Steak Diane is a classic, elegant dish that combines tender steak with a rich, flavorful sauce made from butter, cream, and Dijon mustard, finished with a touch of cognac. This dish has its roots in the 1940s and remains a favorite in fine dining for its sophisticated flavor and dramatic presentation. Perfect for special occasions or an indulgent weeknight dinner, Steak Diane is a showstopper that brings together juicy steak and a creamy, flavorful sauce in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Steak Diane is a decadent, yet simple, dish that’s perfect for steak lovers. The sauce, made with butter, cream, enhances the richness of the steak, while the addition of Dijon mustard gives it a slight tang. The flambeed brandy adds a wonderful depth of flavor and a touch of drama to the dish, making it perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for a dinner that feels fancy without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless ribeye or filet mignon steaks (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small shallot (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup beef broth (low-sodium)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons cognac
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the steaks: Season the steaks generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the pan is hot, add the steaks and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side (for medium-rare), or longer if you prefer your steak cooked more. Remove the steaks from the skillet and set them aside to rest.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the finely chopped shallot and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Finish the sauce: Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer for another 3-4 minutes, until it thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Return the steaks to the skillet and spoon the sauce over them, letting them cook in the sauce for a minute to warm through. Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Enjoy: Serve the Steak Diane immediately, perhaps with mashed potatoes, sautéed vegetables, or a side salad.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2
- Total time: 30 minutes
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 20-25 minutes
Variations
- Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms to the sauce for a richer, earthy flavor. Sauté them with the shallots before adding the broth.
- Balsamic glaze: For a slight twist, add a drizzle of balsamic glaze to the sauce for some added sweetness and acidity.
- Different cuts of steak: If you prefer another cut of steak, such as sirloin or New York strip, feel free to use it. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the steak.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Steak Diane is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the steak and sauce gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or cream if necessary to restore the sauce’s consistency.
FAQs
1. What type of steak should I use for Steak Diane?
Ribeye or filet mignon are excellent choices due to their tenderness and marbling. However, you can use any cut of steak you prefer, as long as it’s thick enough to cook to your desired doneness.
2. Can I make Steak Diane ahead of time?
While Steak Diane is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just make sure to cook the steaks fresh for the best texture.
3. Can I use a non-alcoholic substitute for the brandy?
Yes, you can replace the brandy with extra beef broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar for acidity. The flavor will be different, but still delicious.
4. What can I serve with Steak Diane?
Steak Diane pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or buttery noodles. You can also serve it with sautéed spinach or asparagus for a light, green side.
5. How do I know when my steak is done?
For medium-rare steak, cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer for more precise cooking: 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium.
6. Can I use heavy cream substitutes for a lighter sauce?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce, though the richness of the sauce will be reduced.
7. Can I add vegetables to the sauce?
Yes, adding mushrooms, shallots, or even green beans or peas to the sauce can enhance the dish and make it heartier.
8. Can I cook the steak in the sauce?
It’s best to cook the steak separately and then add it to the sauce at the end to preserve its texture. However, if you prefer, you can cook the steak in the sauce, but make sure to monitor the cooking time closely to avoid overcooking.
9. Can I make this dish without Worcestershire sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, you can substitute it with a little soy sauce or a dash of balsamic vinegar for a similar savory depth.
Conclusion
Steak Diane is a timeless dish that combines a juicy, perfectly cooked steak with a rich, creamy sauce full of bold flavors. The flambéed , tangy Dijon mustard, and a touch of Worcestershire create an unforgettable sauce that complements the steak beautifully. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself to a special meal, Steak Diane is sure to impress with its elegant presentation and indulgent flavors.
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Steak Diane
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
Description
Steak Diane is a classic, elegant dish that pairs tender steak with a rich, flavorful sauce made with butter, cream, Dijon mustard, and a touch cognac. Perfect for special occasions or indulgent dinners, it’s a showstopper that combines sophistication with delicious flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless ribeye or filet mignon steaks (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small shallot (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup beef broth (low-sodium)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons cognac
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the steaks generously with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steaks and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Remove steaks and set aside to rest.
- In the same skillet, add butter, shallots, and cook for 2-3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce and heavy cream. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until sauce thickens. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Return the steaks to the pan, spooning sauce over the top. Let steaks simmer in the sauce for 1 minute. Remove from heat and garnish with parsley.
- Serve immediately with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a salad.
Notes
- Optional: Add mushrooms for a richer flavor or drizzle balsamic glaze for a twist.
- For lighter sauce, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk.
- Cooking time varies based on steak thickness, adjust accordingly.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Pan-seared, flambéed
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 120mg