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Close-up of perfectly cooked pan-seared steak slices resting on polenta, generously covered in a rich Tuscan cream sauce.
Reda

Pan-Seared Steak in Tuscan Cream Sauce

This restaurant-quality pan-seared steak bathed in a rich, creamy Tuscan-inspired sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach comes together easily in one pan for an impressive weeknight meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 750

Ingredients
  

For the Steak
  • 2 Boneless New York strip steaks about 1.5 lbs total, 1.5-inch thick
  • 1 tsp Kosher salt
  • 0.5 tsp Freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil
  • 1 tbsp Unsalted butter
For the Tuscan Cream Sauce
  • 1 tbsp Unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves Garlic minced
  • 0.5 cup Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained and chopped
  • 0.5 cup Chicken broth
  • 0.75 cup Heavy cream
  • 4 oz Fresh spinach about 4 cups packed
  • 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated

Equipment

  • Large Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy-Bottomed Pan
  • Tongs
  • Whisk

Method
 

Prep the Steak
  1. Pat the New York strip steaks very dry with paper towels – this is key for a good sear! Season generously on all sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let them rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes while you get your other ingredients ready.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet (or a heavy-bottomed pan) over medium-high heat until it's shimmering and just starting to smoke. Carefully place the seasoned steaks in the hot skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare doneness (target internal temperature 130-135°F). During the last minute of cooking, add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to the pan and use tongs or a spoon to baste the steaks with the melted butter and pan juices.
  3. Transfer the seared steaks to a cutting board, tent them loosely with foil, and let them rest for at least 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and juicy steak.
Make the Tuscan Cream Sauce
  1. While the steaks are resting, reduce the heat under the skillet to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to the pan. Add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
  2. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer, using a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up any delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the liquid has reduced slightly.
  3. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for 3-5 minutes until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
  4. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until it’s just wilted, about 1-2 minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  5. Slice the rested steaks against the grain into thick pieces. Arrange the sliced steak on plates and spoon the warm Tuscan cream sauce generously over the top. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

Steak Temperature: For perfectly cooked steak every time, use an instant-read thermometer. Aim for 130-135°F for medium-rare, keeping in mind the temperature will rise a few degrees while resting.
Sauce Variations: Feel free to add a splash of dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio) to deglaze the pan for added depth before adding the broth, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
Serving Suggestion: This rich dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side of roasted asparagus, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce.