If you’re craving a steak dinner that feels both indulgent and surprisingly easy to prepare, this Pan-Seared Steak with Garlic Butter Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Imagine a perfectly seared ribeye with that beautiful crust and juicy center, topped with rich, fragrant garlic butter that melts into every bite. It blends simplicity and elegance effortlessly, making your kitchen smell like a gourmet steakhouse without the fuss. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a special occasion, this recipe proves you don’t need complicated steps or fancy ingredients to impress your taste buds and guests alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on straightforward ingredients that pack a punch in flavor and texture. Each component plays a crucial role—from the juicy ribeye steak providing rich marbling, to fresh herbs adding brightness, and garlic butter tying everything together with creamy depth.
- Ribeye steaks (or your favorite cut): Choose well-marbled steaks for unbeatable tenderness and flavor.
- Olive oil: Helps create a beautiful sear while adding subtle fruity notes.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural beef flavor.
- Unsalted butter: The base of the luscious garlic butter that will elevate the steak.
- Garlic, minced: Infuses the butter with aromatic richness that complements the meat perfectly.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a fresh, vibrant pop of color and light herbal flavor.
- Fresh thyme, chopped (optional): Provides an earthy, slightly floral touch to balance the richness.
How to Make Pan-Seared Steak with Garlic Butter Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Skillet
Start by heating a heavy skillet over medium-high heat until it’s nice and hot. This step is crucial because a hot pan gives you that perfect sear, locking in juices and developing a beautiful crust on the steak.
Step 2: Season the Steaks Generously
While your skillet is heating, pat your steaks dry with paper towels so they sear properly, then season both sides liberally with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy here—seasoning is where much of the flavor starts.
Step 3: Sear the Steaks in Olive Oil
Pour olive oil into your hot skillet and carefully place the steaks down. You should hear a satisfying sizzle immediately. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side, depending on thickness and preferred doneness. Remember, resist the urge to move them around—let that crust develop.
Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Butter
While the steaks are cooking, melt unsalted butter over low heat in a small pan. Add the minced garlic and let it cook gently for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. This step builds that luscious flavor which will elevate your steak to restaurant-quality.
Step 5: Let the Steak Rest
Once seared, transfer the steaks to a plate and allow them to rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period lets the juices redistribute, making each bite juicy and tender instead of dry.
Step 6: Drizzle with Garlic Butter and Add Herbs
Drizzle the garlic butter generously over the rested steaks. Sprinkle chopped parsley and, if using, fresh thyme on top. This not only adds bright color but also layers in fresh herbal flavors that cut through the richness.
Step 7: Serve Immediately and Enjoy
Your Pan-Seared Steak with Garlic Butter Recipe is ready to be enjoyed hot and fresh—get your favorite sides ready and prepare for a mouthwatering meal delight!
How to Serve Pan-Seared Steak with Garlic Butter Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley and thyme add a lovely touch of color and brightness, but you can also toss on a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a twist of freshly cracked black pepper just before serving to enhance the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This rich steak pairs beautifully with classic sides like buttery mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. A simple pan sauce or sautéed mushrooms also complement the garlic butter perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special dinner, slice the steak thinly across the grain and fan the pieces on a platter, drizzling extra garlic butter over the top. Serve alongside edible flowers or microgreens to add an elegant visual touch that impresses guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover steak tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator and enjoy within 3 days for the best taste and texture.
Freezing
If you want to save your leftovers for longer, wrap the steak securely in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw slowly in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To keep your steak juicy when reheating, warm it gently in a low oven or skillet with a splash of beef broth or water, covered with foil. Avoid microwave reheating as it can make the meat tough and dry.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While ribeye shines here due to its marbling, cuts like sirloin, strip steak, or filet mignon can also work wonderfully with this Pan-Seared Steak with Garlic Butter Recipe.
How do I know when my steak is done?
Use a meat thermometer for best results: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, and adjust accordingly. Also, learn the touch test to gauge doneness by feel if you want to get fancy.
Why should I rest the steak after cooking?
Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat instead of spilling out when cut, resulting in a juicier, more tender steak.
Is the garlic butter necessary?
While the steak is delicious on its own, the garlic butter adds a layer of richness and aromatic depth that truly elevates the dish. It’s a game-changer you won’t want to skip!
Can I make the garlic butter ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter a few hours in advance and keep it warm on the stove, or gently reheat just before drizzling over the steak.
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Pan-Seared Steak with Garlic Butter Recipe will quickly become one of your favorite kitchen wins. It takes humble ingredients and transforms them into a luxurious, restaurant-worthy dish that’s perfect any day of the week. Dive in, savor every bite, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself making it again and again!
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Pan-Seared Steak with Garlic Butter Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
A simple and delicious recipe for pan-seared ribeye steaks topped with flavorful garlic butter and fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick yet elegant meal that highlights the rich taste of a well-cooked steak with a buttery, garlicky finish.
Ingredients
Steaks
- 2 ribeye steaks (or your favorite cut)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Garlic Butter Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the skillet: Place a skillet over medium-high heat and allow it to warm up thoroughly to ensure a perfect sear on your steak.
- Season the steaks: Generously season both sides of the ribeye steaks with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the natural flavors of the meat.
- Sear the steaks: Add olive oil to the hot skillet and once shimmering, carefully place the steaks in the pan. Cook each side for 4–5 minutes or until your desired level of doneness is reached, flipping once to form a rich, browned crust.
- Prepare garlic butter: While the steaks are cooking, melt the butter in a small pan over low heat. Add the minced garlic and gently cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Rest the steaks: Remove the steaks from the skillet and transfer to a plate. Let them rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute and ensure a tender, juicy steak.
- Serve with garlic butter and herbs: Drizzle the warm garlic butter over the rested steaks and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and thyme for added freshness and aroma.
- Enjoy: Serve the steaks hot alongside your favorite sides for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- Allowing the steaks to rest after cooking is essential for juicy results.
- Adjust cooking times according to steak thickness and preferred doneness.
- Fresh herbs like thyme are optional but add great flavor.
- Use a heavy skillet such as cast iron for best searing results.
- Make sure garlic does not brown too much to avoid bitterness in the butter.
