Hey guys! Are you ready to dive into the world of delicious, cheesy, and utterly satisfying steak au gratin? If you're a fan of Outback Steakhouse and crave that creamy, dreamy topping on a perfectly cooked steak, you've come to the right place. We're going to explore a fantastic recipe that brings the magic of Outback's steak au gratin right to your kitchen. Let's get started!

What is Steak Au Gratin?

Steak au gratin, at its heart, is a culinary masterpiece that combines a juicy, tender steak with a rich, cheesy, and often creamy topping. The term "au gratin" simply means "with gratings" in French, referring to the browned crust that forms on top, typically made of cheese, breadcrumbs, or a combination of both. This dish elevates a simple steak into something truly special, offering a delightful contrast in textures and flavors that dance on your palate. The steak provides a savory, meaty base, while the au gratin topping introduces a creamy, cheesy indulgence that's hard to resist. This combination makes steak au gratin a favorite for those seeking comfort food with a touch of elegance. In many variations, you'll find that the cheese is mixed with a béchamel or cream-based sauce, creating a lusciousness that coats the steak perfectly. Some recipes also include ingredients like onions, mushrooms, or herbs to add depth and complexity to the overall flavor profile. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, steak au gratin is a fantastic choice that never fails to impress. The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability. You can experiment with different types of cheese, from sharp cheddar to creamy Gruyère, and adjust the seasoning to suit your personal taste. The result is a personalized culinary experience that brings joy to both the cook and the diner. So, next time you're looking to create something extraordinary in the kitchen, remember the magic of steak au gratin – a dish that seamlessly blends simplicity and sophistication into one unforgettable bite.

Why Recreate the Outback Version?

Why recreate the Outback version, you ask? Well, because it's incredibly delicious, of course! Outback Steakhouse has perfected the art of creating a steak that's not only cooked to perfection but also adorned with a creamy, cheesy topping that sends your taste buds into overdrive. The combination of a well-seasoned steak and that rich, savory gratin is simply irresistible. But let's be honest, going to a restaurant every time you crave it can be a bit of a hassle and can put a dent in your wallet. That's where the magic of recreating it at home comes in. Imagine being able to enjoy that same mouthwatering experience whenever you want, without leaving the comfort of your kitchen. Plus, when you make it yourself, you have full control over the ingredients and can customize it to your liking. Want more cheese? Go for it! Prefer a different type of steak? The choice is yours! Recreating the Outback version at home isn't just about saving money or convenience; it's about mastering a recipe that allows you to bring a restaurant-quality dish to your own table. It's about impressing your friends and family with your culinary skills and creating a memorable dining experience. And let's not forget the satisfaction of knowing that you made something amazing from scratch. So, if you're looking to elevate your cooking game and treat yourself to something truly special, recreating the Outback Steak au Gratin is the way to go. Trust me, once you nail this recipe, you'll be making it again and again. It's that good! And who knows, you might even create your own signature twist on it, making it a family favorite for years to come. So, grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let's get cooking!

Ingredients You'll Need

To nail this Outback steak au gratin recipe, let's gather the essentials. First, you'll need a good quality steak – think sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip. These cuts are known for their flavor and tenderness. Aim for about 1-inch thickness for even cooking. Next, the cheesy topping requires a blend of cheeses for that perfect melt and flavor. Gruyère is a classic choice for its nutty and slightly sweet taste, but you can also use a mix of cheddar, Parmesan, and a touch of mozzarella for that gooey stretch. For the creamy base, you'll need heavy cream, butter, and all-purpose flour to make a béchamel sauce. This sauce is the backbone of the au gratin, providing richness and binding everything together. Aromatics are crucial for depth of flavor. Onions and garlic, finely chopped, will add a savory note to the sauce. Fresh thyme and a pinch of nutmeg will elevate the flavor profile, adding warmth and complexity. Don't forget the seasoning! Salt, black pepper, and a dash of cayenne pepper will enhance all the flavors. And lastly, a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top will create that signature golden-brown crust. For the steak itself, you'll need olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. A simple seasoning blend is all you need to let the steak's natural flavors shine. Feel free to add a pat of butter to the skillet while cooking the steak for extra richness and a beautiful sear. With these ingredients in hand, you're well on your way to creating a restaurant-worthy steak au gratin that will impress your family and friends. Each ingredient plays a vital role in achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures, so make sure to use high-quality ingredients for the best possible results. So, double-check your list, head to the store if needed, and get ready to transform these ingredients into a culinary masterpiece!

Step-by-Step Recipe

Alright, let's break down this steak au gratin recipe step by step, so you can recreate that Outback magic in your own kitchen. First, start by prepping your steak. Pat it dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, which will help it cook more evenly. While the steak is resting, let's move on to the au gratin topping. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until they're soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir in all-purpose flour and cook for another minute, creating a roux. Slowly whisk in heavy cream, making sure to smooth out any lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it thicken, stirring occasionally. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the Gruyère cheese, cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella until they're melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, fresh thyme, and a pinch of nutmeg. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Now, it's time to cook the steak. Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over high heat. Once the skillet is smoking hot, carefully place the steak in the skillet and sear it for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer it more well-done. Add a pat of butter to the skillet during the last minute of cooking for extra flavor and a beautiful crust. Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before topping it with the au gratin mixture. Preheat your broiler to high. Place the steak on a baking sheet and spoon the cheesy topping generously over it. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for that golden-brown crust. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the topping is bubbly and golden brown. Watch it closely to prevent burning. Remove from the broiler and let it cool for a minute before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Outback Steak au Gratin! With these detailed steps, you'll be able to create a restaurant-quality dish that will impress your family and friends. Remember to adjust the cooking times based on your steak's thickness and your preferred level of doneness. Happy cooking!

Tips for the Perfect Steak

Achieving the perfect steak for your au gratin is crucial. Here are some tips to ensure steak perfection. First, start with a good quality cut of meat. As mentioned earlier, sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip are excellent choices. Look for steaks with good marbling, as this will add flavor and tenderness. Before cooking, pat the steak dry with paper towels. This helps to create a beautiful sear. Season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Don't be afraid to season liberally, as this is your opportunity to build flavor. Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This allows the steak to cook more evenly. Use a cast-iron skillet for the best sear. Cast iron retains heat well and distributes it evenly, creating a beautiful crust on the steak. Make sure the skillet is smoking hot before adding the steak. This is key to achieving a good sear. Use a high-heat oil, such as olive oil or canola oil, to prevent smoking. Don't overcrowd the skillet. Cook the steaks in batches if necessary to ensure they sear properly. Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer it more well-done. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F; for medium, 135-145°F; for medium-well, 145-155°F; and for well-done, 155°F and above. Add a pat of butter to the skillet during the last minute of cooking for extra flavor and a beautiful crust. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before topping it with the au gratin mixture. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. By following these tips, you'll be able to cook a steak that's perfectly seared on the outside and juicy on the inside, providing the perfect base for your delicious au gratin topping. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't be discouraged if your first attempt isn't flawless. Keep experimenting and adjusting the cooking times to suit your preferences, and you'll soon be grilling steaks like a pro!

Variations and Customizations

One of the best things about this steak au gratin recipe is its versatility. There are countless variations and customizations you can make to tailor it to your taste. First, let's talk about cheese. While Gruyère is a classic choice for its nutty flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like sharp cheddar, fontina, or even a smoky Gouda. For a bolder flavor, try adding a bit of blue cheese to the mix. Another way to customize the recipe is by adding different vegetables to the au gratin topping. Sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or roasted red peppers can add depth and complexity to the flavor profile. You can also incorporate herbs like rosemary, oregano, or chives for a fresh, aromatic twist. If you're a fan of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the au gratin sauce. This will add a nice kick to the dish. For a richer and more decadent flavor, try adding a splash of dry sherry or Madeira wine to the sauce. This will elevate the flavors and create a truly special dish. If you're looking to lighten up the recipe, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or substitute some of the cheese with a lower-fat option. You can also add a layer of thinly sliced potatoes to the bottom of the dish before topping with the steak and au gratin mixture. This will create a hearty and satisfying meal. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free all-purpose flour to make the roux and gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping. You can also skip the breadcrumbs altogether and simply broil the steak with the cheesy topping. Get creative with your steak choices as well! While sirloin, ribeye, and New York strip are all great options, you can also use a flank steak or a skirt steak for a more budget-friendly meal. Just make sure to marinate the steak beforehand to tenderize it and add flavor. With so many possibilities, the only limit is your imagination. Don't be afraid to experiment and create your own signature version of steak au gratin that reflects your personal taste and preferences. Happy cooking!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you've mastered the art of making steak au gratin, let's talk about serving suggestions to complete the meal. First, consider the sides. A classic choice is a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. The crispness of the salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the steak and au gratin topping. Roasted vegetables are another great option. Asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots all pair well with steak. Simply toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in the oven until tender and slightly caramelized. If you're looking for something more substantial, mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes are always a hit. You can also try mashed cauliflower for a lower-carb alternative. For a touch of elegance, consider serving the steak au gratin with a red wine reduction sauce. The rich, savory sauce complements the steak perfectly and adds a sophisticated touch. Don't forget the bread! A crusty baguette or some garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious au gratin sauce. If you're serving a crowd, consider setting up a steak au gratin bar with different toppings and sauces. This allows your guests to customize their own steaks and create a truly personalized meal. Offer a variety of cheeses, vegetables, herbs, and sauces, and let your guests get creative! For a lighter meal, serve the steak au gratin over a bed of mixed greens or quinoa. This is a great way to enjoy the flavors of the dish without all the heavy sides. When plating the steak au gratin, be sure to arrange it artfully on the plate. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as thyme or parsley, for a pop of color and freshness. And most importantly, serve the steak au gratin immediately while it's hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly. With these serving suggestions in mind, you'll be able to create a complete and satisfying meal that showcases the deliciousness of your homemade steak au gratin. Remember to consider your guests' preferences and dietary restrictions when planning your menu, and don't be afraid to get creative and experiment with different flavor combinations. Bon appétit!