Steak with Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce

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Steak with Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce

Steak with Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce: A Decadent Flavor Fusion

When you’re in the mood for something indulgent, a perfectly seared steak paired with a rich, flavorful sauce is hard to beat. This recipe for Steak with Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce brings together the boldness of bourbon, the creaminess of heavy cream, and the aromatic punch of garlic for an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply want to elevate your weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

The magic of this dish lies in the perfect balance of flavors. The steak, with its savory crust, is complemented by a silky cream sauce that carries the warmth of bourbon, the tang of Dijon mustard, and the depth of Worcestershire sauce. The result? A mouthwatering meal that’s both luxurious and comforting.

Let’s dive into how you can make this indulgent dish in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Steak:

  • 2 ribeye or sirloin steaks (about 10-12 oz each)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • 1 tbsp butter

For the Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup bourbon
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup beef broth
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme (optional)
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Steaks

  1. Season the steaks – Generously season both sides of the ribeye or sirloin steaks with salt and pepper. This ensures a flavorful crust once seared.
  2. Heat the skillet – In a large skillet or cast iron pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s hot but not smoking.
  3. Cook the steaks – Place the steaks in the skillet and sear each side for about 3-4 minutes for medium-rare, adjusting the time depending on your preferred level of doneness.
  4. Add butter for flavor – During the last minute of cooking, add 1 tablespoon of butter to the pan. Spoon the melted butter over the steaks to add richness.
  5. Rest the steaks – Once cooked to your liking, remove the steaks from the skillet and set them aside to rest. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and juicy steak.

Step 2: Making the Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce

  1. Sauté the garlic – In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
  2. Add bourbon carefully – Slowly pour in 1/4 cup of bourbon, stirring and scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Be cautious as the alcohol may briefly flame.
  3. Reduce the bourbon – Let the bourbon simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly and intensify in flavor.
  4. Add remaining ingredients – Stir in 1/4 cup beef broth, 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and fresh thyme if using.
  5. Simmer to thicken – Let the sauce simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
  6. Season to taste – Finish the sauce by seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Serving

  1. Slice the steaks – After resting, slice the steaks against the grain to ensure maximum tenderness.
  2. Drizzle the sauce – Generously drizzle the bourbon garlic cream sauce over the sliced steaks.
  3. Garnish and serve – Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Results

Choosing the Right Steak

  • Ribeye: Known for its marbling, ribeye is tender and juicy, making it ideal for this recipe.
  • Sirloin: Slightly leaner than ribeye, sirloin still delivers great flavor but with a firmer texture.

How to Cook the Perfect Steak

  • Temperature Control: A hot pan is key to achieving a beautiful sear on your steak. Make sure the oil is shimmering before adding the steaks.
  • Doneness Guide: Use an instant-read thermometer to check the steak’s internal temperature:
    • Rare: 120-125°F
    • Medium-Rare: 130-135°F
    • Medium: 140-145°F
    • Well-Done: 160°F and above

Resting the Steak

Resting is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Skipping this step can result in a dry, tough steak.

Customizing the Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce

This sauce is wonderfully versatile, and you can tweak it to suit your taste preferences:

Add Herbs for Freshness

  • Thyme: Fresh thyme adds an earthy note to the sauce. You can also use rosemary for a bolder herb flavor.
  • Parsley: For a brighter, fresher finish, stir in some chopped parsley just before serving.

Amp Up the Garlic

If you love garlic, feel free to add an extra clove or two. The garlic mellows as it cooks, balancing beautifully with the richness of the cream and bourbon.

Adjust the Bourbon Flavor

  • For a stronger bourbon taste: Let the alcohol simmer for less time so more of the bourbon’s kick remains in the sauce.
  • For a milder flavor: Simmer the bourbon longer, allowing more of the alcohol to evaporate, leaving behind a subtle sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

This steak dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal:

Vegetables

  • Roasted Asparagus: The crispness of roasted asparagus contrasts nicely with the richness of the steak and sauce.
  • Sautéed Spinach: A light and nutritious side that doesn’t overpower the bold flavors of the dish.

Potatoes

  • Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect base for soaking up the bourbon garlic sauce.
  • Crispy Potato Wedges: Oven-baked potato wedges offer a crispy, golden texture that complements the steak’s tenderness.

Salads

  • Arugula Salad: A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the steak.
  • Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and tang to balance out the creamy sauce.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Storing:

  • Refrigerator: Store any leftover steak and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: You can freeze the sauce separately for up to 1 month, though it may need to be whisked after reheating to restore its smooth consistency.

Reheating:

  • Stovetop: Gently reheat the sauce over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to thin it if necessary.
  • Oven: To reheat the steak, place it in a 250°F oven until warmed through. Avoid using a microwave as it can make the steak tough.

Final Thoughts

This Steak with Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce is an excellent way to bring restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen. The combination of perfectly seared steak and a velvety, bourbon-infused sauce makes this dish a guaranteed hit. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself to a gourmet meal, this recipe is sure to impress.

Quick Recap:

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 2

Now that you’ve mastered this recipe, enjoy your culinary creation with a glass of your favorite red wine or a bourbon cocktail for the ultimate dining experience.

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