Steak with Haunted Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce

When you think of an unforgettable steak dinner, steak with haunted bourbon garlic cream sauce might not immediately come to mind. But imagine the combination of a perfectly seared steak smothered in a rich, creamy, and slightly spicy sauce infused with the smoky depth of bourbon. This dish is sure to elevate your next dinner party or weeknight meal.

If you’re a fan of bold flavors, smoky whiskey, and garlicky richness, then this steak recipe will leave a lasting impression on your taste buds. By using bourbon as a key ingredient in the sauce, you’ll infuse the dish with layers of complexity and depth. The garlic cream sauce is thick, rich, and velvety, offering a perfect balance to the savory steak. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that brings together comforting flavors and a sophisticated twist.

The concept of using bourbon in cooking has been gaining traction in the culinary world for years. It adds a depth of flavor that complements rich, meaty dishes, and it’s perfect when used to deglaze a pan and create a bourbon cream sauce. If you’re wondering how to use bourbon in your cooking, this Serious Eats guide offers tips and techniques for incorporating the spirit into your recipes. Whether it’s for steak, chicken, or even desserts, bourbon is a great way to bring smoky warmth and sweetness to your dishes.

Another great resource for those looking to elevate their steak dinners is this Bon Appétit recipe for garlic butter steak. The principles of garlic butter steak can be adapted to suit a bourbon garlic cream sauce, where you build layers of flavor by combining garlic with butter and adding bourbon for a more complex taste.

The Story Behind the Haunted Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce

You may wonder why the word “haunted” is used to describe this bourbon garlic cream sauce. The word evokes a sense of mystery, intrigue, and excitement—much like the unexpected flavor profile of this dish. The sauce has a bit of heat, a touch of sweetness from the bourbon, and a richness from the cream. Together, these elements create an ethereal combination that “haunts” your palate in the best possible way.

The haunted theme goes beyond just the sauce itself. The bourbon adds an almost mystical quality to the sauce, giving it a deep, smoky flavor that feels like a flavorful twist on a classic dish. As bourbon simmers with garlic and cream, the flavors meld together into something more than just a traditional steak sauce. It’s an experience—something you can’t forget once you’ve tasted it.

The sauce is created by deglazing the pan with bourbon, allowing the alcohol to cook off and leave behind the complex flavors. This method creates a savory, slightly smoky base for the sauce, which you then build on with cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. The result is a sauce that’s creamy, smoky, with a hint of warmth from the bourbon and cayenne pepper. If you’re interested in using bourbon in other ways to make sauces, I recommend checking out this article for more bourbon sauce inspiration.

Choosing the Right Steak

The key to a great steak with haunted bourbon garlic cream sauce is, of course, the steak itself. The type of steak you choose will significantly impact the overall flavor and texture of the dish. You want a steak that can hold up to the bold flavors of the bourbon garlic cream sauce.

Recommended Cuts:

• Ribeye: This cut is marbled with fat, which makes it ideal for searing. The fat melts as the steak cooks, making the meat juicy and flavorful. The richness of the ribeye complements the bourbon sauce perfectly.

• New York Strip: A slightly leaner option compared to ribeye, but still tender and flavorful. This cut strikes a balance between beefiness and tenderness, making it an excellent choice for this dish.

• Filet Mignon: For those who prefer a more delicate texture, filet mignon is the leanest of the three options. It’s tender and mild in flavor, which allows the bourbon garlic cream sauce to shine through.

When selecting your steak, look for cuts with good marbling. Marbling refers to the thin streaks of fat running through the meat, which melt during cooking to keep the steak juicy and flavorful. Choosing a high-quality cut of meat will make all the difference in your final dish.

Preparing the Steak and Sauce

The preparation of both the steak and the bourbon garlic cream sauce is key to getting the best flavor. Let’s walk through the process step by step.

Preparing the Steak:

1. Seasoning: Before you start cooking, generously season the steak with salt and pepper. You can also use additional spices like garlic powder or onion powder to enhance the flavor.

2. Searing: Heat a cast-iron skillet or a heavy-duty pan over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil and place the steak in the pan. Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes, depending on your preferred level of doneness. For a medium-rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F.

3. Resting: After cooking, let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a tender and juicy steak.

Crafting the Haunted Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce:

1. Melt the Butter: In the same pan that you cooked the steak, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Scrape up any brown bits left in the pan—they’ll add flavor to the sauce.

2. Add Garlic: Once the butter has melted, add 4 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. The garlic will infuse the sauce with an aromatic richness.

3. Deglaze with Bourbon: Slowly pour 1/4 cup of bourbon into the pan. As the bourbon hits the pan, it will sizzle and start to reduce. Allow the bourbon to cook down by about half, which will concentrate the flavor and remove the alcohol.

4. Add Cream: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let the sauce thicken for 5-7 minutes. The cream will soften the sharp edges of the bourbon and create a velvety sauce.

5. Add Parmesan and Season: Stir in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. Adjust with salt and pepper to taste. For a little heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

6. Finish the Sauce: Once the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency, pour it generously over the rested steak. The rich, smoky sauce will complement the meaty flavors of the steak.

Plating the Dish

The presentation of your steak can elevate the entire dining experience. Here are some tips on plating your steak with haunted bourbon garlic cream sauce:

• Place the Steak: Start by placing the steak on a plate or serving platter. You can either serve it whole or slice it into strips.

• Generously Spoon the Sauce: Pour the bourbon garlic cream sauce over the steak. Be generous, as the sauce is the star of the dish.

• Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley, to brighten the dish and add a pop of color. If you like a bit of texture, sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top.

Serving Suggestions

While the steak is the star of the show, the side dishes and beverage pairings are essential to complement the rich flavors.

Side Dishes:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a smooth base that pairs perfectly with the richness of the sauce.

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted brussels sprouts, carrots, and asparagus offer a slightly sweet contrast to the savory steak.

• Garlic Bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread can be used to soak up every last drop of the bourbon garlic cream sauce.

Beverage Pairings:

• Red Wine: A Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec pairs beautifully with the steak and sauce. Both wines have bold flavors that complement the richness of the dish.

• Non-Alcoholic Option: Try a sparkling apple cider, which offers a crisp and fruity contrast to the savory and creamy flavors of the steak.

Variations and Customizations

This dish is incredibly versatile, and you can make it your own by playing around with flavors and ingredients.

Spicy Twist

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding more cayenne pepper or even incorporating ghost pepper into the sauce. The spicy kick will enhance the bourbon’s smokiness and create an even more intense flavor.

Vegetarian Alternative

If you prefer a vegetarian version, try replacing the steak with hearty vegetables like portobello mushrooms or cauliflower steak. The rich bourbon garlic cream sauce still pairs beautifully with plant-based proteins.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different type of alcohol instead of bourbon?

Yes, you can substitute whiskey or brandy for bourbon. While each spirit has a slightly different flavor profile, they all work wonderfully to create a rich sauce.

How can I make the sauce less spicy?

To reduce the spice level, you can omit the cayenne pepper entirely or use only a small pinch. You can also balance the heat with a bit more cream or cheese.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the bourbon garlic cream sauce in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat before serving.

What are some side dishes that pair well with this steak?

Side dishes like garlic mashed potatoes, roasted brussels sprouts, or grilled asparagus pair excellently with the rich flavors of the steak and sauce.

Is this recipe suitable for special occasions?

Yes, the bold flavors and luxurious sauce make this recipe perfect for special occasions like anniversaries, dinner parties, or holiday meals.

Steak with Haunted Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce

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• Author: iyma hernandes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x

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Description

A perfectly seared steak smothered in a rich, smoky, and slightly spicy haunted bourbon garlic cream sauce. This dish is bold, flavorful, and unforgettable, making it ideal for an elevated dinner experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 ribeye or New York strip steaks
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Season the steaks generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the steaks for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare or until desired doneness. Remove from skillet and let rest.
4. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
5. Slowly pour in bourbon, allowing it to reduce by half while scraping the pan.
6. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and cayenne pepper (if using).
7. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens.
8. Plate the steaks and generously spoon the haunted bourbon garlic cream sauce over them.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

For extra smoky depth, use a smoked bourbon. Pair with garlic mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 720
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 48g
• Saturated Fat: 22g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 52g
• Cholesterol: 180mg

Keywords: steak, bourbon sauce, garlic cream sauce, seared steak