Copycat Olive Garden Steak Gorgonzola Alfredo is a rich, indulgent dish that combines tender steak, creamy alfredo sauce, and tangy gorgonzola cheese for an unforgettable meal. If you’re craving the restaurant version but want to make it at home, this recipe is the perfect way to recreate it. Whether it’s for a special dinner or a comforting weeknight meal, this dish delivers delicious flavors with minimal effort.
Making this dish at home allows you to tweak the recipe to suit your preferences. Need a guide to perfect your alfredo sauce? Check out this tutorial on How to Make Alfredo Sauce for silky, smooth results.
If you love blue cheese but want to experiment with different varieties, Different Types of Blue Cheese offers insights into cheeses that pair well with steak and pasta dishes.
Why You’ll Love This Copycat Olive Garden Steak Gorgonzola Alfredo
The Copycat Olive Garden Steak Gorgonzola Alfredo recipe delivers the perfect blend of creamy alfredo sauce, savory steak, and tangy gorgonzola, making it a crowd-pleaser. Here’s why this dish is a must-try:
- Customizable: Adjust the richness of the sauce, choose your favorite steak cut, or try a different cheese if gorgonzola isn’t your favorite.
- Flavorful: The combination of steak, pasta, and cheese creates a deeply satisfying, indulgent meal.
- Easy to Make: Despite its gourmet appeal, this recipe is easy to prepare, perfect for both special dinners and weeknight meals.
Pair it with a light, refreshing dessert like Lemon Pound Cake for the ultimate meal.
Ingredients for Copycat Olive Garden Steak Gorgonzola Alfredo
To make this dish at home, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Steak:
- 12 oz steak (ribeye, filet mignon, or sirloin)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
Alfredo Sauce:
- 4 oz butter
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Pasta and Toppings:
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 oz sundried tomatoes (optional)
- 2 oz gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
- 4 oz balsamic vinegar (for balsamic glaze)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Copycat Olive Garden Steak Gorgonzola Alfredo
1. Prepare the Steak
- Season your steak with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for about 3-4 minutes per side, depending on your desired doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C).
- Once cooked, set the steak aside to rest before slicing it into thin strips.
2. Make the Alfredo Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and garlic powder, whisking until smooth and creamy. Let the sauce thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook the Pasta
- While the sauce simmers, cook the fettuccine until al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta, reserving a little pasta water.
- Toss the pasta with the alfredo sauce and stir in the baby spinach. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of pasta water to loosen it up.
4. Assemble the Dish
- Place the pasta on serving plates. Top with the sliced steak, crumbled gorgonzola cheese, and sundried tomatoes.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze for added flavor. To make the glaze, simmer balsamic vinegar until it reduces to a thick syrup.
5. Broil for a Golden Finish
- Place the dish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes to melt the gorgonzola slightly and give the top a golden finish.
6. Serve and Garnish
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately. Pair with warm breadsticks and a Caesar salad for a full Olive Garden-style meal.
Recipe Variations and Customizations
Here are a few ways you can make this Copycat Olive Garden Steak Gorgonzola Alfredo dish your own:
Swap the Steak
- You can use grilled chicken or shrimp instead of steak for a lighter version. The alfredo sauce pairs just as well with these proteins.
Lighten the Alfredo Sauce
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or milk for heavy cream. A splash of chicken broth also helps lighten the sauce while keeping its flavor intact.
Vegetarian Option
- Skip the steak and add roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. The alfredo sauce will still shine with these additions.
If you’re looking for a lighter dessert to pair with this dish, try the refreshing Vegan Coconut Flour Pancakes for a gluten-free, low-carb option.
Serving Suggestions
This rich, creamy dish pairs well with simple sides that balance the heaviness of the alfredo sauce:
- Garlic Breadsticks: Warm and buttery, these breadsticks are perfect for soaking up the sauce.
- Caesar Salad: The crisp, tangy salad adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
- Steamed Vegetables: Light vegetables like broccoli or asparagus make for a healthy, balanced meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your Steak Gorgonzola Alfredo turns out perfectly:
Overcooking the Steak
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking the steak. Aim for 135°F for medium-rare and let it rest before slicing to retain its juices.
Lumpy Alfredo Sauce
- To prevent lumpy sauce, whisk continuously when adding the Parmesan cheese and keep the heat low. This will ensure a smooth, creamy consistency.
Undercooked or Overcooked Pasta
- Be sure to cook the fettuccine al dente. Overcooked pasta will become mushy and undercooked pasta won’t absorb the sauce as well.
FAQs
What kind of steak is best for Steak Gorgonzola Alfredo?
Ribeye, filet mignon, or sirloin are excellent choices for this dish due to their tenderness and flavor.
Can I use a different cheese instead of gorgonzola?
Yes, blue cheese or even feta are good substitutes if gorgonzola isn’t to your taste. For more options, explore Different Types of Blue Cheese.
How can I lighten the alfredo sauce?
Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version. Adding chicken broth can also help reduce the richness while maintaining flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce and steak ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the pasta fresh and assemble the dish right before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
Conclusion
This Copycat Olive Garden Steak Gorgonzola Alfredo recipe brings the indulgent flavors of the restaurant into your own home. With creamy alfredo sauce, tender steak, and tangy gorgonzola cheese, this dish is sure to become a favorite. It’s perfect for special occasions or whenever you’re craving a comforting, rich meal.
For a sweet finish, pair it with a light dessert like Lemon Pound Cake or explore more hearty options like Loaded Potato Soup. Enjoy every bite!