thinner cuts work best for this recipe, as they cook quickly and are tender. If using thicker cuts, increase the cooking time slightly and be sure to check for doneness.
Can I make the garlic cream sauce ahead of time?
While the garlic cream sauce is best made fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat it gently before serving and add a little more cream if it thickens too much.
Can I use dairy-free alternatives?
Yes, if you prefer a dairy-free version, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still create a creamy sauce.
What other herbs can I use?
In addition to parsley, you can use fresh thyme or rosemary for a fragrant, herby finish. These herbs complement the richness of the garlic cream sauce and add another layer of flavor to the dish.
Conclusion
Steaks with Garlic Cream Sauce is an elegant and flavorful dish that elevates a simple steak into a truly special meal. The combination of tender, seared steaks and the rich, garlicky cream sauce creates a mouthwatering experience that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a romantic night in, this dish is sure to impress. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a luxurious meal that’s easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying.
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Steaks with Garlic Cream Sauce
Description
Tender steaks served with a creamy garlic sauce, finished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a rich and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
• 1/4 cup water
• 3 teaspoons cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar (or any vinegar)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 1/4 pounds thin-cut steak (4 pieces, about 5 ounces each)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ In a zip-top bag, mix water, cornstarch, vinegar, and baking soda. Add steaks and coat. Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
2️⃣ Remove steaks from marinade and discard marinade.
3️⃣ Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook steaks in batches, 30-45 seconds per side, until browned. Transfer to a plate.
4️⃣ Melt remaining butter in skillet, scraping browned bits. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add cream and bring to a simmer.
5️⃣ Return steaks to skillet, simmer for 1 minute to heat through.
6️⃣ Top with parsley and serve.