Have you ever tried a dish that made your taste buds do a little happy dance? Picture this: tender steak bites kissed by a rich, garlicky butter—it’s a flavor explosion that warms the soul and feels like a cozy hug on a chilly night.
I stumbled upon this gem while flipping through an old cookbook, and it instantly became our date-night favorite—oh, and the leftovers? Practically non-existent.
Steps
- Mashed Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 250°F. Boil cubed Yukon Gold potatoes with garlic and salt in a saucepan until tender, about 8-10 minutes. Drain, then mash with butter and cream until smooth, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cover with foil to keep warm in the oven.
- Pan-Seared Steaks: Heat a cast iron skillet on medium-high for 5 minutes. Season both sides of the steaks with salt and pepper. Add ghee to the skillet, place steaks in, and sear each side for 4 minutes. Add butter, garlic, and thyme, basting the steaks. Check doneness with a thermometer, aiming for 120°F for medium-rare. Let rest for 10 minutes.
- Steamed Green Beans: While steaks rest, add water to a saucepan and set a steamer basket on top. Place seasoned green beans in the basket, cover, and steam for 8-10 minutes. Melt butter with garlic in the microwave, pour over beans, and season as needed.
- Sautéed Mushrooms: Melt butter with a pinch of salt in the steak skillet over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and sauté until they release their juices, about 5-8 minutes. Season to taste and serve over the steaks.
Ingredients
- 2 medium-sized Yukon Gold potatoes, cubed
- 1/2 tablespoon kosher salt
- 2 to 3 garlic cloves, peeled
- Water to cover potatoes in pan
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (more as needed)
- 3 tablespoons heavy cream, warmed slightly (more as needed)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lb Top sirloin steak filets, 1 1/2 to 2 inches thick (2 steaks)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper, divided
- 1 tablespoon Ghee (or canola oil)
- 2 to 3 garlic cloves, peeled
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter for basting
- Sprigs of fresh thyme
- 1/2 lb fresh green beans, ends trimmed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic, minced (or more to taste)
- Pinch of kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 ounces white mushrooms, sliced
- Pinch of kosher salt
FAQ
- What is the best steak cut for this recipe?
- The recommended cut for this recipe is the top sirloin filet, also known as sirloin medallion. It offers a balance between flavor and tenderness, often referred to as the ‘poor man’s filet.’ Its flavor and cost-effectiveness make it an excellent choice for a romantic meal for two.
- How do I ensure my steak is cooked to the right doneness?
- Use an instant-read thermometer to monitor the steak’s internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for about 120°F before removing it from the heat, allowing it to rest to reach the desired temperature. Refer to a doneness chart for more specific temperatures.
- What sides pair well with pan-seared steak?
- Complementary sides include creamy garlic mashed potatoes, fresh steamed green beans, and mushrooms sautéed in butter. These sides enhance the steak’s flavor and add variety to your meal.
- What are the key tips for achieving a perfect sear on the steak?
- Ensure your cast iron skillet is extremely hot before adding the steak. Pat the steaks dry and season them generously with salt and pepper. Avoid using a non-stick skillet, as it won’t provide the ideal sear.
- How can this meal be budget-friendly yet fancy?
- This complete steak dinner for two, including sides, can be made for under $15. By choosing more affordable steak cuts like the top sirloin filet and preparing sides at home, you can enjoy a fancy dinner without breaking the bank.
Tips
- Gather Ingredients in Advance: Prepare all your ingredients before you start cooking, as this meal progresses quickly. This will help you stay organized and ensure a smooth cooking process.
- Achieve the Perfect Sear: Use a very hot cast iron or stainless steel skillet to sear your steaks. Avoid non-stick pans as they won’t provide the same browning effect that enhances flavor.
- Check Temperature with Precision: Utilize an instant-read thermometer to monitor the steak’s internal temperature. Remove the steaks from the heat when they are 5-10 degrees below your desired level of doneness, as they will continue to cook while resting.
- Rest and Slice Properly: Allow the steaks to rest for at least 5 minutes before serving. This helps retain juices and ensures tenderness. When slicing, cut against the grain to maximize tenderness.
Equipment
- Cast Iron Skillet
- Instant Read Thermometer (Digital)
- Steamer Basket
- Potato Masher (Cuisinart Smart Stick with potato masher attachment or a hand-held potato masher)
