Steak Crostini with Horseradish Cream Recipe

If you’re searching for a truly showstopping starter, let me introduce you to Steak Crostini with Horseradish Cream. This irresistible appetizer layers tender marinated steak, sweet caramelized onions, and a punchy horseradish sauce atop golden, garlic-rubbed baguette slices. It’s the perfect balance of color, crunch, and bold flavors, and you’ll find your guests (and maybe even yourself!) going back for seconds…and thirds. Whether you’re planning a party or treating your family to something special, Steak Crostini with Horseradish Cream is bound to steal the spotlight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in Steak Crostini with Horseradish Cream plays a starring role, so don’t be tempted to skip a single one! The flavors are simple, but they each boost the final taste, mouthfeel, and presentation of these irresistible bites.

• Hanger, skirt, or flank steak: These cuts soak up marinades beautifully and slice up super tender for topping crostini.
• Soy sauce: Adds a deep, savory umami punch to the steak marinade.
• Extra virgin olive oil: Provides richness in the marinade, caramelizes the onions, and helps those toasts turn crisp and golden.
• Brown or granulated sugar: A hint of sweetness helps caramelize the steak and rounds out the marinade.
• Apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar: The acidity tenderizes the meat and brings brightness to every bite.
• Dijon mustard: Just a little gives tang and extra depth to the marinade.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic flavors both the marinade and infuses the toasts with aromatic warmth.
• Yellow onions: Slow-cooked onions turn sweet, jammy, and utterly irresistible after caramelizing.
• Sour cream: This is the creamy base for your zippy horseradish sauce.
• Mayonnaise: Adds body and a silky finish to the spread.
• Prepared horseradish: Gives the signature punch and heat that wakes up every other flavor.
• Kosher salt and cracked black pepper: Essential for seasoning every component just right.
• Baguette: Sliced thin, these pieces become ultra-crisp, sturdy vehicles for all your toppings.
• Fresh chives: For a pop of color and gentle onion flavor as the final flourish.
• Flaky sea salt: Those big crystals provide a finishing crunch and burst of salinity.

How to Make Steak Crostini with Horseradish Cream

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

Mix up your marinade with soy sauce, olive oil, sugar, vinegar, Dijon, and minced garlic. Pop your steak into a zip-top bag or shallow dish, cover with the marinade, and let it work its magic in the fridge for at least four hours—or, if you have the time, overnight. This step promises juicy, flavorful steak that’s absolutely worth the wait.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

Thinly slice your yellow onions and cook them gently in olive oil on low heat. Don’t rush—stir them every few minutes and let them develop a deep, golden color over 30 to 40 minutes. If the onions start sticking, a splash of water will loosen things up. You’re looking for sweet, jammy onions that melt right into every bite.

Step 3: Whip Up the Horseradish Cream

Grab a clean bowl and combine sour cream, mayo, horseradish (start with less and add to your desired spice level), vinegar, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth, then taste and adjust seasoning. This sauce brings the cool, creamy heat that makes your Steak Crostini with Horseradish Cream truly shine.

Step 4: Prep the Baguette Toasts

While your steak is coming up to room temperature, slice your baguette on the bias and arrange the pieces on a baking sheet. Brush tops with olive oil, then broil until golden and crisp on both sides. For that unmistakable hit of garlic, rub the cut side of a garlic clove over each hot toast.

Step 5: Sear and Slice the Steak

Remove steak from the marinade, pat dry, and heat up your grill or cast iron pan. Sear on high heat for a few minutes on each side until it forms a gorgeous crust, flipping until you reach your preferred doneness. (A digital thermometer is your trusty friend here.) Let the steak rest before slicing thinly against the grain at a 45-degree angle—this ensures every bite is tender, not chewy.

Step 6: Assemble and Finish

Lay toasted baguette slices on a platter. Top each with a tangle of caramelized onions, a few glistening strips of steak, and a dollop of that horseradish cream. Sprinkle with fresh chives and flaky sea salt for the perfect finish. The contrast of warm and cool, salty and sweet, is what makes Steak Crostini with Horseradish Cream pure appetizer magic.

How to Serve Steak Crostini with Horseradish Cream

Garnishes

A final sprinkle of flaky sea salt and a handful of finely chopped chives gives each crostini a professional touch. If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of cracked black pepper never hurts. Don’t skip the garnishes—they add flavor, color, and that “I made something special” feeling.

Side Dishes

Pair Steak Crostini with Horseradish Cream with sparkling beverages, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables. Even a chilled potato or pasta salad makes a great side, especially for parties and gatherings. The richness of the crostini balances beautifully with fresh, vibrant accompaniments.

Creative Ways to Present

For an interactive moment, arrange all your crostini components on a big platter and let guests build their own perfect bite. Or, for sit-down occasions, pre-assemble each crostini and arrange on a dramatic board. For something fun, cut the steak slices into mini “roses” and place them on each toast—your guests will swoon at how pretty and delicious they look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you end up with extras, store the steak, horseradish cream, caramelized onions, and toasts separately in airtight containers. Keep them in the fridge for up to four days. When you’re ready to dive back in, simply re-toast the baguette slices for the ideal crunch.

Freezing

While you can freeze the cooked steak (tightly wrapped or placed in a freezer-safe container), the onions and horseradish cream are best enjoyed fresh. Baguette slices can be frozen after toasting—just pop them in the oven straight from the freezer to re-crisp.

Reheating

To bring back the just-made magic, gently reheat steak slices in a hot skillet or briefly in the oven. Onions can be warmed in a pan over low heat. Always assemble your Steak Crostini with Horseradish Cream fresh, right before serving, so everything tastes as good as the first time.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of steak for Steak Crostini with Horseradish Cream?

Absolutely! While hanger, skirt, or flank steak are classic choices for tenderness and flavor, you can experiment with ribeye, sirloin, or even filet. Just be sure to cut against the grain and slice as thinly as possible for the best texture.

Is the horseradish cream very spicy?

The spice level is totally up to you. Start with two tablespoons of horseradish in the cream and add more if you like a spicier kick. Taste as you go since different brands of prepared horseradish can vary in heat.

What if I don’t have a grill or cast iron pan?

No worries! You can cook the steak on a sheet pan under the broiler for a few minutes on each side. Keep an eye on it and use the digital thermometer to make sure you hit your perfect doneness.

Can Steak Crostini with Horseradish Cream be made ahead?

Yes! All components except assembly can be made ahead. Just assemble right before serving so the toasts stay crisp and the flavors remain vibrant. Keep the steak, onions, and horseradish cream chilled until you’re ready to put everything together.

How do I keep the crostini from getting soggy?

Ensure you fully cool the onions and let the steak rest so they don’t release extra juices onto the toasts. Don’t spread the horseradish cream or add the toppings until just before serving for maximum crunch.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to wow your crowd with bites that are bursting with flavor and elegance, don’t wait to try this Steak Crostini with Horseradish Cream. It’s one of those recipes you’ll want in your back pocket for every gathering—simple, stunning, and always the first plate to disappear. Gather your friends, pour yourself something sparkly, and savor every bite!

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