Are you craving a juicy, flavorful steak dinner but don't want the hefty price tag or lengthy cooking time of a real tenderloin? Then you've come to the right place! This recipe for mock tenderloin steak offers all the deliciousness of a premium cut, but with a fraction of the cost and effort. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal, this easy recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It's a fantastic example of how homemade cooking can be both delicious and healthy.
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 2-3 people. Feel free to double or triple it depending on your needs!
- 1 lb sirloin steak (or other affordable, lean cut), about 1 inch thick
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp butter
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Pat the sirloin steak dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps achieve a beautiful sear.
Marinate (Optional but Recommended):
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, salt, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Place the steak in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it's coated evenly. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.
Cooking the Steak:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steak.
- Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for your desired doneness. Use tongs to flip – avoid piercing the steak with a fork, as this will release juices.
- During the last minute of cooking, add the butter to the skillet. Tilt the pan and spoon the melted butter over the steak, basting it to enhance flavor and create a rich, flavorful crust. This is a quick and easy method to achieve restaurant-quality results.
Rest and Serve:
- Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for 5-7 minutes before slicing against the grain. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
- Slice the steak and serve immediately. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you're cooking more than one steak, cook them in batches to ensure proper searing.
- Use a meat thermometer: For consistent results, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. Medium-rare is typically 130-135°F, medium is 140-145°F, and well-done is 160°F or higher.
- Adjust seasoning to your liking: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of your mock tenderloin.
Variations:
- Mushroom Mock Tenderloin: Sauté sliced mushrooms in the skillet before adding the steak for an earthy, savory twist.
- Garlic Herb Mock Tenderloin: Add fresh rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the marinade for a more aromatic flavor.
- Peppercorn Crusted Mock Tenderloin: Before searing, press coarsely ground black pepper into the surface of the steak for a flavorful crust.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 300-400 (depending on the cut of steak and serving size) Protein: Approximately 30-40g Fat: Approximately 15-25g
This simple, delicious mock tenderloin recipe provides a healthy and satisfying meal without sacrificing flavor. It's a great addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and is a perfect example of how easy and enjoyable homemade cooking can be. Enjoy this delicious and easy recipe!