A perfect blend of textures and flavors come together in these elegant steak and burrata crostini. The combination of perfectly cooked beef, creamy cheese, and crispy garlic-rubbed toast creates bite-sized pieces of pure joy that elevate any gathering from ordinary to memorable.
Last summer, I served these at a garden party and watched guests' eyes light up with each bite. The secret was letting the steak come to room temperature before cooking - it made all the difference in achieving that perfect medium-rare.
Essential Ingredients
- Steak: Choose well-marbled cuts for best flavor
- Burrata: Must be fresh and at room temperature
- Sourdough: Fresh bread makes better crostini
- Chives: Add fresh color and subtle onion flavor
- Balsamic: Use aged for best flavor
- Sea Salt: Flaky finishing salt adds texture
Detailed Instructions
- Step 1:
- Allow steak to rest on counter until truly room temperature.
- Step 2:
- Pat meat completely dry before seasoning.
- Step 3:
- Season generously - meat should look well-coated.
- Step 4:
- Heat pan until just smoking before adding steak.
- Step 5:
- Don't move meat while searing for better crust.
- Step 6:
- Cut bread at slight angle for longer pieces.
- Step 7:
- Toast until golden but not too dark.
- Step 8:
- Rub garlic on warm bread immediately.
- Step 9:
- Break burrata gently for natural dollops.
- Step 10:
- Garnish just before serving for freshest appearance.
My Italian grandmother taught me that quality ingredients need minimal fussing. "Let them shine on their own," she'd say, and these crostini prove her wisdom every time.
Presentation and Timing
- Arrange crostini in circular pattern
- Layer components just before serving
- Keep garnishes fresh and bright
- Drizzle balsamic in attractive pattern
- Serve on dark platters for contrast
I learned the importance of timing while catering small events. Having all components ready but assembling at the last moment ensures each bite is perfect.
Temperature Control
- Keep bread warm but not hot
- Serve steak slightly warm
- Have burrata at room temperature
- Prepare garnishes fresh
- Consider warming plates
Make-Ahead Components
- Toast bread up to 2 hours ahead
- Cook steak and let rest
- Prep garnishes and keep chilled
- Have platters ready
- Warm bread before serving
Variations for Different Occasions
- Summer parties: Add fresh basil
- Winter gatherings: Drizzle truffle oil
- Casual events: Use grilled bread
- Formal affairs: Add caviar
- Holiday versions: Include seasonal herbs
These steak and burrata crostini have become my signature appetizer for special occasions. They prove that sometimes the simplest combinations create the most elegant results, turning any gathering into a memorable celebration of good food and company.