Steak Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce: The Ultimate Recipe Guide

Steak Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce: Prepare to elevate your steak night to a whole new level of decadence! Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly seared steak, its rich, savory flavors enhanced by a luscious, creamy sauce infused with the smoky warmth of bourbon and the pungent aroma of garlic. This isn’t just dinner; it’s an experience.

While the exact origins of bourbon cream sauces are debated, the combination of rich cream, bold bourbon, and savory garlic has long been a staple in both Southern and French-inspired cuisines. Bourbon, a distinctly American whiskey, lends a unique depth and complexity that perfectly complements the richness of a good steak. The addition of garlic, a culinary cornerstone across cultures, provides a pungent counterpoint to the sweetness of the bourbon and the richness of the cream.

People adore this dish for its incredible flavor profile. The tender, juicy steak, paired with the velvety smooth sauce, creates a symphony of textures and tastes that is simply irresistible. The Steak Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce is not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to make. It’s perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight treat when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. The convenience and the wow factor make this recipe a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So, are you ready to create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home? Let’s get started!

Ingredients:

• For the Steaks:
• 2 (8-10 ounce) Ribeye steaks, about 1-inch thick
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon steak seasoning (salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Fresh rosemary sprig (optional)
• Fresh thyme sprig (optional)
• For the Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce:
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup finely chopped shallots
• 1/2 cup bourbon (I prefer a smooth Kentucky bourbon)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• 1 tablespoon butter, cold

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 Generously: Drizzle the steaks with olive oil and then generously season them on both sides with the steak seasoning. Make sure every part of the steak is covered. Don’t be shy with the seasoning!
3. Heat the Pan: Heat a large cast-iron skillet (or a heavy-bottomed skillet) over medium-high heat. You want the pan to be screaming hot before you add the steaks. A hot pan is essential for achieving a beautiful sear.
4. Sear the Steaks: Carefully place the steaks in the hot skillet. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook them in batches if necessary. Sear the steaks for 3-4 minutes per side, without moving them, until a dark brown crust forms. The crust is where all the flavor is!
5. Add Butter, Garlic, and Herbs: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter, minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme (if using) to the skillet. As the butter melts, tilt the pan and use a spoon to baste the steaks with the melted butter, garlic, and herb mixture. This adds flavor and helps to keep the steaks moist.
6. Cook to Desired Doneness: Continue cooking the steaks, basting frequently, until they reach 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: 155-165°F
7. Rest the Steaks: Remove the steaks from the skillet and place them on a cutting board. Tent them loosely with foil and let them rest for at least 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. Don’t skip this step!

Making the Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce:

1. Sauté Aromatics: While the steaks are resting, add the olive oil to the same skillet (don’t clean it!). Add the minced garlic and shallots and sauté over medium heat until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
2. Deglaze with Bourbon: Pour in the bourbon and carefully scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This is where a lot of the flavor is hiding! Let the bourbon simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate. This step is important to mellow out the bourbon flavor.
3. Add Beef Broth and Simmer: Pour in the beef broth, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it reduce by about half, about 5-7 minutes. This will concentrate the flavors and thicken the sauce slightly.
4. Stir in Heavy Cream: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer gently for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. Be careful not to boil the cream, as it can curdle.
5. Season to Taste: Season the sauce with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. Finish with Butter: Remove the skillet from the heat and whisk in the cold butter until it is melted and the sauce is smooth and glossy. This adds richness and shine to the sauce.

Serving:

1. Slice the Steaks: Slice the rested steaks 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 and spoon the bourbon garlic cream sauce generously over the top.
3. Garnish: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
4. Serve Immediately: Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.

Tips for the Perfect Steak:

• Choose the Right Cut: Ribeye is a great choice for this recipe because it’s well-marbled and flavorful. New York strip or filet mignon would also work well.
• Don’t Overcook: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness. Overcooked steak is dry and tough.
• Let it Rest: Resting the steak is crucial for a tender and juicy result. Don’t skip this step!
• High Heat is Key: A hot pan is essential for getting a good sear on the steak. Make sure your pan is screaming hot before you add the steaks.
• Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. This includes the steaks, bourbon, and beef broth.

Variations:

• Add Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic and shallots for a richer, earthier sauce.
• Use Different Herbs: Try using different herbs, such as oregano or basil, in the sauce.
• Make it Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier sauce.
• Use a Different Alcohol: If you don’t have bourbon, you can use whiskey or cognac instead.
• Make it Dairy-Free: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.

Serving Suggestions:

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

Storing Leftovers:

• Store leftover steak and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat the steak gently in a skillet or in the oven. Be careful not to overcook it.
• Reheat the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Enjoy!

This Steak Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. It’s perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. Enjoy!

Conclusion:

This Steak Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce recipe isn’t just another sauce; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen in your kitchen! From the rich, caramelized notes of the bourbon to the pungent kick of garlic mellowed by the creamy embrace, every element works in perfect harmony to elevate your steak dinner to restaurant-quality heights. I truly believe this is a must-try for any steak lover looking to add a touch of sophistication and unforgettable flavor to their meals.

But the beauty of this recipe lies not only in its incredible taste but also in its versatility. While it’s absolutely divine served over a perfectly seared ribeye or filet mignon, don’t limit yourself! Imagine drizzling it over grilled chicken breasts for a weeknight dinner that feels anything but ordinary. Or, toss it with your favorite pasta for a creamy, decadent indulgence. For a vegetarian option, try spooning it over roasted portobello mushrooms – the earthy flavors pair beautifully with the richness of the sauce.

Here are a few serving suggestions and variations to get your creative juices flowing:

* Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick.
* Herbaceous twist: Stir in some fresh thyme or rosemary for an aromatic depth.
* Mushroom magic: Sauté some sliced mushrooms with the garlic for an earthier flavor profile.
* Creamy dream: For an even richer sauce, use heavy cream instead of half-and-half.
* Wine pairing: A bold Cabernet Sauvignon or a smooth Merlot would be the perfect complement to this dish.
* Side dish suggestions: Serve with roasted asparagus, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.

I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. The combination of bourbon, garlic, and cream creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. It’s surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and the results are truly impressive.

Don’t be intimidated by the name – this Steak Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce is incredibly approachable and adaptable to your own preferences. Feel free to experiment with different types of bourbon, adjust the amount of garlic to your liking, and add your own personal touch to make it your signature sauce.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the magic for yourself! Once you do, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What did you serve it with? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below – I can’t wait to see your culinary creations! Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to improve and share delicious recipes with the world. So go ahead, grab your ingredients, and get ready to create a truly unforgettable meal. Happy cooking!

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