Top 6 Steak Toppings

Add Extra Flavor, From Garlic-Sage to Jalapeno-Lime

By
Derrick Riches
Derrick Riches
Derrick Riches
Derrick Riches is a grilling and barbecue expert. He has written two cookbooks.
Learn about The Spruce Eats' Editorial Process
Updated on 09/26/19

A grilled steak is a thing of beauty, and if it is a good cut of meat, is rich with flavor. However, you can take it up a notch (or mask mistakes) by adding an interesting topping. A steak topping is a way to make any steak better whether tender or tough, thick or thin, rare or well done. From flavored butters to rich sauces, these recipes add a whole new layer of flavor to any steak you grill.

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  • 01 of 06

    Garlic-Sage Compound Butter

    Garlic-Sage Compound Butter
    Garlic-Sage Compound Butter.

     

    StockNinja / Getty Images 

    A compound butter (butter mixed with flavors) is the perfect topping for a hot and juicy steak, and this recipe including sage and garlic complements the beef perfectly. The ingredients are mixed together and then left to set in the refrigerator for a few hours. Once the steak is cooked, a dollop of the butter is placed on top to slowly melt and bring extra deliciousness to the beef.

  • 02 of 06

    Avocado Compound Butter

    Avocado Steak Topper
    Avocado Steak Topper.

    Lara Hata / Getty Images

    What would happen if butter and guacamole got married? This delicious steak topper! Butter, avocado, lime juice, parsley, chives, and salt are processed together until a smooth but slightly chunky consistency forms. You can either simply spoon on top of the cooked meat, or form into a log, chill, slice, and place on top the hot, juicy steak.

  • 03 of 06

    Shallot and Red Wine Compound Butter

    Shallot and Red Wine Steak Topper
    Shallot and Red Wine Steak Topper.

    Maryse Raymond / Getty Images

    We all know red wine goes perfectly with steak, but shallots are also a great match; the subtle flavors of onion and garlic are the ideal complement to the richness of the meat, especially filets and ribeyes. Dijon mustard rounds out this shallot and red wine compound butter, with a bit of olive oil for added smoothness.

  • 04 of 06

    Jalapeno-Lime Compound Butter

    Jalapeno-Lime Steak Topper
    Jalapeno-Lime Steak Topper.

    Cultura RM / Brett Stevens / Getty Images

    Feel free to adjust the heat level in this jalapeno-lime flavored butter that is a nod toward Mexican cuisine. The jalapeno, lime, and cilantro combine perfectly and bring a bit of freshness and spice to any hot and juicy steak (or chicken or fish). Refrigerate until firm and then add a spoonful to your cooked meat.

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  • 05 of 06

    Crab Oscar Steak Topping

    Crab Oscar Steak
    Crab Oscar Steak.

    The Spruce

    For a twist on a surf and turf, try this creamy crab mixture on top of your thick and juicy steak. Named after a Swedish king, this crab Oscar steak topping was originally served on veal but is equally delicious on top of red meat. The combination of crab meat, lemon juice, hot sauce, sour cream, mayonnaise, and seasonings is not only easy to prepare but incredibly flavorful.

  • 06 of 06

    Blue Cheese Sauce

    Blue Cheese Sauce for Steak
    Blue Cheese Sauce for Steak.

    The Spruce 

    Blue cheese can really add flavor to a steak as the combination of the beef flavor with the salty tartness of blue cheese really stands out. And due to the richness of the sauce, a little goes a long way. Heavy cream, blue cheese, and Worcestershire sauce work together to make a delicious topping for grilled steak. A little drizzle is all you need to bring your steak up to the next level.