Bourbon Garlic Cream Steak: The Ultimate Recipe for Steak Lovers

Bourbon Garlic Cream Steak: Prepare to indulge in a culinary experience that will redefine your definition of steak perfection! Imagine tender, juicy steak, seared to a beautiful crust and then enveloped in a luscious, creamy sauce infused with the rich warmth of bourbon and the pungent aroma of garlic. This isn’t just dinner; it’s an event.

While the exact origins of pairing bourbon with steak are somewhat shrouded in mystery, the combination speaks to a deep-seated appreciation for bold flavors. Bourbon, a distinctly American spirit, has long been associated with celebrations and good times. Garlic, a staple in cuisines worldwide, adds a savory depth that complements the sweetness of the bourbon and the richness of the cream. Together, they create a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.

People adore this Bourbon Garlic Cream Steak for its incredible taste and surprisingly simple preparation. The creamy sauce elevates the steak to a restaurant-quality dish, yet it’s easy enough to make at home on a weeknight. The combination of tender steak, the intoxicating aroma of garlic, and the subtle kick of bourbon creates an unforgettable dining experience. It’s the perfect dish for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to something special. So, are you ready to discover the magic of Bourbon Garlic Cream Steak? Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:

• For the Steaks:
• 2 (8-10 ounce) Ribeye or New York Strip steaks, about 1-inch thick
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• For the Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce:
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup bourbon (I prefer a smooth, medium-bodied bourbon)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Preparing the Steaks:

1. Prepare the Steaks: Take the steaks out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking. This allows them to come closer to room temperature, which helps them cook more evenly. Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a good sear.
2. Season the Steaks: In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Generously rub this mixture all over both sides of the steaks, ensuring they are evenly coated. Don’t be shy with the seasoning!

Cooking the Steaks:

1. Heat the Pan: Place a heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron is ideal) over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and butter to the pan. Let the pan heat up until the oil is shimmering and the butter is melted and starting to brown slightly. This is important for achieving a good sear.
2. Sear the Steaks: Carefully place the steaks in the hot pan, making sure not to overcrowd it. If your pan isn’t large enough, cook the steaks in batches. Sear the steaks for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer depending on your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
   • Rare: 125-130°F
   • Medium-Rare: 130-135°F
   • Medium: 135-145°F
   • Medium-Well: 145-155°F
   • Well-Done: 155°F+ (I don’t recommend this for ribeye or New York strip)

   Tip: Don’t move the steaks around while they are searing. Let them develop a nice crust before flipping.

3. Rest the Steaks: Once the steaks are cooked to your liking, remove them from the pan and place them on a plate or cutting board. Tent them loosely with foil and let them rest for at least 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more tender and flavorful result.

Making the Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce:

1. Sauté the Garlic: While the steaks are resting, reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet you used to cook the steaks (don’t clean it!). The browned bits left in the pan (fond) will add tons of flavor to the sauce. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
2. Deglaze with Bourbon: Carefully pour in the bourbon. Be cautious, as the bourbon may ignite. Use a long-handled lighter if you are concerned. Let the bourbon simmer for 2-3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This process is called deglazing, and it’s essential for building a flavorful sauce. The alcohol will cook off, leaving behind the rich bourbon flavor.
3. Add Cream and Broth: Pour in the heavy cream and beef broth. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. It should be able to coat the back of a spoon.
4. Stir in Dijon and Worcestershire: Stir in the Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce. These add depth and complexity to the sauce.
5. Season to Taste: Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Add the red pepper flakes if you want a little heat. Remember that the beef broth may already contain salt, so start with a small amount and adjust as needed.
6. Simmer and Thicken: Continue to simmer the sauce for another 2-3 minutes, or until it reaches your desired consistency. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of beef broth or cream to thin it out. If it’s too thin, continue simmering it until it reduces.

Serving the Bourbon Garlic Cream Steak:

1. Slice the Steaks: After the steaks have rested, slice them against the grain into 1/4-inch thick slices. This makes them easier to chew and more tender.
2. Plate and Sauce: Arrange the sliced steak on plates. Spoon the bourbon garlic cream sauce generously over the steak.
3. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately. This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.

Tips for the Best Bourbon Garlic Cream Steak:

• Use High-Quality Steaks: The quality of the steak will greatly impact the final result. Choose steaks that are well-marbled for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Don’t Overcook the Steaks: Overcooked steak is tough and dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure your steaks are cooked to your desired level of doneness.
• Use a Good Bourbon: The bourbon is a key ingredient in the sauce, so choose a good quality bourbon that you enjoy drinking. I recommend a smooth, medium-bodied bourbon.
• Adjust the Sauce to Your Liking: Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic, bourbon, or red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
• Make it Ahead: You can make the bourbon garlic cream sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently before serving. The steaks are best cooked fresh.

Variations:

• Mushroom Bourbon Garlic Cream Steak: Add sliced mushrooms to the pan when you sauté the garlic.
• Onion Bourbon Garlic Cream Steak: Add sliced onions to the pan when you sauté the garlic.
• Spicy Bourbon Garlic Cream Steak: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
• Creamy Peppercorn Bourbon Steak: Add a tablespoon of crushed peppercorns to the sauce along with the Dijon mustard.

Serving Suggestions:

• Mashed Potatoes
• Roasted Asparagus
• Creamy Polenta
• Garlic Bread
• Side Salad

This Bourbon Garlic Cream Steak is a restaurant-quality meal that you can easily make at home. The combination of perfectly seared steak and rich, flavorful bourbon garlic cream sauce is simply irresistible. Enjoy!

Conclusion:

This Bourbon Garlic Cream Steak isn’t just another steak recipe; it’s an experience. The rich, decadent sauce, infused with the warmth of bourbon and the pungent aroma of garlic, elevates a simple steak into something truly extraordinary. I promise you, the first bite will have you hooked! The combination of tender, perfectly seared steak and that luscious cream sauce is simply irresistible. It’s a restaurant-quality meal you can easily create in your own kitchen, and that’s why I believe it’s a must-try.

But don’t just take my word for it! The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. While I’ve outlined my favorite method, feel free to experiment and make it your own.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Sides: This steak pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic choice, soaking up all that delicious sauce. Roasted asparagus, garlic parmesan green beans, or a simple side salad also complement the richness of the steak perfectly. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with a baked potato loaded with your favorite toppings.

* Variations: Want to add a little kick? A pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce will do the trick. For a sweeter note, try using a bourbon with hints of caramel or vanilla. If you’re not a fan of bourbon (though I highly recommend it!), you can substitute it with a dry sherry or even a splash of beef broth for a less intense flavor. You can also adjust the amount of garlic to your liking. Some people love a super garlicky sauce, while others prefer a more subtle flavor.

* Steak Cuts: While I personally love using a ribeye or New York strip for this recipe, you can certainly adapt it to other cuts of steak. A sirloin steak, cooked to medium-rare, would also work well. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure your steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness. Even a flank steak, marinated beforehand, could be fantastic with this sauce.

* Beyond Steak: Don’t limit yourself to just steak! This Bourbon Garlic Cream sauce is also incredible with chicken, pork chops, or even shrimp. Imagine pan-seared chicken breasts smothered in this creamy goodness – absolutely divine!

I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s the perfect dish for a special occasion, a romantic dinner, or even just a weeknight treat when you’re craving something truly satisfying. The key to success with this Bourbon Garlic Cream Steak is to not be afraid to experiment and adjust the recipe to your own taste.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up your stove, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the incredible flavors for yourself.

Once you’ve made it, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience! Share your photos and comments on social media using [Your Hashtag Here] or leave a review on my website. Let me know what variations you tried and what sides you paired it with. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me continue to create and share delicious recipes that you’ll love. Happy cooking!

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