Creamy peppercorn steak bites have become my absolute go-to for a quick and incredibly satisfying meal. I remember the first time I tried making them, I was worried they’d be too fussy, but this recipe is surprisingly simple and yields the most amazing flavor. The aroma of the crushed black pepper and garlic hitting the hot pan is simply divine, and that rich, velvety sauce just coats every single bite. This easy creamy peppercorn steak bites recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or even as a show-stopping appetizer. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Peppercorn Steak Bites
Seriously, get ready to fall in love with these quick and flavorful bites. Here’s why they’re a winner:
- Incredibly Fast: This recipe is perfect for those nights when you need dinner on the table in a flash.
- Restaurant-Quality Flavor: You get that amazing steakhouse taste right in your own kitchen.
- Simple Ingredients: Most items are probably already in your pantry!
- Versatile: Enjoy them as a main dish, appetizer, or even a creamy peppercorn steak bites appetizer.
- Rich & Decadent Sauce: The peppercorn cream sauce is unbelievably good.
- Minimal Cleanup: Since it’s a one-pan wonder, you won’t spend ages at the sink.
- Flavorful Peppercorn Steak Bites: The crushed peppercorns add a delightful punch.
Ingredients for Creamy Peppercorn Steak Bites
Gather these simple items for your creamy peppercorn steak bites recipe. The quality of your steak really shines through here, so a nice sirloin is perfect, but other cuts work too!
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes – This cut is tender and sears beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – For getting that perfect golden-brown sear.
- 1 tablespoon butter – Adds richness to the sauce.
- 1 shallot, finely chopped – Shallots offer a milder, sweeter onion flavor than regular onions.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for that aromatic base.
- 1/2 cup beef broth – This forms the base of our flavorful sauce.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream – The key to that luscious, creamy texture.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – Adds a tangy depth and helps emulsify the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns, crushed – Don’t skimp here; this is where the peppery punch comes from!
- Salt to taste – To enhance all the other flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish – For a pop of color and freshness.
How to Make Creamy Peppercorn Steak Bites
- Step 1: First things first, let’s get that oven ready. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, grab your steak bites. Pat them really dry with paper towels – this is key for a good sear. Season them generously with salt.
- Step 2: Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Carefully add your seasoned steak bites. Don’t crowd the pan; sear them in batches if needed. Cook for just 1-2 minutes per side until beautifully browned. You want a nice crust, but they shouldn’t be cooked through yet. Remove the steak bites from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
- Step 3: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, toss in the finely chopped shallot. Sauté for about 2 minutes until the shallot softens and becomes fragrant, filling your kitchen with a lovely aroma.
- Step 4: Now, add the minced garlic. Stir it constantly for about 30 seconds until it’s super fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic – burnt garlic is never fun!
- Step 5: Pour in the beef broth. Use your spoon to scrape up all those delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. That’s where so much flavor lives! Let it bubble for a minute.
- Step 6: Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and those wonderfully crushed black peppercorns. Whisk it all together until it’s smooth. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. This is the start of your amazing peppercorn steak bites with cream sauce.
- Step 7: Return the seared steak bites (and any juices from the plate!) back into the skillet with the simmering sauce. Give everything a gentle stir to coat. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your liking and the steak bites are cooked to your desired doneness. You’re making easy creamy peppercorn steak bites right here!
- Step 8: Taste the sauce and add more salt if needed. Remember, steak bites can sometimes need a little extra salt to make those flavors pop.
- Step 9: Garnish your beautiful creamy peppercorn steak bites with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy this quick and flavorful meal!
Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Peppercorn Steak Bites
Want to elevate your steak bites from good to absolutely phenomenal? I’ve picked up a few tricks that make all the difference. Follow these tips for consistently delicious results every time you whip up this recipe.
- Always use crushed black peppercorns, not pre-ground pepper, for the most intense flavor.
- Don’t overcook the steak! Sear it quickly on each side and let it finish gently in the sauce.
- Ensure your skillet is properly heated before adding the steak for that perfect crust.
- A splash of brandy or cognac added with the beef broth can add another layer of complexity.
What’s the secret to perfect creamy peppercorn steak bites?
The real secret lies in the quality of your peppercorns and not overcooking the steak. Using freshly crushed peppercorns provides a much more vibrant flavor, and a quick sear followed by a gentle finish in the sauce ensures tender, juicy bites. For more on cooking steak, check out these methods for cooking beef.
Can I make creamy peppercorn steak bites ahead of time?
You can prepare the steak bites up to the point of the final sauce simmer. Store the seared steak separately from the sauce ingredients in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and finish cooking the steak in it.
How do I avoid common mistakes with creamy peppercorn steak bites?
The biggest mistake is overcrowding the pan, which steams the meat instead of searing it. Another pitfall is burning the garlic; add it last and cook briefly. Also, be sure to taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Best Ways to Serve Creamy Peppercorn Steak Bites
These flavorful peppercorn steak bites are incredibly versatile and can be served in so many delicious ways. They’re fantastic as a stand-alone main dish, especially when paired with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice to soak up every last drop of that incredible sauce. For a lighter option, try serving them alongside a crisp green salad or some roasted asparagus. They also make an elegant appetizer, served in small bowls or even as a topping for crostini. No matter how you choose to serve them, these creamy steak bites with black pepper are sure to impress!
Nutrition Facts for Creamy Peppercorn Steak Bites
These creamy peppercorn steak bites are a treat, and here’s a look at what you can expect per serving. Keep in mind that these are estimates, and your actual nutritional values might vary slightly based on the exact ingredients and portion sizes you use.
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Creamy Peppercorn Steak Bites
Don’t let any of these delicious creamy peppercorn steak bites go to waste! Once they’ve cooled down completely, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and flavorful for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep them even longer, these bites freeze beautifully. Wrap them well in plastic wrap, then in foil, and pop them into the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, the best way to reheat is gently. For refrigerated leftovers, warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a tiny splash of water or beef broth if needed to loosen the sauce. For frozen bites, thaw them overnight in the fridge first, then reheat as you would the refrigerated ones. This ensures your homemade creamy peppercorn steak bites are just as delightful on the second go!
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Peppercorn Steak Bites
What kind of steak is best for creamy peppercorn steak bites?
For the most tender and flavorful creamy peppercorn steak bites, I really love using sirloin. It has a great balance of flavor and tenderness that works perfectly when cut into bites and seared quickly. However, you can also achieve fantastic results with other cuts like ribeye or New York strip. Just be sure to cut against the grain for maximum tenderness, especially if you’re using a slightly tougher cut.
Can I make this creamy peppercorn steak bites recipe spicier?
Absolutely! If you love a bit of heat with your steak, you can easily amp up the spice in these creamy peppercorn steak bites. My favorite way is to add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic in Step 4. You could also increase the amount of crushed black peppercorns, or even add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the cream sauce. Experiment to find your perfect level of heat!
What can I serve with these creamy steak bites with black pepper?
These creamy peppercorn steak bites are incredibly versatile, making them a perfect main dish or appetizer. For a satisfying dinner, they pair wonderfully with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy white rice, or even a simple baked potato. If you’re looking for a lighter meal, serve them alongside a fresh, crisp green salad or some steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. They are also fantastic spooned over crusty bread for an elegant appetizer!
How do I get the best sear on my steak bites?
Getting a great sear is all about heat and dryness. Make sure your steak bites are patted completely dry with paper towels before seasoning. Then, heat your skillet with the olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering – you want it nice and hot! Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook the steak in batches if necessary. This ensures each bite gets that beautiful, flavorful crust without steaming.
Variations of Creamy Peppercorn Steak Bites You Can Try
While this creamy peppercorn steak bites recipe is fantastic as is, I love experimenting with different twists to keep things exciting. Here are a few ideas for variations that offer new flavors and textures, proving just how versatile these bites can be!
- Garlic Creamy Peppercorn Steak Bites: Amp up the garlic! When you add the shallots and garlic, double the garlic cloves for an even more robust garlic flavor. This makes for a truly garlic creamy peppercorn steak bites experience.
- Cheesy Peppercorn Steak Bites: Stir in some shredded Parmesan or Gruyere cheese into the sauce during the last minute of cooking until melted. The cheese adds a delightful richness and makes these cheesy peppercorn steak bites incredibly decadent.
- Spicy Kick: For those who like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic in Step 4. You can also increase the amount of crushed peppercorns for more peppery warmth in your flavorful peppercorn steak bites cream.
- Different Cuts of Steak: While sirloin is superb, feel free to use other tender cuts like ribeye or New York strip for your creamy peppercorn beef bites. Just adjust cooking time slightly based on thickness.
Amazing Creamy Peppercorn Steak Bites in 15 Minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
Quick and easy creamy peppercorn steak bites recipe. These pan-seared steak bites are coated in a rich, flavorful peppercorn cream sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or a simple dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns, crushed
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Pat the steak bites dry and season with salt.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steak bites for 1-2 minutes per side until browned. Remove steak from skillet and set aside.
- Add butter to the skillet. Add shallot and cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in beef broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Stir in heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and crushed black peppercorns. Bring to a simmer.
- Return the steak bites to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and steak is cooked to your desired doneness.
- Season with salt to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve your creamy peppercorn steak bites immediately.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- You can use other cuts of steak like ribeye or New York strip.
- Serve these flavorful peppercorn steak bites with mashed potatoes or crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Pan-Sear
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 4 oz)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: creamy peppercorn steak bites, peppercorn steak bites, steak bites recipe, cream sauce, pan-seared steak, easy steak recipe, quick dinner, appetizer
