Peppercorn Steaks

Peppercorn Steaks are a delightful choice for any occasion, transforming simple cuts of meat into gourmet dining experiences. This recipe highlights the robust flavor of cracked black peppercorns paired with a creamy sauce, making it perfect for special celebrations or an impressive weeknight dinner. Whether you prefer ribeye, filet mignon, or T-bone, this dish will elevate your steak game and impress your guests.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Steaks
• For the Sauce
• How to Make Peppercorn Steaks
• Step 1: Salt the Steaks
• Step 2: Sear the Steaks
• Step 3: Check Doneness and Add Peppercorns
• Step 4: Make the Sauce
• Step 5: Serve Your Peppercorn Steaks
• How to Serve Peppercorn Steaks
• With a Fresh Salad
• Pairing with Wine
• Adding Sauces
• Bread Accompaniments
• How to Perfect Peppercorn Steaks
• Best Side Dishes for Peppercorn Steaks
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Peppercorn Steaks
• Reheating Peppercorn Steaks
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What are Peppercorn Steaks?
• Can I use different types of steak?
• How do I know when my steak is done?
• Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With a total time of just over an hour, you can serve a restaurant-quality meal at home.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of cracked peppercorns and rich cream creates a savory sauce that enhances the steak’s natural flavors.
• Versatile Cuts: You can use various cuts of steak, allowing you to choose your favorite or what’s available.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering, Peppercorn Steaks fit right in.
• Easy to Follow: The step-by-step method makes this recipe accessible even for beginner cooks.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the delicious process of making Peppercorn Steaks, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make cooking simpler and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet or hard anodized aluminum pan
• Wooden spoon
• Tongs
• Meat thermometer
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Retains heat well, ensuring a perfect sear on your steaks.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for deglazing the pan without scratching its surface.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures accurate cooking temperatures for your preferred doneness.

Ingredients

For the Steaks

• 4 good-sized (1/2- to 1-pound) steaks (allow for 1/2 pound per person)
• Kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil or canola oil

For the Sauce

• 3 tablespoons black peppercorns, cracked
• 1/4 cup finely chopped shallots or onions
• 1/4 cup cognac or other brandy
• 1 cup beef broth or stock
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley

How to Make Peppercorn Steaks

Step 1: Salt the Steaks

Sprinkle kosher salt generously over both sides of the steaks. Let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help enhance their flavor and tenderness.

Step 2: Sear the Steaks

1. Heat oil in a large sauté pan over high heat until it begins to smoke.
2. Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to ensure good browning.
3. Place steaks in the hot pan and reduce heat to medium-high.
4. Sear without moving them for at least 4 minutes. Check if they lift easily; if not, let them cook longer.

Step 3: Check Doneness and Add Peppercorns

Once cooked to your liking:
1. Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperatures (120°F for rare, up to 155°F for medium well).
2. Transfer steaks to a baking sheet and sprinkle with crushed black peppercorns on both sides.
3. Tent with aluminum foil and let rest while preparing the sauce.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. In the same pan, add shallots and sauté for about 2 minutes until softened.
2. Pour in cognac and deglaze by scraping any browned bits from the pan bottom with a wooden spoon.
3. Once reduced, add beef broth and bring to high heat until thickened (about 4-5 minutes).
4. Stir in heavy cream and boil down until thick enough to leave a trail when dragging a spoon through it.
5. Turn off heat, mix in parsley, taste for salt, and adjust if necessary.

Step 5: Serve Your Peppercorn Steaks

Pour the creamy sauce over the steaks just before serving. Enjoy this savory delight that is sure to impress!

How to Serve Peppercorn Steaks

Serving Peppercorn Steaks is an opportunity to showcase your culinary skills while delighting your guests. The rich flavors of the steak and the creamy sauce pair beautifully with various sides and accompaniments.

With a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens: A light salad with arugula, spinach, and radishes adds freshness.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine tossed with creamy dressing complements the richness of the steak.

Pairing with Wine

• Red Wine: A bold Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot enhances the savory flavors of the steak.
• White Wine: For a lighter option, try a Chardonnay to balance the richness of the cream sauce.

Adding Sauces

• Chimichurri: This herbaceous sauce provides a zesty contrast to the peppery steak.
• Béarnaise Sauce: A classic French sauce that adds richness and flavor depth.

Bread Accompaniments

• Garlic Bread: Toasted bread with garlic butter is perfect for mopping up sauce.
• Crusty Baguette: A simple baguette can complement the meal and serve as a side.

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How to Perfect Peppercorn Steaks

To achieve restaurant-quality Peppercorn Steaks at home, focus on technique and attention to detail. Here are some essential tips for perfecting this dish:

• Use High-Quality Steak: Choosing cuts like ribeye or filet mignon ensures tenderness and flavor.
• Properly Salt the Steak: Salting ahead of time helps enhance flavor and promotes better browning.
• Sear at High Heat: Getting a good sear locks in juices and creates a delicious crust on the steak.
• Let it Rest: Allowing steaks to rest before serving helps redistribute juices for a more flavorful bite.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning in your sauce based on personal preference for saltiness and flavor balance.
• Experiment with Peppercorns: Mixing different types of peppercorns can add complexity to the flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Peppercorn Steaks

Complementing your Peppercorn Steaks with well-chosen side dishes can elevate the entire meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that pairs perfectly.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds color and crunch alongside your steak.
3. Creamed Spinach: This rich, indulgent dish offers a beautiful contrast to the peppery flavors of the steaks.
4. Grilled Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables brings vibrancy and healthfulness to your plate.
5. Risotto: Creamy mushroom or parmesan risotto serves as an elegant base for your steak.
6. French Fries: Classic fries or gourmet versions like truffle fries provide a satisfying crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking the perfect Peppercorn Steaks can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the salt: Not salting your steak properly can lead to bland flavor. Make sure to generously salt both sides and let it rest before cooking.

• Using low-quality steaks: Cheap cuts won’t deliver the same flavor or tenderness. Opt for good quality cuts like ribeye, filet mignon, or T-bone.

• Ignoring resting time: Cutting into a steak right after cooking will lose juices. Always let your Peppercorn Steaks rest for a few minutes under foil.

• Overcrowding the pan: Cooking too many steaks at once lowers the pan’s temperature, leading to steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if necessary.

• Not using a thermometer: Guessing doneness can ruin your meal. Invest in a meat thermometer to ensure perfect cooking every time.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Peppercorn Steaks in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Peppercorn Steaks

• Wrap each steak tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• They will keep well for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Peppercorn Steaks

• Oven: Preheat to 250°F, place steaks on a baking sheet, and heat until warmed through (about 20-30 minutes).

• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on low in short intervals until warmed.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat, add a little oil, and warm each side for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Peppercorn Steaks:

What are Peppercorn Steaks?

Peppercorn Steaks refer to steaks seasoned with cracked black peppercorns, providing a bold flavor that pairs well with creamy sauces.

Can I use different types of steak?

Absolutely! You can use any good quality cut like ribeye, filet mignon, or New York strip for delicious Peppercorn Steaks.

How do I know when my steak is done?

Use a meat thermometer: 120°F for rare, 125-130°F for medium rare, and 140°F for medium doneness for your Peppercorn Steaks.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it just before serving your Peppercorn Steaks.

Final Thoughts

Peppercorn Steaks are an impressive yet easy dish perfect for any occasion. With options to customize your sauce or spice level, this recipe offers versatility while delivering rich flavors. Give it a try today!