Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce

If you’re craving a juicy, tender steak with a rich and creamy sauce that takes your meal to the next level, this Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce recipe is the perfect choice. The combination of succulent steak and a velvety garlic cream sauce creates an indulgent dish that’s both comforting and gourmet. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a delicious dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients for Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce

  • For the Steak:
    • 2 boneless rib-eye steaks (or your preferred cut)
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1 tablespoon butter
  • For the Garlic Cream Sauce:
    • 4 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 cup heavy cream
    • 2 tablespoons butter
    • 1/2 cup chicken broth (or beef broth for a deeper flavor)
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Steaks

Start by seasoning the steaks generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This will help enhance the natural flavors of the meat.

Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, sear the steaks for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness (use a meat thermometer for accuracy). For medium-rare, the internal temperature should reach around 130°F (54°C).

Once cooked, transfer the steaks to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep them warm while you prepare the sauce.

2. Make the Garlic Cream Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

Pour in the chicken broth (or beef broth) and scrape the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to deglaze the pan and incorporate all the flavorful bits from the steak.

Add the heavy cream, stirring constantly to combine. Let the sauce simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.

3. Serve

Place the steaks on serving plates and generously pour the garlic cream sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

Tips for the Perfect Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce

  • Choosing the Right Steak: Rib-eye steaks are ideal for this recipe due to their marbling and tenderness, but you can also use filet mignon, New York strip, or sirloin based on your preference.
  • Doneness: For best results, use a meat thermometer to check the steak’s internal temperature. Here’s a quick guide:
    • Rare: 120°F (49°C)
    • Medium-rare: 130°F (54°C)
    • Medium: 140°F (60°C)
    • Medium-well: 150°F (66°C)
    • Well-done: 160°F (71°C)
  • Customization: You can add a splash of white wine to the garlic cream sauce for extra depth of flavor, or incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a more aromatic experience.

Why You’ll Love This Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce

  1. Rich and Flavorful: The garlic cream sauce is the star of the dish, offering a luscious texture and deep flavor that complements the steak perfectly.
  2. Quick and Easy: While this dish tastes gourmet, it’s simple and quick to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
  3. Customizable: You can adjust the flavors and ingredients to suit your preferences, whether you want a spicier kick, a hint of lemon, or additional herbs.

Pairing Suggestions

This steak dish pairs wonderfully with various sides, such as:

  • Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect base to soak up the garlic cream sauce.
  • Grilled Vegetables: Lightly charred asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts add a touch of smokiness that balances the richness of the steak.
  • Salads: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will complement the dish nicely.

Conclusion

Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce is an elegant yet simple recipe that transforms any meal into a luxurious dining experience. With tender steak and a rich, creamy sauce bursting with garlicky goodness, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds and impress your guests. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner party, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.

Serving and Storage Tips for Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce

Serving Tips

  1. Plating: When serving, place the steak on a warm plate to help keep it at the ideal temperature. Spoon the garlic cream sauce generously over the steak, allowing the sauce to pool around the edges. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
  2. Sides: As mentioned earlier, pair this dish with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a light salad. For a more complete meal, consider adding crusty bread to soak up the extra sauce.
  3. Wine Pairing: A full-bodied red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, or Merlot pairs beautifully with the richness of the steak and cream sauce. If you prefer white wine, a creamy Chardonnay works well.
  4. Temperature: Steak with garlic cream sauce is best served immediately while the steak is hot and juicy, and the sauce is creamy and velvety. Be sure to check the internal temperature of your steak before serving to ensure it is cooked to your liking.

Storage Tips

  1. Leftovers: If you have any leftover steak, allow it to cool to room temperature before storing it. Place the steak and garlic cream sauce in an airtight container, separating the sauce and steak if desired to keep them from becoming soggy.
  2. Refrigeration: Store the steak and garlic cream sauce separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help maintain the steak’s texture and prevent the sauce from separating.
  3. Freezing: While steak can be frozen for later use, the cream sauce may not freeze well due to its dairy content. However, you can freeze the steak alone and reheat it later. To do so, wrap the steak tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep for up to 3 months. When ready to reheat, allow the steak to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before gently reheating it in a skillet.
  4. Reheating: To reheat the steak, you can either use a microwave or reheat it in a skillet. If using a skillet, heat it on medium-low and cover the pan to retain moisture. For the garlic cream sauce, gently reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, to prevent it from curdling.

Tip for Keeping the Sauce Creamy: If the sauce has thickened too much during storage or reheating, you can add a little extra cream or broth to loosen it up and restore its creamy consistency.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce leftovers or reheat the meal with ease while preserving its delicious flavor and texture.

1. Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Yes, you can! While rib-eye steaks are ideal for their marbling and tenderness, you can also use other cuts like filet mignon, New York strip, or sirloin. Just keep in mind that different cuts may have varying cook times, so adjust accordingly.

2. Can I make the garlic cream sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the garlic cream sauce ahead of time. Simply cook it as directed, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently on the stove, adding a bit of extra cream or broth to restore its creamy consistency if needed.

3. Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a combination of milk and butter. Keep in mind that the sauce may not be as rich and creamy as the original version, but it will still offer a great flavor.

4. How do I know when my steak is cooked to the right doneness?
To ensure your steak is cooked to your preferred doneness, use a meat thermometer:

  • Rare: 120°F (49°C)
  • Medium-rare: 130°F (54°C)
  • Medium: 140°F (60°C)
  • Medium-well: 150°F (66°C)
  • Well-done: 160°F (71°C)
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Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce

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This Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce is a decadent dish perfect for special occasions or an indulgent dinner. Juicy, seared steak is paired with a luscious garlic cream sauce, creating a restaurant-quality meal you can make at home.

  • Author: Beth
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Pan-Seared
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

For the steak:

  • 4 steaks (ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon, 6–8 oz each)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the garlic cream sauce:

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/4 tsp dried thyme)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Cracked black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the steaks

  1. Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.

2. Cook the steaks

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Once hot, add the steaks to the pan.
  2. Sear the steaks for 3–5 minutes per side, depending on desired doneness (3 minutes for rare, 5 for medium).
  3. Add the butter to the skillet and spoon it over the steaks as they finish cooking for added flavor.
  4. Remove the steaks from the skillet, tent with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes.

3. Make the garlic cream sauce

  1. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter.
  2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, and thyme. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
  4. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Serve

  1. Plate the steaks and spoon the garlic cream sauce over the top.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley and cracked black pepper, if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Steak Options: Ribeye, filet mignon, or sirloin steaks work best for this recipe, but any cut can be used.
  • Doneness Guide: Use a meat thermometer for accuracy—125°F (52°C) for rare, 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, and 145°F (63°C) for medium.
  • Pairings: Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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