
I found this Steak with Spirited Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce while trying to whip up something memorable for our anniversary dinner. The sauce completely changes a basic steak into something extraordinary. You won't believe the amazing smell that fills your kitchen when bourbon mixes with garlic and cream.
A Mouthwatering Flavor Journey
This sauce really kicks your regular steak dinner up a notch. I'm crazy about how the bourbon adds a gentle sweetness while garlic brings warmth and richness. Since tweaking this recipe in my home, it's become what I always make for fancy dinners when I want to wow everyone at the table.
What You'll Need
- Steak: I mostly pick ribeye though sirloin does the job just as well
- Fresh Garlic: I always say you can't have too much in your cooking
- Good Bourbon: Pick something you'd happily sip yourself
- Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its amazing richness
- Quality Butter: The European kinds are my favorite choice
- Rich Broth: You can go with chicken or beef, both taste great
- Fresh Herbs: They add that perfect final touch
Cooking Steps
- Nail Your Steak
- Add plenty of seasoning and cook until you see a nice crust forming Then let it sit while making your sauce
- Work Your Sauce Magic
- Cook your garlic in melted butter then splash in the bourbon Let it simmer down before pouring in your cream
- Put It All Together
- Drizzle that amazing sauce over your steak Sprinkle with fresh herbs and watch everyone get excited
Choosing Your Meat
For special nights I go for ribeye because those streaks of fat make the flavor pop. A thick cut of sirloin works great if you want something leaner. And when I'm really pulling out all the stops, nothing compares to how filet mignon melts in your mouth.
Getting The Sauce Just Right
Don't rush this sauce. Keep your flame low when cooking garlic so it smells wonderful without burning. Let your bourbon bubble away slowly to build those sweet notes. Keep stirring after adding cream for that perfectly smooth texture.
Great Side Dishes
At our house, we can't get enough of serving this with fluffy mashed potatoes that soak up all that sauce. Some colorful roasted veggies balance everything out. Add a glass of bold red wine and you'll feel like you're eating at a fancy restaurant.
Try These Twists
I sometimes mix things up with smoky whiskey or even brandy instead. This sauce works great with other meats too. When my sister comes over, I swap in coconut milk for the cream and it's still amazingly tasty.
Storing For Another Day
You can always make more sauce and stick it in the fridge for a day or two. Just warm it up slowly on the stove with a bit more cream to bring back its smoothness. It's so handy having it ready for surprise fancy meals.
Tips From My Kitchen
Always use a meat thermometer for the best steak. Keep your eyes on that garlic and don't rush the sauce reduction. These small things really matter between good and mind-blowing results.
Why We Love This Dish
This recipe turns an everyday meal into something worth celebrating. When tender steak meets that smooth bourbon garlic sauce, something wonderful happens on your plate. It's now my go-to dish whenever we're marking special moments or having cozy dinners at home.

Frequently Asked Questions
- → Any tips for picking bourbon?
- Go for a mid-range bourbon you enjoy drinking. Its flavors shine through in the sauce, so skip the overly cheap ones.
- → Can I skip the bourbon?
- Sure, try swapping bourbon with beef broth and a dash of apple cider vinegar for a similar depth.
- → How do I tell if my steak's done?
- Get a meat thermometer! Shoot for 135°F for medium-rare or 145°F for medium. Don't skip the resting time.
- → Can I prep the sauce in advance?
- It's tastiest fresh, but you can reheat gently with whisking. Add a splash of cream if it gets too thick.
- → What sides work well here?
- Pick mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce. Roasted veggies or a crisp salad balance out the richness.