Best Garlic Butter Steak Ever
Juicy and flavorful, the Best Garlic Butter Steak Ever is your go-to dish for any occasion. This recipe transforms ordinary steaks into a gourmet experience, combining the richness of garlic butter with perfectly seared meat. Whether you’re preparing dinner for a special event or treating yourself on a weeknight, this dish delivers unmatched flavor and tenderness that will impress everyone at your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up an impressive meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic and butter elevates the taste of the steak, making every bite deliciously rich.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for special occasions or casual dinners, this steak pairs well with various sides like vegetables or salads.
- Minimal Ingredients: You only need a few simple ingredients to create a mouthwatering dish that tastes gourmet.
- Customizable Cooking Levels: Easily adjust cooking times to achieve your preferred level of doneness.
Tools and Preparation
To make the Best Garlic Butter Steak Ever, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures that your cooking process is smooth and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Cast iron skillet
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer (optional)
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Cast iron skillet: Provides even heat distribution, ensuring a perfect sear on your steak.
- Tongs: Allow you to flip and handle steaks easily without piercing them, preserving juices.
- Meat thermometer (optional): Helps achieve exact doneness for those who prefer precise cooking.
Ingredients
For the Best Garlic Butter Steak Ever, gather the following ingredients:
For the Steak
- 2 ribeye or sirloin steaks (about 1-inch thick)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Garlic Butter
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, smashed
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or rosemary)
How to Make Best Garlic Butter Steak Ever
Step 1: Prepare the Steaks
- Pat steaks dry using paper towels. This helps achieve a better sear.
- Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Steaks
- Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over high heat until shimmering.
- Carefully place the seasoned steaks in the skillet. Sear for 3–4 minutes on one side until browned.
- Flip the steaks using tongs and sear for another 3–4 minutes for medium-rare. Adjust cooking time if you prefer different doneness.
Step 3: Add Garlic Butter
- Once cooked to your liking, add unsalted butter, smashed garlic cloves, and thyme to the skillet.
- Tilt the pan slightly so that melted butter pools on one side. Use a spoon to baste the steaks with this flavored butter.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
- Remove steaks from the skillet and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute.
- Slice against the grain and serve topped with extra garlic butter from the pan. Enjoy!
How to Serve Best Garlic Butter Steak Ever
Serving the Best Garlic Butter Steak Ever is all about enhancing its rich flavors and creating an appealing presentation. Here are some delicious serving suggestions that will elevate your dining experience.
With Fresh Salad
- A light, crisp salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the steak.
Over Garlic Mashed Potatoes
- Creamy garlic mashed potatoes offer comfort and blend beautifully with the steak’s buttery sauce.
Accompanied by Roasted Vegetables
- Seasonal roasted vegetables such as asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts provide a colorful and nutritious side.
On a Bed of Rice
- Fluffy jasmine or basmati rice absorbs the savory juices from the steak, making each bite satisfying.
Topped with Chimichurri Sauce
- A fresh chimichurri sauce adds a zesty twist that complements the garlic butter perfectly.
How to Perfect Best Garlic Butter Steak Ever
Cooking the Best Garlic Butter Steak Ever requires attention to detail for optimal flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your steak turns out perfect every time.
- Choose quality steaks: Opt for fresh ribeye or sirloin steaks; quality meat makes a significant difference in flavor.
- Let steaks rest: Allowing your steaks to rest after cooking helps retain juices, resulting in a more flavorful bite.
- Use high heat: Searing at high heat creates a delicious crust while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
- Monitor doneness carefully: Use a meat thermometer for accuracy; aim for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare to achieve perfect doneness.
- Don’t skip the garlic butter: The infusion of garlic flavor into melted butter elevates the overall taste of your steak significantly.
Best Side Dishes for Best Garlic Butter Steak Ever
Pairing side dishes with the Best Garlic Butter Steak Ever can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover garlic butter sauce.
- Creamed Spinach: This rich and creamy side complements the steak’s flavors beautifully while adding nutrition.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn can be grilled to perfection and brushed with herb butter for an extra touch.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and acidity that balances out the richness of the steak.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes contrasts nicely with savory steak flavors.
- Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad with herbs provides a healthy option that pairs well with beef dishes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Getting the best garlic butter steak ever requires attention to detail. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Not drying the steaks: Moisture on the surface can prevent a good sear. Always pat your steaks dry before seasoning.
- Using low heat: Cooking on low heat won’t give you a nice crust. Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the steaks.
- Skipping resting time: Cutting into the steak right after cooking can cause juices to escape. Let it rest for at least 5 minutes.
- Overcooking the steak: Use a meat thermometer to check doneness and avoid overcooking. Medium-rare is best for tenderness.
- Ignoring seasoning: Under-seasoned steak lacks flavor. Be generous with salt and pepper for a more delicious result.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover steak in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep any extra garlic butter in a separate small container.
Freezing Best Garlic Butter Steak Ever
- Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
- Frozen steak can last up to 3 months; label with date for reference.
Reheating Best Garlic Butter Steak Ever
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Place the steak on a baking sheet and cover with foil for even heating.
- Microwave: Use low power settings and cover with a microwave-safe lid to prevent drying out. Heat in short intervals, checking often.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of broth or water, and cover to steam gently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re curious about making the best garlic butter steak ever, here are some common questions:
What cuts of meat work best for this recipe?
Tender cuts like ribeye or sirloin are ideal for achieving that perfect sear and juicy texture.
Can I use other herbs instead of thyme?
Yes, rosemary or even parsley can be great alternatives that add their unique flavors.
How do I know when my steak is medium-rare?
A meat thermometer should read about 130°F (54°C) when your steak is medium-rare.
Can I make this recipe without butter?
You can substitute with olive oil or plant-based butter, but the flavor will vary slightly.
Final Thoughts
The best garlic butter steak ever is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different herbs or serve it alongside your favorite sides. Give this recipe a try for a meal that’s sure to impress!
Best Garlic Butter Steak Ever
Indulge in the Best Garlic Butter Steak Ever, a dish that effortlessly transforms everyday meals into gourmet experiences. This simple yet impressive recipe features juicy ribeye or sirloin steaks seared to perfection and enriched with a luscious garlic butter sauce. With a preparation time of just 15 minutes, this flavorful steak is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Each succulent bite bursts with rich, aromatic flavors, making it a surefire hit at your table.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 ribeye or sirloin steaks (about 1-inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, smashed
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or rosemary)
Instructions
- Pat the steaks dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over high heat until shimmering. Place the seasoned steaks in the skillet and sear for 3–4 minutes on one side until browned.
- Flip the steaks using tongs and sear for another 3–4 minutes for medium-rare, adjusting cooking time as desired.
- Add unsalted butter, smashed garlic cloves, and thyme to the skillet. Tilt the pan slightly so melted butter pools on one side, and baste the steaks with this flavored butter.
- Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for about 5 minutes before slicing against the grain. Serve topped with extra garlic butter.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 100mg