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Creamy Peppercorn Sauce for Steak Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 130 reviews

This creamy and savory Peppercorn Sauce is the perfect accompaniment to steak and other meats. Made with a rich blend of butter, shallots, garlic, coarsely crushed black peppercorns, and a splash of brandy or wine, it simmers with chicken or beef stock and heavy cream to create a luscious, flavorful sauce to elevate any dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter (or oil for sautéing)
  • 2 shallots, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1–2 tsp coarsely crushed black peppercorns (or mixed)

Liquids

  • ½ cup brandy, cognac, or dry white/red wine (optional)
  • 1 cup chicken or beef stock
  • ¾ cup heavy cream (or milk/coconut cream for lighter/dairy-free option)

Seasonings & Garnish

  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Worcestershire sauce, a few drops (optional)
  • Fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped shallots and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and softened, approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
  2. Crush Peppercorns: Using a mortar and pestle, coarsely crush the fresh black peppercorns, ensuring some pieces remain to add texture to the sauce.
  3. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the brandy, cognac, or wine (if using) to deglaze the skillet. Scrape the browned bits off the bottom to incorporate rich flavor into the sauce.
  4. Add Liquids and Simmer: Stir in the chicken or beef stock and the heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it reduce slightly until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  5. Finish the Sauce: Whisk in Dijon mustard if desired for added depth. Season with salt and a few drops of Worcestershire sauce. Optionally, strain the sauce for a smoother texture.
  6. Adjust Consistency and Serve: Continue reducing for a thicker sauce or add a splash of stock or cream to thin it out as needed. Serve the warm sauce over steaks, other meats, or vegetables.

Notes

  • For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or milk.
  • The use of brandy or wine is optional, but it adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
  • Coarsely crushing peppercorns instead of finely grinding keeps a pleasant texture in the sauce.
  • Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary make a nice garnish and add aromatic notes.
  • Adjust seasoning carefully as Worcestershire sauce can add saltiness; taste before adding extra salt.

Keywords: Peppercorn sauce, creamy peppercorn sauce, steak sauce, peppercorn steak sauce, savory sauce, homemade sauce, French sauce

Find it online: https://leofoster.com/creamy-peppercorn-sauce-for-steak-recipe/