Steak Crostini Recipe: Sweet, Savory & Tangy Appetizer for Entertaining
Steak Crostini is the ultimate appetizer for those who appreciate gourmet flavors in a bite-sized form. This elegant dish combines tender, perfectly cooked steak with the delightful contrast of sweet caramelized onions, tangy balsamic glaze, and creamy cheese, all layered atop crisp toasted baguette slices. Whether you’re hosting a sophisticated dinner party, planning a holiday gathering, or looking to elevate your next family celebration, Steak Crostini brings a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy elements to your table. Discover how easy it is to impress guests with this crowd-pleasing, restaurant-quality recipe.
Overview of Steak Crostini
Steak Crostini is a refined appetizer that blends the robust flavors of seared steak, caramelized onions, and creamy cheese with the crunch of toasted baguette. The interplay between sweet onions, tangy balsamic reduction, and savory beef delivers a harmonious bite every time. Each element can be prepared in advance, making this dish as convenient as it is impressive. Ideal for cocktail parties or celebratory dinners, Steak Crostini offers a stunning presentation and layers of flavor in every mouthful. Elevate your entertaining repertoire with this delicious and visually appealing starter.
Ingredients of Steak Crostini
For the Crostini:
- 1 French baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 2–3 tbsp olive oil
- Flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
For the Steak:
- 12 oz (340g) boneless ribeye or sirloin steak, 1-inch thick
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper
For the Caramelized Onions:
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, enhances sweetness)
- 2 tsp balsamic vinegar
For Assembly:
- 4 oz (115g) whipped goat cheese or cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup prepared horseradish sauce (optional for heat)
- 1/4 cup arugula or baby greens
- Balsamic glaze (for drizzling)
- Fresh chives or microgreens, for garnish
How To Make Steak Crostini
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are golden and deeply caramelized (30–35 minutes). Stir in sugar if desired, and finish with balsamic vinegar. Remove from heat and let cool.
Step 2: Toast the Crostini
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush both sides lightly with olive oil. Bake for 6–8 minutes per side until crisp and golden. Remove and sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt.
Step 3: Prepare the Steak
Pat steak dry and season liberally with salt and pepper. Heat a heavy skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and sear steak for 3–4 minutes per side (for medium-rare), turning once for a good crust. Remove, tent loosely with foil, and let rest for 8–10 minutes before slicing thinly across the grain.
Step 4: Assemble the Crostini
Spread a generous layer of whipped goat cheese or cream cheese over each toasted baguette slice. Top with caramelized onions, followed by a slice of steak. If using, add a dollop of horseradish sauce for heat. Finish with arugula, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, and a sprinkle of fresh chives or microgreens.
Instructions of Steak Crostini
- Caramelize Onions:
- Melt butter and oil in a skillet over medium-low heat.
- Add onions and salt, cook slowly, stirring often, until deeply golden (30–35 minutes).
- Add sugar if using and finish with balsamic vinegar; stir well and remove from heat.
- Toast Crostini:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lay baguette slices on a baking sheet; brush with olive oil.
- Toast for 6–8 minutes per side until crisp and golden; sprinkle with salt.
- Cook Steak:
- Pat steak dry, season with salt and pepper.
- Sear in a hot skillet with oil for 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare.
- Rest steak under foil, then slice thinly across the grain.
- Assemble:
- Spread cheese on crostini.
- Add caramelized onions, a slice of steak, and a dab of horseradish (if desired).
- Top with arugula, drizzle with balsamic glaze, and garnish with chives.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes (includes onion caramelizing and steak resting)
- Total Time: 1 hour
Nutrition Information (Per Crostini; estimate)
- Calories: 130
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Sugar: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 210mg
Serving of Steak Crostini
Serve Steak Crostini on a large platter, arranged in neat rows for easy grabbing. For a dramatic presentation, fan slices of steak atop each crostini and finish with an extra drizzle of balsamic glaze. Pair with sparkling wine or a full-bodied red for the perfect starter at any event. These can be served warm or at room temperature, making them ideal for entertaining. For added color and freshness, garnish with microgreens or chive blossoms just before serving.
Chef’s Tips for Success
- Make Ahead: Caramelized onions can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and refrigerated.
- Steak Doneness: Use a meat thermometer for perfect results—130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
- Flavor Variations: Try blue cheese instead of goat cheese for a bolder profile, or add pickled shallots for extra tang.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free baguette or bread rounds if needed.
