Can I make steak with bourbon garlic cream sauce without alcohol?

Yes, you can substitute bourbon with beef broth, apple cider, or a mix of Worcestershire sauce and balsamic vinegar for a rich, alcohol-free flavor.

What’s the best steak cut for this recipe?

Ribeye is the top choice for flavor and tenderness, but New York strip, filet mignon, or sirloin are also excellent alternatives for bourbon garlic cream sauce.

Does the alcohol cook out of the bourbon cream sauce?

Yes, when the sauce simmers properly, most of the alcohol in the bourbon evaporates, leaving behind a sweet, rich flavor.

Steak with Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce 2025

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Few meals say “special occasion” quite like a juicy steak bathed in a rich, velvety sauce. And when that sauce happens to be a bourbon garlic cream sauce free non alcoholic, it’s more than special it’s unforgettable. This recipe brings together seared-to-perfection steak and a luxurious, aromatic cream sauce spiked with bourbon and deeply infused with roasted garlic. The result? A bold, comforting dish worthy of your best cast iron pan and your favorite dinner guests.

Whether you’re cooking for a cozy date night, a celebratory dinner, or simply want to treat yourself to a restaurant-worthy plate at home, this steak with bourbon garlic cream sauce free non alcoholic delivers on every level: flavor, aroma, and a touch of indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Steak with Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce free non alcoholic

Rich and flavorful: The cream sauce is savory and luscious with hints of oak, garlic, and butter.
Restaurant-quality at home: This is the kind of dish you’d expect to find on a high-end steakhouse menu but it’s surprisingly simple to make in your kitchen.
Flexible pairing: Serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a crisp green salad.
That sauce, though: Seriously, the bourbon garlic cream sauce could go on everything chicken, even pasta.

There’s something nostalgic yet elegant about a cast-iron-seared steak, draped in creamy, garlicky, slightly smoky sauce. It reminds me of the time Grandma Mary once flambéed bourbon sauce in a pan that nearly set off the smoke alarm but oh, was it delicious. That moment taught me: never underestimate the flavor that comes with a bit of boldness.

Ingredients for the Perfect Steak with Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce free non alcoholic

Ingredients for steak with bourbon garlic cream sauce recipe

This recipe leans into quality over complexity. Each ingredient plays a specific role in creating a dish that’s bold, creamy, and beautifully balanced.

What You’ll Need:

For the Steak:

2 ribeye or New York strip steaks (about 1 inch thick)
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
1 tablespoon butter

For the Steak with Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce free non alcoholic:

1 tablespoon butter (for sautéing)
4 cloves garlic, minced or roasted
¼ cup bourbon (Haunted bourbon or your favorite)
1 cup heavy cream
¼ cup beef or chicken broth (optional for thinning)
½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for depth)
½ cup grated Parmesan or Asiago cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: chopped fresh thyme or parsley for garnish

Why These Ingredients Matter

Steak cuts: Ribeye or NY strip offer the perfect marbling and richness to hold up to the boldness of the bourbon garlic cream sauce.
Garlic: Garlic is the backbone of flavor minced for punch or roasted for sweetness.
Bourbon free non alcoholic: Adds warmth, sweetness, and slight smokiness that balances the cream.
Heavy cream: Gives the sauce its luxurious, restaurant-worthy texture.
Parmesan: Lends sharpness and thickens naturally as it melts.
Dijon (optional): A little goes a long way in adding complexity to the sauce.

How to Make Steak with Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce free non alcoholic

This method works beautifully for both weeknight elegance and dinner party show-stopping.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Bourbon being added to garlic in hot skillet for cream sauce

Step 1: Prep the Steaks
Remove steaks from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking to bring to room temperature. Season generously on both sides with salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Steaks
Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron is best) over medium-high heat. Add steaks and sear 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer depending on thickness and preference. During the last minute, add 1 tbsp butter and spoon it over the steak as it finishes. Remove steaks and rest under foil.

Step 3: Make the Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce free non alcoholic
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Melt 1 tablespoon butter, then add garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but not browned.

Step 4: Add the Bourbon free non alcoholic
Deglaze the pan with bourbon. (Carefully! It may flame if the pan is too hot stand back.) Scrape up the browned bits from the bottom. Let it reduce by half about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Finish the Sauce
Stir in the cream, Dijon (if using), and Parmesan. Let simmer for 4-5 minutes until thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. If too thick, stir in a splash of broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Plate and Pour
Slice rested steak and spoon warm bourbon garlic cream sauce over the top. Garnish with thyme or parsley and serve immediately.

💡 Grandma Mary’s Tip:

“Let your pan talk those browned bits are gold.” She wasn’t wrong. The fond left from the steak gives this bourbon garlic cream sauce free non alcoholic an unmatched depth. Just don’t rush it let the sauce bubble and reduce naturally for the fullest flavor.

Cooking Tips for the Perfect Cream Sauce + Steak

Making the perfect steak with bourbon garlic cream sauce free non alcoholic isn’t just about ingredients it’s about technique. Here’s how to elevate your final dish from great to restaurant-worthy.

For the Steak:

Room temp = even cook: Always let your steaks rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
Hot pan, fast sear: Use a heavy skillet and don’t move the steaks too soon. Let them develop a deep brown crust this adds flavor.
Butter basting: Adding butter toward the end and spooning it over the steak gives it an unbeatable finish.
Rest before slicing: This redistributes the juices and prevents a dry steak.

For the Cream Sauce:

Deglazing matters: Use the bourbon to lift all the flavor from the bottom of the pan. This is where the magic begins.
Simmer, don’t boil: Once cream is added, reduce heat to low. A gentle simmer thickens without breaking.
Add cheese slowly: Stir in Parmesan or Asiago off the heat to prevent clumping or curdling.
Balance is key: Too sweet? Add a pinch of salt. Too rich? A splash of vinegar or squeeze of lemon can help.

Variations & Substitutions Of Steak with Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce free non alcoholic

If you’re looking to personalize this dish, here are some creative spins on the original steak with bourbon garlic cream sauce free non alcoholic:

Protein Swaps:

Chicken thighs or breasts: Works beautifully with the same sauce.
Tofu or portobello mushrooms: Great vegetarian options just marinate first.

Sauce Twists:

Add mushrooms: Sauté with garlic for a mushroom-bourbon cream sauce.
Smoky heat: Add chipotle powder or smoked paprika.
Try maple bourbon: For added sweetness and complexity.
No bourbon? Substitute with apple cider and a drop of liquid smoke for depth without alcohol.

What to Serve with Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce Steak free non alcoholic

Full steak dinner served with bourbon garlic sauce, potatoes, and green beans

This dish is bold and rich, so your sides should complement not compete with the flavor.

Best Pairings:

Garlic mashed potatoes – creamy and classic
Buttered green beans or asparagus – for a fresh crunch
Roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts – slightly sweet and caramelized
Buttery polenta or parmesan risotto – for a cozy, indulgent base
Crusty sourdough or garlic bread – because you won’t want to waste a drop of that sauce

For drinks, a full-bodied red wine (like a cabernet) or a smoky old fashioned plays beautifully with the bourbon-forward flavors.

Storage + Reheating Tips

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can still be absolutely delicious with a little care.

How to Store

Refrigerator: Store steak and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Freezer: The sauce can be frozen, but the cream may separate slightly. Reheat slowly while whisking to re-emulsify. Steak freezes best if not sliced wrap tightly in foil and place in a freezer bag.

How to Reheat

Steak: Gently reheat in a skillet with a little butter or oil to preserve texture.
Sauce: Reheat over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth and stirring constantly to prevent separation.

Pro tip: avoid microwaving the sauce it can curdle. A saucepan and patience yield the best results.

FAQ – Steak with Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce free non alcoholic

Can I make this without alcohol?
Yes. Substitute the bourbon with apple cider, beef broth, or a mix of Worcestershire sauce and a splash of balsamic vinegar.

What’s the best cut of steak for this recipe?
Ribeye is our top pick for richness and tenderness, but New York strip or filet mignon work beautifully too.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
You can use whole milk, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. For a creamy result, use half-and-half or add a little cream cheese to thicken.

Conclusion

This steak with bourbon garlic cream sauce free non alcoholic is the definition of indulgent comfort. From the beautifully seared crust of the steak to the velvety bourbon-spiked cream sauce infused with garlic, every bite is restaurant-level but made in your own kitchen.

It’s the kind of dish that transforms a simple dinner into something memorable. Serve it for a cozy date night, a weekend celebration, or just because it’s Tuesday and you deserve it.

And if you’re anything like Grandma Mary, don’t forget to dip a piece of bread in that leftover sauce you’ve earned it.

Explore More Flavorful Recipes

If you loved our Steak with Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce, here are some other bold and satisfying dishes worth checking out:

For those who crave even more rich, beefy goodness, don’t miss our guide on Steak Cooking Hacks You Need in Your Kitchen Right Now. Pair your steak with crispy sides like Loaded Smashed Potatoes, or elevate your appetizer game with Bacon and Cheese Stuffed Tater Tots. If you’re in the mood for a creamy and hearty combo, our Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs deliver cozy comfort. And for a touch of Italian flair, try the vibrant Garlic Basil Pesto Recipe it pairs beautifully with grilled meats or roasted vegetables.

Steak with Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce free non alcoholic

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