Few dishes feel as luxurious and satisfying as Pan-Seared Steak with Creamy Peppercorn Sauce. This classic restaurant-style meal brings together perfectly seared beef and a rich, velvety sauce infused with pepper, cream, and savory depth. It’s the kind of dish that feels special enough for celebrations yet simple enough to prepare at home with confidence.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its balance. The steak is deeply caramelized on the outside and juicy on the inside, while the creamy peppercorn sauce adds warmth, richness, and just the right amount of bite. Served with potatoes, vegetables, or crusty bread, this dish transforms an ordinary dinner into something unforgettable.
Whether you’re cooking for guests, planning a romantic dinner, or simply craving a hearty and comforting meal, this steak recipe delivers bold flavor and elegant presentation every time.
Ingredients
For the Steak
- 4 beef steaks (sirloin, ribeye, or strip steak)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Creamy Peppercorn Sauce
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon crushed black peppercorns
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Steaks
Remove the steaks from the refrigerator 20–30 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature. Pat them dry with paper towels, then season generously on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Sear the Steaks
Heat olive oil in a large heavy skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the steaks in a single layer. Sear for 3–4 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until a deep golden-brown crust forms. Add butter during the last minute and spoon it over the steaks for extra flavor.
Remove the steaks from the pan and set aside to rest.
3. Start the Sauce
Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Build the Flavor
Add the crushed peppercorns to the pan and stir briefly. Pour in the beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release all the flavorful browned bits left from the steak. Let the broth simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Make It Creamy
Stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard if using. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently until thickened and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
6. Combine and Finish
Return the rested steaks to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the top. Let them warm through for 1–2 minutes without boiling the sauce.
7. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley just before serving for color and freshness.
Serving Suggestions
This pan-seared steak pairs beautifully with:
- Mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes
- Steamed green beans or asparagus
- Buttered rice or creamy polenta
- Crusty bread to soak up the sauce
- A simple green salad for balance
The creamy peppercorn sauce complements nearly any side dish, making this meal versatile and crowd-pleasing.
Tips for the Perfect Steak
- Use a hot pan to achieve a proper sear and deep flavor.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet, or the steak will steam instead of sear.
- Let the steak rest before adding it back to the sauce to keep it juicy.
- Crush peppercorns lightly for bold flavor without overpowering heat.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover steak and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat to prevent the sauce from separating. Add a splash of cream if needed to restore its texture.
Final Thoughts
Pan-Seared Steak with Creamy Peppercorn Sauce is the definition of classic comfort with a touch of elegance. Rich, savory, and deeply satisfying, this dish proves that restaurant-quality meals can be made easily at home. With its juicy steak, luxurious sauce, and timeless appeal, this recipe is one you’ll return to whenever you want to impress or simply enjoy an unforgettable dinner.