Description
This recipe features perfectly seared ribeye steaks topped with a rich and flavorful haunted bourbon garlic cream sauce. The sauce combines the smoky warmth of bourbon, the punch of garlic, and a hint of heat from cayenne and smoked paprika, making it a decadent and comforting dish ideal for steak lovers.
Ingredients
Scale
Steak
- 2 ribeye steaks (approximately 1 inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
Haunted Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (reduce if less heat is desired)
- Fresh thyme or parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Season Steaks: Season both sides of the ribeye steaks generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Heat Skillet and Add Oil: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Wait until the oil is hot and shimmering before proceeding.
- Sear Steaks: Place the seasoned steaks in the hot skillet. Sear each side for 3-4 minutes, forming a flavorful crust and cooking the steak to your preferred doneness. Remove steaks and set aside to rest, preserving their juices.
- Prepare Sauce Base: Reduce heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon of butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Deglaze Pan with Bourbon: Carefully pour in the bourbon to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits with a wooden spoon to infuse flavor into the sauce.
- Reduce Bourbon: Allow the bourbon to reduce by half over 2-3 minutes, concentrating its flavors.
- Add Cream and Spices: Slowly stir in the heavy cream, then add Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 5-6 minutes, thickening slightly.
- Finish Steaks in Sauce: Return the steaks to the skillet and spoon the sauce over them. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors and reheat the steaks gently.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh thyme or parsley if desired, then serve immediately for a rich and indulgent steak dinner.
Notes
- Allowing steaks to rest after searing helps retain their juices for a tender bite.
- Adjust cayenne pepper quantity based on your heat preference.
- Use a high-quality bourbon for the best depth of flavor.
- If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, substitute bourbon with beef broth and a splash of apple cider vinegar.
- Make sure to cook steaks to your desired doneness; use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley add a nice fresh contrast to the rich sauce.
