Treat yourself to restaurant-quality steak right at home with this Pan-Seared Garlic Butter Steak, where simplicity meets bold, irresistible flavor. Perfectly seared to lock in juicy tenderness, each steak is bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce that infuses every bite with rich, savory goodness. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or craving a satisfying dinner, this recipe delivers a mouthwatering experience that’s quick, easy, and utterly delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Perfectly Seared Steak: Crispy, caramelized crust with a juicy, tender center every time.
Garlic Butter Bliss: A rich, aromatic sauce that elevates the steak to gourmet status.
Quick & Simple: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal ingredients and fuss.
Versatile & Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for date nights, family dinners, or impressing guests.
Pair It Your Way: Complements everything from roasted veggies to creamy mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
Creating a mouthwatering Pan-Seared Garlic Butter Steak starts with the right ingredients.
Here’s what you’ll need:
Ribeye Steaks: These are the stars of the show. Their marbling ensures a juicy, flavorful bite. Look for steaks that are about 1 inch thick for the best results.
Salt and Black Pepper: Simple yet essential. These seasonings enhance the natural flavors of the steak. Don’t be shy—season generously!
Olive Oil: This helps create a beautiful sear. Use a good quality oil that can withstand high heat.
Unsalted Butter: The secret to that rich, buttery flavor. It adds a luxurious touch to the dish.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves, smashed, infuse the steak with aromatic goodness. It’s a must for that classic garlic butter flavor.
Fresh Herbs: Optional, but I love adding rosemary or thyme. They bring an earthy aroma that complements the steak beautifully.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing.
With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to a steak that’s not just a meal, but a celebration of flavor!
How to Make Pan-Seared Garlic Butter Steak
Cooking a Pan-Seared Garlic Butter Steak is a straightforward process that yields delicious results.
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be savoring a steakhouse-quality meal in no time!
Step 1: Season the Steaks
Start by generously seasoning both sides of your ribeye steaks with salt and black pepper.
Don’t hold back; this is where the flavor begins!
Let the seasoned steaks sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
This step allows the meat to relax and ensures even cooking.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
Next, grab a large skillet and heat it over medium-high heat.
Add a splash of olive oil and wait until it’s hot and shimmering.
You want that oil to be almost smoking before adding the steaks.
This high heat is crucial for achieving that perfect sear.
Step 3: Cook the Steaks
Once the skillet is ready, carefully place the steaks in the pan.
Let them cook undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes.
This allows a beautiful crust to form on one side.
When it’s time to flip, add the unsalted butter, smashed garlic, and fresh herbs to the pan.
The butter will melt and mingle with the garlic, creating a heavenly aroma.
Step 4: Baste for Flavor
Now comes the fun part—basting!
Using a spoon, scoop up the melted butter and drizzle it over the steaks.
Do this for about 3-4 minutes for medium-rare.
For accuracy, use a meat thermometer; aim for 130°F.
This step infuses the steak with rich flavor and keeps it juicy.
Step 5: Rest and Slice
Once cooked to your liking, remove the steaks from the skillet.
Let them rest on a cutting board for at least 5 minutes.
This resting period is essential; it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
Finally, slice the steaks against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Drizzle the garlic butter from the pan over the slices, and you’re ready to enjoy!
Tips for Success
Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness; it takes the guesswork out of cooking.
Let your steaks rest after cooking; this keeps them juicy and flavorful.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook one or two steaks at a time for the best sear.
Experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano for unique flavor profiles.
Pair with a good red wine to elevate your dining experience.
Equipment Needed
Large Skillet: A cast-iron skillet is ideal for even heat distribution, but any heavy-bottomed skillet will work.
Meat Thermometer: Essential for checking doneness; a simple instant-read thermometer does the trick.
Spoon: Use a regular spoon for basting the steaks with melted butter.
Cutting Board: A sturdy board is necessary for resting and slicing the steaks.
Variations
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning for a bit of heat.
Herb-Infused Butter: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or chives with the butter for a fresh twist.
Garlic Lovers: Increase the garlic to 6 cloves for an extra punch of flavor.
Low-Carb Option: Serve with sautéed spinach or zucchini noodles instead of traditional sides.
Marinated Steaks: Marinate the ribeye in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for an Asian-inspired flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Roasted Vegetables: Pair your steak with a medley of roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, and potatoes for a colorful plate.
Fresh Salad: A crisp arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the steak.
Wine Pairing: Enjoy with a bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon to enhance the flavors.
Presentation: Serve on a wooden board, drizzled with garlic butter, and garnish with fresh herbs for a rustic touch.
FAQs about Pan-Seared Garlic Butter Steak
What is the best cut of steak for pan-searing?
Ribeye steaks are my favorite for this recipe. Their marbling ensures a juicy, flavorful bite. However, you can also use sirloin or filet mignon if you prefer a leaner option.
How do I know when my steak is done?
The best way to check doneness is with a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for 130°F. Remember, the steak will continue to cook slightly while resting.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
While fresh garlic gives the best flavor, you can use garlic powder in a pinch. Just sprinkle it on the steaks before cooking, but be cautious with the amount.
What should I serve with my Pan-Seared Garlic Butter Steak?
Roasted vegetables or a fresh salad are excellent choices. They balance the richness of the steak and add a pop of color to your plate.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the steaks by seasoning them in advance. Just cook them right before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
Cooking a Pan-Seared Garlic Butter Steak is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a moment.
The sizzle of the steak, the aroma of garlic wafting through your kitchen, and the anticipation of that first bite all come together to form a delightful experience.
This recipe is a celebration of flavor and simplicity, perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing guests, this dish never fails to deliver.
So, roll up your sleeves, grab those ingredients, and let the magic of garlic butter transform your steak into something truly special!
A delicious and flavorful pan-seared garlic butter steak recipe that is perfect for steak lovers.
Ingredients
Scale
2 ribeye steaks (about 1 inch thick, 12–16 ounces each)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, smashed
2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
Instructions
Season the steaks generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. Let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully place the steaks in the skillet.
Cook the steaks for about 4-5 minutes on one side without moving them, until a nice crust forms. Flip the steaks and add the butter, smashed garlic, and herbs to the pan.
Baste the steaks with the melted butter using a spoon for about 3-4 minutes for medium-rare, or until they reach your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy (130°F for medium-rare).
Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest on a cutting board for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute.
Slice the steaks against the grain and serve with the garlic butter drizzled on top.
Notes
For a smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the seasoning mix before cooking.
Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to complement the richness of the steak.
