Pan-Seared Steak with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe

A classic steak dish elevated with a rich and creamy garlic sauce. Perfect for a special occasion or a satisfying weeknight meal.

Ingredients:

  • For the Steak:
    • 2 (8-10 oz) steaks (Ribeye, New York Strip, or Filet Mignon), about 1-inch thick
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1 tablespoon butter
    • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
    • Optional: Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs
  • For the Garlic Sauce:
    • 2 tablespoons butter
    • 4-6 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1/2 cup dry white wine (or beef broth)
    • 1 cup heavy cream
    • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
    • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
    • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
    • salt and pepper to taste.

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Steak:
    • Remove the steaks from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature. Pat them dry with paper towels.  
    • Season both sides of the steaks generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Sear the Steak:
    • Heat olive oil and butter in a heavy skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat until very hot.
    • Carefully place the steaks in the hot skillet. Sear for 3-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper cooking.
      • For rare: 125°F (52°C)
      • For medium-rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)  
      • For medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
      • For medium-well: 150-155°F (66-68°C)
      • For well-done: 160°F (71°C) and above.  
    • Optional: add the rosemary or thyme sprigs to the pan during the last few minutes of cooking for added flavor.
    • Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest on a plate, loosely tented with foil, for 5-10 minutes.
  3. Make the Garlic Sauce:
    • In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
    • Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
    • Pour in the white wine (or beef broth) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it reduce slightly, about 2 minutes.
    • Pour in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
    • Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly.
    • Optional: Stir in the parmesan cheese until melted.
    • Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Serve:
    • Slice the rested steaks against the grain.
    • Pour the creamy garlic sauce over the sliced steaks.
    • Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
    • Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side salad.

Tips and Variations:

  • For a richer sauce, use shallots instead of or in addition to garlic.
  • Add a splash of lemon juice to the sauce for a touch of acidity.
  • If the sauce is too thick, add a little more cream or wine.
  • For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the garlic while sauteing.
  • To make a pan sauce without cream, use beef broth, and butter, and reduce until thickened.

Enjoy your delicious steak!

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