Name: French Seared Steak with Cognac Cream Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 filet mignon, ribeye, or NY strip steaks; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 2 shallots, finely chopped; 1/4 cup cognac; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 sprig fresh thyme (optional)

If you’re looking to add a touch of French elegance to your dinner table, this French Seared Steak with Cognac Cream Sauce is the perfect way to do it. This dish pairs juicy, pan-seared steak with a decadent cognac cream sauce that feels like a luxurious night out in Paris, right in your own kitchen.

The sauce is infused with the warm depth of cognac, mellowed with cream, and finished with just a hint of Dijon mustard for balance. It clings to the steak in all the right ways and delivers that irresistible combination of rich and savory. Whether you’re hosting guests or just treating yourself, this dish makes any evening feel special.

Why You’ll Love This French Seared Steak with Cognac Cream Sauce

This recipe transforms a simple steak dinner into something memorable. It’s perfect for romantic evenings, holiday dinners, or when you’re just in the mood for something extra indulgent. The sauce alone is worth making a batch of, and it’s surprisingly simple to pull together with just a few high-quality ingredients.

Plus, the searing technique locks in juices and creates that perfect crust we all crave. When topped with the creamy cognac sauce, it becomes a flavor-packed experience that makes you feel like a chef in your own home.

What Kind of Steak Should I Use?

For this recipe, tender cuts like filet mignon, ribeye, or New York strip work best. You want a steak that cooks quickly and evenly, with plenty of natural marbling to stay juicy when seared. Make sure it’s at room temperature before it hits the hot pan to get that beautiful crust and even cooking throughout. And don’t forget to let it rest before slicing—a rested steak is a happy steak!

Ingredients for the French Seared Steak with Cognac Cream Sauce

This recipe is all about quality over quantity. Each ingredient plays a key role in building that rich, creamy, deeply savory flavor that defines this dish. Choose fresh, well-sourced items for the best results.

Steak (filet mignon, ribeye, or NY strip)
Salt
Black pepper
Olive oil
Butter
Shallots
Cognac
Heavy cream
Dijon mustard
Fresh thyme (optional)

French Seared Steak with Cognac Cream Sauce 2

How To Make the French Seared Steak with Cognac Cream Sauce

Step 1: Season and Sear the Steak

Start by patting your steaks dry with paper towels. Generously season both sides with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat and sear the steaks for 3-4 minutes per side, depending on your preferred doneness. Once seared, remove them from the skillet and let them rest.

Step 2: Sauté the Shallots

Reduce the heat to medium and add a tablespoon of butter to the same skillet. Toss in the finely chopped shallots and cook until they’re soft and translucent, about 2 minutes.

Step 3: Deglaze with Cognac

Carefully pour in the cognac. Let it simmer for 30 seconds, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen all the browned bits. This step brings deep flavor and a touch of sweetness to the sauce.

Step 4: Add Cream and Mustard

Stir in the heavy cream and a small spoonful of Dijon mustard. Simmer the mixture for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly, then taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return the steaks to the skillet just long enough to coat them in the sauce and warm them through. Plate each steak with a generous spoonful of the cognac cream sauce and a sprig of thyme if using. Serve immediately.

How to Serve and Store French Seared Steak with Cognac Cream Sauce

This recipe serves two to four people, depending on portion sizes and sides. To serve, spoon the warm cognac cream sauce generously over the steak and pair with a simple vegetable or potato side that lets the rich flavors shine. For an elegant presentation, consider placing the steak over a bed of mashed potatoes or roasted asparagus.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid breaking the cream sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the sauce to separate.

What to Serve With French Seared Steak with Cognac Cream Sauce?

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing that soaks up every drop of the sauce beautifully.

Roasted Asparagus

A crisp, green contrast that adds freshness and lightness to balance the dish.

Garlic Green Beans

The bright crunch of green beans cooked with garlic pairs wonderfully with the rich, creamy sauce.

Herbed Rice Pilaf

Fluffy and fragrant, this side complements the steak without overpowering it.

Baguette Slices

Warm, crusty bread is perfect for mopping up that heavenly cognac sauce.

Crispy Potato Galette

For something a bit fancier, try a golden potato galette with layers of thinly sliced potatoes.

Creamed Spinach

Decadent but earthy, creamed spinach pairs well with the luxurious vibe of this dish.

Simple Arugula Salad

Tossed with lemon juice and olive oil, this bright salad offers a nice contrast to the rich steak.

Want More Dinner Ideas with a French Flair?

If you fell in love with this French Seared Steak with Cognac Cream Sauce, you might want to check out some of these other delicious dinner ideas:

Try the comforting and flavorful Cajun Potato Soup for a Southern twist with bold flavor.
Our creamy Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini is a unique blend of Tex-Mex and Italian.
For an elegant side, pair your steak with the Honey Butter Skillet Corn.
Looking for another hearty meat-based dinner? Creamy Chicken and Broccoli offers comfort in every bite.
Keep things fresh and seasonal with the savory Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Linguine.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how your version turned out. Did you use filet mignon or go for ribeye? Did you add mushrooms or keep it classic?

I love seeing how everyone brings their own touch to these recipes. Questions are always welcome—we’re here to make cooking more fun, not stressful.

Explore beautifully curated meals, desserts, and health-boosting drinks on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new favorite comfort foods.

Conclusion

French Seared Steak with Cognac Cream Sauce is the kind of meal that turns an ordinary night into something unforgettable. It’s not just about feeding yourself—it’s about creating a moment, savoring flavor, and treating your kitchen like the culinary stage it truly is. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a go-to for special occasions or when you just need a little luxury in your week.