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If you’re a steak lover, get ready for a dish that will completely transform your dinner experience—Steak de Burgo. This Midwestern classic, known for its rich, buttery garlic sauce and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, is a must-try for anyone who appreciates bold, restaurant-quality flavors at home.
Originating from Des Moines, Iowa, Steak de Burgo is a true hidden gem, blending Italian-inspired herbs with the indulgence of a perfectly cooked steak. Whether you’re hosting a special dinner or simply craving something luxurious, this recipe delivers on flavor, elegance, and ease.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything—from selecting the best cut of steak to mastering the creamy, herb-infused sauce. Plus, I’ll share pro tips and variations to help you customize the dish to your taste. Let’s dive in and make this unforgettable steakhouse favorite right in your own kitchen!
What is Steak de Burgo?

If you’ve never had Steak de Burgo, you’re in for a treat! This dish is a Midwestern specialty with deep roots in Des Moines, Iowa, where it became a steakhouse favorite. What sets it apart? A buttery, garlic-infused sauce with a touch of fresh herbs, coating a perfectly seared, tender steak.
While some versions use a creamy base, others stick to a classic garlic-butter and herb blend, allowing the natural richness of the steak to shine. No matter how you make it, Steak de Burgo is all about luxury and simplicity, making it an impressive yet approachable dish for any home cook.
So, whether you’re a steak enthusiast or just looking to elevate your next dinner, this recipe will bring that restaurant-quality experience straight to your table!
What You’ll Need: Ingredients for Steak de Burgo

Before we dive into cooking, let’s gather everything you need to make the perfect Steak de Burgo. Quality ingredients make all the difference, so opt for the best cuts and freshest herbs to bring out the rich, buttery flavors of this dish.
For the Steak:
- 2 (8-10 oz) beef tenderloin steaks – This cut is prized for its tenderness, making it the ideal choice for Steak de Burgo.
- Salt and black pepper – Enhances the natural flavor of the steak.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – Helps achieve a beautifully seared crust.
For the Signature Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter – The base of the sauce, adding richness.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – Provides bold, aromatic depth.
- ½ cup heavy cream (optional) – Some versions include cream for a velvety texture.
- 1 tsp dried oregano – Adds an Italian-inspired touch.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped – Brightens the dish with freshness.
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – For a hint of heat.
- ½ cup beef broth – Enhances the depth of flavor.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice – Balances the richness with a touch of acidity.
This combination of ingredients results in a velvety, herb-garlic butter sauce that adds irresistible richness to every bite of steak. Now that you’ve gathered everything, let’s dive into the cooking process and make this dish come to life!
How to Cook Steak de Burgo at Home

Cooking Steak de Burgo at home is easier than you might think! With just a few simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality steak that will wow your taste buds. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dish right in your own kitchen.
Step 1: Prep the Steak
Before you start cooking, make sure your steaks are at room temperature. This allows the steak to cook evenly and gives you a perfectly tender result.
- Season the steaks generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This is the foundation for that delicious crust you’ll get when searing.
- Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat and add about 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Let the oil heat up until it’s shimmering but not smoking.
Step 2: Sear the Steaks
Now it’s time to get that beautiful, savory sear! The goal here is to lock in the flavor and juices while creating a rich, brown crust.
- Place the steaks into the hot skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side. You’ll want the steak to be golden and slightly caramelized on the outside while remaining tender on the inside.
- Don’t move the steaks around while they cook. Let them sit undisturbed to develop the best crust.
Once the steaks are seared to your liking, remove them from the skillet and set them on a plate to rest. Letting the meat rest ensures that all those delicious juices stay inside when you cut into it.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Now that the steak is resting, it’s time to make the sauce. This garlic butter sauce is what gives Steak de Burgo its signature richness and flavor.
- In the same skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. You’ll be using the flavorful bits left behind in the pan to make the sauce.
- Once the butter has melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
- Stir in beef broth (about ½ cup) and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to reduce and thicken.
- For an even creamier texture, add heavy cream (about ½ cup). Stir it in and let the sauce simmer until it’s slightly thickened.
- Finish the sauce with a squeeze of lemon juice and a handful of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
It’s time to bring everything together!
- Return the steaks to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top to coat them in that luscious garlic butter. Let the steaks sit in the sauce for about 1-2 minutes to soak in all the flavors.
- Plate your steaks, drizzle with extra sauce, and garnish with more fresh parsley.
Pro Tips and Variations
To elevate your Steak de Burgo even further, here are some pro tips and delicious variations you can try. Whether you want to customize the flavors or add a personal twist, these ideas will ensure you make the most out of this indulgent dish.
Pro Tips for Perfect Steak de Burgo:
- Use High-Quality Steak: For the best results, opt for fresh, high-quality beef tenderloin. The quality of the meat really shines through in this dish, so choose a cut that’s well-marbled for maximum tenderness.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Period: After cooking, let the steaks rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier, more flavorful steak.
- Sear to Perfection: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before placing the steaks in. A hot pan guarantees a perfect sear that locks in flavor and gives the steak that beautiful golden crust.
- Low and Slow Sauce Simmer: When making the garlic butter sauce, simmer it on low heat to allow the flavors to meld without burning the garlic. Patience here pays off with a more balanced, rich sauce.
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Flavor Variations:
- Add Mushrooms: For a mushroom-lover’s twist, sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic in the butter sauce. They’ll soak up all that delicious garlicky goodness and add an earthy flavor to the dish.
- Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes can be added to the sauce to bring an extra zing to the meal.
- Herb Variations: While oregano is classic, you could swap it out for rosemary or thyme for a slightly different herb profile. Fresh herbs are always a great way to add fragrance and flavor to the sauce.
- Lemon Zest: For an even brighter flavor, try adding lemon zest to the sauce for a refreshing twist that balances out the richness of the butter.
Pairing Suggestions:
- Side Dishes: Serve Steak de Burgo with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. The richness of the steak pairs beautifully with these comforting and light sides.
- Wine Pairing: To complement the savory flavors of the steak, a full-bodied red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec, would make an excellent pairing.
These pro tips and variations will allow you to customize your Steak de Burgo to suit your preferences and make this dish uniquely yours. Happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions

Now that your Steak de Burgo is perfectly cooked and drenched in that rich, buttery garlic sauce, it’s time to think about how to serve it. Whether you’re creating a casual dinner or preparing a special meal for guests, these serving suggestions will help you round out your dish with flavors and textures that complement the steak beautifully.
Perfect Pairings for Steak de Burgo:
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, buttery texture of mashed potatoes is an ideal pairing. The potatoes soak up the extra sauce, creating a mouthwatering combination of flavors in every bite. You can add a touch of garlic or cream for extra richness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus are fantastic choices. Their slight caramelization enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables and provides a great balance to the savory steak. These veggies also add a bit of crunch and freshness to the meal.
- Garlic Bread or Crusty Baguette: The garlic butter sauce deserves to be savored down to the last drop, so serve your steak with a side of garlic bread or a crusty baguette. These will help soak up all the delicious sauce, making each bite even more satisfying.
- Simple Green Salad: To cut through the richness of the steak, a fresh salad with mixed greens, arugula, and a light vinaigrette offers a crisp, refreshing contrast. The tangy dressing will complement the buttery steak perfectly.
Wine Pairings:
To elevate your meal further, pair it with a full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec. The bold flavors of these wines complement the savory richness of the steak and enhance the overall dining experience.
Bonus Tip:
If you’re feeling extra indulgent, a side of creamy mac and cheese or buttered corn on the cob can turn this dish into a comforting, soul-satisfying meal!
These serving suggestions ensure that your Steak de Burgo not only shines as the main attraction but also fits beautifully into a well-rounded, memorable meal.
And there you have it—a mouthwatering Steak de Burgo that’s sure to impress your friends and family. With its rich, buttery sauce and perfectly seared steak, this dish is a crowd-pleaser and will become a favorite in your cooking repertoire. The garlic butter sauce adds incredible depth, while the simplicity of the recipe makes it accessible for both beginner and seasoned cooks alike.
Remember, it’s all about quality ingredients and a few key techniques. From letting your steaks rest to simmering the sauce low and slow, every step builds layers of flavor that create the perfect bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Customizable: Whether you add mushrooms, a spicy twist, or a hint of lemon zest, this dish can be tailored to suit your taste preferences.
- Impressive Yet Simple: Steak de Burgo looks fancy, but it’s actually quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for both special occasions and weeknight dinners.
- Rich and Savory: The combination of butter, garlic, and beef broth creates a luxurious sauce that perfectly complements the tender steak.
We hope this recipe inspires you to get in the kitchen and cook up something special! Don’t forget to pair it with your favorite sides, and enjoy every flavorful bite of Steak de Burgo.

Steak de Burgo Recipe That Will Blow Your Mind!
Ingredients
Ingredients for Steak de Burgo:
- 4 beef tenderloin steaks 6 oz each
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup beef broth or stock
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme optional, for extra flavor
- These ingredients create the rich garlicky butter sauce that makes Steak de Burgo so delicious.
Instructions
Instructions:
- Prepare the Steak:
- Pat the beef tenderloin steaks dry with paper towels. This ensures a nice sear.
- Season both sides of the steaks generously with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Steaks:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the steaks to the skillet and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side, depending on your preferred level of doneness (adjust the time for thicker steaks).
- Once done, remove the steaks from the skillet and set them aside.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 4 tablespoons of butter. Allow the butter to melt and bubble.
- Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Liquids:
- Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any flavorful bits stuck to the skillet.
- Once the broth has reduced slightly (about 2 minutes), stir in the heavy cream, and let the sauce simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes until it thickens to your liking.
- Combine the Steaks and Sauce:
- Return the seared steaks to the skillet, spooning the garlic butter sauce over them.
- Let the steaks simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes, ensuring they are coated with the flavorful sauce.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the steaks for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve the Steak de Burgo with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
- Enjoy your delicious Steak de Burgo!
FAQs
1. Can I use a different cut of steak for Steak de Burgo?
While beef tenderloin is the traditional cut used in Steak de Burgo, you can substitute it with other steak cuts like sirloin or ribeye. Keep in mind that the texture and tenderness might vary slightly, so adjust the cooking time accordingly to suit your preferred doneness.
2. Can I make the garlic butter sauce ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the garlic butter sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently over low heat before serving to avoid breaking the butter.
3. How can I make the sauce spicier?
For a spicy kick, simply add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper when you sauté the garlic. This will bring some heat that pairs wonderfully with the rich and creamy sauce.
4. What are some great side dishes to serve with Steak de Burgo?
Great sides include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables (like Brussels sprouts or carrots), a fresh green salad, and garlic bread. For something extra indulgent, try mac and cheese or buttered corn on the cob.
5. Can I make Steak de Burgo with a different type of sauce?
While the signature garlic butter sauce is what makes Steak de Burgo unique, you can try variations like a mushroom sauce or a béarnaise sauce if you’re craving a twist.
6. How can I ensure my steak is cooked perfectly?
The key to a perfectly cooked steak is a hot skillet and resting the meat before and after cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (120°F for rare, 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium). Resting the steak after cooking is essential for preserving its flavorful juices.
7. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftover Steak de Burgo and the garlic butter sauce separately for up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.