Name: Flank Steak with Creamy Peppercorn Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 40 min
Yield: 3
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Steak:; 1 lb flank steak; ¼ cup canola oil; 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar; 4 cloves garlic; freshly ground black pepper; For Peppercorn Cream Sauce:; ½ cup beef broth; 1 tsp cornstarch; 3 tbsp peppercorns; 1 tbsp fresh sage; ½ tsp garlic powder; 4 oz Philadelphia cream cheese

This delicious dish combines the rich and savory flavor of flank steak with a luscious creamy peppercorn sauce. Ideal for a special dinner or a weekend treat, this recipe will bring a gourmet touch to your table.

Photos of Flank Steak with Creamy Peppercorn Sauce Recipe

While most of the ingredients are common kitchen staples, you might need to pay attention to peppercorns and fresh sage. Make sure to pick up these spices at the supermarket, as they are essential to achieving the full flavor of the dish.

Ingredients for Flank Steak with Creamy Peppercorn Sauce

Flank steak: A lean cut of beef that's perfect for grilling or pan-searing.

Canola oil: A neutral oil used for marinating and cooking the steak.

Balsamic vinegar: Adds a rich, tangy flavor to the marinade.

Garlic: Infuses the marinade with a robust and aromatic flavor.

Freshly ground black pepper: Provides a sharp, spicy touch to the dish.

Beef broth: Forms the base of the peppercorn cream sauce.

Cornstarch: Helps to thicken the sauce.

Peppercorns: Adds a bold, spicy kick to the sauce.

Fresh sage: Imparts a subtle earthy flavor to the sauce.

Garlic powder: Enhances the depth of flavor in the sauce.

Cream cheese: Creates a creamy, smooth texture in the sauce.

One reader, Carlin Moon says:

This flank steak with creamy peppercorn sauce is a game-changer! The marinade makes the steak incredibly flavorful, and the sauce is rich and perfectly balanced. A must-try for any steak lover!

Carlin Moon

Techniques Required

How to use a meat mallet: Explanation on how to properly use a meat mallet to pound the steak to even thickness. How to marinate steak: Explanation on how to prepare and apply the marinade to the steak, ensuring it is evenly coated. How to grill steak: Explanation on how to preheat the grill, place the steak on it, and cook it to the desired doneness. How to cook steak on the stove: Explanation on how to heat oil in a skillet and cook the steak to the desired doneness. How to tent steak with aluminum foil: Explanation on how to cover the steak with aluminum foil to let it rest. How to cut steak against the grain: Explanation on how to properly slice the steak against the grain for optimal tenderness. How to make a cornstarch slurry: Explanation on how to whisk together cold beef broth and cornstarch to create a slurry. How to melt cream cheese in a sauce: Explanation on how to break up and melt cream cheese into the sauce until smooth and well-combined.

How To Make Flank Steak with Creamy Peppercorn Sauce

Flank steak is taken up a notch with the peppercorn cream sauce in this recipe. The secret to the thick and creamy sauce is the use of cream cheese.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 40 minutes

Marinate Time: 30 minutes

Total: 1 hour 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Steak:

1lbflank steak
¼cupcanola oil,or safflower oil
2tbspbalsamic vinegar
4clovesgarlic,minced
freshly ground black pepper

For Peppercorn Cream Sauce:

½cupbeef broth
1tspcornstarch
3tbsppeppercorns,(any color)
1tbspfresh sage,finely-chopped
½tspgarlic powder
4ozPhiladelphia cream cheese

Instructions

Steak:

Place the steak in a large zip top bag, and use a meat mallet to pound the steak to even thickness.
In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and garlic until well-combined. Pour the marinade into the zip top bag with the steak, seal, and then rub the marinade all around until it has evenly covered the steak
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, remove steak from the refrigerator, and let rest until it reaches room temperature. Then season both sides with salt and pepper.
To cook on the grill, preheat grill to medium-high heat. Then place the steak on the grill, and cook about 6 to 7 minutes per side for medium done-ness. (Cook about one minute more per side for medium-well, and one minute less per side for medium-rare.)
Remove, and tent with aluminum foil to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Cut the steak against the grain when ready to serve, and top with peppercorn sauce.
To cook on the stove, heat an extra 2 tablespoons of canola or safflower oil in a skillet (preferably cast-iron, but any will work) over high-heat.
Add steak, and cook about 4 to 5 minutes per side for medium doneness. (Cook about 1 minute more per side for medium-well, and 1 minute less per side for medium-rare.)
Remove steak, and tent with aluminum foil to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Cut the steak against the grain when ready to serve, and top with peppercorn sauce.

Peppercorn Cream Sauce:

In a small saucepan, whisk together (cold) beef broth and cornstarch. Turn heat to medium, and cook for 4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add in the peppercorns, sage, and garlic powder, and stir to combine. Then add in the cream cheese, and break it up with a bit with a spoon.
Continue stirring slowly until the cream cheese has fully melted, and the sauce is smooth and well-combined. Season with extra salt if needed, and remove from heat.
Serve immediately over steak.

Nutrition

Calories: 592.76kcal
Fat: 44.30g
Saturated Fat: 14.15g
Trans Fat: 0.07g
Monounsaturated Fat: 19.99g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.30g
Carbohydrates: 12.90g
Fiber: 3.17g
Sugar: 3.17g
Protein: 36.59g
Cholesterol: 144.39mg
Sodium: 304.17mg
Calcium: 169.86mg
Potassium: 790.40mg
Iron: 4.27mg
Vitamin A: 148.30µg
Vitamin C: 2.12mg

Technique Tip for Perfectly Cooking Flank Steak

When making the peppercorn cream sauce, ensure the beef broth is cold before whisking in the cornstarch. This helps prevent lumps and creates a smoother sauce. Additionally, when adding the cream cheese, break it up into smaller pieces to facilitate quicker melting and a more even consistency.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Flank Steak with Creamy Peppercorn Sauce

Marinate in advance: Prepare the steak marinade the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use pre-crushed garlic: Opt for pre-crushed garlic to cut down on prep time.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all ingredients for the peppercorn cream sauce ahead of time.

Quick room temperature: Place the steak in a sealed bag in warm water for 10-15 minutes to bring it to room temperature faster.

Simultaneous cooking: Start preparing the peppercorn cream sauce while the steak is grilling or cooking on the stove.

Substitute Ingredients For Flank Steak with Creamy Peppercorn Sauce Recipe

flank steak - Substitute with skirt steak: Skirt steak has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a great alternative for grilling or searing.
canola oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil provides a rich flavor and is a healthier option with beneficial fats.
balsamic vinegar - Substitute with red wine vinegar: Red wine vinegar offers a similar acidity and depth of flavor, suitable for marinades.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, slightly sweet flavor that complements the dish well.
freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat and can be used to maintain the peppery profile.
beef broth - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth can provide a similar savory base, though it may be slightly lighter in flavor.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder is a great thickening agent and works similarly to cornstarch.
peppercorns - Substitute with crushed red pepper flakes: Crushed red pepper flakes add a different kind of heat but can still provide a spicy kick.
fresh sage - Substitute with dried sage: Dried sage can be used in smaller quantities to provide a similar earthy flavor.
garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder offers a different but complementary flavor that can enhance the dish.
philadelphia cream cheese - Substitute with mascarpone cheese: Mascarpone cheese provides a similar creamy texture and rich flavor.

How to Beautifully Present Flank Steak with Creamy Peppercorn Sauce

Choose the right plate: Use a large, white, rectangular plate to create a clean and elegant canvas for your dish. This allows the colors and textures of the flank steak and peppercorn cream sauce to stand out.
Slice the steak perfectly: After letting the flank steak rest, slice it thinly against the grain. This ensures tenderness and makes the presentation visually appealing. Arrange the slices in a fan shape on one side of the plate.
Drizzle the sauce artistically: Use a spoon to drizzle the peppercorn cream sauce over the steak slices. Create a zigzag or wave pattern to add a touch of elegance. Ensure the sauce is evenly distributed but not overwhelming.
Add a pop of color: Garnish the plate with a few sprigs of fresh sage leaves. Place them strategically around the steak to add a vibrant green contrast to the dish.
Incorporate texture: Add a small side of roasted vegetables or a potato gratin to the plate. This not only adds texture but also complements the flavors of the steak and sauce.
Finish with a flourish: Lightly sprinkle freshly ground black pepper over the entire dish. This adds a final touch of seasoning and enhances the visual appeal with tiny specks of black.
Serve with precision: Ensure the plate is spotless before serving. Wipe any stray sauce or crumbs from the edges of the plate to maintain a professional and polished look.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Recipe

Meat mallet: Used to pound the steak to an even thickness, ensuring uniform cooking.
Zip top bag: Holds the steak and marinade, allowing for easy mixing and storage.
Mixing bowl: Used to whisk together the marinade ingredients.
Whisk: Helps to combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and garlic into a smooth marinade.
Grill: Cooks the steak to the desired doneness with a smoky flavor.
Skillet: An alternative to the grill, used for cooking the steak on the stove.
Aluminum foil: Tents the steak after cooking to retain heat and allow the juices to redistribute.
Small saucepan: Used to prepare the peppercorn cream sauce.
Spoon: Breaks up the cream cheese and stirs the sauce until smooth.
Cutting board: Provides a surface to cut the steak against the grain before serving.
Knife: Slices the steak into serving pieces.
Measuring cups: Measures the beef broth and other liquid ingredients accurately.
Measuring spoons: Measures the cornstarch, peppercorns, sage, and garlic powder precisely.

How To Store / Freeze Flank Steak with Creamy Peppercorn Sauce

Let the flank steak cool completely before storing it in an airtight container or wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
The peppercorn cream sauce can be stored separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
To freeze the cooked flank steak, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw the steak overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
It's not recommended to freeze the peppercorn cream sauce, as the texture may change and become grainy upon thawing and reheating. It's best to make the sauce fresh when needed.
To reheat the frozen flank steak, remove it from the packaging and place it in a baking dish. Cover the dish with foil and reheat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the steak is heated through.
Alternatively, you can reheat the thawed flank steak in a skillet over medium heat until it's warmed through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
When reheating the steak, be careful not to overcook it, as it may become tough and dry. Aim to reheat it until it's just warmed through and still tender.

How To Reheat Leftovers

The best way to reheat leftover flank steak is to slice it thinly against the grain before reheating. This will help the meat reheat more evenly and prevent it from drying out.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sliced steak on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Cover the steak with another piece of foil to prevent it from drying out.
Heat the steak in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Check the temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches at least 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.
While the steak is reheating, you can also reheat the creamy peppercorn sauce. Pour the sauce into a small saucepan and heat it over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash of beef broth or water to thin it out.
Once the steak and sauce are heated through, remove them from the heat. Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips, if you haven't already done so.
Arrange the sliced steak on a serving platter and drizzle the warm peppercorn sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs like sage or parsley, if desired.
Alternatively, you can also reheat the steak and sauce together in a skillet on the stovetop. Slice the steak thinly and add it to a skillet with the sauce over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until the steak is heated through and the sauce is warm and bubbly.
If you have a microwave, you can also use it to reheat the steak and sauce. Place the sliced steak in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat on high for 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the steak is heated through. Reheat the sauce separately in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until warm.

Random Fact about Flank Steak with Creamy Peppercorn Sauce

Flank steak is a lean cut of beef that is best when marinated and cooked quickly over high heat. The peppercorn cream sauce adds a rich and flavorful complement to the steak, making it a popular choice for special occasions and gourmet meals.

Is This Steak Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

When analyzing the cost-effectiveness of this flank steak with creamy peppercorn sauce recipe, it stands out as a moderately priced dish. The main expense is the flank steak, but the other ingredients like canola oil, balsamic vinegar, and cream cheese are relatively affordable. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $25-$30. Given the rich flavors and satisfying nature of the dish, it offers good value for the price. Overall Verdict: 7/10.

Is This Steak Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The flank steak with creamy peppercorn sauce recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, flank steak is a lean cut of beef that's high in protein and relatively low in fat. The marinade includes balsamic vinegar, which adds flavor without excessive calories. The peppercorn sauce incorporates beef broth and sage, providing additional depth without relying heavily on unhealthy ingredients.

However, there are some areas where the recipe could be improved nutritionally:

The canola oil used for cooking is high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can contribute to inflammation when consumed in excess
The cream cheese in the sauce adds significant amounts of saturated fat and calories
The recipe doesn't include any vegetables or side dishes to balance out the meal

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace the canola oil with a healthier cooking fat like olive oil or avocado oil
Reduce the amount of cream cheese in the sauce or substitute it with a lighter alternative like Greek yogurt
Serve the steak with a generous portion of steamed or roasted vegetables to add fiber, vitamins, and minerals
Experiment with adding other herbs and spices to the marinade or sauce to boost flavor without increasing calorie content
Opt for a leaner cut of beef, such as top sirloin or tenderloin, to further reduce the fat content of the dish

Editor's Thoughts on This Delicious Steak Recipe

This recipe for flank steak with creamy peppercorn sauce is a delightful blend of robust flavors and textures. The marinade, with its balsamic vinegar and garlic, tenderizes the steak beautifully, while the creamy peppercorn sauce adds a rich, savory finish. The use of Philadelphia cream cheese in the sauce provides a smooth, velvety texture that complements the peppery kick. Cooking options for both grill and stove ensure versatility. Overall, it's a well-balanced dish that promises to impress with its depth of flavor and elegant presentation.

Enhance Your Flank Steak with Creamy Peppercorn Sauce Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Imagine the flank steak paired with a luscious mound of garlic mashed potatoes. The creamy texture of the potatoes, infused with the aromatic essence of garlic, complements the rich, peppery notes of the peppercorn cream sauce perfectly. It's a match made in culinary heaven.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: For a side that brings a delightful crunch and a hint of smokiness, consider roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon. The Brussels sprouts are caramelized to perfection, while the bacon adds a savory depth that harmonizes beautifully with the flank steak. Each bite is a symphony of flavors and textures.

Herb-Infused Quinoa Salad: Elevate your meal with a refreshing herb-infused quinoa salad. The quinoa provides a nutty base, while a medley of fresh herbs like parsley, mint, and cilantro adds a burst of freshness. Tossed with a light citrus vinaigrette, this salad offers a vibrant contrast to the rich flank steak.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Add a touch of elegance with grilled asparagus with lemon zest. The asparagus spears are charred to perfection, bringing out their natural sweetness, while a sprinkle of lemon zest adds a zesty brightness. This side dish not only complements the flank steak but also adds a pop of color to your plate.

Buttery Corn on the Cob: For a classic and comforting side, consider buttery corn on the cob. The corn is slathered in rich, melted butter and sprinkled with a touch of sea salt. Each bite is a burst of sweetness and buttery goodness, making it the perfect companion to the savory flank steak.

Other Alternative Steak Recipes to Try

Grilled Ribeye With Garlic Herb Butter: Indulge in the rich flavors of a perfectly grilled ribeye steak topped with a luscious garlic herb butter. This dish is a carnivore's dream, offering a succulent and juicy ribeye paired with the aromatic blend of garlic, parsley, and thyme. Perfect for a special dinner or a weekend treat.

Seared Filet Mignon With Red Wine Reduction: Experience the elegance of seared filet mignon accompanied by a rich and velvety red wine reduction. This dish is a true showstopper, featuring tender filet mignon cooked to perfection and drizzled with a sauce made from red wine, shallots, and a hint of butter. Ideal for a romantic dinner or a celebratory meal.

Pan-Roasted Pork Chops With Apple Cider Glaze: Savor the delightful combination of pan-roasted pork chops and a sweet yet tangy apple cider glaze. These pork chops are cooked to golden-brown perfection and then coated with a glaze made from apple cider, brown sugar, and mustard. A comforting and flavorful dish that's perfect for any night of the week.

Herb-Crusted Lamb Chops With Mint Yogurt Sauce: Delight in the sophisticated flavors of herb-crusted lamb chops served with a refreshing mint yogurt sauce. These lamb chops are coated in a blend of rosemary, thyme, and parsley, then seared to perfection. The mint yogurt sauce adds a cool and creamy contrast, making this dish a gourmet experience.

Chicken Marsala With Mushrooms: Enjoy the classic Italian-American dish of chicken marsala with a rich and savory mushroom sauce. Tender chicken breasts are sautéed and then simmered in a marsala wine sauce with mushrooms and shallots. This dish is both elegant and comforting, perfect for a family dinner or entertaining guests.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts to Serve with Flank Steak

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these Stuffed Mushrooms. Begin by selecting large, firm mushrooms and remove the stems. Create a savory filling using cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Add a touch of parmesan cheese for a rich, nutty flavor. Once stuffed, bake until golden and bubbly. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any gathering, offering a burst of flavor in every bite.

Bruschetta: Transport your guests to Italy with classic Bruschetta. Start with slices of crusty bread, toasted to perfection. Top with a mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic, all drizzled with extra virgin olive oil. A sprinkle of sea salt and a dash of balsamic glaze elevate this simple yet elegant appetizer. Serve immediately for a fresh, vibrant start to your meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a rich and decadent chocolate lava cake that will leave your taste buds craving more. This dessert features a warm, gooey chocolate center that oozes out with every bite. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the intense chocolate flavor. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh raspberries for a touch of elegance. The contrast between the warm cake and the cold ice cream creates a delightful sensory experience that is sure to impress your guests.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Delight your senses with a zesty lemon meringue pie that combines a tangy lemon curd filling with a light and fluffy meringue topping. The buttery pie crust adds a perfect crunch to each bite. Serve it chilled for a refreshing end to your meal. The bright lemon flavor is perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the meringue, making it a crowd-pleaser. Garnish with a few lemon zest curls and a sprig of mint for a visually appealing presentation.

Why trust this Flank Steak with Creamy Peppercorn Sauce Recipe:

This recipe for flank steak with creamy peppercorn sauce is a must-try for any home cook. The marinade infuses the steak with rich flavors, while the peppercorn sauce adds a luxurious touch. The instructions are clear and easy to follow, ensuring a perfect result every time. Plus, the use of fresh ingredients like garlic and sage guarantees a delicious and aromatic dish. Trust this recipe for a restaurant-quality meal at home.

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FAQ:

How long should I marinate the flank steak?

I recommend marinating the flank steak for at least 30 minutes, but you can go up to 24 hours if you want to really infuse the flavors.

Can I use a different type of oil for the marinade?

Sure, you can use olive oil or any other neutral oil if you prefer. Just keep in mind that it might slightly alter the flavor.

What if I don't have a grill? Can I cook the steak on the stove?

Absolutely, you can cook the steak on the stove. Just heat some oil in a skillet over high heat and cook the steak for about 4 to 5 minutes per side for medium doneness.

How do I know when the steak is done?

For medium doneness, cook the steak for about 6 to 7 minutes per side on the grill or 4 to 5 minutes per side on the stove. Adjust the time by a minute more or less per side depending on your preferred level of doneness.

Can I make the peppercorn cream sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the peppercorn cream sauce ahead of time. Just reheat it gently on the stove before serving to ensure it's warm and smooth.