There’s a certain thrill that comes with transforming a simple steak into an extraordinary culinary masterpiece. Picture this: the juiciness of the meat, perfectly seared to achieve that golden-brown crust, and then topped with a deliciously rich bourbon garlic cream sauce that takes just 25 minutes to whip up. After a long week, indulging in this gourmet dish makes every moment in the kitchen feel worthwhile.
I discovered this recipe during a casual dinner party, where guests were awestruck, mistaking my kitchen for a swanky steakhouse. The deep, smoky notes of bourbon combined with the aromatic garlic create a flavor profile that dances on your palate, promising an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking to impress friends or simply treat yourself to a luxurious meal at home, this Steak with Haunted Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce is destined to become a top contender in your go-to recipes. Let’s dive in and elevate your dinner game!
Why will you love this Steak Haunted Bourbon Garlic Cream?
Simplicity at Its Best: You won’t need a culinary degree here! This dish comes together effortlessly in just 25 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight winner.
Irresistible Flavor Explosion: The combination of smoky bourbon and aromatic garlic creates a sauce that feels indulgent yet is incredibly easy to prepare.
Impress Without Stress: Your guests will be in awe of this restaurant-quality meal, making you look like a culinary genius—without the hassle!
Versatility: Feel free to swap steak cuts or adjust the spice level, tailoring the dish to your preferences.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This recipe is not only elegant but also satisfying—a guaranteed hit at any gathering!
For more exciting meals that elevate your dining experience, explore our collection of quick and easy recipes.
Steak Haunted Bourbon Garlic Cream Ingredients
For the Steak
• Ribeye Steak – Offers rich flavor and tenderness; you can substitute with sirloin or filet mignon for different textures.
• Olive Oil – Enhances cooking and adds richness; feel free to use any neutral oil if you prefer.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings that elevate the steak’s natural flavors; adjust to your taste.
For the Sauce
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Provides aromatic depth; fresh garlic is preferred, but pre-minced can save time.
• Bourbon (1/2 cup) – Adds smoky sweetness and depth to the sauce; use beef broth with a dash of apple cider vinegar for a non-alcoholic option.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Creates a velvety sauce texture; half-and-half can be used for a lighter version.
• Dijon Mustard (1 tablespoon) – Adds tanginess and complexity to the cream sauce.
• Fresh Parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped) – Provides garnish and color; it’s optional but adds a vibrant touch to the dish.
How to Make Steak Haunted Bourbon Garlic Cream
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Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. This ensures a good sear on your steak, locking in those delicious juices.
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Rub the ribeye steak with olive oil, then season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This step enhances the steak’s natural flavors, making each bite irresistible.
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Sear the steak for 4-5 minutes on each side for a perfect medium-rare. Adjust the cooking time if your steak is thicker or if you prefer it cooked differently. Let it rest for 5 minutes afterward.
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Sauté minced garlic in the same skillet for approximately 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as that can add a bitter taste to your sauce.
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Pour in the bourbon, scraping up any bits stuck to the skillet. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce, concentrating the flavors.
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Stir in heavy cream and Dijon mustard, then simmer for another 5 minutes until the sauce is thickened and creamy. This is where the magic happens!
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Slice the rested steak against the grain, plate it up, and drizzle with the bourbon garlic cream sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley for that finishing touch.
Optional: Add red pepper flakes for a hint of heat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Steak Haunted Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce?
Transform your gourmet steak experience into a complete meal with delightful pairings that enhance every bite.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Silky and buttery, these mashed potatoes soak up the rich bourbon garlic sauce perfectly, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of vibrant roasted vegetables adds a pop of color and earthy sweetness, balancing the richness of the steak beautifully.
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Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, garlic bread is an excellent vehicle for savoring any leftover sauce, making it an irresistible side.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers refreshing contrast to the hearty steak and cream sauce.
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Sauteed Green Beans: Tender green beans sautéed with garlic provide a crunchy and fresh side, enriching the meal with vibrant color and crisp textures.
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Red Wine: A glass of bold Cabernet Sauvignon complements the deep flavors of the bourbon and garlic, enhancing your dining experience.
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Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, a warm chocolate lava cake indulges your sweet tooth and makes a sweet ending to your steak night.
Pairing these delicious sides will elevate your Steak Haunted Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce experience, ensuring a memorable meal every time.
Make Ahead Options
These Steak with Haunted Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the bourbon garlic cream sauce up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate it. Just sauté the garlic, then add bourbon, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard to create the sauce; let it cool before storing in an airtight container. When it’s time to enjoy your meal, gently reheat the sauce on the stovetop, stirring in a splash of cream if it thickens too much. As for the steaks, season and rub with olive oil up to 24 hours ahead, storing them in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. This way, you’ll have an unforgettable and flavorful dinner ready with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Steak Haunted Bourbon Garlic Cream
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Watch the Garlic: Avoid burning the garlic while sautéing; it can turn the sauce bitter and ruin the flavor profile.
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Resting Time Matters: Always let your steak rest after cooking for at least 5 minutes. This keeps it juicy and enhances the overall taste.
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Adjust Cook Time: Thicker steak cuts require more time on the grill. Keep an eye on yours to ensure it reaches your preferred doneness.
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Experiment with Spice: For those who enjoy a kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or cayenne to the bourbon garlic cream sauce for extra heat.
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Steak Substitutions: If you’re in the mood for something different, feel free to swap out ribeye for sirloin or filet mignon—each cut brings its own unique texture and flavor to the table.
Using these expert tips will help you create the perfect Steak Haunted Bourbon Garlic Cream that impresses at any gathering!
Steak Haunted Bourbon Garlic Cream Variations
Customize your feast with these delightful twists that will make your meal even more personal and memorable!
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Steak Cut Variety: Swap ribeye for sirloin or filet mignon for a different texture and taste experience. Each cut has its unique charm, adding a personal touch to your dish.
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Alcohol-Free Sauce: Replace bourbon with beef broth and a dash of apple cider vinegar for a non-alcoholic version that still packs a flavor punch. This maintains the sauce’s richness without the alcohol kick.
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Dairy-Free Cream: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free sauce. The coconut adds a hint of sweetness while keeping it creamy—perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
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Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a delightful heat that complements the richness of the cream. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance!
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh thyme or rosemary into the sauce for an aromatic boost. The earthy notes will elevate your bourbon garlic cream to new heights.
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Different Oils: Use garlic-infused olive oil instead of regular olive oil for an extra layer of texture and flavor in your steak searing process. It’s a subtle change that makes a significant impact.
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Smoky Flavor: Enhance the sauce with a splash of liquid smoke for an intense barbeque flair. This adds depth and character that will impress your guests.
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Vegetable Medley: Toss in sautéed mushrooms or spinach into the sauce for added elegance and nutrition. This variation also brings a touch of color and freshness to the dish.
How to Store and Freeze Steak Haunted Bourbon Garlic Cream
Fridge: Keep your leftover steak and bourbon garlic cream sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat gently on the stovetop.
Freezer: For longer storage, the sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months. Pour it into a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving space for expansion, and thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When reheating the steak, do so in a skillet over medium heat to preserve its juiciness. Drizzle a splash of cream or broth into the sauce if it’s too thick after freezing.
Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving cooked steak out for more than 2 hours; this helps maintain its flavor and safety.
Steak Haunted Bourbon Garlic Cream Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right cut of steak for this recipe?
I recommend using ribeye for its rich flavor and tenderness, but sirloin or filet mignon are fantastic substitutes depending on your preference. Choose steaks that are well-marbled for the juiciest results. Look for cuts that have a bright red color with minimal dark spots to ensure freshness!
How should I store leftover steak and sauce?
Absolutely! Store your leftover steak and bourbon garlic cream sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat gently on the stovetop, this helps retain the flavors and juiciness.
Can I freeze the bourbon garlic cream sauce, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze the sauce! Pour it into a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving some space for expansion, and it will keep well for up to 3 months. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight. When reheating, if it’s too thick, add a splash of cream or broth to reach your desired consistency.
What should I do if the garlic starts burning while I sauté?
If the garlic begins to burn, quickly remove it from the heat and discard it. Burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to your sauce. Start over with fresh garlic and keep a close eye on it, as it can go from fragrant to burnt quite quickly, usually within 30 seconds to a minute!
Can I adjust this recipe for dietary considerations?
Absolutely! For a non-alcoholic version, simply substitute the bourbon with beef broth and a splash of apple cider vinegar. If you have allergies, check that your Dijon mustard is gluten-free, and consider using almond or coconut milk in place of heavy cream for dairy-free options.
Is it safe to leave cooked steak out at room temperature?
It’s best to avoid leaving cooked steak out for more than 2 hours. Keeping it within this timeframe ensures safety and maintains its delicious flavor. If it’s been out longer, it’s better to discard it to avoid any risk of foodborne illness.
Steak Haunted Bourbon Garlic Cream Recipe FAQs.
Steak Haunted Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce in Just 25 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Rub the ribeye steak with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Sear the steak for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, then let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Sauté minced garlic in the skillet for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the bourbon, scraping up any bits, and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and Dijon mustard, simmer for another 5 minutes until thickened.
- Slice the rested steak, plate, and drizzle with sauce. Garnish with parsley.