Few dishes exude elegance and indulgence like a perfectly cooked Peppercorn Crusted Steak paired with a luscious Creamy Peppercorn Sauce. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself to a gourmet meal, this recipe delivers bold flavors and a rich, silky sauce that’s sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Balanced Spice: The crust of crushed peppercorns gives the steak a subtle heat and crunch, complementing the creamy sauce.
- Restaurant Quality at Home: This dish transforms your kitchen into a five-star dining experience.
- Simple Ingredients: Most of the components are pantry staples, making this an easy yet elegant dish to prepare.
Ingredients
For the Steak
- 1 (10-ounce) boneless ribeye steak
- 1 tablespoon black peppercorns, coarsely ground
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Creamy Peppercorn Sauce
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
- Season the steak generously with salt.
- Press the coarsely ground black peppercorns into both sides of the steak, forming a crust.
Step 2: Cook the Steak
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat until shimmering.
- Add the steak and sear for 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare or adjust the timing for your preferred doneness.
- Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes to lock in the juices.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Peppercorn Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat, scraping up any browned bits for added flavor.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw taste.
- Gradually add the beef broth and heavy cream, whisking constantly until smooth.
- Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in the Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper for a final burst of flavor.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Slice the rested steak against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Drizzle generously with the creamy peppercorn sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve alongside your favorite sides, such as roasted potatoes or steamed green beans.
Tips for Success
- Get the Right Crust: Use freshly crushed peppercorns for optimal flavor and texture. A mortar and pestle works great for this.
- Rest the Steak: Allowing the steak to rest ensures the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender.
- Thicker Sauce: For a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer or add a touch more flour.
Serving Suggestions
This Peppercorn Crusted Steak pairs beautifully with:
- Potatoes: Garlic mashed potatoes or crispy roasted baby potatoes.
- Vegetables: Steamed asparagus, sautéed spinach, or roasted carrots.
- Wine: A bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot enhances the flavors of this dish.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes! Strip steak, filet mignon, or even sirloin work well. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
Half-and-half or whole milk can be used as substitutes, but the sauce may be slightly less rich.
How do I make the sauce spicier?
Add more crushed peppercorns or a pinch of red chili flakes for extra heat.
Conclusion
This Peppercorn Crusted Steak with Creamy Peppercorn Sauce is a timeless dish that strikes the perfect balance between rustic and refined. The tender steak with its peppery crust, combined with the velvety sauce, creates a symphony of flavors in every bite. Try it for your next special occasion or a cozy dinner date at home.
Ready to wow your taste buds? Let’s get cooking!