Imagine a dish that combines the rich, tender bite of perfectly seared steak with a luxuriously creamy vodka sauce that will transport you straight to the heart of Italy. This Creamy Steak Alla Vodka is not just a meal - it's a gastronomic experience that transforms an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure. With just 45 minutes between you and restaurant-quality perfection, this recipe promises to become your new go-to impressive yet surprisingly simple dinner.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb steak, sliced
- 1 cup vodka
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Slice the steak into thin strips, ensuring they are of even thickness for uniform cooking. Chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves. Set all the ingredients aside.
- In a large skillet or frying pan, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced steak to the pan. Season with salt and pepper. Sear the steak for about 3-4 minutes until it is browned on the outside but still slightly pink in the center. Remove the steak from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, being careful not to let it burn.
- Pour the vodka into the skillet, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze and incorporate any browned bits. Allow the vodka to simmer for about 5-7 minutes, reducing slightly.
- Once the vodka has reduced, lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream. Mix well to combine, and let the sauce simmer for another 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Return the seared steak to the skillet, stirring it into the creamy vodka sauce. Allow the steak to heat through for about 3-4 minutes, ensuring it is well coated with the sauce.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary. Remove the skillet from heat.
- To serve, plate the creamy steak alla vodka and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your delicious Italian-inspired dish!
Tips
- Meat Selection: Choose a tender cut like sirloin or ribeye for the best results. Slice against the grain to ensure maximum tenderness.
- Searing Secrets: Make sure your pan is HOT before adding the steak. A smoking-hot skillet creates that perfect golden-brown crust.
- Vodka Magic: The alcohol helps release flavor compounds and creates a deeper, more complex sauce. Don't worry - most of the alcohol cooks off during simmering.
- Cream Consistency: Add cream slowly and simmer gently to prevent separation and achieve a smooth, velvety sauce.
- Timing is Key: Be careful not to overcook the steak. The goal is a beautiful medium-rare to medium doneness that remains juicy and tender.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh parsley isn't just for looks - it adds a bright, fresh note that cuts through the richness of the cream sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 587kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 138mg
