Juicy Steak with Creamy Garlic

Category: Satisfying Main Courses for Every Occasion

Savor flavorful beef steak seared to your desired doneness, then smothered in a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce. Begin by seasoning and searing your steaks in a hot skillet until golden and juicy. After resting the meat, create a rich sauce by sautéing minced garlic, then adding heavy cream, beef stock, dijon mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer the mix until thickened, returning the steaks to soak up the silky sauce. Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a vibrant finish. Ideal for an easy yet impressive meal, this dish balances tenderness and bold flavors beautifully.

Loura is a chef and she is standing in front of a table full of fruits and vegetables.
Updated on Thu, 12 Jun 2025 21:41:12 GMT
A plate of meat with gravy. Save
A plate of meat with gravy. | recipesfoodyummy.com

A perfect steak night does not require a grill or a restaurant reservation. When cravings strike for juicy steak with a silky garlic cream sauce, this recipe comes to the rescue with rich flavor and comforting simplicity.

The first time I combined steak with this creamy garlic sauce was for an anniversary meal at home and now it is our go to celebration dinner. Nothing beats the aroma of simmering garlic and butter on the stove.

Ingredients

  • Beef steaks such as sirloin or ribeye: Choose steaks with good marbling for juicy texture and flavor
  • Olive oil: Helps get a golden sear and imparts subtle fruitiness
  • Butter: Adds rich taste and supports browning Better quality butter means even more flavor
  • Salt and black pepper: Season every step for depth
  • Garlic cloves: Minced fresh garlic gives a punchy aroma and savory edge Select firm heavy heads with tight skins
  • Heavy cream: The foundation of the sauce so use real full fat cream for silky results
  • Beef or chicken stock: Enhances umami and helps thin the sauce Choose low sodium for more control
  • Dijon mustard: Adds tang and rounds out richness Select a smooth classic style
  • Dried thyme: Earthy notes that pair perfectly with beef
  • Fresh parsley: For a fresh green finish Chopped right before serving tastes brightest

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare and Season Steaks:
Pat steaks dry with a paper towel This step ensures a crisp crust then season all sides firmly with salt and black pepper
Sear the Steaks:
Heat a skillet over medium high and add olive oil and butter Wait until butter foams Place the steaks in and let them cook undisturbed for three to four minutes each side for medium rare Avoid moving them so that a deep golden crust forms
Rest the Steaks:
Transfer steaks to a plate and tent loosely with foil Resting is crucial for juicy steaks as it allows juices to redistribute
Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
Lower the skillet heat and add minced garlic Stir constantly just until lightly golden and fragrant about half a minute Pour in heavy cream and stock whisking to pick up any brown bits Stir in Dijon mustard dried thyme salt and pepper Simmer gently for three to four minutes until the sauce coats the back of a spoon
Finish and Serve:
Nestle the steaks back in the sauce Turn them once or twice so they warm through and get coated Finally transfer steaks to plates spoon over extra sauce and sprinkle with chopped parsley
A plate of meat with gravy. Save
A plate of meat with gravy. | recipesfoodyummy.com

My favorite part is stirring the garlic into bubbling butter. It fills the whole house with a mouthwatering scent that never fails to gather everyone at the table a little early.

Storage Tips

Leftover steak and sauce store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The sauce may thicken as it cools so whisk in a splash of extra stock or cream when reheating on low heat. Avoid microwaving at high power which can overcook the steak.

Ingredient Substitutions

For different flavor undertones swap thyme for rosemary or tarragon. Boneless chicken breasts work beautifully if you prefer poultry. For a dairy free sauce opt for coconut cream and a dairy free butter alternative though this will create a slightly sweeter taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the steak with creamy garlic sauce over buttery mashed potatoes crisp roasted asparagus or a warm rice pilaf. I sometimes pile everything atop toasted sourdough for a hearty open faced sandwich. A bright green salad balances out the richness.

Cultural Context

This dish borrows from classic French steak au poivre traditions where pan sauces elevate seared meats. The garlic cream twist is a personal favorite nod to both French bistros and cozy home cooking where simple ingredients shine.

Recipe FAQs

→ What cut of beef works best for this dish?

Sirloin or ribeye steaks are ideal, offering a great balance of tenderness and flavor.

→ How do I achieve a creamy sauce texture?

Simmer the sauce gently after adding cream and stock, allowing it to thicken without boiling vigorously.

→ Can I substitute chicken stock for beef stock?

Yes, both chicken or beef stock will add depth; use whichever you have on hand for the sauce.

→ What is the best way to sear the steak?

Use a hot skillet with olive oil and butter to create a flavorful crust while keeping the inside juicy.

→ How can I adjust doneness of the steak?

Cook for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Adjust time slightly for a more well-done steak.

→ Is fresh parsley necessary for garnish?

Fresh parsley offers a bright contrast and is recommended, but you may omit it if preferred.

Juicy Steak Creamy Garlic Sauce

Tender steak paired with a flavorful, creamy garlic sauce—perfect for elevating any dinner.

Prep Time
10 mins
Cooking Time
15 mins
Total Duration
25 mins
By: Loura

Recipe Type: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Intermediate

Cuisine: Continental

Portions Yielded: 4 Serving Size (4 individual steaks)

Dietary Preferences: Gluten-Free

What You'll Need

→ Steak

01 4 beef steaks, such as sirloin or ribeye
02 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
04 Salt, to taste
05 Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Creamy Garlic Sauce

06 3 garlic cloves, minced
07 240 ml heavy cream
08 60 ml beef or chicken stock
09 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
10 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
11 Salt, to taste
12 Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
13 Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Steps To Follow

Step 01

Pat steaks dry with kitchen paper. Generously season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 02

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until butter is foaming. Place steaks in a single layer and sear for 3–4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or adjust cooking time to your preferred doneness.

Step 03

Remove steaks from skillet and set aside on a warm plate to rest. Cover loosely with foil.

Step 04

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until aromatic, scraping any browned bits from the pan.

Step 05

Pour in heavy cream and beef or chicken stock. Stir in Dijon mustard and dried thyme. Season with salt and black pepper. Gently simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 06

Return steaks to the skillet. Spoon sauce over each steak and allow to warm through for 1–2 minutes.

Step 07

Transfer steaks to serving plates, drizzle with creamy garlic sauce, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Notes and Tips

  1. Allowing the steaks to rest after searing ensures juicier results and even temperature throughout.

Required Equipment

  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Tongs
  • Kitchen paper

Allergy Info

Double-check every ingredient for possible allergens and consult a health professional if you're unsure.
  • Contains dairy (butter, heavy cream)

Nutritional Info (per serving)

These details are for informational purposes only and shouldn't replace medical advice.
  • Caloric Content: 760
  • Fats: 58 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Proteins: 51 g