There’s something uniquely satisfying about a Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce that brings my whole family to the table with eager smiles and empty plates. I remember the first time I attempted to bring that rich, comforting flavor into my kitchen—it wasn’t without its challenges. My earliest kitchen adventure was figuring out how to balance the garlic’s sharp punch with the cream’s tender smoothness, while keeping the steak tender and juicy. This Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce quickly turned into a household classic, weaving itself into our family’s mealtime rhythm.
My kitchen learning journey with this Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce taught me the patience and precision needed to coax authentic flavor from simple ingredients. The garlic, fresh and fragrant, must be gently softened—not browned—for that ideal creamy sauce texture. Over time, I saw how this sauce wasn’t just about flavor but the whole experience—the warm aromas filling the house, the sauce pooling over perfectly seared steak, and the conversations flowing across the table.
This joyful connection with family through an authentic Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce is what keeps me coming back to perfecting the recipe. It’s become more than food; it’s a symbol of togetherness and comfort. Fellow flavor seekers looking for a genuine, approachable meal will find this Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce a worthy addition to their kitchen favorites. So pull out your skillet, prepare for a rich garlic cream dinner, and let’s dive into creating a pan-seared steak with sauce that will turn any night into something special. For more inspiration on creamy, comforting dishes, check out my spaghetti squash with mushroom and spinach cream sauce for a veggie-packed twist.
INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:

- 2 ribeye or sirloin steaks (about 8 ounces each) – Choose grass-fed for a richer, beefy flavor in your Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic is a must for that bright, bold flavor in your creamy garlic sauce for steak.
- 1 cup heavy cream – This forms the rich base of your garlic butter cream sauce steak, so opt for full-fat for best results.
- 2 tablespoons butter – Grass-fed butter brings a slightly nutty richness to the sauce.
- 1/2 cup beef broth – Use homemade or low-sodium broth for a cleaner flavor in your pan-seared steak with sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Adds a subtle tang that balances the creaminess.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped – For garnish and a pop of color.
For the best flavor in your Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce, I recommend sourcing your steaks from a trusted butcher or local farm. The freshness of garlic matters here; avoid pre-minced garlic in jars. You’ll find the freshest ingredients for this rich garlic cream dinner at farmers markets or specialty grocers.
If you’re pressed for time, quality alternatives like ghee instead of butter work well for a slightly different flavor. My family loves when I add a pinch of smoked paprika to the sauce—it adds a depth that surprises guests every time.
Preparation tip: mince garlic finely and let your butter melt gently to coax out all that aromatic goodness without burning it. This steady slow build-up of flavor is what makes the difference between an ordinary dish and a standout Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce.
Let’s Create This Together!
- Season your steaks generously with salt and pepper on both sides. I usually let mine sit at room temperature for 20 minutes to help them cook evenly.
- Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of butter, letting it foam gently. When the butter smells nutty, place your steaks in the skillet. For an 8-ounce ribeye, sear about 4 minutes per side for medium-rare (adjust time for thickness and preference). This initial sear locks in juices and builds the crust.
- Remove steaks and let rest. Tent loosely with foil as you prepare the sauce. This resting keeps the steak juicy and lets the flavors settle.
- Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining butter to the skillet. Toss in your minced garlic, cooking gently for 1-2 minutes. This is when your creamy garlic sauce for steak starts to bloom with aroma. Don’t rush or let the garlic brown—that can bring bitterness. Perfect time to appreciate the aromatic transformation!
- Pour in the beef broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits—those are flavor gold here. Let it reduce slightly, about 2 minutes.
- Add heavy cream and Dijon mustard, stirring gently to combine. Simmer until the sauce thickens enough to coat a spoon, about 3-4 minutes. Your Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce should fill the kitchen with amazing aromas by now.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Remember, the sauce complements the steak’s richness, so balance is key.
- Return your steaks to the pan, spooning some sauce over the top to warm through, about 1 minute.
- Serve immediately, garnished with parsley, inviting your family to dig in.
Here’s where I used to miss a key step with my Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce: letting the sauce fully thicken before plating. Patience pays off by giving that rich garlic cream dinner the perfect texture to cling to the steak.
While your Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce is developing these flavors, take a moment to appreciate creating something special for your family. For another take on steak with a fabulous creamy sauce, check out this Cast Iron Bavette Steak with Whiskey Garlic Cream Sauce at Homemade Home.
How We Love to Enjoy This!

The family gathers quickly when this aromatic Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce appears alongside sides that marry well with its richness. We often serve it with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted garlic cauliflower for a lighter contrast. The smooth garlic butter cream sauce steak pairs beautifully with crisp green beans or sautéed spinach to add freshness.
This Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce is perfect for those evenings when we want something truly satisfying—whether a quiet weeknight or a special dinner gathering. Presentation-wise, I like to spoon the sauce generously over the steak and scatter fresh parsley for a vibrant finish.
Leftovers are a rare treat, but when they happen, my family loves slicing the steak thin and tossing it into a sandwich with a smear of the leftover creamy garlic sauce for an indulgent lunch. You can also warm the leftovers with steamed veggies for a quick meal.
Seasonally, I add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce in the winter months for a gentle heat that warms the soul, while in summer, a squeeze of lemon brightens the rich flavors.
Guests always comment on the comforting garlicky richness of this dish. If your family loves these authentic flavors, they’ll appreciate the subtle complexity of this pan-seared steak with sauce paired alongside fresh, hearty sides. For more genuine cooking ideas for family meals, explore my spaghetti squash with mushroom and spinach cream sauce.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Q: Does this Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce really satisfy hearty appetites?
A: Absolutely! The combination of a well-seasoned steak and a luscious garlic cream sauce makes for a filling and satisfying meal. My family includes avid meat lovers who have declared this recipe a keeper.
Q: What if someone in my family prefers milder flavors in their Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce?
A: Great question! For a milder version, try using less garlic in the sauce, or sauté the garlic longer to soften the sharpness. You can also add a touch more cream to balance it out. I’ve had readers tweak this perfectly to suit sensitive palates.
Q: How can I prepare this Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce ahead for busy weeks?
A: You can sear steaks and make the sauce separately, then assemble quickly before serving. The sauce reheats well over low heat with a splash of broth to keep it smooth. For easy meal prep, check the step-by-step tips in my guide.
Q: Can I make this with other cuts of beef?
A: Yes! Ribeye and sirloin work wonderfully, but you can also try bavette or skirt steak. Just adjust cooking times to fit the thickness. This flexibility lets you customize your rich garlic cream dinner, as seen in the Cast Iron Bavette Steak recipe at Homemade Home.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for dairy-free diets?
A: You can swap heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free butter alternatives. The flavor will be different but still delicious. Experimenting like this is part of the fun in your kitchen adventures.
Q: What sides pair best with this Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce?
A: Traditional mashed potatoes are a hit, as well as roasted vegetables or fresh salads. My family especially loves creamy dishes like my spaghetti squash with mushroom and spinach cream sauce to bring balance to the meal.
Q: How do I prevent the garlic in the sauce from burning?
A: Keep the heat moderate and stir the garlic gently. Once fragrant and softened, add broth or cream quickly. This key step preserves that bright, creamy garlic flavor without bitterness. Little spice secrets like this build your flavor victories.
If you want inspiration for more steak recipes with garlic cream sauce, check out Robin Miller Cooks’ collection of steaks with garlic cream sauce or the pan-seared garlic butter steak mushroom cream sauce on Cafe Delites’ Facebook page.
Final Kitchen Wisdom:
This Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce perfectly supports my family’s aim for authentic, nourishing meals that satisfy both palate and soul. The layers of flavor—from the garlicky richness to the creamy sauce enveloping tender steak—create moments worth savoring around the dinner table.
My Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce Flavor Secrets are these:
- Patience with garlic cooking prevents bitterness and unlocks gentle aroma
- Using broth reduction before cream adds bold, savory depth to the sauce
- Letting the steak rest before slicing retains all those juicy juices we crave
Family-tested variations include a peppercorn coating for those who love a spicy kick, a simple herb butter finish for a lighter touch, and a splash of white wine added to the sauce for complexity. My husband prefers the peppercorn spice, while my kids favor plain but buttery sauces—proof that this recipe adapts to many taste preferences.
I encourage you to make this Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce your kitchen signature. It brings warmth, flavor, and connection in every bite. May your own cooking adventures with this recipe bring your loved ones together for many cozy meals—because authentic flavor is truly the heart of home.
For more inspiration on creamy and flavorful meals, dig into my custard pie with praline sauce for dessert or try a rich, chocolatey Mississippi Mud Pie for a perfect finish.
Happy cooking, fellow flavor seekers!
Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce
Tender steak cooked to perfection and served with a rich, velvety garlic cream sauce that enhances every bite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 ribeye steaks (8 oz each)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Season the steaks generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
- Add steaks to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust to your preferred doneness.
- Remove steaks from skillet and set aside to rest, tented with foil.
- Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the skillet.
- Once butter is melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and stir in Dijon mustard. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the steaks topped with the garlic cream sauce and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
For an extra flavor boost, try adding a splash of white wine to the sauce while it simmers or serve with roasted vegetables.

