The first bite of my Steak Crostini transports me straight to a bustling bistro, where the warm scents of grilled meats mingle with the buzz of happy diners. I love hosting friends, and this recipe has quickly become a go-to for any gathering. With a perfectly seared flank steak resting atop crispy bread and luscious horseradish cream dolloped generously, it’s a crowd-pleaser that feels both elegant and comforting.
What makes this dish truly special is its delightful balance of flavors and textures—the robust seasoning on the steak, the rich creaminess that cuts through the savory meat, all paired with the satisfying crunch of toasted baguette. It’s an effortless way to impress without spending hours in the kitchen, making it ideal for both seasoned chefs and home cooks looking to bring a little culinary magic to weeknight meals or special occasions. Join me as we whip up these irresistible bites that will leave your guests craving more!
Why is Steak Crostini a Must-Try?
Bold flavors unite: The combination of tender flank steak and zesty horseradish cream creates a sensational bite that’s bursting with taste. Effortless elegance: Mastering this dish doesn’t require chef-level skills—just simple preparation makes it a breeze. Perfect for gatherings: An easy, sophisticated appetizer that caters to both intimate dinners and lively parties. Heartwarming crunch: Each toasted crostini delivers a satisfying crunch, complementing the richness of the steak beautifully. Experience culinary delight with this showstopper that will impress even the toughest critics!
Steak Crostini Ingredients
• Prepare to create these indulgent bites with ease!
For the Steak
• Flank Steak – A perfect cut that remains juicy when seared.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor and helps tenderize the meat.
• Black Pepper – Adds a touch of warmth and depth to the seasoning.
• Chili Powder – Introduces a mild heat that complements the beef.
• Dried Thyme – Offers a floral hint that beautifully pairs with the steak.
• Brown Sugar – Balances the savory spices for a hint of sweetness.
• Paprika – Imparts a subtle smokiness, enhancing the steak’s flavor.
• Garlic Powder – Provides a rich, aromatic lift to the seasoning.
• Onion Powder – Adds an extra layer of umami to the spice mix.
For the Horseradish Cream
• Sour Cream – The creamy base that carries all the zesty flavors.
• Dijon Mustard – Delivers a tangy kick that cuts through the richness.
• Mayonnaise – Adds a silky texture that enhances creaminess.
• Prepared Horseradish – Essential for that signature spicy zing in the cream.
• Fresh Lemon Juice – Brightens the sauce and balances the richness.
• Fresh Chives – Adds a pop of color and mild onion flavor.
For the Crostini
• French Baguette – The ideal choice for a crunchy base; slice it thick!
• Olive Oil – Ensures the bread toasts beautifully and adds richness.
• Flaky Sea Salt – A finishing touch that enhances all the flavors.
Enjoy crafting your Steak Crostini with these fresh ingredients!
How to Make Steak Crostini
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Prepare the Spice Mix: In a bowl, combine kosher salt, black pepper, brown sugar, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. Rub this lovely spice mix onto the flank steak, then cover and refrigerate for 2-4 hours for maximum flavor infusion.
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Mix the Horseradish Cream: In another bowl, blend together the sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, prepared horseradish, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and chopped chives. This creamy delight can chill in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
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Slice the Baguette: Take your French baguette and cut it into even slices about ½ inch thick. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil on both sides, then place them neatly on a baking sheet.
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Toast the Crostini: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the crostini for 10-12 minutes, or until they’re golden brown. After baking, rub each piece with a cut garlic clove and sprinkle with flaky sea salt for extra flavor.
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Sear the Steak: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Sear the flank steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side for a perfect medium-rare. After searing, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
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Assemble the Crostini: Place a slice of the rested steak on each toasted crostini, generously top with horseradish cream, and finish it off with extra chopped chives for a fresh touch.
Optional: Serve with a lemon wedge for a zesty squeeze!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Steak Crostini
Fridge: Store any leftover Steak Crostini in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the steak and horseradish cream separate from the crostini to maintain their textures.
Freezer: If you want to freeze the crostini, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. They’ll last for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for freshness!
Reheating: To reheat refrigerated crostini, pop them back into a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes until warm and crisp. For frozen crostini, bake directly from the freezer for 10-12 minutes.
Tip: Always slice and garnish fresh for the best flavor and presentation when serving!
Make Ahead Options
These Steak Crostini are a fantastic meal prep option for busy cooks looking to save time! You can marinate the flank steak with the spice mix up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring it absorbs all those wonderful flavors. The horseradish cream can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days ahead of time; just give it a good stir before serving. On the day you plan to serve, slice and toast the baguette as directed, sear the steak for a quick finish, and assemble the crostini right before your guests arrive. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality appetizers with minimal last-minute effort!
What to Serve with Steak Crostini?
Create a memorable dining experience that perfectly complements your flavorful crostini.
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Garlic Parmesan Fries: Crispy, golden fries tossed in garlic and parmesan enhance the savory richness of the steak. They’re an irresistible, shareable side that pairs perfectly with the flavors at the forefront of your crostini.
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Arugula Salad: A fresh, peppery arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette brings bright acidity to balance the richness of the steak and horseradish cream. The slight bitterness of arugula acts as a wonderful counterpoint, elevating each bite.
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Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini, add a hint of sweetness and a variety of textures that beautifully complement the hearty crostini. Their caramelized edges would create a delightful contrast with your savory bites.
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Creamy Coleslaw: A crunchy, creamy coleslaw with a tangy dressing provides a refreshing crunch alongside the tender steak crostini. Each forkful offers a welcome contrast to the warm, rich flavors of your dish.
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay is an excellent complement, offering a crisp acidity and fruity notes that enhance the steak’s flavor profile. The wine’s buttery undertones will harmonize nicely with the horseradish cream’s zest.
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Chocolate Mousse: Finish off this delightful meal with a silky chocolate mousse for dessert, with its rich flavors and airy texture providing a luxurious conclusion to the dining experience. You’ll leave your guests with a dreamy taste that lingers!
Steak Crostini Variations
Get ready to personalize your hearty bites with delightful twists and changes that tickle the taste buds!
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Herb-Infused Steak: Add fresh rosemary or parsley to the spice mix for a fragrant herb boost. Each bite will resonate with a refreshing essence!
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Spicy Kick: Mix in cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce into the horseradish cream for an exciting burst of heat. It elevates the flavor profile and adds a fun challenge for spicy food lovers.
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Cheesy Delight: Top each crostini with a slice of aged cheddar or crumbled blue cheese before your steak and horseradish cream. The melt-in-your-mouth texture will make for a divine combination!
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Gluten-Free Option: Swap out the baguette for gluten-free bread or polenta rounds. Toast them just right, and you’ll have the perfect base for your steak crostini without a hitch.
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Savory Vegan Twist: Use marinated and grilled eggplant in place of steak, complemented with a tahini sauce spiced with horseradish and lemon juice. A delicious and satisfying option for plant-based eaters!
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Tangy BBQ Flavor: Brush the flank steak with your favorite barbecue sauce before searing. This adds a sweet, tangy glaze that takes the flavor to a new level while making it wildly appetizing.
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Crunchy Toppings: Add crispy fried onions or roasted garlic chips on top for an extra layer of texture. The crunchiness will balance all the creaminess nicely!
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Fruit Accents: Top with thin slices of pickled jalapeños or even apple slices for a gorgeous color and a sweet-hot contrast. These fruity bites can bring brightness to your crostini experience!
Expert Tips for Steak Crostini
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Perfectly Seasoned Steak: Make sure to refrigerate the spiced steak for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate, ensuring every bite of your steak crostini is full of flavor.
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Slice Against the Grain: For the most tender slices, always cut the rested flank steak against the grain. This small step makes a huge difference in texture.
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Golden Brown Crostini: Keep an eye on your crostini as they toast; aim for a lovely golden color. If they’re too dark, they can turn bitter.
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Horseradish Balance: If you’re sensitive to heat, adjust the amount of prepared horseradish in the cream to your taste. Start with less and add more if you desire that zesty kick.
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Fresh Garnish: Don’t skip the fresh chives! Adding them just before serving not only elevates the presentation but also brings a fresh, mild flavor that balances the richness.
Steak Crostini with Horseradish Cream Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right flank steak?
When selecting flank steak, look for cuts that have a bright red color and a fine grain. The steak should feel firm to the touch and have minimal dark spots. A bit of marbling is good as it adds flavor and tenderness when cooked. Freshness is key, so if possible, ask your butcher for a recent cut!
How should I store leftover Steak Crostini?
Absolutely! Store any leftover Steak Crostini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to separate the components—keep the steak and horseradish cream apart from the crostini—to maintain their crispy texture. Warm them together before serving for a delightful experience!
Can I freeze my Steak Crostini?
Yes, you can! To freeze the crostini, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, bake from frozen at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
What if my horseradish cream is too spicy?
If you find your horseradish cream a bit too fiery, don’t worry! You can easily mellow it out by adding more sour cream or mayonnaise, which will balance the flavors without losing that signature zest. Mix in small increments until you reach your preferred flavor profile.
Can I make Steak Crostini for dietary restrictions?
Definitely! If you’re catering to guests with dietary restrictions, consider substituting the mayonnaise with a vegan alternative and ensure all components are gluten-free if needed. For a dairy-free version, look for plant-based sour cream on the market. Always check labels for ingredients to avoid allergens.
What’s the best way to heat my crostini if they’ve been stored?
To reheat your refrigerated crostini, place them back in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until they’re warm and crispy. If they’re frozen, bake directly from the freezer for approximately 10-12 minutes, allowing them to regain that pleasant crunch. Just don’t skip this step—it makes all the difference!
Steak Crostini with Zesty Horseradish Cream for a Savory Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Spice Mix: In a bowl, combine kosher salt, black pepper, brown sugar, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. Rub this lovely spice mix onto the flank steak, then cover and refrigerate for 2-4 hours.
- Mix the Horseradish Cream: In another bowl, blend together the sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, prepared horseradish, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and chopped chives. Chill until ready to serve.
- Slice the Baguette: Cut the French baguette into even slices about ½ inch thick. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil on both sides and place them on a baking sheet.
- Toast the Crostini: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the crostini for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown. Rub with a cut garlic clove and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
- Sear the Steak: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Sear the flank steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
- Assemble the Crostini: Place a slice of the rested steak on each toasted crostini, generously top with horseradish cream, and finish with extra chopped chives.