Who doesn't love the allure of a juicy steak with a cheesy, tomato sauce blanket on top? At Applebee's, the Steak Parmesan is a beloved dish that combines classic Italian flavors with an American twist. Now, what if you could enjoy this comforting restaurant meal in the comfort of your own home? In this blog post, we'll share the three simple steps to recreating Applebee's Steak Parmesan at home, ensuring you can savor every bite without having to leave your kitchen.
Ingredients You'll Need
- 2 beef steaks (8 oz each): Ribeye or sirloin work great.
- 1 cup of marinara sauce: Use your favorite jarred sauce or make homemade.
- 1 cup of mozzarella cheese: Freshly shredded for the best melt.
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese: For an extra cheesy touch.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For searing the steak.
- 1 clove garlic: Minced.
- Salt and black pepper: For seasoning the steak.
- Italian seasoning: To add those classic Italian flavors.
- Fresh basil leaves: Optional, for garnish.
🍳 Note: Ensure your steaks are at room temperature for an even cook.
Step 1: Preparing the Steak
Preparation is key to a perfect steak. Here's what you need to do:
- Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil to the skillet.
- Season both sides of the steaks with salt, pepper, and a bit of Italian seasoning for that extra flavor.
- Place the steaks in the skillet and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side, aiming for medium-rare or your preferred doneness.
- Once cooked, remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest on a plate. This step helps keep the steak tender by allowing the juices to redistribute.
Step 2: Making the Parmesan Topping
Now, let's create that delicious cheesy topping:
- In the same skillet you seared the steaks, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute, being careful not to let it burn.
- Pour in the marinara sauce and let it heat through. You can add a splash of water or beef broth if the sauce is too thick.
- Once the sauce is warm, spread it evenly over the steaks, which are resting on the plate or in an oven-safe dish.
- Generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over each steak. The thicker the better for that true Parmesan effect!
Step 3: Broil to Perfection
To finish your homemade Applebee's Steak Parmesan:
- Preheat your oven's broiler on high.
- Place the steaks under the broiler, ensuring they are close enough to the heat to melt the cheese but not so close they burn.
- Broil for about 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbling with a light golden brown on top.
- Carefully remove the steaks from the oven using oven mitts. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and added flavor.
🔔 Note: Keep a close eye on the steaks when broiling as cheese can go from perfectly melted to burnt quite quickly.
There you have it! Your very own homemade Applebee's Steak Parmesan, ready to be savored with family or friends. This dish is not only about the delicious flavor but also about creating a special restaurant-quality meal at home. Enjoy the rich, comforting taste of the cheese and marinara sauce combined with a perfectly cooked steak. Try this recipe to impress your loved ones or treat yourself to a gourmet experience without the hassle of dining out.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
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While mozzarella and Parmesan are traditional, feel free to experiment with cheeses like provolone, asiago, or a blend of Italian cheeses for different flavors.
What sides go well with Steak Parmesan?
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This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted garlic mashed potatoes, creamy risotto, or a simple side salad to balance out the richness of the steak and cheese.
How do I know when the steak is done to my liking?
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Here’s a quick guide:
- Rare: 125-130°F
- Medium-Rare: 135°F
- Medium: 140°F
- Medium-Well: 150°F
- Well-Done: 160°F
