Best Traditional Steak Sauces To Try

Peppercorn sauce on steak one of the most traditional steak sauces

If you're a steak lover like us, then you'll know how the right sauce can take things up a notch.

We've rounded up some of the best Traditional Steak Sauces to help you mix things up.

And trust us, we know our stuff! At Dukes Steakhouse here at Villiers Hotel, many of these classic sauces are made in-house to perfectly complement your steak.

Keep reading for inspiration on what to try next.

Guide To Popular Steak Sauces

 

Chimichurri 

Chimichurri sauce on steak one of the most traditional steak sauces

Chimichurri is a fresh and zesty Argentinian sauce commonly made from finely chopped parsley, coriander, garlic, onion, olive oil, vinegar, oregano, and a touch of chilli.

Served cold it brings a tangy punch that complements grilled meats perfectly. 

Béarnaise

Béarnaise sauce on steak one of the most traditional steak sauces

Béarnaise is a classic French sauce known for its deep, buttery flavour. 

Made with egg yolks, butter, vinegar, sweet shallots, and fresh tarragon it has a smooth, velvety texture.

The sauce offers a gentle tang balanced by a subtle sweetness and delicate herbaceous notes.

Peppercorn

Peppercorn sauce on steak one of the most traditional steak sauces

Peppercorn sauce is a classic steak companion typically made with crushed peppercorns, cream, brandy or cognac, shallots, beef stock, and sometimes a splash of red wine. 

It delivers a gentle heat from the peppercorns balanced by a smooth, creamy finish that cuts through the richness of the steak. 

Diane

Diane sauce on steak one of the most traditional steak sauces

Diane sauce is traditionally made with pan juices, cream, mustard, brandy, Worcestershire sauce, and sometimes mushrooms. 

It’s creamy, slightly tangy, and umami with a rich depth of flavour.

Bordelaise

Bordelaise sauce on steak one of the most traditional steak sauces

Bordelaise is a traditional French sauce commonly made from red wine, shallots, bone marrow, butter, peppercorns, herbs, and beef stock. 

It’s warm, rich and savoury with a subtle tangy wine sharpness.

Blue Cheese Butter

Blue cheese butter sauce on steak one of the most traditional steak sauces

This sauce combines softened butter with crumbled blue cheese, herbs, and sometimes garlic.

It’s creamy, bold, and tangy with a distinctive salty kick from the cheese.

As it melts over a hot steak, it creates a rich and indulgent coating.

Perfect for blue cheese lovers who enjoy big flavours.

Salsa Verde

Salsa verde sauce on steak one of the most traditional steak sauces

Salsa Verde is an Italian sauce made from a mix of herbs, capers, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil.

It’s fresh and slightly salty with a bold herbaceous hit. 

Served cold, it’s the perfect contrast to a juicy, seared steak.

Mushroom Sauce

Mushroom sauce on steak one of the most traditional steak sauces

Mushroom sauce is a rich, creamy accompaniment often made with sautéed mushrooms, garlic, onions, double cream, and sometimes a splash of white wine or brandy.

The mushrooms give the sauce a deep, earthy flavour that pairs beautifully with the savouriness of a juicy steak.

It’s a great choice if you're after something comforting and full of umami.

Red Wine Jus

Red wine jus sauce on steak one of the most traditional steak sauces

Red wine jus is a silky, savoury reduction often made from red wine, beef stock, garlic, and shallots. 

The acidity of the wine balances the richness of the meat, creating a perfectly harmonious bite.

It’s a classic for steak, especially in more refined dishes.

Make The Perfect Steak Sauce At Home!

If you’d like to try making some of these traditional steak sauces at home, check out the video below.

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We hope you enjoyed exploring these traditional steak sauces and discovered some new favourites to try.

Each sauce offers a unique flavour, perfect for finding your ideal match.

From all of us at Dukes Steakhouse, happy steak sauce pairing!

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FAQS Related To Traditional Steak Sauces

What sauce goes well with steak?

The best sauce depends on your taste, but classic options like peppercorn, béarnaise, and chimichurri are popular favourites. 

Is it better to pair steak with a hot or cold sauce?

Both work well depending on the sauce and the steak. Warm sauces like peppercorn or mushroom sauce enhance the steak’s juicy richness, while cold sauces such as chimichurri or salsa verde provide a refreshing, vibrant contrast. Try both to discover your preference!

Can I make traditional steak sauces at home?

Absolutely! Many traditional steak sauces use simple ingredients and straightforward techniques, making them perfect for home cooking.