The first sizzling bite of a spice-crusted steak can transport you to a bustling steakhouse or a cozy family gathering. For a moment, all the hustle fades away as the juicy beef tenderloin melds perfectly with a tantalizing cherry sauce. This recipe for Spice-Crusted Steaks with Cherry Sauce strikes an exceptional balance between savory and sweet, making it ideal for special celebrations or a delightful weeknight dinner. You’ll love how quick the prep is, allowing you to focus on savoring quality time with friends and family. Plus, it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser that elevates any occasion! Ready to awaken your inner culinary artist and impress your loved ones? Let’s dive in!
Why are these steaks a must-try?
Unforgettable Flavor: The spice-crusted exterior bursts with warmth and depth, perfectly complemented by the sweet-tart cherry sauce that elevates your taste experience.
Quick & Easy: With just a few steps, you can create a gourmet meal that impresses without overwhelming.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to switch out the beef for other proteins or add your favorite herbs for a personal touch!
Perfect for Entertaining: This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, ideal for dinner parties or family celebrations. Pair it with sides like Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad or creamy mashed potatoes to complete the feast.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make the cherry sauce ahead of time and simply heat it up, saving your precious moments for what truly matters—enjoying great company!
Spice-Crusted Steaks with Cherry Sauce Ingredients
For the Cherry Sauce
• Dried Cherries – Adds natural sweetness and texture; can substitute with dried cranberries for a different flavor profile.
• Port Wine – Provides depth of flavor; substitute with red wine or balsamic vinegar if necessary.
• Shallot – Adds sweetness and complexity; can be substituted with finely chopped onion.
• Butter – Enriches the sauce; for a dairy-free option, use olive oil or a vegan butter alternative.
• Beef Broth – Forms the base for the sauce; low-sodium versions help control saltiness.
• Fresh Thyme – Imparts freshness to the sauce; use dried thyme as an alternative.
• Heavy Whipping Cream – Creates a rich, creamy sauce; can replace with half-and-half for a lighter option.
For the Spice-Crusted Steaks
• Beef Tenderloin Steaks (1-1/4 inches thick) – The main protein for this dish; can substitute with other cuts such as sirloin or ribeye.
• Canola Oil – Used for searing the steaks; olive oil can be an alternative.
• Coarsely Ground Pepper – Provides a spicy kick; adjust based on heat preference.
• Kosher Salt – Essential for enhancing overall flavors; regular salt can be used but adjust quantity.
• Brown Sugar – Balances the spice with sweetness; can replace with honey or maple syrup.
• Garlic Powder – Adds aromatic flavor; fresh minced garlic can be used as a substitute.
• Paprika – Contributes color and mild flavor; smoked paprika can enhance the taste.
• Ground Coffee – Deepens the flavor; optional for those avoiding caffeine.
• Ground Cinnamon – Imparts warmth; use sparingly to avoid overwhelming flavors.
• Ground Cumin – Adds a warm, earthy note; optional based on taste preference.
• Ground Mustard – Provides a subtle tang; substitute with Dijon mustard for a similar taste.
Optional Topping
• Crumbled Blue Cheese – Adds tanginess; can substitute with goat cheese or omit for a dairy-free version.
This collection of ingredients will lead you to a delightful Spice-Crusted Steaks with Cherry Sauce, bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spice-Crusted Steaks with Cherry Sauce
Step 1: Prep Ingredients
Start by mixing the dried cherries with warmed port wine in a bowl, allowing them to soak while you prepare the spice mix. In a shallow dish, combine coarsely ground pepper, kosher salt, brown sugar, garlic powder, paprika, ground coffee, ground cinnamon, cumin, and ground mustard. This aromatic blend will give your spice-crusted steaks a rich flavor profile.
Step 2: Coat Steaks
Dredge the beef tenderloin steaks thoroughly in the spice mixture, ensuring each side is well-coated for that delicious crust. Once coated, place the steaks in the refrigerator and let them chill for 30 minutes. This resting period helps the flavors to penetrate the meat, enhancing the overall taste of your spice-crusted steaks.
Step 3: Sear Steaks
Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add canola oil, allowing it to shimmer. Once hot, carefully place the steaks in the skillet, searing each side for about 2 minutes until they develop a lovely brown crust. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn, as you want that perfect golden-brown exterior.
Step 4: Bake Steaks
After searing, transfer the skillet directly to a preheated oven set at 350°F. Bake the spice-crusted steaks for approximately 15 minutes, or until they reach your desired doneness: 135°F for medium rare or 140°F for medium. Using a meat thermometer will ensure perfect results, keeping the steaks juicy and tender.
Step 5: Make Sauce
Once the steaks are done, carefully remove them from the skillet and set them aside to rest. In the same skillet, add butter and sauté the chopped shallots over medium heat until they are soft and translucent, about 2-3 minutes. This will infuse the sauce with a sweet, gentle flavor as you prepare to build the cherry sauce.
Step 6: Add Broth and Thicken
Pour in the beef broth and add fresh thyme, bringing the mixture to a boil. Allow it to simmer until the broth reduces by half, creating a rich base for your sauce, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This concentrated flavor will complement the sweetness of the cherry mixture beautifully.
Step 7: Add Cream and Cherries
Stir in the heavy whipping cream and continue to cook until the sauce thickens slightly, roughly 3-5 minutes. Finally, incorporate the cherry mixture along with any remaining port wine. This combination will give you a silky, luscious cherry sauce that perfectly complements the spice-crusted steaks.
Step 8: Serve
Plate the beautifully rested spice-crusted steaks and generously spoon the cherry sauce over the top. If desired, sprinkle crumbled blue cheese for extra flavor. Serve immediately, allowing your loved ones to dive into this gourmet meal that beautifully balances spice and sweetness, making for a memorable dining experience.
Expert Tips for Spice-Crusted Steaks with Cherry Sauce
• Room Temperature Steaks: Let the steaks sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking throughout.
• Meat Thermometer: Always use a meat thermometer to check doneness; overcooking can lead to tough, dry steaks. Aim for 135°F for medium rare.
• Resting Time: After baking, let the steaks rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.
• Adjusting Thickness: If the sauce is too thin, keep simmering it after adding the cream until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Spice Adjustment: Feel free to customize the spice blend according to your taste; adding more ground coffee or a pinch of cayenne pepper can enhance the flavor of your spice-crusted steaks.
How to Store and Freeze Spice-Crusted Steaks with Cherry Sauce
Fridge: Store leftover spice-crusted steaks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop to maintain tenderness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked steaks wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cherry Sauce: The cherry sauce can be made ahead and cooled before transferring to an airtight container. It lasts in the fridge for up to 4 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently, and rewarm the steaks gently to keep them juicy.
Make Ahead Options
These Spice-Crusted Steaks with Cherry Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the steaks in the spice mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them covered to enhance the flavor. Additionally, the cherry sauce can be prepared up to 3 days ahead. After making the sauce, cool it completely and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce on the stovetop while the steaks are baking, ensuring the sauce is just as delicious and rich. This way, you can easily impress your loved ones with minimal effort and maximum flavor!
Spice-Crusted Steaks with Cherry Sauce Variations
Embrace your culinary creativity and adjust this delightful recipe to suit your taste buds!
- Healthier Swap: Replace the beef tenderloin with grilled chicken breast for a lighter option that’s still full of flavor.
- Pork Twist: Substitute the beef with juicy pork tenderloin for a delicious and tender alternative that pairs beautifully with the cherry sauce.
- Berry Enhance: Add both dried cherries and raspberries to the sauce for a mixed berry flavor that elevates the dish beautifully.
- Smoky Flavor: Swap regular paprika for smoked paprika to infuse a delicious smoky depth into your spice blend.
- Coconut Cream: Use coconut cream in place of heavy whipping cream for a dairy-free, tropical twist that keeps it creamy.
- Sweet Heat: Consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice mix for a spicy kick that balances the sweetness of the cherry sauce.
- Balsamic Boost: Stir in a splash of balsamic vinegar into the sauce for extra tanginess and depth that complements the cherry sweetness.
- Cheese Options: Instead of crumbled blue cheese, try feta or goat cheese for a different tangy flavor that perfectly tops your steaks.
Feel free to get inspired by these variations or even mix and match! And if you’re looking for more delicious sauces, consider trying out Chimichurri Grilled Sauce or Japanese Katsu Sauce to take your culinary adventure a step further!
What to Serve with Spice-Crusted Steaks with Cherry Sauce
Crafting the perfect dining experience doesn’t just stop at the main course; complement your flavorful steaks with thoughtful sides and sips that enhance every bite.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, velvety texture of mashed potatoes pairs beautifully with the spicy crust of the steaks and balances the sweetness of the cherry sauce.
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Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: A colorful medley of roasted vegetables adds freshness and a satisfying crunch, creating a delightful contrast to the tender beef.
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Garlic Butter Green Beans: Tender green beans tossed in garlic butter provide a crisp side that cuts through the richness of the dish and adds a pop of color on the plate.
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Spicy Coleslaw: The crunchy, tangy flavor of coleslaw with a kick enhances your meal with a refreshing crunch while complementing the savory flavor of the steaks.
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Rich Cabernet Sauvignon: This full-bodied red wine boasts dark fruit flavors and spices, making it a perfect pairing to elevate the overall dining experience.
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Decadent Chocolate Mousse: End the meal on a sweet note with light and fluffy chocolate mousse, offering a little indulgence to balance the steak’s spice and cherries.
Pair these suggestions with your spice-crusted steaks with cherry sauce and watch as your dining table transforms into a delightful feast!
Spice-Crusted Beef Tenderloin Steaks with Cherry Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe dried cherries for the sauce?
Absolutely! When selecting dried cherries, look for those that are plump and moist, avoiding any that appear overly hard or have dark spots all over, as these may indicate they’re past their prime. If you’re feeling adventurous, dried cranberries can also substitute for a different flavor boost.
How should I store leftover spice-crusted steaks?
Very! Store your leftover spice-crusted steaks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the steaks gently in the oven at a low temperature or warm them on the stovetop to maintain their tender juiciness.
Can I freeze the spice-crusted steaks and the cherry sauce?
Absolutely! To freeze the steaks, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and they’ll keep well for up to 3 months. For the cherry sauce, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months as well! To enjoy, thaw the steaks in the refrigerator overnight and reheat the sauce on low heat while stirring frequently.
What if I can’t find port wine?
No worries! If port wine isn’t available, you can substitute it with red wine or balsamic vinegar to provide a similar depth of flavor in your cherry sauce. Should you prefer a non-alcoholic option, a concentrated grape juice can also work in a pinch!
What if my spice crust comes out too salty?
Very! If your spice mix turns out salty, consider reducing the salt in your spice blend next time or balancing it with a touch of brown sugar or honey to counter the flavors. It’s all about finding the right harmony that suits your taste preferences.
Is this recipe suitable for allergy-sensitive diets?
Absolutely! While the recipe contains common allergens like dairy and gluten, you can modify it easily. For a dairy-free option, simply use olive oil instead of butter in the sauce and skip the blue cheese. Always double-check the ingredient labels to make sure they suit the needs of you and your loved ones.
Spice-Crusted Steaks with Cherry Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by mixing the dried cherries with warmed port wine in a bowl, allowing them to soak while you prepare the spice mix.
- In a shallow dish, combine coarsely ground pepper, kosher salt, brown sugar, garlic powder, paprika, ground coffee, ground cinnamon, cumin, and ground mustard.
- Dredge the beef tenderloin steaks thoroughly in the spice mixture, ensuring each side is well-coated.
- Place the coated steaks in the refrigerator and let them chill for 30 minutes.
- Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add canola oil.
- Carefully place the steaks in the skillet, searing each side for about 2 minutes.
- After searing, transfer the skillet directly to a preheated oven set at 350°F and bake the steaks for approximately 15 minutes.
- Once the steaks are done, remove them from the skillet and let them rest.
- In the same skillet, add butter and sauté the chopped shallots over medium heat until soft.
- Pour in the beef broth and add fresh thyme, bringing to a boil and simmering until reduced by half.
- Stir in the heavy cream and continue to cook until thickened, then add the cherry mixture.
- Plate the steaks and spoon the cherry sauce over the top, adding blue cheese if desired.
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