Brown Butter Steak with Roasted Garlic Whipped Cauliflower Recipe
If you’re seeking a restaurant-worthy meal without leaving your kitchen, the Brown Butter Steak with Roasted Garlic Whipped Cauliflower might just win your heart (and taste buds). This elegant dinner pairs perfectly seared steak basted in nutty brown butter with the most luxuriously creamy cauliflower mash—elevated by a whole head of sweet, roasted garlic. Every bite balances richness, savory depth, and a light, velvety accompaniment that leaves you wanting more. Whether it’s for an impressive date night or a well-deserved treat for yourself, this low-carb twist brings comfort and class to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
At the heart of every unforgettable meal are simple, high-quality ingredients, and Brown Butter Steak with Roasted Garlic Whipped Cauliflower is no exception. Each item on this list plays a crucial part in the flavor and texture, so paying a little extra attention to freshness will truly pay off in your final bite.
- Ribeye or Sirloin Steaks (2, about 1 inch thick): Choose well-marbled steaks—ribeye for buttery richness, or sirloin for leaner bite.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Good seasoning is the secret to unlocking each ingredient’s best flavor.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons for steak): Helps create an irresistible, caramelized crust as you sear the steak.
- Unsalted Butter (4 tablespoons for steak): This is what turns plain steak into brown-butter magic—don’t skimp!
- Garlic (2 cloves, smashed, for steak): Perfumes the butter and infuses the steak with savory depth.
- Fresh Rosemary or Thyme (2 sprigs): Adds a woodsy aroma and a burst of herbaceous freshness during basting.
- Cauliflower (1 large head, cut into florets): Creates that silky-smooth mash that’s just as luscious as potatoes.
- Whole Head Garlic (for cauliflower): Roasting transforms sharp cloves into sweet, buttery nuggets that blend seamlessly with cauliflower.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons for cauliflower): Needed to roast your garlic to golden perfection.
- Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons for cauliflower): Rounds out the cauliflower mash with lovely richness.
- Heavy Cream or Milk (1/4 cup): Offers a decadent, creamy finish; swap for milk if you want something lighter.
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste for cauliflower): The final touch to lift flavors and coax the best from your mash.
How to Make Brown Butter Steak with Roasted Garlic Whipped Cauliflower
Step 1: Roast the Garlic
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take a whole head of garlic and slice off its top simply enough to expose the tips of the cloves. Drizzle generously with olive oil, wrap tightly in foil, and let it roast for 30–35 minutes. Your kitchen will fill with a mouthwatering, nutty aroma as the garlic turns soft, spreadable, and beautifully golden—this step is crucial to adding depth and sweetness to your cauliflower mash.
Step 2: Boil and Prep the Cauliflower
While the garlic roasts, bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your cauliflower florets and let them cook for 10–12 minutes, or until they’re completely tender and can be easily pierced with a fork. Drain them well—extra moisture means less creamy mash—then set them aside for the next step.
Step 3: Make the Roasted Garlic Whipped Cauliflower
Transfer your cooked cauliflower into a food processor. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves (they should pop right out!) directly on top, then add butter, cream (or milk), salt, and pepper. Blitz everything together until the mixture is creamy and cloud-like, scraping down the bowl if needed. Taste and adjust the seasoning; if you’re feeling a little decadent, a spoonful of grated Parmesan here is simply divine. Keep this mash warm—it’s about to become the perfect partner for your steak.
Step 4: Prep and Sear the Steaks
Pat your steaks dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a heavy skillet (cast iron is ideal) over medium-high heat until shimmering. Sear the steaks, undisturbed, for 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare—adjust if you like your steak more or less done. Don’t rush this; gorgeous browning means flavor.
Step 5: Baste with Brown Butter, Garlic, and Herbs
When your steaks are almost at the perfect doneness, add unsalted butter, the smashed garlic cloves, and sprigs of rosemary or thyme to the pan. As the butter melts and browns (it should smell nutty and take on a toasty hue), tilt the pan toward you and use a spoon to repeatedly baste the sizzling brown butter over the steaks. This step gives Brown Butter Steak with Roasted Garlic Whipped Cauliflower its signature flavor—an utterly aromatic, rich finish you’ll adore.
Step 6: Rest, Slice, and Serve
Transfer the steaks to a plate and let them rest for at least 5 minutes—this preserves their juiciness. Slice the steak against the grain, then plate generous spoonfuls of whipped cauliflower, laying the steak on top. Don’t forget to drizzle the plate with that glorious brown butter from the pan. You’ve just created a masterpiece!
How to Serve Brown Butter Steak with Roasted Garlic Whipped Cauliflower
Garnishes
A flourish of garnishes can turn your Brown Butter Steak with Roasted Garlic Whipped Cauliflower into pure dinner elegance. Try a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs (like parsley or chives) for color and zest, a dusting of cracked black pepper, or even a few golden flakes of finishing salt. A swirl of brown butter from the pan is always a must, capturing every last drop of flavor.
Side Dishes
If you crave something extra alongside your steak and creamy cauliflower, you can’t go wrong with a crisp green salad dressed simply in lemon and olive oil. Roasted vegetables—think asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts—add color and texture without stealing the spotlight. For a complete meal, pair with a glass of bold red wine.
Creative Ways to Present
Make your Brown Butter Steak with Roasted Garlic Whipped Cauliflower dinner extra special by plating it restaurant-style. Spoon a generous bed of cauliflower mash on each plate, artfully drape sliced steak over the top, and drizzle with browned butter. Dot with microgreens or serve in shallow bowls for a modern, cozy feel. If entertaining, serve on a platter for guests to admire the beautiful steak and fluffy mash before digging in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the steak and whipped cauliflower separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The cauliflower mash keeps its silky texture for up to 3 days, while the steak stays juicy if you reheat it gently. It’s perfect for a post-work treat or a next-day lunch that tastes just as decadent.
Freezing
You can freeze the whipped cauliflower portion for up to a month—just let it cool first, then stash it in freezer-safe bags or containers. Steaks are best enjoyed fresh, but if you must, slice and freeze in single-serve portions, keeping in mind their texture may change slightly after thawing.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the steak slices gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a touch of butter or a splash of broth for moisture. The cauliflower mash reheats beautifully in the microwave or on the stovetop; simply stir and add a splash of cream to restore its creamy consistency. Avoid high heat so nothing gets tough or dries out.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for Brown Butter Steak with Roasted Garlic Whipped Cauliflower?
Absolutely! While ribeye and sirloin deliver fantastic results, you can use filet mignon, New York strip, or any other preferred cut. Adjust searing time for thickness, and always rest your steak before slicing.
Can the whipped cauliflower be made in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the roasted garlic whipped cauliflower a day ahead. Store it in the fridge and reheat gently before serving, stirring in a bit of cream or butter to restore its fluffiness.
What if I don’t have a food processor?
A potato masher or hand mixer will work if you prefer a more rustic, chunky mash. For ultimate smoothness, a countertop or handheld blender can do the trick—just process in batches if needed.
How do I tell when the butter is browned and not burnt?
Watch for a deep golden brown color and a rich, nutty aroma—the milk solids will begin to brown and settle on the pan’s bottom, but remove from heat before they turn too dark. Swirling the pan gently helps distribute heat evenly.
Is Brown Butter Steak with Roasted Garlic Whipped Cauliflower gluten-free?
Yes, as written, this entire dish is naturally gluten-free and also low in carbohydrates, making it a wonderful option for a range of dietary needs.
Final Thoughts
If you’re eager to impress yourself—or someone special—with a meal that’s decadent yet approachable, give Brown Butter Steak with Roasted Garlic Whipped Cauliflower a try. It’s pure comfort, a touch of luxury, and a reminder that you don’t need to dine out to eat something truly extraordinary.
Print
Brown Butter Steak with Roasted Garlic Whipped Cauliflower Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a luxurious dining experience with this Brown Butter Steak served over a bed of Roasted Garlic Whipped Cauliflower. The combination of perfectly seared steak and creamy cauliflower mash, drizzled with flavorful brown butter, will elevate your dinner game to a whole new level.
Ingredients
For the steak:
- 2 ribeye or sirloin steaks (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic (smashed)
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme
For the whipped cauliflower:
- 1 large head cauliflower (cut into florets)
- 1 whole head garlic
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or milk
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and roast a head of garlic wrapped in foil until soft.
- Prepare the cauliflower: Boil cauliflower until tender, then blend with roasted garlic, butter, cream, salt, and pepper until creamy.
- Sear the steaks: Season and sear steaks in a skillet with olive oil. Add butter, garlic, and herbs, basting the steaks with brown butter.
- Rest and serve: Let the steaks rest before slicing and serve over whipped cauliflower, drizzled with brown butter.
Notes
- You can make the whipped cauliflower ahead and reheat gently before serving.
- For extra richness, consider adding Parmesan cheese to the cauliflower.
- Pair this dish with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop, Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 steak with cauliflower
- Calories: 630
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 45g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 155mg
