There’s something undeniably indulgent about a perfectly cooked steak, especially when it’s topped with a rich, flavorful blue cheese crust. Just the thought of thick, juicy New York Strip Steaks sizzling in a hot skillet sends my taste buds into overdrive. Recently, after a long day, I craved a comforting meal that would transport me from the mundane routine of fast food. That’s when I stumbled upon my Blue Cheese Crusted Steak recipe—a delightful fusion of savory shallots and creamy blue cheese that transforms a simple dinner into a gourmet experience.
Whether you’re entertaining friends, planning a romantic dinner, or simply treating yourself, this dish never fails to impress. It’s surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both seasoned chefs and home cooks alike. And trust me, the moment you pull it from the oven and slice into that cheesy, caramelized topping, the delicious aromas will have everyone flocking to the table. Join me as we dive into this truly satisfying recipe that promises to awaken your love for homemade meals!
Why is Blue Cheese Crusted Steak a must-try?
Indulgent flavors: The robust taste of blue cheese pairs perfectly with tender steak, creating a mouthwatering experience.
Easy preparation: With a straightforward cooking method, even novice chefs will shine with this dish.
Impressive presentation: Topped with a golden crust, this steak is a showstopper for any occasion.
Comfort food redefined: Savor the comfort of a decadent meal without the fuss of fine dining.
Versatile pairing: Serve it with your favorite sides or salads for a well-rounded meal.
Elevate your weeknight dinners and discover more amazing steak recipes with our ultimate guide to cooking steak!
Blue Cheese Crusted Steak Ingredients
For the Steak
• New York Strip Steaks – Thick and juicy, these cuts are perfect for achieving a tender bite.
• Kosher Salt and Freshly-Ground Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the steak.
For the Shallots
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and helps caramelize the shallots beautifully.
• Shallots – Their subtle sweetness complements the boldness of the blue cheese.
• Balsamic Vinegar – Adds a tangy depth that balances the richness of the dish.
For the Crust
• Panko Breadcrumbs – These provide a delightful crunch, turning your Blue Cheese Crusted Steak into a textural delight.
• Vegetable Oil – Use this for searing the steak, ensuring a perfect golden crust.
• Crumbled Blue Cheese – The star ingredient that gives this dish its distinctive flavor profile.
• Chopped Italian Parsley – Brightens the dish with freshness and color.
• Chopped Fresh Thyme Leaves – Adds an aromatic herbal note that elevates the dish.
Create a memorable meal by exploring the magic of this Blue Cheese Crusted Steak recipe!
How to Make Blue Cheese Crusted Steak
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Prepare the Steaks: Thirty minutes before cooking, generously season both sides of the New York Strip Steaks with kosher salt and freshly-ground black pepper. Let them rest at room temperature to enhance flavor.
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Caramelize Shallots: In a small skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Add the sliced shallots along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté until they begin to soften, about 3 minutes.
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Continue Cooking Shallots: Reduce the heat to low and cook the shallots for an additional 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn soft and caramelized, achieving a lovely golden hue.
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Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the balsamic vinegar and scrape up any flavorful brown bits from the skillet’s bottom. Stir and cook until the vinegar evaporates, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
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Mix the Crust: In a bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, crumbled blue cheese, chopped parsley, thyme, ½ teaspoon of vegetable oil, and the cooled caramelized shallots. Don’t worry about achieving a smooth mixture; leave some blue cheese chunks for extra flavor.
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Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to preheat at 500°F, which is essential for achieving that perfect crust on your steak.
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Sear the Steaks: In an oven-safe skillet, heat 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over high heat. Once wisps of smoke begin to rise, carefully place the seasoned steaks and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 120°F for medium-rare.
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Add the Cheese Mixture: Place half of the blue cheese mixture on each steak, pressing gently to adhere it. Transfer the skillet into the oven, baking for 4-5 minutes until the cheese melts, turns golden, and the steaks reach an internal temp of 128-130°F.
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Rest and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the steaks rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes. This resting period is crucial for juicy steak slices that impress at your dinner table.
Optional: Garnish with additional chopped parsley for a burst of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Blue Cheese Crusted Steak
Fridge: Store leftover Blue Cheese Crusted Steak in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Wrap the steak tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for freezing. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer without compromising flavor.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes. This helps preserve the blue cheese crust’s texture.
Leftover Toppings: Store any leftover blue cheese mixture separately in the fridge for up to 5 days, and use it as a topping for salads or other grilled meats!
What to Serve with Blue Cheese Crusted Steak?
Create a well-rounded meal that celebrates the incredible flavors of this steak.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these mashed potatoes absorb the delicious juices from the steak, creating a heavenly pairing. The subtle garlic will enhance the rich flavor of the blue cheese.
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Grilled Asparagus: This vibrant green vegetable adds a charred, smoky flavor that perfectly contrasts with the savory steak. Plus, its crisp texture helps balance the dish.
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Caesar Salad: The crunchy romaine with a zesty dressing and grated Parmesan brings brightness to your plate. It’s light enough to not overshadow the rich steak, yet flavorful enough to elevate the meal.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy and caramelized, these sprouts provide a nutty flavor that complements the earthy notes of blue cheese. A sprinkle of balsamic glaze would make this pairing sing!
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Red Wine: A bold Cabernet Sauvignon will enhance the dish with its deep flavors and tannins, cutting through the richness of the steak. It’s a classic companion that never fails.
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Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note with a rich, velvety dessert. The bittersweet chocolate will perfectly balance the savory notes of the steak and blue cheese.
Each of these additions creates a delightful symphony of flavors that transforms your dinner into a memorable experience.
Expert Tips for Blue Cheese Crusted Steak
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Perfect Seasoning: Always season steak liberally with kosher salt and black pepper. This enhances the meat’s natural flavors, ensuring a juicy, savory bite.
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Caramelization Secrets: Be patient while caramelizing shallots. A low heat allows for deeper flavors and prevents burning, creating a rich contrast in your Blue Cheese Crusted Steak.
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Correct Searing Temperature: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the steaks. A proper sear locks in juices, giving you a delicious crust that elevates your dish.
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Temperature Precision: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for 120°F initially, then 128-130°F after baking for the perfect doneness.
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Resting Time Matters: Letting the steaks rest for 5 minutes after baking distributes the juices throughout the meat, resulting in moist, tender slices every time.
Blue Cheese Crusted Steak Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it uniquely yours!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute crumbled blue cheese with cashew cheese for a creamy, non-dairy alternative that still delivers flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the blue cheese mixture to introduce a delightful heat that lingers on the palate.
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Herb Infusion: Swap out the thyme for fresh rosemary or oregano for a fragrant twist that complements the meat beautifully.
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Flavorful Breadcrumbs: Use seasoned breadcrumbs instead of panko for an extra layer of flavor, perfect for those longing for a touch of zest.
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Steak Searing: For a different texture, finish the steaks on a grill instead of in the oven; the smoky flavor enhances the overall dish.
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Wine Reduction: Drizzle a red wine reduction over the finished steak to elevate the dining experience with sophisticated flavors. It’s a beautiful sauce that pairs well with for truly gourmet results.
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Mixed Cheese Topping: Blend blue cheese with other cheeses such as goat or aged cheddar for a complex flavor combination that’s irresistibly creamy.
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Stuffed Crust: Create a deep-dish variation by stuffing the steaks with the blue cheese mixture before searing, ensuring that each bite is filled with deliciousness.
Let your culinary imagination flow as you explore these delightful variations!
Make Ahead Options
Blue Cheese Crusted Steak is perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet meal with minimal last-minute effort! You can prepare the caramelized shallots and blue cheese crust mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook the shallots and let them cool before mixing them with the panko, blue cheese, herbs, and oil. Refrigerate this mixture in an airtight container until you’re ready to cook. When you’re ready to serve, just season and sear the steaks as directed, then top with your prepped blue cheese mixture before transferring to the oven. This way, you’ll have a dazzling dish that tastes just as fresh, saving you time while creating an impressive meal!
Blue Cheese Crusted Steak Recipe FAQs
What type of steak is best for Blue Cheese Crusted Steak?
For this recipe, New York Strip Steaks are ideal due to their tenderness and flavor. Look for steaks that are about 1-1/2 inches thick and well-marbled for the juiciest results.
How should I store leftover Blue Cheese Crusted Steak?
Leftover Blue Cheese Crusted Steak can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let the steak cool completely before sealing to retain its flavor and moisture.
Can I freeze Blue Cheese Crusted Steak?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the steak tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This method helps prevent freezer burn and allows it to last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
How do I reheat leftover Blue Cheese Crusted Steak without drying it out?
To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the steak in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil to keep it moist. Warm it for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps preserve the delicious blue cheese crust.
What should I do if the blue cheese crust doesn’t hold together?
If your blue cheese crust doesn’t stick well, it might be due to a lack of moisture or binding. Ensure that your mixture includes enough oil and that you’ve pressed it firmly into the steak. If you find it crumbly, try adding a bit more panko or a splash of water to help it bind.
Is Blue Cheese Crusted Steak suitable for special diets?
This dish contains dairy and gluten, so it may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivities. If you’re making it for someone with specific dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free breadcrumbs and a non-dairy blue cheese substitute for a similar flavor profile.
Savor Every Bite of Blue Cheese Crusted Steak Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Steaks: Season both sides of the New York Strip Steaks with kosher salt and freshly-ground black pepper. Let them rest at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Caramelize Shallots: Melt unsalted butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced shallots, salt, and pepper. Sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Continue Cooking Shallots: Reduce heat to low, cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and caramelized.
- Deglaze the Pan: Add balsamic vinegar and scrape up brown bits. Cook until vinegar evaporates, about 1-2 minutes.
- Mix the Crust: Combine panko breadcrumbs, blue cheese, parsley, thyme, oil, and shallots in a bowl.
- Preheat the Oven: Set to 500°F.
- Sear the Steaks: Heat oil in an oven-safe skillet over high heat, sear steaks for 3-4 minutes per side until medium-rare.
- Add the Cheese Mixture: Spread blue cheese mixture on each steak, press gently, then transfer to oven for 4-5 minutes.
- Rest and Serve: Let steaks rest for 5 minutes before slicing.