Steak & Cheese Toast Bites (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Crostini Base

01 - 1 sourdough baguette, cut into 1-inch slices
02 - 1 tablespoon neutral cooking oil (canola, avocado, or vegetable work well)
03 - 2 large garlic cloves for rubbing

→ For the Topping

04 - 1 pound hanger steak (or substitute flank, filet, ribeye)
05 - Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
06 - 1 tablespoon mushroom powder (optional but adds great flavor)
07 - 8 ounces fresh burrata cheese
08 - Fresh chives, finely chopped for garnish
09 - Balsamic vinegar for drizzling
10 - Flaky sea salt for finishing

# Instructions:

01 - Take your steak out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature. This helps it cook more evenly. Season generously with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and the mushroom powder if using.
02 - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the sourdough baguette into approximately 1/2-inch thick rounds - you should get about 20-24 slices total. Arrange them on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 6-8 minutes until just crisp but not too dark.
03 - While the bread is toasting, heat a cast iron skillet with a drizzle of oil until it's really hot - almost smoking. Add your steak and sear for about 2 minutes on each side for medium-rare. For the perfect finish, transfer the skillet to the oven for another 1-2 minutes until your desired doneness is reached.
04 - Remove the steak from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board for about 15 minutes. This crucial step lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat. After resting, thinly slice the steak against the grain.
05 - Once your bread slices are toasted, take a raw garlic clove and gently rub it across the surface of each toast. This gives a subtle but aromatic garlic flavor. Top each toast with a spoonful of creamy burrata, then add a slice or two of the steak.
06 - Garnish your crostini with a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh chives, a light dusting of flaky sea salt, a final crack of black pepper, and a delicate drizzle of balsamic vinegar. Serve immediately while still warm for the best experience!

# Notes:

01 - These elegant crostini make a stunning appetizer for parties but are hearty enough to enjoy as a light dinner.
02 - The combination of creamy burrata, savory steak, and tangy balsamic creates an irresistible flavor profile that will impress your guests.