Juicy Steak with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Rest Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: ~35 minutes
Servings: 2–4
Difficulty: Intermediate
Flavor Intensity: Bold, savory, rich, garlicky
Cuisine: Modern American / Steakhouse-style

 Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a perfectly pan-seared steak, crusty on the outside and juicy inside, bathed in a creamy garlic sauce that you’ll want to spoon over everything.

This recipe brings you that steakhouse experience at home — sizzling hot steak, aromatic garlic, and a silky cream sauce with a touch of tang and depth. Whether it’s for a romantic dinner, a weekend indulgence, or a family celebration, this dish delivers flavor, elegance, and satisfaction in every bite.

 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Pan-seared steak perfection — crisp crust, juicy center

• Creamy garlic sauce — rich but balanced

• Quick to make — under 40 minutes total

• Restaurant-quality dish at home

•  Pairs beautifully with wine, mashed potatoes, or pasta

 Ingredients

 For the Steak

• 2 ribeye, strip, or sirloin steaks (1–1½ inches thick)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp unsalted butter

• 2 cloves garlic, smashed

• 1–2 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)

• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Choose well-marbled cuts for maximum juiciness and flavor.

 For the Creamy Garlic Sauce

• 1 tbsp butter (use the steak drippings if available)

• 4–5 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ cup chicken or beef broth

• ¾ cup heavy cream

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional for tang)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)

 Equipment Needed

• Heavy-bottomed cast iron skillet or stainless steel pan

• Tongs

• Sharp knife

• Cutting board

• Small whisk or spoon

 Instructions

 Step 1: Prep the Steak

1. Remove steak from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking.

2. Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels (moisture = steam, not sear!).

3. Generously season both sides with salt and pepper.

 Letting steak come to room temp ensures even cooking.

 Step 2: Sear the Steak

1. Heat olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.

2. Add the steak and do not move it for 3–4 minutes to develop a golden crust.

3. Flip and cook another 3–4 minutes, depending on thickness and desired doneness.

4. Add butter, smashed garlic cloves, and optional herbs.

5. Tilt the pan and baste the steak with the melted butter for 1–2 minutes.

6. Transfer steak to a plate to rest for 5–10 minutes, tented with foil.

 Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

1. In the same pan (with browned bits and drippings), reduce heat to medium.

2. Add a tablespoon of butter if needed.

3. Add the minced garlic and sauté 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Pour in broth and scrape up browned bits with a wooden spoon.

5. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes.

6. Add the cream, stirring constantly, and bring to a gentle simmer.

7. Stir in Parmesan, Dijon mustard, and season with salt & pepper to taste.

8. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly — about 3–5 minutes.

 Parmesan adds umami and helps thicken the sauce naturally.

 Step 4: Serve

1. Slice steak against the grain (optional).

2. Spoon creamy garlic sauce over the steak.

3. Garnish with fresh herbs.

 What to Serve With Juicy Garlic Cream Steak

• Mashed potatoes or garlic butter noodles

• Steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or broccolini

• Crusty bread for mopping up sauce

• Red wine: Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, or Malbec

 Storage & Reheating

• Fridge: Store steak and sauce separately for up to 3 days

• Reheat sauce gently on the stove over low heat

• Reheat steak in a low oven (300°F) covered with foil for ~10 min to avoid overcooking

 Nutrition (Per Serving – Based on 4 Servings)

Nutritional values depend on cut of steak, cream, and cheese used.

 Variations

 Blue Cheese Garlic Sauce

Swap Parmesan for crumbled blue cheese for a bolder, tangier sauce.

 Herb Butter Steak

Skip the cream sauce and instead top the hot steak with compound butter (garlic, parsley, lemon zest, and salt mixed into softened butter).

 Grill It!

Grill the steak over high heat, then transfer to a skillet for finishing sauce if desired.

 FAQs

What’s the best steak cut for this recipe?

Ribeye, New York strip, or sirloin are great choices. Even filet mignon works well.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

You can, but it won’t thicken as well. Add a bit of cornstarch slurry if needed, and note that the sauce may be less rich.

What if I don’t have Parmesan?

Use Grana Padano, Asiago, or even cream cheese as an alternative.

 Final Thoughts

This Juicy Steak with Creamy Garlic Sauce is proof that a simple, well-executed meal can feel like an indulgent night out. The rich sauce complements the savory steak perfectly without overpowering it. It’s elegant enough for guests, easy enough for a weeknight, and guaranteed to impress.

Whether you’re cooking for a date night, a celebration, or just treating yourself — this is steakhouse quality at home.