Elevate your Christmas dinner with a luxurious Pepper-Crusted Steak with Garlic Mashed Potatoes. This classic pairing of juicy steak and creamy potatoes, seasoned with garlic, brings richness and warmth to your holiday table. Paired with Estate Shiraz, this meal balances bold flavours with a festive, sophisticated touch. Perfect for those who love a well-seasoned, hearty main course, this dish is sure to impress your guests.
Recipe: Pepper-Crusted Steak with Garlic Mashed Potatoes
This recipe combines a perfectly seared, pepper-crusted steak with buttery garlic mashed potatoes, creating a memorable dish that’s ideal for a festive holiday feast. With a bold and flavourful crust on the steak and rich, creamy potatoes on the side, it’s a meal that will satisfy every guest.
Ingredients
For the Steak:
- 4 ribeye steaks (or your preferred cut)
- 2 tablespoons coarsely ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon sea salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
For the Garlic Mashed Potatoes:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option)
- 1/4 cup butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh chives or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Garlic Mashed Potatoes:
- Boil the Potatoes: Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until tender, about 15–20 minutes.
- Prepare Garlic Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Mash the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are cooked, drain and mash them until smooth. Stir in the garlic butter, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy, adjusting seasonings as needed. Cover and set aside.
Cook the Pepper-Crusted Steak:
- Season the Steaks: Pat each steak dry with paper towels. Press the coarsely ground black pepper and sea salt firmly into both sides of each steak for a flavourful crust.
- Sear the Steaks: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over high heat. When hot, add the steaks and sear for 3–4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, adjusting cooking time for preferred doneness.
- Rest the Steaks: Remove the steaks from the pan and let them rest for a few minutes to retain their juices.
Serve:
- Plate the Dish: Serve each steak with a generous portion of garlic mashed potatoes on the side. Garnish the potatoes with chopped chives or parsley for a festive touch.
Tips for Perfect Pepper-Crusted Steak and Garlic Mashed Potatoes
- Use High-Quality Steak: A well-marbled ribeye or your favourite premium cut will yield the best flavour and tenderness.
- Get the Pan Hot: A hot skillet is essential for a good sear, which locks in juices and creates a delicious crust on the steak.
- Adjust Doneness: For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 57°C; for medium, 63°C. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Use Cream for Extra Creaminess: While milk works well, using heavy cream makes the mashed potatoes richer and more luxurious.
Serving Suggestions
This Pepper-Crusted Steak with Garlic Mashed Potatoes pairs well with a variety of festive side dishes, such as:
- Sautéed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts for a touch of freshness and crunch.
- Oven-roasted root vegetables like carrots and parsnips, which add a touch of sweetness to the plate.
- Fresh salad with mixed greens, walnuts, and cranberries to add balance and colour.
Arrange the steaks and mashed potatoes on a large serving platter, with extra chives or parsley sprinkled over the potatoes for an elegant holiday presentation.
Pairing with Estate Shiraz
For an ideal pairing, serve this dish with 2022 The Estate Shiraz. The wine’s bold fruit flavours and peppery undertones perfectly complement the pepper-crusted steak, while its rich body balances the creamy garlic mashed potatoes. Estate Shiraz’s subtle spice enhances the savoury notes in the meal, creating a harmonious and festive dining experience.
Treat your family and friends to an unforgettable Christmas meal with this Pepper-Crusted Steak with Garlic Mashed Potatoes. Paired with Estate Shiraz, this dish offers a perfect balance of flavours and textures that elevate the holiday celebration, creating a truly memorable dining experience.