Creamy Peppercorn Steak Bites – Bold 30-Minute Steakhouse Skillet
By homestylepick.com
Yield: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Table of Contents
Introduction
If you love bold, cozy skillet dinners that feel indulgent without being complicated, these Creamy Peppercorn Steak Bites are about to become a favorite. Tender beef is seared until perfectly browned, then coated in a rich, creamy peppercorn sauce that delivers classic steakhouse flavor in just one pan. It’s the kind of meal that feels fancy enough for date night but easy enough for a busy weeknight.
This recipe leans into deep savory flavor with cracked black pepper, butter, and cream creating a silky sauce that clings to every bite of steak. If you’ve enjoyed comfort-forward meals like Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites, this version offers a bolder, more classic steakhouse twist while keeping the same simple, skillet-friendly approach.
These Creamy Peppercorn Steak Bites are perfect for nights when you want steakhouse flavor without the restaurant price.
Why This Steak Bites Recipe Works
Cutting the steak into bite-sized pieces allows it to sear quickly while staying juicy inside. That quick, high-heat sear creates flavorful browned bits in the pan, which become the foundation of the peppercorn cream sauce.
The sauce itself is simple but powerful. Butter adds richness, cream creates body, and cracked black pepper brings warmth and bite. Deglazing the pan with broth lifts all that flavor, resulting in a sauce that tastes far more complex than the ingredient list suggests. This same one-pan method is what makes recipes like Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp so reliable and satisfying.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized pieces | 1½ pounds |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper, freshly cracked | 1½ teaspoons |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Beef broth | ½ cup |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | For garnish |
Instructions
Season the steak pieces with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak in a single layer and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until deeply browned. Remove steak to a plate.
Reduce the heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet, then stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the beef broth, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes.
Add the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk to combine and simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Return the steak bites to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy peppercorn sauce. Cook for 1–2 minutes until heated through.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Flavor Profile
These creamy peppercorn steak bites are rich, savory, and boldly seasoned. The steak stays tender and juicy, while the sauce delivers classic steakhouse flavor with a smooth, velvety finish. The cracked pepper adds warmth without overwhelming the dish, making each bite deeply satisfying.
If you enjoy creamy sauces with protein, this recipe pairs beautifully with comfort-driven favorites like Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites, offering a beef-forward option with equally indulgent appeal.
Substitutions
Ribeye can replace sirloin for extra richness
Half & half can replace heavy cream for a lighter sauce
Chicken broth can replace beef broth if needed
Whole-grain mustard can replace Dijon for texture
Variations
Mushroom Peppercorn Steak Bites: Sauté mushrooms before adding garlic
Cognac Cream Version: Replace ¼ cup broth with cognac or brandy
Spicy Pepper Steak: Add crushed red pepper flakes
Low-Carb Version: Serve over cauliflower mash
Equipment Needed
Large skillet
Tongs
Whisk
Serving Ideas
These creamy peppercorn steak bites pair perfectly with mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or white rice so the sauce can soak in. Roasted asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts balance the richness beautifully. Crusty bread is also a must for swiping up extra sauce.
For a mixed protein dinner rotation, this dish fits seamlessly alongside seafood options like Creamy Tuscan Salmon, keeping your weekly menu varied but cohesive.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
Freezing is not recommended, as cream sauces can separate.
FAQ
What cut of steak works best?
Sirloin offers great flavor and value, while ribeye delivers extra richness.
Can I make this sauce thicker?
Yes, simmer it an extra 1–2 minutes or add a tablespoon of Parmesan.
Is this recipe spicy?
It’s peppery, not spicy. Reduce pepper slightly for a milder version.
Can I meal prep this?
Yes, it reheats well when warmed slowly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just check that your broth and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free.
For safe cooking, steak should reach the proper internal temperature — follow the USDA beef cooking temperature guidelines to ensure perfectly cooked beef.
Final Thoughts
These Creamy Peppercorn Steak Bites bring classic steakhouse flavor into an easy, one-pan dinner that fits real life. Tender beef, a bold peppercorn cream sauce, and minimal cleanup make this recipe both comforting and impressive. It’s the kind of dish you’ll come back to whenever you want something rich, satisfying, and reliably delicious.