Are you craving a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant prices or lengthy preparation time? Then look no further! This Beef Marsala recipe is your answer. It's a classic for a reason – the tender beef, the rich Marsala wine sauce, the earthy mushrooms – it's a symphony of flavors that's surprisingly easy to recreate at home. This recipe provides a quick dinner idea perfect for a weeknight meal, yet impressive enough for a special occasion. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Delicious Items
This recipe serves 4. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your needs.
- 1.5 lbs beef sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch thick slices
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup dry Marsala wine
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions: A Simple Guide
Get Started:
- Season the beef slices generously with salt and pepper. Pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a beautiful sear.
Sear the Beef:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef slices and sear for about 2-3 minutes per side, until nicely browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics:
- Add the sliced onions to the same skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until they release their moisture and start to brown. Stir in the minced garlic for a minute until fragrant.
Deglaze and Simmer:
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This helps thicken the sauce. Gradually whisk in the Marsala wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the beef broth and bring to a simmer.
Return the Beef:
- Return the seared beef to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the beef is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Finish and Serve:
- Stir in the butter and fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice.
Cooking Tips for a Perfect Dish
- For extra tender beef, marinate it in a mixture of olive oil, Marsala wine, and garlic for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when searing the beef. Work in batches if necessary to ensure a good sear.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little more beef broth to thin it out.
- A splash of heavy cream at the end adds extra richness and creaminess.
Variations: Explore the Possibilities
- Chicken Marsala: Substitute chicken breasts for the beef. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Mushroom Marsala: Omit the beef altogether for a vegetarian version. Increase the amount of mushrooms.
- Spicy Marsala: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
This is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 35-40g
- Fat: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This Beef Marsala recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this easy recipe and impress your family and friends with your homemade cooking skills! Remember to share your culinary creations with us!