Tender Beef with Balsamic Glaze is a sophisticated and flavorful dish perfect for a special dinner or a comforting meal. The rich, tangy glaze beautifully complements the tender, juicy beef, creating a mouthwatering combination of sweet and savory flavors. Simple to prepare yet impressive to serve, this recipe is a must-try for beef lovers.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
- Beef (sirloin, filet mignon, or tenderloin): 1 pound (450 g), cut into steaks
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Balsamic Vinegar: ⅓ cup (80 ml)
- Honey or Brown Sugar: 2 tablespoons
- Beef Broth: ½ cup (120 ml)
- Butter: 1 tablespoon (optional, for extra richness)
- Fresh Thyme or Rosemary: For garnish (optional)
Directions
- Prepare the Beef:
- Pat the beef dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef and sear for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until desired doneness is reached.
- Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside to rest under foil.
- Make the Balsamic Glaze:
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the balsamic vinegar and honey (or brown sugar). Stir to combine.
- Add the beef broth and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens slightly to a glaze-like consistency.
- Finish the Dish:
- Return the beef to the skillet and spoon the glaze over it to coat.
- Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through.
- For extra richness, stir in 1 tablespoon of butter before serving.
- Serve:
- Plate the beef, drizzle with extra glaze, and garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary if desired.
5 Serving Suggestions
- Serve with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting and hearty meal.
- Pair with roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts.
- Enjoy with a side of buttered pasta or rice pilaf.
- Top with sautéed mushrooms for added umami flavor.
- Serve alongside a crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette.
5 Cooking Tips
- Let the beef rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking for even doneness.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the perfect internal temperature (135°F/57°C for medium-rare).
- Deglaze the skillet with the balsamic vinegar to capture all the flavorful browned bits.
- Stir the glaze constantly while simmering to prevent burning or sticking.
- Adjust the sweetness of the glaze by adding more honey or reducing it for a tangier flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
- Beef: High in protein and essential nutrients like iron and B vitamins.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Low in calories and contains antioxidants.
- Garlic: Rich in compounds that may support heart health.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-Free: Yes
- Dairy-Free: Yes (omit butter or use dairy-free alternative)
- Low-Carb/Keto: Yes
- Vegetarian: No
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 6g
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked beef and glaze separately for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
- The balsamic glaze adds a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess.
- Pairs beautifully with a variety of sides for a complete meal.
- Simple ingredients come together to create a restaurant-quality dish.
- Customizable with your favorite herbs and spices.
Conclusion
Tender Beef with Balsamic Glaze is a flavorful and elegant dish that’s surprisingly easy to make. The sweet and tangy glaze enhances the natural richness of the beef, creating a meal that’s both comforting and refined. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself to a special dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.
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10 Frequently Asked Questions
- What cut of beef works best for this recipe? Tender cuts like sirloin, filet mignon, or tenderloin work best.
- Can I use chicken or pork instead of beef? Yes, the glaze complements chicken breasts or pork chops beautifully.
- How do I know when the glaze is ready? The glaze should coat the back of a spoon and have a syrupy consistency.
- Can I use a sugar substitute? Yes, stevia or monk fruit sweetener can replace honey or sugar for a low-carb option.
- What if my glaze is too tangy? Add a bit more honey or sugar to balance the flavors.
- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, prepare the glaze and beef separately, then reheat and combine before serving.
- How do I reheat leftovers? Reheat the beef and glaze gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking.
- Can I add vegetables to the skillet? Yes, sautéed mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers pair well with the beef and glaze.
- What wine pairs well with this dish? A red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot complements the rich flavors.
- Can I double the recipe? Yes, just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure even cooking for the beef.
Enjoy this deliciously tender and flavorful beef dish with its irresistible balsamic glaze! 🥩✨