Pepper Steaks
Pepper Steaks feature tenderloin wrapped in bacon, seasoned with mixed peppercorns and thyme, then marinated and grilled for a flavorful, smoky beef dish ideal for special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wrap a slice of bacon around the edges of each steak.
- Coarsely grind the mixed peppercorns and mix with thyme and seasoned salt.
- Press 1/2 teaspoon of the peppercorn mixture onto both sides of each steak.
- Drizzle cognac over both sides of the steaks.
- Cover and marinate the steaks for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Grill, panfry, or boil the steaks to desired doneness, ensuring to sear both sides before lowering the temperature to finish cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using smoked bacon instead of regular. If you don't have mixed peppercorns, a combination of black pepper and a pinch of crushed red pepper can work well. For a quicker meal, marinating for just an hour will still impart good flavor, but the longer, the better. Be sure to let the steaks rest for a few minutes after cooking for optimal juiciness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these pepper steaks with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or Oven Baked Potato Salad for a comforting meal. Pair with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for balance. A glass of red wine complements the rich flavors beautifully, making it a perfect dinner choice for special occasions or weekend gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover pepper steaks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the steaks in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water, covering to retain moisture. Heat just until warmed through to avoid overcooking and drying them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pepper Steaks contains roughly 106 calories, with 10g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 725mg per serving (32% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I grill these steaks instead of pan-frying?
Absolutely! Grilling adds a wonderful smoky flavor. Preheat your grill to medium-high, and ensure the grates are clean and oiled to prevent sticking. Grill the steaks for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness, for perfect results.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).