If you’re craving a restaurant-quality steak that’s bursting with rich, savory flavor, nothing hits the spot quite like this Garlic Butter Steak Recipe. Perfectly seared ribeye steaks bathed in luscious garlic-infused butter create a culinary experience that feels both indulgent and comforting. With just a handful of simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe transforms an ordinary dinner into a special occasion, no matter the day of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient plays a vital role in crafting the perfect Garlic Butter Steak Recipe, from enhancing flavor to achieving great texture and an irresistible aroma. Don’t underestimate how these few essentials come together to make something truly memorable!
- Ribeye steaks (2, 1 to 1 1/2 inches thick): The marbled fat delivers juicy tenderness and rich flavor that steak lovers adore.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps achieve a beautiful, even sear without burning the meat.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Simple seasoning that elevates the natural taste of the beef.
- Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons): Adds creamy richness and carries the garlic and herbs’ flavor throughout the steak.
- Garlic cloves, smashed (4): Infuse the butter with an aromatic punch that’s irresistible.
- Fresh rosemary or thyme (2 sprigs, optional): Herbs brighten the flavor and enhance the butter’s complexity.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Steaks
Begin by taking your ribeye steaks out of the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking to let them come to room temperature—this ensures they cook evenly. Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to promote a good sear, then season generously on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy; seasoning is key to a flavorful crust.
Step 2: Heat the Pan and Sear the Steaks
Heat a heavy skillet, preferably cast iron, over high heat until the surface just begins to smoke. Add the olive oil and swirl to coat the pan. Carefully lay the steaks down, leaving them untouched for 3 to 4 minutes so they develop a deep, caramelized crust. This sear locks in all those delicious juices.
Step 3: Flip and Add Garlic Butter
Turn the steaks over, then add the butter, smashed garlic cloves, and fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs to the pan. Tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to continually baste the steaks with the melted garlic butter, spooning it over and around the meat. This technique infuses the steak with rich, garlicky flavor and keeps it moist as it finishes cooking.
Step 4: Cook to Desired Doneness
Continue basting and cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes until the steaks reach your preferred internal temperature—for medium-rare, aim for 130°F on a meat thermometer. Don’t rush; perfect timing means tender, juicy steak every time.
Step 5: Rest Before Serving
Remove the steaks from the pan and let them rest on a cutting board for 5 to 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute and ensures each bite is perfectly moist and flavorful.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Recipe
Garnishes
For a simple finishing touch, sprinkle the steak with freshly chopped parsley or a few flakes of sea salt. These garnishes add freshness and a slight crunch that contrasts beautifully with the buttery steak.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Butter Steak Recipe pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, creamy mashed potatoes, or a crisp, refreshing salad. The sides can balance the richness of the steak and round out your meal effortlessly.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress your guests, slice the rested steak against the grain and fan the slices on a stylish platter. Drizzle any leftover garlic butter from the pan over the top and garnish with the cooked garlic cloves and herbs for a rustic yet elegant presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover steak in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. Properly stored, the steak will keep well for up to 3 days without losing too much flavor or texture.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked steak, but to maintain the best quality, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe container. Frozen steak is best enjoyed within 2 months to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating
The key to reheating steak without drying it out is gentle heat. Warm slices slowly in a low oven or skillet with a splash of beef broth or water, covered, to keep it moist. Avoid microwaving as it often toughens the meat and diminishes the buttery garlic goodness.
FAQs
Can I use a meat other than ribeye for this Garlic Butter Steak Recipe?
Absolutely! New York strip or filet mignon are excellent alternatives that also benefit greatly from the garlic butter basting technique.
Do I really need fresh herbs, or can I skip them?
While fresh rosemary or thyme adds lovely aroma and subtle flavor complexity, the recipe still shines without them if you don’t have them on hand.
What’s the best way to check steak doneness?
A reliable meat thermometer is your best friend. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of about 130°F, then let the steak rest.
Can I prepare the garlic butter ahead of time?
You can melt the butter and infuse it with garlic and herbs ahead of time, but basting the steak while cooking gives the freshest, most intense flavor.
How important is the pan type for cooking this recipe?
Using a heavy skillet like cast iron really helps get that perfect sear and maintains steady heat, which is crucial for developing flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Steak Recipe is a true game-changer in the world of home cooking. Its luscious, garlicky butter combined with perfectly seared ribeye creates an experience that’s as satisfying as it is simple. Go ahead and treat yourself or your loved ones to this fantastic dish—you won’t be disappointed!
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Garlic Butter Steak Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Garlic Butter Steak recipe delivers a perfectly seared ribeye steak infused with savory garlic and fragrant herbs. Using a heavy skillet to create a golden crust, the steaks are basted with aromatic garlic butter for rich flavor and juicy tenderness. Ideal for a quick yet elegant main course that pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
Steak and Seasoning
- 2 ribeye steaks (1 to 1 1/2 inches thick)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Garlic Butter Basting
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, smashed
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Steaks: Remove the steaks from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature. Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
- Heat the Skillet: Place a heavy skillet, preferably cast iron, over high heat. Add the olive oil and heat until it just begins to smoke, indicating it’s hot enough for searing.
- Sear the Steaks: Carefully place the steaks in the hot skillet without moving them. Sear for 3 to 4 minutes to form a golden crust on one side.
- Flip and Add Butter and Aromatics: Turn the steaks over, then add the butter, smashed garlic, and fresh rosemary or thyme to the pan.
- Baste with Garlic Butter: Tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to continuously baste the steaks with the melted garlic butter for 2 to 3 minutes, while the steaks cook to your desired doneness (130°F for medium-rare recommended).
- Rest and Serve: Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest on a plate for 5 to 10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure precise doneness.
- This cooking method works well with other cuts like New York strip or filet mignon.
- Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
