Homemade Steak Sauce Recipe (Peter Luger Sauce)

This homemade steak sauce—inspired by the famous Peter Luger sauce—goes ah-mazing on your favorite Peter Luger-style steaks. Yes, it's true that a great steak doesn't need sauce. But after you've tried this steak sauce, you may have to change your mind.

We love this high-end steak sauce because of its bold, savory, and tangy flavors, which come together to make a rich and well-balanced flavor.

We're inspired by the renowned Peter Luger's sauce here, and our twist uses ingredients like Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce for a nice umami and tang.

The horseradish and hot sauce adds a subtle heat, while the brown sugar lends a hint of sweetness.

You can put this sauce on all kinds of steaks, from smoked filet mignon to smoked New York Strip and smoked tri-tip.

How To Make Homemade Steak Sauce (Peter Luger Style)

Ok, we've got a fair amount of ingredients here, we can't lie. But they all work so perfectly together, that it's worth the effort. 

Feel free to only go to the effort to make this Peter Luger steak sauce recipe on special "steak night" dates or other special occasions. 

The Ingredients

• Ketchup (1/2 cup). Adds a tangy, sweet tomato base to the sauce.
• Dijon mustard (1/2 cup). Provides a sharp, pungent kick and creaminess.
• Worcestershire sauce (1/4 cup). Contributes a savory, umami depth with a touch of acidity.
• Soy sauce (1/4 cup). Enhances the sauce with umami and salty flavors.
• Apple cider vinegar (1/4 cup). Imparts a fruity acidity for balance.
• Brown sugar (1/4 cup). Lends a rich, molasses-like sweetness.
• Prepared horseradish (1/4 cup). Delivers a spicy, earthy heat.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced). Infuses the sauce with an aromatic and slightly pungent flavor.
• White onion (1, minced). Contributes a subtle sweetness and a mild, savory backbone.
• Hot sauce (1 tsp). Introduces an additional layer of spicy heat.
• Black pepper (1 tsp). Offers a warm, slightly biting spice.
• Paprika (1 tsp). Imparts a mild, smoky sweetness to the sauce.
• Salt (to taste). Enhances and balances the flavors of the sauce.
• Olive oil (2 tbsp). Provides a smooth, silky texture and a hint of fruity, peppery notes.

The Directions

1. Heat the olive oil over low-medium heat in a medium-sized saucepan. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

2. Stir in the ketchup, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Mix well until smooth and combined.

3. Add the prepared horseradish, hot sauce, black pepper, paprika, and salt to the saucepan. Stir to combine.

4. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help thicken the sauce.

5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature. Serve with some yummy steak and ENJOY!

Storage Tips

• Transfer the sauce to a glass jar or bottle with a tight-fitting lid. You can store the sauce in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Recommended Tools

• Mason Jars. Store your leftovers in one of these jars, either a 12-ounce jar or a 1-pint jar.
• Small Glass Bowls. If you're like me and like to lay out all of your ingredients in front of you, these small glass bowls are great for staying organized when you're cooking.