Tender Steak with Rich Mushroom Gravy
This tender steak with rich mushroom gravy is the ultimate comfort food for meat lovers. A juicy, perfectly cooked steak is topped with a velvety mushroom gravy.
creating a dish that’s both savory and satisfying. The combination of steak and mushrooms is a timeless classic.
with the earthy mushrooms complementing the depth of flavor in the steak, making it an indulgent yet simple dish to prepare.
Ingredients
2 rib-eye steaks (or your preferred cut)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup sliced mushrooms (cremini or button mushrooms)
1/2 cup beef broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Start by seasoning the steaks with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple seasoning ensures the steak retains its natural flavors while enhancing its juiciness.
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the steaks to the pan. Cook them to your preferred level of doneness.
usually around 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Once cooked, remove the steaks from the skillet and set them aside to rest.
In the same skillet, add butter, allowing it to melt. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, releasing its aromatic flavors into the pan.
Then, add the sliced mushrooms and cook them for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become tender and slightly browned.
Pour in the beef broth, stirring to combine. This will help deglaze the pan and incorporate all the delicious browned bits from the steak and vegetables into the gravy.
After the broth has simmered for a minute, stir in the heavy cream, soy sauce (if using), and thyme. Let the mixture simmer for an additional 5 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Return the steaks to the skillet, allowing them to soak up the rich flavors of the gravy for a couple of minutes. Spoon the gravy over the steaks, ensuring they are nicely coated.
This step also helps infuse the steaks with the savory mushroom gravy. Once ready, remove from heat and plate the steaks.
Garnish the steaks with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a touch of freshness that balances the richness of the dish.
Serve your tender steaks with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy the flavors of a fine dining experience right at home.
How to Make
For the perfect steak, begin by selecting high-quality meat. Rib-eye steaks are a popular choice due to their marbling, but any cut you enjoy will work well.
The key is to ensure that your pan is properly heated before cooking the steak, as this allows for a perfect sear on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
When seasoning, don’t be afraid to be generous with salt and pepper to enhance the steak’s natural flavor. The olive oil should be hot enough to create a sear.
but not smoking, to avoid burning the meat. The resting time after cooking is crucial, as it lets the juices redistribute within the steak, ensuring it’s moist and flavorful when you cut into it.
For the mushroom gravy, don’t rush the process. Let the mushrooms cook until they are fully tender and browned.
This caramelization process brings out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor. Adding beef broth helps create a savory base, while the cream transforms the gravy into a rich and creamy topping.
If you prefer a slightly lighter gravy, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative. The soy sauce is optional.
but it adds an extra layer of umami that complements the mushrooms and beef. Adjust the seasonings according to your taste, adding more thyme or salt if necessary.
Simmering the gravy for a few minutes after adding the cream ensures it thickens and becomes velvety. It’s important to stir frequently so that it doesn’t separate.
The final step of adding the steaks back into the pan allows them to absorb the flavorful sauce, making the whole dish cohesive.
Garnishing with fresh parsley brightens up the dish both in color and flavor. A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley just before serving makes the dish look more vibrant and fresh.
Pair the steaks with sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a complete and well-balanced meal.
To serve, plate the steaks and pour the mushroom gravy over them generously. This method allows.
the rich sauce to meld with the steak, making every bite a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
Variations
While this recipe uses rib-eye steaks, you can easily swap it out for other cuts, such as sirloin, filet mignon, or New York strip steak.
Just be mindful of the cooking times, as different cuts may require slightly less or more time on the stove.
For those looking to add more vegetables, try adding spinach or kale to the mushroom gravy for a bit of extra color and flavor.
Both greens pair wonderfully with the earthy mushrooms and provide a nice contrast to the richness of the sauce.
To give the gravy a different twist, consider adding a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar when deglazing the pan.
This will give the sauce a deep, complex flavor that pairs perfectly with the steak. Just be sure to let the wine cook off before adding the cream.
For a spicier variation, try incorporating a dash of red pepper flakes into the gravy. This will add a subtle heat to the dish without overwhelming the savory flavors of the mushrooms and beef.
If you prefer a dairy-free version, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative.
This will still provide the creamy consistency while accommodating those with dairy sensitivities.
For a more decadent option, try adding a bit of grated Parmesan cheese to the gravy. This will add a savory, salty richness that complements the mushrooms and beef beautifully.
For a vegetarian variation, you can replace the steak with a hearty mushroom steak made from large portobello.
mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. This will provide a rich, savory dish that’s just as satisfying.
Tips
When cooking steak, always use tongs to flip it instead of a fork, as piercing the meat with a fork can cause the juices to escape, resulting in a drier steak.
If you’re unsure about your steak’s doneness, a meat thermometer can be a useful tool. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F, and for medium, aim for 140°F.
Resting your steak after cooking is crucial for maintaining its juiciness. Allow it to rest for at least 5 minutes before serving to ensure the juices redistribute within the meat.
If your gravy becomes too thick, simply add a little more beef broth or cream to reach your desired consistency. Stir constantly to avoid lumps.
For a smoother gravy, you can use an immersion blender to blend the mushroom mixture before adding the steaks back to the pan.
This will create a silkier texture, though some may prefer to leave the mushrooms whole for texture.
When making the gravy, don’t skimp on the butter. It helps to create a rich and flavorful base that’s essential for a delicious sauce.
Lastly, experiment with different herbs. Rosemary, sage, or oregano can also work beautifully in place of thyme, depending on your personal taste preferences.
Conclusion
This tender steak with rich mushroom gravy is a dish that combines simplicity with luxury. It’s easy to make but feels like a gourmet meal, making it perfect for any occasion.
From a casual weeknight dinner to a special celebration. The juicy steak paired with the creamy, earthy mushroom gravy creates a satisfying and flavorful experience.
Whether you stick with the classic recipe or try one of the suggested variations, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. With just a few ingredients and a little bit of effort, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.