Grilled Steak Bowl with Creamy Sauce & Grilled Zucchini

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Juicy, char-grilled steak slices meet silky, herb-packed creamy sauce in this flavorful grilled steak bowl. Paired with tender grilled zucchini and a hearty grain base, it’s a complete meal that balances smoky char with rich, velvety indulgence. The steak stays wonderfully pink in the center while the outside takes on that irresistible seared crust, making every bite a mix of texture and taste.

What really sets this dish apart is the sauce—a luscious blend of cream, herbs, and spices that drapes over the steak like a warm, savory blanket. When it mingles with the grilled zucchini and the nutty chew of the grain base, it turns a simple steak dinner into an impressive, restaurant-worthy bowl you’ll want to make on repeat.

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What Cut of Steak Works Best for This Bowl?

A tender, well-marbled cut like ribeye, sirloin, or strip steak works beautifully here. Ribeye will give you the richest flavor and juiciest bite, while sirloin offers a leaner but still tender option. Whichever you choose, make sure it’s at least 1 inch thick for the perfect sear without overcooking.

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Ingredients for the Grilled Steak Bowl with Creamy Sauce & Grilled Zucchini

• Steak (Ribeye, Sirloin, or Strip) – The star of the show, bringing rich, savory flavor.
• Zucchini – Lightly charred for sweetness and a tender bite.
• Olive Oil – Helps achieve that perfect golden sear.
• Salt & Pepper – Enhances natural flavors.
• Garlic – Adds depth to both the steak seasoning and the sauce.
• Heavy Cream – Forms the luxurious base for the sauce.
• Fresh Herbs (Parsley, Thyme, or Chives) – Brighten and freshen the creamy sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds salty, nutty richness to the sauce.
• Cooked Grains (Rice, Farro, or Quinoa) – The hearty foundation for the bowl.

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How To Make the Grilled Steak Bowl with Creamy Sauce & Grilled Zucchini

Step 1: Season and Prep the Steak

Pat the steak dry with paper towels to ensure a perfect sear. Season generously with salt, pepper, and minced garlic, pressing the seasonings into the meat. Let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes.

Step 2: Grill the Zucchini

Slice zucchini lengthwise into thin strips. Brush lightly with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Grill over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side until tender and charred. Set aside.

Step 3: Sear the Steak

Heat a grill or cast-iron skillet over high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, then place the steak on the hot surface. Sear for 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust timing to your preferred doneness. Let the steak rest for 5–7 minutes before slicing.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt a tablespoon of butter. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream, then stir in grated Parmesan and fresh herbs. Simmer gently until thickened, about 3–5 minutes. Season to taste.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowl

Place a scoop of your cooked grains into each bowl. Layer grilled zucchini to one side, then arrange sliced steak over the grains. Drizzle generously with the creamy herb sauce. Serve immediately while warm.

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Serving and Storing the Grilled Steak Bowl with Creamy Sauce & Grilled Zucchini

Serve this bowl hot, right after assembling, so the sauce stays silky and the steak retains its juiciness. Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete dinner. If you’re hosting, serve the components buffet-style so everyone can build their own bowl.

To store leftovers, keep the steak, zucchini, grains, and sauce in separate airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat the steak gently in a skillet to avoid overcooking, and warm the sauce over low heat with a splash of cream to restore its texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when my steak is cooked to the right doneness?

Use a meat thermometer: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium. Always rest your steak before slicing.

Can I make this without a grill?

Absolutely. A cast-iron skillet works perfectly to achieve a similar char and flavor.

What can I use instead of heavy cream for the sauce?

Half-and-half or a mix of milk and Greek yogurt can work, though the sauce will be lighter and less rich.

Can I swap the zucchini for other vegetables?

Yes—asparagus, bell peppers, or mushrooms are all delicious grilled alternatives.

Can I make this ahead of time for meal prep?

Yes, but keep the sauce separate until ready to serve so it doesn’t soak into the grains.

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Want More Dinner Bowl Ideas?

If you love this Grilled Steak Bowl with Creamy Sauce & Grilled Zucchini, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Recipe for a spicy, tangy kick.
• Flavorful Mediterranean Steak Bowls if you’re craving bright, herby flavors.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan for a hearty pasta twist.
• Easy Chicken with Zucchini, Corn & Garlic Sauce for a lighter, veggie-packed option.
• Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce if you want bite-sized steak perfection.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try it with farro or quinoa? Did you swap in another veggie? I’d love to hear your variations.

Find even more recipes on my Pinterest Life with Nina where I share my daily creations.

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