Hey, steak lovers! Are you ready to take your steak game to a whole new level? Today, we're diving into a fantastic recipe that combines the rich, savory goodness of steak with the creamy, cheesy delight of au gratin. This is a steak au gratin Outback recipe, inspired by the flavors you might find at your favorite steakhouse, but made right in your own kitchen. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this restaurant-quality dish that's surprisingly simple to make.

What is Steak Au Gratin?

Before we jump into the recipe, let's talk about what exactly steak au gratin is. "Au gratin" simply refers to a dish that's topped with cheese or breadcrumbs (or both!) and then browned, usually under a broiler. This creates a crispy, golden crust that adds a wonderful textural contrast to the dish. When you combine that with a perfectly cooked steak, you've got a symphony of flavors and textures that's hard to resist. The beauty of steak au gratin lies in its versatility. You can use different cuts of steak, various types of cheese, and even add your own unique twist with different seasonings and vegetables. The basic principle remains the same: tender steak, creamy sauce, and a delicious, browned topping. This dish is perfect for special occasions, date nights, or any time you want to treat yourself to something truly special. Plus, it's a great way to elevate your steak beyond the ordinary and create a memorable dining experience. Imagine the look on your guests' faces when you present them with a beautifully plated steak au gratin, the cheese bubbling and golden brown. It's a guaranteed showstopper!

Ingredients You'll Need

To make this amazing steak au gratin, you'll need a few key ingredients. Don't worry, most of them are pantry staples! Here’s what you'll need:

• Steak: Choose your favorite cut! Ribeye, New York strip, or sirloin work great. Aim for about 1-inch thick steaks.
• Potatoes: Thinly sliced, like you would for classic au gratin potatoes. Yukon gold or russet potatoes are excellent choices.
• Heavy Cream: This is the base of our creamy, dreamy sauce.
• Cheese: A mix of Gruyere and Parmesan is classic, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella.
• Garlic: Because everything is better with garlic!
• Butter: For sautéing and adding richness to the sauce.
• All-Purpose Flour: To thicken the sauce.
• Milk: Helps to achieve the right consistency of the sauce.
• Salt and Pepper: To season everything to perfection.
• Optional: Fresh thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.

Make sure your ingredients are fresh and of good quality. The better the ingredients, the better your final dish will be. Don't be afraid to splurge a little on the cheese – it makes a big difference! Also, when slicing the potatoes, aim for a consistent thickness so they cook evenly. A mandoline slicer can be helpful for this, but a sharp knife and a steady hand will also do the trick. Remember, preparation is key to a successful dish, so take your time and get everything ready before you start cooking. This will make the whole process smoother and more enjoyable.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let's get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your own Outback-inspired steak au gratin:

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, toss the thinly sliced potatoes with some melted butter, salt, and pepper. Layer them in a baking dish.
2. Sear the Steaks: Season your steaks generously with salt and pepper. Heat some oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steaks for 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer depending on your desired doneness. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Au Gratin Sauce: In the same skillet, melt some butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant. Whisk in the flour and cook for a minute to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and milk, stirring until the sauce thickens. Stir in the grated Gruyere and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheese sauce over the layered potatoes in the baking dish. Place the seared steaks on top of the potatoes and sauce. Sprinkle extra cheese on top, if desired.
5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
6. Rest and Serve: Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary, if desired. Enjoy!

Each step is crucial for achieving the perfect steak au gratin. When searing the steaks, make sure the skillet is hot enough to create a nice crust. This will help to seal in the juices and add flavor. When making the au gratin sauce, whisk constantly to prevent lumps from forming. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the potatoes and steaks, but not too thick that it becomes gluey. When baking, keep an eye on the dish to prevent the cheese from burning. If the cheese starts to brown too quickly, you can cover the dish with foil for the last few minutes of baking. Finally, letting the steak rest before slicing is essential for allowing the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Steak Au Gratin

• Choose the Right Steak: The cut of steak you choose can make a big difference in the final result. For a richer flavor, go with a ribeye. If you prefer a leaner cut, opt for a New York strip or sirloin. No matter what cut you choose, make sure it's at least 1-inch thick for best results.
• Don't Overcook the Steak: Remember, the steak will continue to cook in the oven, so it's best to slightly undercook it when searing. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches your desired level of doneness.
• Thinly Slice the Potatoes: The thinner the potatoes, the faster they'll cook and the more evenly they'll absorb the creamy sauce. A mandoline slicer can be a great tool for achieving consistent slices.
• Use Good Quality Cheese: The cheese is a key component of the au gratin, so it's worth investing in good quality cheese. Gruyere and Parmesan are classic choices, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or even a smoked Gouda.
• Season Generously: Don't be shy with the salt and pepper! Season the steaks, potatoes, and sauce generously to bring out the flavors of all the ingredients.
• Add Some Veggies: Feel free to add some vegetables to the au gratin for extra flavor and nutrition. Sautéed onions, mushrooms, or spinach would all be delicious additions.
• Make it Ahead: You can assemble the au gratin ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake it. This is a great option for entertaining.

Variations and Add-ins

The beauty of this steak au gratin recipe is that you can easily customize it to your liking. Here are a few variations and add-ins to try:

• Spicy Steak Au Gratin: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce for a little kick.
• Mushroom Steak Au Gratin: Sauté some sliced mushrooms with the garlic before making the cheese sauce.
• Spinach Steak Au Gratin: Stir in some wilted spinach into the cheese sauce for a boost of nutrients.
• Bacon Steak Au Gratin: Cook some bacon and crumble it over the top of the au gratin before baking.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, provolone, or even a smoked Gouda.
• Add Some Wine: Add a splash of dry white wine to the cheese sauce for extra flavor and depth.

The possibilities are endless! Don't be afraid to get creative and experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own signature steak au gratin.

Serving Suggestions

Steak au gratin is a rich and satisfying dish on its own, but it's also delicious served with a variety of sides. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a great way to balance out the richness of the au gratin.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts are all delicious and healthy sides.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy cheese sauce.
• Mashed Potatoes: For a truly decadent meal, serve the steak au gratin with creamy mashed potatoes.
• Wine Pairing: A bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot pairs well with steak au gratin.

No matter what you choose to serve with it, steak au gratin is sure to be a hit. It's a show-stopping dish that's perfect for special occasions or any time you want to impress your guests.

Conclusion

So there you have it, guys! A delicious and easy steak au gratin recipe inspired by the flavors of Outback. This dish is perfect for impressing your friends and family, and it's surprisingly simple to make. With a few key ingredients and some simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. So, fire up the oven, grab your favorite cut of steak, and get ready to indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of steak au gratin. Happy cooking!