There’s something timeless about a Steak Crostini with Horseradish Sauce & Caramelized Onions. The rich, savory flavor of tender beef, the sharp kick of horseradish, and the golden crunch of toasted bread make this one of my favorite holiday crostini appetizers. It’s a bite-sized treat that looks elegant but is easy enough to make on a busy evening before a Christmas dinner party or a cozy get-together with friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for Black Tie Appetizers or casual evenings at home.
- Uses simple, quality ingredients for a gourmet appetizer feel.
- Make-ahead friendly for stress-free hosting.
- Looks stunning on any platter and always disappears first.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make these Beef Canapes that double as elegant O’dourves Appetizers for your next Christmas dinner party or fine dining gathering.
- French baguette: Thinly sliced and toasted until crisp for the perfect base.
- Steak: A tender cut like ribeye or sirloin makes the best meat canapes. Cook it medium-rare for melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Caramelized onions: Sweet, rich, and golden they balance the tang of the sauce beautifully.
- Horseradish sauce: Creamy with just enough kick to complement the beef.
- Olive oil: For brushing the bread before toasting.
- Salt & pepper: To season the steak and bring everything together.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Slice the baguette into ½-inch rounds, brush lightly with olive oil, and bake until golden and crisp, about 8 to 10 minutes.
Step 2
In a skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add thinly sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring often, until deep golden and caramelized, about 20 minutes. Set aside.
Step 3
Season your steak generously with salt and pepper. Sear in a hot pan for 3 to 4 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until your desired doneness. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
Step 4
Mix prepared horseradish with sour cream and a pinch of salt. Adjust for spice level depending on your taste.
Step 5
To assemble, spread a small dollop of horseradish sauce on each crostini, top with a slice of steak, a spoonful of caramelized onions, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you’d like.
Helpful Tips & Variations
- Try using prime rib slices for an even more indulgent Prime Rib Appetizer at the holidays.
- For a twist, drizzle with a bit of balsamic glaze or top with crumbled blue cheese.
- Make the onions a day ahead and store them in the fridge to save time before your holiday appetizer party.
Serving & Storage
These Gourmet Appetizers for Fine Dining Parties are best served slightly warm, right after assembling. Arrange them on a wooden board or marble platter for an elegant look. They pair beautifully with a glass of red wine or sparkling prosecco and fit perfectly into a spread of Christmas dinner party appetizers.
Steak Crostini with Horseradish Sauce & Caramelized Onions
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Slice the baguette into ½-inch rounds, brush with olive oil, and bake until golden and crisp, about 8–10 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring frequently, until caramelized, about 20 minutes. Set aside.
- Season steak with salt and pepper. Sear in a hot skillet for 3–4 minutes per side. Let rest for 10 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain.
- Mix horseradish with sour cream and a pinch of salt. Adjust to taste for spice level.
- Assemble crostini: Spread horseradish sauce on each toast, top with steak slices and caramelized onions. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- You can prepare the onions and toast the bread a day ahead.
- Steak can be cooked just before serving.
- Ideal for holiday parties or elegant gatherings.
Store any leftover steak and onions separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat the steak gently in a skillet or low oven before assembling again. Crostini can be toasted a day ahead and kept at room temperature in an airtight bag.
FAQs
Can I make these Steak Crostini ahead of time?
Yes, you can toast the bread and make the caramelized onions up to two days in advance. Store separately, and assemble right before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp. This makes them ideal for busy holiday hosts planning Christmas Dinner Party Appetizers.
What cut of meat works best for Steak Crostini?
Ribeye or sirloin are the best choices for flavor and tenderness. If you’re making Prime Rib Appetizer Holidays style bites, leftover roast works perfectly. Slice it thin and serve with extra horseradish sauce.
Can I make this recipe for a large crowd?
Absolutely. This is one of my favorite O’dourves Appetizers because it scales easily. Double or triple the ingredients, and set up an assembly station for easy prep at fine dining parties or festive gatherings.
What’s the best way to serve these at a holiday party?
Serve them on a long wooden board with sprigs of rosemary or thyme for a cozy, elegant touch. These Holiday Crostini Appetizers look and taste amazing, especially when paired with sparkling cocktails or warm mulled wine.
Can I substitute the steak with another protein?
Yes, you can use roasted turkey, roast beef, or even lamb for a twist. But the rich flavor of steak makes it the classic choice for Beef Canapes and Meat Canapes that truly stand out.
Final Thoughts from Ama
When I make these Steak Crostini with Horseradish Sauce & Caramelized Onions, I always think of the evenings when the house smells like toasted bread and sizzling steak, and friends are laughing in the kitchen. Recipes like this remind me that food doesn’t have to be fancy to feel special. So pour a glass, put on your favorite playlist, and enjoy making these elegant little bites. They’re perfect for sharing, celebrating, and savoring the season together.
Simple food, big heart.