Picture this: a cozy evening spent with friends, laughter echoing through the kitchen as the savory scent of perfectly seared steak fills the air. This Steak Crostini with Horseradish Cream is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, merging elegant presentation with straightforward preparation. The contrast of the crisp crostini and tender steak, all elevated by the zesty horseradish cream, is sheer culinary delight that transforms ordinary gatherings into memorable feasts.
I came up with this recipe after a delightful dinner with friends where we tried several appetizers, but this one stood out with its bold flavors and uncomplicated steps. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply craving an elevated snack, this dish is your go-to. The best part? It’s effortlessly impressive, making you look like a star chef without the hassle. So, let’s dive into creating this delicious bite that’s sure to leave your guests raving long after the last crostini has been devoured!
Why You’ll Love Steak Crostini with Horseradish Cream
Delightful presentation: These crostini look stunning and are sure to impress any guest at your gathering.
Bursting with flavor: The zesty horseradish cream perfectly complements the savory steak, creating a taste sensation.
Quick preparation: You can whip these up in no time, making them ideal for last-minute entertaining.
Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or an informal snack, these crostini fit right in.
Versatile toppings: Feel free to experiment with different toppings like garlic butter or sautéed mushrooms for a unique twist.
Crowd favorite: The combination of textures and flavors will have everyone asking for seconds!
Steak Crostini Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create these irresistible bites!
For the Steak
- Flank Steak – Adds rich, meaty flavor; substitute with ribeye or sirloin for different textures.
- Olive Oil – Used for cooking steak and brushing crostini; can substitute with melted butter.
- Kosher Salt – Essential for enhancing flavors; table salt can be used in a pinch.
- Black Pepper – Provides warm spice; freshly cracked is preferable for more intense flavor.
- Chili Powder – Adds color and mild heat; ancho chili powder can be used for deeper flavor.
- Dried Thyme – Offers earthy notes; oregano can be substituted, though it changes the flavor profile slightly.
- Brown Sugar – Balances savory elements; can substitute with honey for similar sweetness.
- Paprika – Adds smokiness and color; smoked paprika enhances this dish further.
- Garlic Powder & Onion Powder – Both add aromatic depth; fresh garlic and onions can be used alternatively.
For the Horseradish Cream
- Sour Cream – Base for the horseradish cream; contributes creaminess; Greek yogurt can be used for a healthier alternative.
- Dijon Mustard – Provides tang; yellow mustard can be used but changes flavor.
- Mayonnaise – Contributes richness; use any preferred style.
- Prepared Horseradish – Adds a spicy kick; wasabi can be substituted for extra heat.
- Fresh Lemon Juice – Brightens flavors; lime juice can work as an alternative.
- Fresh Chives – For garnish and flavor; green onions can be used as a substitute.
For the Crostini
- French Baguette – Acts as the base for crostini, providing crunch; ciabatta can be a substitute for texture variation.
- Flaky Sea Salt – Used for the finishing touch; regular salt can be used but lacks the texture.
Get ready to impress your guests with this Steak Crostini with Horseradish Cream recipe!
How to Make Steak Crostini with Horseradish Cream
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Season Steak: Combine kosher salt, black pepper, brown sugar, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme in a bowl. Rub the spice mix onto the flank steak and refrigerate for 2-4 hours to enhance the flavors.
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Make Horseradish Cream: In a bowl, blend together sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, prepared horseradish, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and chopped chives. Refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.
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Prepare Crostini: Slice the French baguette into even pieces, about ½ inch thick. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil, making sure to coat both sides, and arrange them on a baking sheet.
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Toast Crostini: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the crostini for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown. After baking, rub each piece with a cut garlic clove and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
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Cook Steak: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Sear the flank steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Once done, let it rest for 5 minutes for the juices to redistribute.
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Assemble Crostini: Slice the rested steak thinly against the grain. Place a piece of steak on each toasted crostini, generously top with the horseradish cream, and finish with extra chives for garnish.
Optional: Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Steak Crostini
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Room Temperature Steak: Ensure the steak is at room temperature before cooking for even cooking throughout, maximizing flavor in your Steak Crostini with Horseradish Cream.
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Resting Time: Let the steak rest after cooking for at least 5 minutes to retain its juices, preventing dryness that can ruin your appetizer.
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Slice Against the Grain: Slice the steak thinly against the grain to maintain tenderness, making each bite of your crostini delightful and easy to enjoy.
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Keep Crostini Crisp: Assemble crostinis just before serving to maintain crispness. This will ensure your guests can enjoy the perfect contrast of textures.
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Experiment with Spice: Feel free to tweak the spice mix used on the steak or experiment with different toppings to customize your Steak Crostini to your taste!
What to Serve with Steak Crostini with Horseradish Cream?
Elevate your gathering with unforgettable sides that will make your steak crostini shine even brighter.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their velvety texture and rich flavor pair wonderfully, providing a comforting contrast to the crunchy crostini.
- Garlic Roasted Asparagus: The bright, tender asparagus complements the dish beautifully while adding a pop of color to your plate.
- Fresh Arugula Salad: Light and peppery, this salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette refreshes the palate between bites of rich steak.
- Bruschetta with Tomatoes: These tangy and vibrant bites add a fresh dimension to the overall flavor profile, creating a delightful taste balance.
- Bold Red Wine: A robust Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot enhances the savory experience, making every bite of steak crostini even more indulgent.
- Decadent Chocolate Mousse: End the meal on a sweet note! The richness of chocolate balances the savory flavors and delights the senses.
Steak Crostini Variations
Customize your crostini experience with these fun and flavorful twists! Embrace your inner chef and delight your guests.
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Garlic Butter: Replace horseradish cream with a luscious garlic butter spread to make every bite savory and aromatic. Think of the rich, buttery goodness melting onto the steak!
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Balsamic Glaze: Substitute horseradish cream with balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy finish. The flavor combination will create a delightful contrast you won’t want to miss.
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Caramelized Onions: Top the steak with sweet caramelized onions for an elegant touch. Their sweetness will elevate the dish, making it even more irresistible.
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Sautéed Mushrooms: Add sautéed mushrooms on top of the steak for a lovely earthy taste. This twist adds a beautiful texture as well, making each bite a savory delight.
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Wasabi Kick: Desire more heat? Swap prepared horseradish with wasabi for an intense, zesty punch that will leave your taste buds dancing.
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Spicy Aioli: For a creamy and spicy flavor, use sriracha aioli instead of horseradish cream. Each bite becomes an exciting burst of heat and creaminess!
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Fresh Herbs: Experiment by mixing fresh herbs like basil or arugula atop the assembled crostini for a refreshing, herbaceous burst.
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Avocado Slice: Adding avocado makes it creamy while also enhancing the texture and flavor profile for a unique experience your guests will love.
Make Ahead Options
These Steak Crostini with Horseradish Cream are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season the flank steak and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours to allow those rich flavors to deepen. Additionally, you can make the horseradish cream a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. When you’re ready to serve, simply toast the crostini fresh (they only take about 10-12 minutes in the oven) and sear the steak right before assembling. This way, you’ll enjoy warm, crisp crostini topped with juicy steak and creamy horseradish, all without the last-minute rush!
How to Store and Freeze Steak Crostini with Horseradish Cream
Fridge: Store leftover steak separately in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to keep it fresh. Crostini can be kept at room temperature for 1-2 days, ensuring they retain their crunchiness.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the cooked steak wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Avoid freezing assembled crostini, as they will lose their texture.
Horseradish Cream: The creamy horseradish sauce can be refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 1 week. Give it a good stir before serving again to refresh its flavor and consistency.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, gently reheat the steak in a skillet over medium heat just until warmed through, ensuring it doesn’t dry out.
Steak Crostini with Horseradish Cream Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best flank steak?
Absolutely! When choosing flank steak, look for a cut that is bright red with minimal dark spots, which could indicate aging. The fat should be evenly distributed, ensuring rich flavor. If flanks aren’t available, consider ribeye or sirloin as delightful substitutes, each bringing unique textures!
What is the best way to store leftover steak crostini?
Very! To maintain quality, store the leftover steak separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The crostini can be kept at room temperature for 1-2 days to retain their delightful crunchiness. Be sure to refrigerate any leftover horseradish cream in a sealed container for up to 1 week.
Can I freeze steak for my crostini?
Certainly! To freeze cooked steak, first, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring that no air is trapped, then place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in a skillet to keep it juicy!
What if my horseradish cream is too spicy?
No worries! If your horseradish cream turned out spicier than you’d like, you can balance it by mixing in more sour cream or Greek yogurt to soften the flavor. Alternatively, adding a touch of honey can help tone down the heat while enhancing sweetness. Adjust according to your taste preference!
Are there any dietary considerations for the ingredients?
Yes! When preparing your Steak Crostini with Horseradish Cream, be mindful of dietary restrictions. For gluten-sensitive individuals, ensure the baguette is gluten-free or use ciabatta made from gluten-free ingredients. Additionally, check the labels on prepared horseradish and mayonnaise, as they may contain allergens.
How can I ensure my steak is cooked perfectly?
The key to perfectly cooked steak is patience! Let it come to room temperature before cooking, ensuring even cooking. Sear the steak for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, and always slice against the grain after a resting period of 5 minutes to maximize tenderness. Enjoy every sumptuous bite!
Irresistible Steak Crostini with Zesty Horseradish Cream
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine kosher salt, black pepper, brown sugar, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme in a bowl. Rub the spice mix onto the flank steak and refrigerate for 2-4 hours.
- In a bowl, blend together sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, prepared horseradish, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and chopped chives. Refrigerate until you're ready to serve.
- Slice the French baguette into even pieces, about ½ inch thick. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil, making sure to coat both sides, and arrange them on a baking sheet.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the crostini for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Rub each piece with a cut garlic clove and sprinkle with flaky sea salt after baking.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Sear the flank steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Slice the rested steak thinly against the grain. Place a piece of steak on each toasted crostini, generously top with horseradish cream, and finish with extra chives for garnish.