Elevate Your Dinner with Juicy Steak and Creamy Peppercorn Sauce: A Restaurant-Quality Recipe
What Is Steak with Creamy Peppercorn Sauce?
Steak with creamy peppercorn sauce is a refined, rich, and peppery dish that transforms a simple steak dinner into a luxurious feast. This dish brings together a perfectly pan-seared steak with a peppercorn-infused sauce, creating a mouthwatering contrast of flavors and textures. The peppercorn sauce, creamy yet packed with just the right amount of bite from cracked black peppercorns, highlights the savory, juicy qualities of the steak, making every bite memorable.
Peppercorn sauce has roots in classic French cuisine, known as “sauce au poivre.” The recipe has evolved over the years, but the essence remains the same—a sauce that’s bold, creamy, and perfect for beef. Whether you’re cooking for a special dinner or just want to elevate a weeknight meal, this recipe brings fine-dining flavor right to your home.
Table of Contents
Prep Time, Cook Time, and Yield
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients:
for Steak with Creamy Peppercorn Sauce
For a perfectly balanced steak and peppercorn sauce, you’ll need quality ingredients:
- For the Steak:
- 4 New York strip steaks, ribeye, or filet mignon (approx. 8 oz each)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- For the Peppercorn Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons whole peppercorns (crushed lightly with a mortar and pestle)
- 1/4 cup brandy or cognac (optional, for added depth)
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt to taste
Directions:
for Making Steak with Creamy Peppercorn Sauce
This recipe is designed to maximize flavor without complex techniques. Follow these simple steps for an unforgettable meal.
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Steaks
- Begin by taking the steaks out of the fridge 20-30 minutes before cooking. This helps them reach room temperature, which promotes even cooking.
- Dry the steaks thoroughly with paper towels, then season both sides generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
- For added flavor, press a bit of the crushed peppercorn onto the steak surfaces.
Step 2: Sear the Steaks
- Warm a sturdy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until hot. Add olive oil and butter to the pan.
- Once the butter melts and begins to bubble, carefully place the steaks in the skillet. Avoid overcrowding to allow for even cooking.
- Sear the steaks for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, adjusting the time depending on your preferred doneness. For medium, cook an extra minute or two per side.
- Transfer the steaks to a plate, cover loosely with foil, and let them rest while you prepare the sauce. Resting allows the juices to redistribute within the meat for a juicy, tender steak.
Step 3: Start the Peppercorn Base
- In the same skillet, add the crushed peppercorns, and cook for 1-2 minutes over medium heat. This toasts the peppercorns and releases their flavor.
- Carefully add the brandy or cognac to the pan. It may bubble and steam as it deglazes the pan, so proceed with caution.
- Let the brandy simmer and reduce for about 1-2 minutes, until it’s reduced by half.
Step 4: Add Broth, Cream, and Dijon Mustard
- Stir in the beef broth, scraping the skillet’s bottom to mix in any flavorful bits. Let the broth reduce slightly for 1-2 minutes.
- Slowly add the heavy cream, stirring continuously to blend.
- Add Dijon mustard, which will thicken the sauce and give it an extra layer of flavor.
- Simmer the sauce over low heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a creamy consistency. Taste the sauce, and season with salt as needed.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
- Return the rested steaks to the skillet, spooning the creamy peppercorn sauce over them. Let them sit in the sauce for an additional minute or two to absorb some of its flavors.
- Plate the steaks and drizzle the remaining sauce generously over each portion. For a finishing touch, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra black pepper.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fat: 40g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 210mg
Note: These nutrition facts are estimated values and can vary based on ingredients and serving sizes.
FAQs About Steak with Creamy Peppercorn Sauce
1. What type of steak works best with creamy peppercorn sauce?
- New York strip, ribeye, or filet mignon work best due to their tender, juicy nature. These cuts retain flavor well and offer a hearty, satisfying bite.
2. Can I make the peppercorn sauce without alcohol?
- Yes, you can skip the brandy or cognac. Substitute with additional beef broth for a similar richness without the alcohol.
3. What are some ideal side dishes for steak with creamy peppercorn sauce?
- Try pairing this steak with garlic mashed potatoes, steamed asparagus, or a light arugula salad. These sides complement the rich sauce beautifully.
4. Can I prepare the peppercorn sauce in advance?
- Yes! Prepare the sauce and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on low heat, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
5. How do I know when my steak is perfectly cooked?
- Relying on a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure accuracy. For medium-rare, aim for 130°F; for medium, 140°F; and for medium-well, around 150°F.
You’ll Also Love
If you’re a fan of this Steak with Creamy Peppercorn Sauce, explore these related recipes for more flavor-packed options:
- Grilled Steak with Chimichurri Sauce – Herbaceous and zesty, this sauce brings a bright contrast to grilled steak.
- Classic Pepper Steak Recipe – An easy stir-fry-style pepper steak that’s perfect for quick dinners.
- Filet Mignon with Mushroom Sauce – Tender filet mignon with a savory mushroom sauce for a restaurant-quality meal at home.
- Beef Medallions in Red Wine Sauce – Elegant and rich, perfect for dinner parties or special occasions.
Pro Tips for Cooking Steak with Creamy Peppercorn Sauce
- Choose Fresh Peppercorns: For the best flavor, crush whole peppercorns fresh rather than using pre-ground pepper. This releases their essential oils and intensifies the sauce’s flavor.
- Allow the Steak to Rest: Resting your steak after searing helps retain its juices, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite.
- Use a Cast Iron Pan: A heavy skillet or cast iron pan is ideal for achieving a perfect sear, which locks in the steak’s juices and flavor.
- Control Sauce Consistency: If your peppercorn sauce is too thick, add a splash of beef broth to reach the desired consistency. For a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce.
- Don’t Rush the Sauce: Allowing the sauce to simmer slowly over low heat enhances the creaminess and ensures that all the flavors meld together perfectly.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—an easy yet sophisticated recipe for Steak with Creamy Peppercorn Sauce that brings restaurant-quality taste to your kitchen. From the sear on the steak to the creamy, pepper-infused sauce, each element is crafted to enhance the flavors of this gourmet dish.
This recipe doesn’t just satisfy the craving for a good steak; it also introduces a perfect peppercorn sauce that adds a hint of spice, a touch of creaminess, and an unforgettable depth of flavor. Best of all, this meal comes together in just 30 minutes, making it accessible for both beginner and seasoned home cooks.
Try it out, and share your #BeesRecipes creations on Instagram! We’re excited to see your take on this classic dish.
With these instructions, you’ll master this Steak with Creamy Peppercorn Sauce recipe and impress anyone lucky enough to enjoy it. Whether for a special dinner or simply to elevate your culinary skills, this dish promises an indulgent dining experience with every bite. Enjoy!