Juicy Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce

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A perfectly seared steak paired with a rich, velvety garlic cream sauce is a match made in culinary heaven. This dish combines the deep umami flavors of a tender, juicy steak with the bold aroma and smooth texture of a luscious cream sauce infused with garlic and herbs. It’s a restaurant-worthy entrée that you can confidently create in your own kitchen with minimal effort and maximum reward.

Whether you’re planning a special dinner, craving something comforting yet elegant, or simply want to elevate your steak night, this Juicy Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce delivers. Each bite offers a burst of savory satisfaction, with the creamy sauce complementing the charred edges and succulent center of the steak. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or even a simple green salad to round out the meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Juicy Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce

• It’s rich, flavorful, and feels indulgent without being overly complicated.
• The garlic cream sauce adds a decadent touch that elevates an everyday steak.
• Perfect for date nights, holidays, or impressing dinner guests.
• Customizable with different herbs or add-ins like mushrooms or peppercorns.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have the right equipment to achieve that perfect sear and creamy finish:

• Cast Iron Skillet: Retains and evenly distributes heat, giving the steak a beautiful crust.
• Meat Thermometer: Ensures your steak is cooked to your preferred doneness without overcooking.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife: For precise trimming and slicing.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring the sauce without scratching the pan.
• Small Saucepan (optional): To make the cream sauce separately if preferred.

These tools help streamline the cooking process and improve consistency and safety in the kitchen.

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Preparation Tips

Let your steak come to room temperature before searing for even cooking. Pat it dry with paper towels to help it brown better in the pan. Season generously with salt and pepper—don’t skimp! For the sauce, use freshly minced garlic and heavy cream for the most luxurious texture. Avoid rushing the sauce; let it simmer gently to thicken and meld the flavors. Rest the steak for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juices when sliced. These small steps make a big difference in the final result.

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Ingredients for Juicy Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce

For the Steak:

• 2 ribeye or strip steaks (1 to 1.5 inches thick)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt (to taste)
• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic (crushed)

For the Garlic Cream Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 cup chicken or beef broth
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley (for garnish)

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Step 1: Prepare the Steak

Let the steak come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. Pat both sides dry with a paper towel. Season generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. This step is essential for a flavorful crust.

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Step 2: Sear the Steak

Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the olive oil. Place the steak in the pan and sear undisturbed for 3–4 minutes until a crust forms. Flip and sear the other side for another 3–4 minutes. Add the butter, crushed garlic, and thyme sprigs, and baste the steak with the melted butter for an additional 1–2 minutes.

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Step 3: Check Doneness

Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature:

• Rare: 125°F
• Medium Rare: 130°F
• Medium: 140°F
• Medium Well: 150°F
• Well Done: 160°F

Remove steak from skillet when it’s 5°F below your target temperature, as it will continue to cook while resting. Tent loosely with foil and rest for at least 5–10 minutes.

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Step 4: Make the Garlic Cream Sauce

In the same skillet (or a small saucepan), reduce the heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in broth and deglaze the pan, scraping up brown bits. Stir in heavy cream and Dijon mustard. Simmer gently for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

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Step 5: Plate and Serve

Slice the rested steak against the grain. Spoon the warm garlic cream sauce generously over the slices. Garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.

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Notes

Using high-quality, well-marbled steak such as ribeye or striploin will significantly improve the flavor and tenderness. Resting the steak before slicing is not optional—it’s essential for juicy, tender meat. For the garlic cream sauce, simmering slowly is key to avoiding curdling and ensuring the ingredients bind smoothly. You can even prepare the sauce in advance and gently reheat it before serving.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the steak rest period: Cutting too soon causes flavorful juices to run out.
• Overcrowding the pan: This drops the temperature and causes steaming instead of searing.
• Overcooking the garlic: Burnt garlic will turn bitter and ruin the sauce.
• High heat for the sauce: This may cause the cream to break or scorch.
• Not drying the steak: Moisture prevents proper searing and browning.
• Skipping the thermometer: Visual cues can be misleading; a thermometer ensures perfect doneness.

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Storage Instructions

Store leftover steak and garlic cream sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The steak will stay fresh for up to 3 days, and the sauce for about 4 days. Reheat steak gently in a skillet or oven to preserve its texture. Warm the sauce over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if it has thickened too much.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per Serving (based on 2 servings total):

• Calories: 720
• Protein: 45g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fat: 58g
• Saturated Fat: 30g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 460mg
• Cholesterol: 165mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the steak is done?

Use a meat thermometer. Aim for 130°F for medium rare, and adjust based on your preference.

Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes, sirloin, filet mignon, or even flank steak can work. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is it okay to use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Fresh garlic is strongly recommended for flavor, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.

Can I make the sauce without cream?

You can substitute with full-fat coconut milk or a combination of milk and butter, but texture and taste will vary.

How can I thicken the sauce more?

Let it simmer longer or add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water.

What sides go best with this steak?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad are excellent pairings.

Can I grill the steak instead of searing it in a pan?

Absolutely. Grill over high heat and follow the same temperature guidelines.

Is the sauce keto-friendly?

Yes, the ingredients are low in carbs and high in fat, making it suitable for keto diets.

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Conclusion

Juicy Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce is a delicious way to bring steakhouse flavors to your home kitchen. It’s a balanced dish that combines savory seared steak with a silky, garlicky cream sauce. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself to a gourmet meal, this recipe ensures both satisfaction and simplicity.

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