Garlic Butter Steak with Parmesan Cream Sauce
Indulging in a splendid meal doesn’t have to be reserved for special occasions. One can effortlessly elevate a casual dinner into an extraordinary feast with the right recipe. Enter Garlic Butter Steak with Parmesan Cream Sauce—a dish that harmoniously marries the earthy, robust flavor of steak with the rich creaminess of a Parmesan sauce. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
For the Steak:
- 2 ribeye or sirloin steaks (about 1-inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
For the Parmesan Cream Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
The Process
Step 1: Prepare the Steaks
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Season the Steak: Generously season each steak with salt and pepper on both sides. Allow the steaks to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes; this helps them cook evenly.
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Cook the Steak:
- In a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- When the oil is hot, add the steaks to the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, depending on the thickness of the steak. Adjust your cooking time for your desired doneness.
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Add Garlic Butter:
- Once the steak is almost done, reduce the heat to medium and add 4 tablespoons of butter and minced garlic to the pan.
- Use a spoon to baste the melted butter and garlic over the steaks for an additional minute. This enhances both flavor and moisture.
Step 2: Make the Parmesan Cream Sauce
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Create the Base:
- In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the heavy cream and garlic powder. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
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Incorporate the Cheese:
- Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice. Simmer for another minute, ensuring the sauce does not boil.
Step 3: Plate and Serve
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Rest the Steaks: Once cooked to your liking, transfer the steaks to a cutting board and let them rest for at least 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute for a more flavorful steak.
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Slice and Sauce: Slice the steak against the grain, and arrange the slices on a plate. Generously drizzle the creamy Parmesan sauce over the steak.
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Garnish: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips for Success
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Choosing the Steak: For the best results, opt for well-marbled cuts like ribeye or sirloin to ensure a juicy and flavorful outcome.
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Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak reaches the desired doneness:
- Medium-Rare: 130°F (54°C)
- Medium: 140°F (60°C)
- Medium-Well: 150°F (65°C)
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Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with sides like garlic mashed potatoes, steamed asparagus, or a fresh arugula salad.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Steak with Parmesan Cream Sauce is not just a meal; it is an experience. Rich, savory, and utterly satisfying, this dish showcases the beauty of simple ingredients elevated to gourmet perfection. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special celebration, it’s guaranteed to leave everyone asking for seconds. So, roll up your sleeves and get cooking—you won’t be disappointed!