Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce (Carnivore-Friendly Version)
For those who embrace the carnivore lifestyle, steak often takes center stage. It’s hearty, nutrient-dense, and deeply satisfying. But sometimes, you want to elevate it beyond a simple sear. That’s where a rich garlic cream sauce comes in—adding flavor, texture, and indulgence while still staying true to carnivore principles. This dish highlights the natural beauty of a well-cooked steak, enriched with a buttery, garlicky cream sauce that feels decadent yet perfectly in line with a meat-based diet.
Ingredients
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2 ribeye steaks (or sirloin, strip, or filet, depending on preference)
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2 tablespoons tallow, ghee, or butter (for searing)
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Sea salt to taste
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Freshly cracked black pepper (optional, if tolerated)
For the Garlic Cream Sauce:
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1 cup heavy whipping cream
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter
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4 garlic cloves, finely minced (or roasted garlic for a milder flavor)
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½ teaspoon sea salt
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2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added thickness and depth)
Method
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Prepare the Steaks
Start by bringing your steaks to room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking and a better sear. Pat them dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt on both sides. If you tolerate pepper, add a light sprinkle, though purists may choose to skip it. -
Sear the Meat
Heat a heavy cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add tallow, ghee, or butter—any fat that can handle high heat. Once shimmering, place the steaks into the skillet. Do not overcrowd the pan. Sear each side for 3–4 minutes for medium-rare, adjusting cooking time based on your preferred doneness. Remember to sear the edges by holding the steak upright with tongs. Once cooked, transfer the steaks to a plate and tent loosely with foil while you prepare the sauce. -
Make the Garlic Cream Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the butter and garlic. Sauté gently until the garlic turns golden and fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring as you go. Let it simmer gently, reducing slightly until it thickens. Stir in salt and Parmesan cheese (if using) to add richness. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon and have a silky texture. -
Combine and Serve
Place the steaks back into the skillet, spooning the garlic cream sauce generously over them. Allow the meat to rest in the sauce for a minute so flavors meld together. Plate each steak and drizzle extra sauce on top.
Serving Suggestions
While carnivore diets don’t traditionally include vegetables or grains, this steak pairs beautifully with simple carnivore-friendly sides: crispy bacon strips, butter-fried eggs, or even a baked bone marrow appetizer. If you tolerate dairy, the garlic cream sauce also makes a delicious topping for chicken or lamb, creating versatility in your meal rotation.
Tips for Perfection
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Garlic Choice: Fresh garlic provides a strong punch, but roasted garlic delivers a sweeter, mellower taste that blends beautifully with cream.
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Steak Cuts: Ribeye is ideal for its marbling and flavor, but filet offers tenderness and sirloin provides a leaner bite.
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Sauce Thickness: If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer or add an extra spoon of Parmesan cheese. For a thinner consistency, add a splash of beef broth.
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Cooking Fat: Tallow adds a beefy depth, while butter imparts richness. Both are excellent options depending on your flavor preference.
Final Thoughts
This Steak with Garlic Cream Sauce is more than just a meal—it’s an experience in indulgence. The seared steak provides a deeply savory foundation, while the garlic cream sauce turns it into a luxurious dish that feels gourmet but is incredibly easy to make. Every bite is succulent, rich, and satisfying, proving that the carnivore lifestyle doesn’t mean boring or repetitive meals. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving guests, this dish delivers comfort and elegance on a plate.