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Let me share my go-to party appetizer that never fails to impress. These steak crostini are little bites of heaven topped with perfectly seared steak creamy herbed goat cheese and a drizzle of sweet balsamic glaze. Every time I serve these at parties everyone asks for the recipe. They look super fancy but trust me they're so easy to make.
Why You'll Fall in Love with These
What makes these crostini special is how simple yet amazing they are. I've learned that when you start with good ingredients like quality beef and fresh goat cheese you don't need to do much else. I love that I can prep most of it ahead which makes entertaining so much easier. These have become my signature party appetizer.
Shopping List
- 6oz Top Sirloin Steak: Spend a little extra on good quality beef it makes all the difference
- 6oz Goat Cheese: Get the creamy kind it spreads like a dream
- Prepared Horseradish: Just a touch gives amazing flavor but you can skip it if you're not a fan
- Kosher Salt and Herbs: These bring everything to life
- Fresh Basil: Adds such a lovely fresh pop under the steak
- Baguette: Any good crusty baguette works I've even used gluten free
- Olive Oil: Use the good stuff here
- Balsamic Glaze: That final sweet drizzle that makes everything perfect
Let's Make These Together
- First The Cheese Mix
- Grab your goat cheese add a spoonful of horseradish if you're using it some salt and whatever fresh herbs you love. Mix it all up until it's creamy and pop it in the fridge
- Crispy Bread Time
- Turn on your broiler slice that baguette and give each piece a brush of olive oil. These only need about a minute under the broiler to get golden. Keep an eye on them they can burn in seconds
- The Star of the Show
- Pat your steak dry and season it well. Get your pan really hot and cook it about 2 minutes each side for medium rare. Let it rest for 10 minutes then slice it nice and thin
- Putting it All Together
- Spread that gorgeous cheese mix on each toast add a basil leaf lay your steak on top and finish with a little drizzle of balsamic glaze
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Get Ahead of the Game
I love that I can prep most of this ahead. The cheese spread actually gets better after a day in the fridge and the toasts keep well in a sealed container. When guests arrive I just need to cook the steak and put everything together. Such a time saver when you're hosting.
My Best Tips
After making these countless times I've learned a few tricks. Spring for good quality beef it really makes a difference. Slice your steak against the grain and keep it thin so it's easy to bite. Watch those toasts under the broiler like a hawk and go easy on the balsamic glaze you want to taste everything else too.
How to Serve Them
These look absolutely gorgeous on a big platter next to some cheese and fresh fruit. I love serving them with a bold red wine or even some bubbly for special occasions. They're perfect for passing around at parties too everyone loves a fancy bite sized treat.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
If you end up with extras keep everything separate. The cheese spread stays good in the fridge for a few days and the toasts keep their crunch in an airtight container. When you want to serve them again just warm up the steak quickly in a pan or microwave before assembling.
Make Them Your Own
These are so fun to customize. Sometimes I swap the goat cheese for blue cheese when I'm feeling fancy. Try different herbs like thyme or rosemary with the steak. Need gluten free? Use your favorite gluten free bread. And don't be afraid to play with different sauces I've used everything from chimichurri to garlic aioli.
Why Everyone Loves These
It's the perfect combination of textures and flavors that makes these so special. You get that crunch from the toast the creamy goat cheese and tender steak all in one bite. Add that sweet touch of balsamic and it's just magic. No wonder they disappear so quickly at parties.
Perfect Party Food
I've made these for everything from fancy holiday dinners to casual game day gatherings and they're always a hit. They look so elegant but they're not fussy to eat. I love that I can prep most of it ahead and just assemble when people arrive. Takes the stress out of entertaining and lets me enjoy the party too.
What to Serve With Them
These crostini are amazing with a glass of bold red wine my favorites are Cab Sav or Merlot. Not drinking? Try them with some sparkling water with a slice of lemon so refreshing. I love setting up a whole spread with olives dried fruits and nuts around them. Makes such a beautiful presentation.
Tips for Hosting Success
When I'm having a bigger party I arrange these on my prettiest platter and scatter some fresh herbs around for looks. Sometimes I'll make a few different versions cheese wise to keep things interesting. And always make more than you think you need trust me they go fast.
Getting Creative with Extras
If you somehow end up with leftovers which honestly rarely happens in my house there's so much you can do. The steak and goat cheese make an amazing sandwich filling the next day. I've even topped my salads with the leftover ingredients. Those toasts? They make the best croutons for soup you've ever had.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make these crostini ahead of time?
You can prepare the goat cheese spread and toast the baguette slices in advance. The steak can also be cooked and sliced ahead, but assemble the crostini just before serving for the best results.
- → What's the best way to slice the steak for crostini?
Slice the steak very thinly against the grain after letting it rest. This ensures each bite is tender and easy to eat, making the appetizer more enjoyable.
- → Can I substitute the goat cheese?
While goat cheese provides the best flavor, you can use cream cheese or blue cheese as alternatives. Just adjust the horseradish amount to taste since these cheeses have different flavor profiles.
- → What's balsamic glaze and where can I find it?
Balsamic glaze is a reduced, thickened version of balsamic vinegar. You can find it in most grocery stores near the vinegars, or make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar until thickened.
- → How do I keep the baguette slices crispy?
Toast the baguette slices until golden brown and let them cool completely before storing. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature and only add toppings just before serving.