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A rustic dark stoneware bowl filled with creamy peppercorn sauce, with whole peppercorns scattered around the base.

Peppercorn Sauce Recipe (Restaurant-Quality)

This Peppercorn Sauce Recipe is incredibly easy to make at home in just 20 minutes. Learn how to create a rich, creamy, and flavorful sauce perfect for steak, chicken, and more.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Sauce, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, French
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp whole black peppercorns coarsely crushed
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 shallot finely minced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup brandy or cognac
  • 1 cup beef broth low sodium
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard

Equipment

  • 1 Skillet
  • 1 Whisk

Method
 

  1. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the whole peppercorns for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Transfer to a mortar and pestle or cutting board and coarsely crush.
  2. In the same skillet, melt butter and olive oil. Add the minced shallot and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and crushed peppercorns and cook for 1 more minute.
  3. Pour in the brandy, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits. Cook until the liquid has reduced by half.
  4. Whisk in the beef broth and Dijon mustard. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the sauce begins to thicken.
  5. Reduce heat to low and slowly whisk in the heavy cream. Heat gently until warmed through, but do not boil. Season with salt to taste and serve immediately.

Notes

For an extra rich sauce, whisk in one additional tablespoon of cold butter at the end.
Ensure the cream does not boil to prevent the sauce from separating.