Grilled Steak With Creamy Herbed Goat Cheese Sauce
The first time I tasted steak with goat cheese, I was at a tiny bistro tucked away on a cobblestone street in Paris. The chef, a jovial man with flour dusting his apron, presented a perfectly grilled steak, its surface kissed with char, and then – the unexpected flourish – a dollop of creamy, herb-flecked goat cheese melting seductively over the top. The tanginess of the cheese against the rich, savory beef was a revelation. Ever since, I’ve been obsessed with recreating that magic at home. This recipe, my own take on that unforgettable experience, brings gourmet flair to your grill.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Yields: 4 steaks
- Dietary Type: Gluten-Free
Ingredients
- 1 (5 1/3 ounce) package Chavrie fresh goat cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chiffonade* (see instructions for chiffonade)
- 4 beef T-bone steaks or 4 sirloin steaks
- 1 garlic clove, crushed
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment Needed
- Small mixing bowl
- Grill or broiler
- Tongs
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
Instructions
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In a small bowl, combine the Chavrie fresh goat cheese, chopped fresh chives, chopped fresh parsley, and fresh basil chiffonade. Mix well until thoroughly combined and creamy. Set aside.
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Take the garlic clove, crushed, and rub it all over the surfaces of the beef T-bone steaks or sirloin steaks. This imparts a subtle garlic flavor.
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Season the steaks generously with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy – proper seasoning is key to a delicious steak.
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Prepare your grill for medium-high heat. If using a broiler, position the rack 4 to 6 inches from the heat source.
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Grill the steaks over medium-high heat, or broil 4 to 6 inches from the heat source. Cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the steaks and your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, grill or broil for approximately 4-5 minutes per side. For medium, grill or broil for 5-6 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
- For rare: 125-130°F
- For medium-rare: 130-135°F
- For medium: 135-140°F
- For medium-well: 140-145°F
- For well-done: 145°F+
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Once the steaks have reached your desired doneness, remove them from the grill or broiler and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
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Spoon the prepared herbed Chavrie® sauce generously over the steaks. The heat of the steak will gently melt the goat cheese, creating a luscious, creamy sauce.
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Serve immediately and enjoy!
To make chiffonade, stack basil leaves and roll up like a jelly roll. Cut into thin slices.
Expert Tips & Tricks
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Goat Cheese Temperature: For the best creamy texture, let the goat cheese sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before mixing with the herbs. This softens it and makes it easier to combine.
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Steak Selection: While this recipe calls for T-bone or sirloin, feel free to experiment with other cuts like ribeye or New York strip. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
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Perfect Sear: To achieve a beautiful sear on your steak, ensure your grill is preheated to a high temperature. Pat the steaks dry with paper towels before seasoning to remove excess moisture. This promotes browning.
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Herb Variations: Feel free to customize the herb mixture based on your preferences. Try adding a pinch of dried oregano, thyme, or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
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Garlic Infusion: For a more intense garlic flavor, you can create a garlic-infused oil by gently heating minced garlic in olive oil over low heat for a few minutes. Let it cool slightly, then brush it over the steaks before grilling.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
Serve your grilled steak with creamy herbed goat cheese sauce immediately for the best flavor and texture. Consider pairing it with roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers, or a simple green salad. A side of creamy mashed potatoes or crispy roasted potatoes also complements the dish beautifully.
Storage: Leftover steak should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The goat cheese sauce is best consumed fresh, but leftovers can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: To reheat the steak, gently warm it in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in a skillet over low heat. Avoid microwaving the steak, as it can become tough and dry. It’s generally not recommended to reheat the goat cheese sauce separately, as it may lose its creamy texture. It’s best to add fresh goat cheese to the reheated steak.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 139.4 kcal | N/A |
| Calories from Fat | 101 g | 73% |
| Total Fat | 11.3 g | 17% |
| Saturated Fat | 7.8 g | 39% |
| Cholesterol | 29.9 mg | 9% |
| Sodium | 195.4 mg | 8% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 1.3 g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.1 g | 0% |
| Sugars | 1 g | 3% |
| Protein | 8.3 g | 16% |
Please note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and cooking methods.
Variations & Substitutions
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the goat cheese mixture for a touch of heat.
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Citrus Zest: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the goat cheese sauce for a bright, refreshing flavor.
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Different Cheeses: While Chavrie is recommended, you can experiment with other soft goat cheeses. Look for ones with a mild, creamy flavor.
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Herb Infused Oil: Brush the steaks with herb-infused olive oil before grilling. To make the oil, combine olive oil with minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Heat over low heat for a few minutes, then let cool before using.
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Vegan Option: While this recipe is centered around steak and goat cheese, a similar sauce could be created using a plant-based cream cheese alternative and served over grilled portobello mushrooms or thick slices of grilled eggplant for a satisfying vegetarian main course.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I prepare the goat cheese sauce in advance?
A: Yes, the goat cheese sauce can be prepared up to a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Allow it to come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving to soften it.
Q: What’s the best way to tell if my steak is cooked to the correct doneness?
A: The most reliable way is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding any bone. Refer to the temperature guidelines in the instructions for your desired level of doneness.
Q: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?
A: While fresh herbs are preferred for their vibrant flavor, you can substitute dried herbs if needed. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for every 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs.
Q: My goat cheese sauce is too thick. How can I thin it out?
A: Add a tablespoon or two of milk or cream until you reach your desired consistency. Mix well until smooth.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: While goat cheese is the star of this recipe, you can experiment with other soft cheeses like cream cheese or mascarpone. Keep in mind that the flavor profile will be different.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably satisfying about a perfectly grilled steak. Topped with this simple yet elegant creamy herbed goat cheese sauce, it transforms into a truly memorable meal. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and flavor combinations to create your own signature version. Gather your friends and family, fire up the grill, and enjoy the delicious symphony of flavors. I’d love to hear about your experience – share your variations and cooking tips! Pair this delightful dish with a bold red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Merlot, to elevate your dining experience even further.