Cooking is an art that brings people together. One dish that stands out for its taste and simplicity is steak crostini with creamy horseradish sauce and caramelized onions. This delightful appetizer combines the rich flavor of steak with the zing of horseradish and the sweetness of caramelized onions. It makes a great addition to any gathering, party, or even a cozy family dinner. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making these delicious steak crostinis step by step.
Why Make This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons to try making steak crostini with creamy horseradish sauce and caramelized onions. First, it’s an impressive dish. Serving crostini to your guests shows that you put thought and care into preparing a meal. The layers of flavor—from the tender steak to the creamy sauce and sweet onions—create a lovely taste experience.
Second, this recipe is versatile. You can enjoy it as a starter or a light meal. It pairs well with various beverages, such as wine or cocktails, making it perfect for different occasions.
Lastly, it is relatively easy to make. With a few key ingredients and some straightforward steps, you can whip up this delightful dish in no time. Whether you are a cooking novice or an experienced chef, this steak crostini recipe will impress you and your guests.
How to Make Steak Crostini with Creamy Horseradish Sauce and Caramelized Onions
Ingredients
To prepare steak crostini with creamy horseradish sauce and caramelized onions, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound filet mignon or tenderloin
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Baguette (thinly sliced)
- Olive oil (for brushing)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons horseradish
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 large shallots (thinly sliced)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Directions
Prepare the Steak: Start by seasoning the steak with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme. Ensure that the steak is well-coated with the seasoning. Allow it to sit for at least 30 minutes. This resting time helps the steak absorb the flavors.
Make the Horseradish Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, horseradish, Dijon mustard, and fresh lemon juice. Add salt and black pepper to taste. Once mixed, refrigerate the sauce until you are ready to use it. This will allow the flavors to meld.
Caramelize the Shallots: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add the thinly sliced shallots and cook until they are softened. Stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking. After a few minutes, you can add balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Continue cooking until the shallots are caramelized and golden brown, which should take about 30 minutes in total. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.
Cook the Steak: In another skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned steak and cook according to your desired doneness. For medium-rare, you might cook filet mignon for about 4 minutes on each side. Once cooked, remove from heat and let the steak rest for a few minutes.
Prepare the Baguette: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the baguette slices with olive oil and place them on a baking sheet. Toast the slices in the oven for 5-7 minutes or until they are golden brown. This will add a nice crispiness to the crostini.
Assemble the Crostini: Once the steak has rested, slice it into thin strips. Take a toasted baguette slice and spread a layer of creamy horseradish sauce on top. Gently place a slice of cooked steak on the sauce, followed by a spoonful of caramelized shallots.
Garnish and Serve: Arrange the steak crostini bites on a serving platter. You can garnish them with fresh thyme or parsley if you like. Serve immediately to enjoy the warm, rich flavors of the crostini.
How to Serve Steak Crostini
Steak crostini is best served warm and fresh. You can present them on a beautiful platter for elegance. Consider adding a side of extra creamy horseradish sauce for dipping. This allows your guests to add more sauce according to their preferences. It pairs well with various drinks, such as red wine or a light cocktail, making it an excellent choice for appetizers.
How to Store Steak Crostini
If you have leftover steak crostini (though they are usually eaten quickly), you can store them in the refrigerator. Place them in an airtight container for up to two days. However, it is best to store the components separately. Keep the creamy horseradish sauce, caramelized onions, and toasted baguette slices in separate containers. This way, you can reassemble the crostini before serving. Reheat the steak and onions gently to avoid drying them out.
Tips to Make Steak Crostini
Choosing the Right Steak: Filet mignon is tender and flavorful, but you can also use other cuts like sirloin or ribeye if you prefer. These cuts can offer different flavors and textures.
Getting the Perfect Cook: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak reaches the desired internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for around 130°F (54°C).
Slice with Care: When slicing the steak, cut against the grain. This helps make the meat tenderer and easier to chew.
Customizing the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the horseradish to suit your taste. If you like it spicy, add more horseradish. You can also experiment by adding fresh herbs or chili flakes for extra flavor.
Variation
While the classic steak crostini recipe is always a winner, there are many variations you can try. For instance, you can swap the horseradish sauce for a blue cheese spread for a different flavor profile. You can also use grilled vegetables instead of steak for a vegetarian option. Some people like to add different toppings, such as avocado or roasted peppers. Get creative and adjust according to your taste and preference!
FAQs
Can I use another type of bread for crostini?
Yes, you can use other types of bread, such as ciabatta or sourdough. Just make sure to cut them into thin slices and toast them for the best texture.
Can I prepare the caramelized onions ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the caramelized onions in advance. Store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat them before serving.
What sides go well with steak crostini?
Steak crostini pairs well with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or even a charcuterie board filled with meats and cheeses.
Steak Crostini
Ingredients
Method
- Season the steak with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme. Allow it to sit for at least 30 minutes.
- Mix together mayonnaise, horseradish, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice in a small bowl. Add salt and black pepper to taste, then refrigerate.
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced shallots and cook until softened. Stir occasionally.
- Add balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Continue cooking until caramelized and golden brown, about 30 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in another skillet over medium-high heat. Cook seasoned steak according to desired doneness, about 4 minutes on each side for medium-rare.
- Let steak rest for a few minutes before slicing thinly.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush baguette slices with olive oil and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- Spread a layer of creamy horseradish sauce on a toasted baguette slice, top with a slice of steak, and add a spoonful of caramelized shallots.
- Arrange crostini on a serving platter, garnish as desired, and serve immediately.