Description
This Perfect Pan-Seared Steak with Garlic Butter recipe delivers a juicy, flavorful steak with a crispy, caramelized crust and rich garlic herb butter. Using a cast-iron skillet, the ribeye or New York strip steaks are seared to medium-rare perfection, then basted with melted butter, fresh garlic, and thyme for a restaurant-quality meal you can make at home.
Ingredients
Scale
Steak and Seasoning
- 2 ribeye or New York strip steaks (about 1 1/4 inches thick)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Cooking and Basting
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, smashed
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary
Instructions
- Prepare the Steaks: Pat the steaks dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove any moisture, then let them rest at room temperature for 30 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Season the Steaks: Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper to enhance the natural flavors.
- Heat the Skillet: Place a large cast-iron skillet over high heat and add the olive oil. Heat until the oil is shimmering and very hot, indicating it’s ready for searing.
- Sear the First Side: Place the steaks in the hot skillet without moving them. Sear for 3 to 4 minutes until a deep, golden-brown crust forms.
- Flip and Sear the Second Side: Flip the steaks and sear for an additional 3 minutes on the other side to develop an even crust.
- Add Butter and Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium, add the butter, smashed garlic cloves, and fresh thyme or rosemary to the skillet.
- Baste with Garlic Butter: Tilt the pan slightly and continuously spoon the melted garlic butter over the steaks for 1 to 2 minutes to infuse flavor and keep the steaks moist.
- Check Doneness: For medium-rare, cook until the internal temperature reaches 130°F; adjust cooking time for your preferred doneness level.
- Rest the Steaks: Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for 5 to 10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For enhanced flavor, finish the steaks with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt just before serving.
- Serve with sides like roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
