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Juicy Steak with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe

5 from 147 reviews

This Juicy Steak with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a perfect balance of savory seared ribeye steak paired with a rich, luscious garlic cream sauce enhanced with Parmesan and Dijon mustard. The steak is pan-seared to medium-rare perfection, basted with butter and aromatic herbs, then rested to retain juiciness. The leftover skillet flavors transform into a velvety sauce that complements the steak beautifully, ideal for a comforting, elegant dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Steak

  • 2 ribeye steaks (about 1 inch thick)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 garlic cloves, smashed
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Steak: Pat the ribeye steaks dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance flavor.
  2. Sear the Steaks: Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add olive oil, then place steaks in the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare doneness, or longer depending on preference, ensuring a browned crust develops.
  3. Baste with Butter and Herbs: Add 2 tablespoons of butter, smashed garlic cloves, and rosemary or thyme sprigs to the skillet. As the butter melts, continuously spoon it over the steaks to infuse rich flavors and keep the meat moist.
  4. Rest the Steaks: Remove steaks from the skillet and transfer to a plate or cutting board. Let them rest for 5-7 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender and juicy steak.
  5. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned, building the garlic flavor base.
  6. Add Cream and Seasonings: Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika if using, salt, and black pepper. Continue stirring until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and slightly thickened to coat the back of a spoon.
  7. Assemble and Serve: Slice the rested steaks against the grain for maximum tenderness. Plate the steak slices and generously spoon the creamy garlic sauce over the top. Serve alongside mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or your preferred sides for a complete meal.

Notes

  • For perfectly cooked steak, use a meat thermometer: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium.
  • Resting the steak is crucial to retain juices and ensure tenderness.
  • The sauce can be made a day ahead and gently reheated before serving.
  • Smoked paprika is optional but adds a smoky depth to the sauce.
  • Use fresh garlic and herbs for the best flavor.

Keywords: ribeye steak, creamy garlic sauce, pan-seared steak, Parmesan cream sauce, easy steak dinner