Succulent Garlic Butter Steak
Highlighted under: Effortless Cooking Creations
When I think of a meal that can impress anyone at a dinner party, I always come back to this succulent garlic butter steak recipe. The rich flavors meld perfectly as the garlic infuses into the butter, creating a sauce that perfectly complements the juicy steak. With just a few simple ingredients and techniques, I can transform a basic cut of meat into an unforgettable dish that's bursting with flavor. Join me as I take you through this delightful recipe that has quickly become a favorite in our household.
Cooking this garlic butter steak not only fills the house with enticing aromas, but it’s also an adventure as I experiment with the perfect cooking durations. I learned that seasoning the steak right before cooking locks in moisture and allows it to develop a flavorful crust. This makes all the difference for achieving that delicious balance of tenderness and flavor.
The secret to the rich, buttery sauce I create at the end is all about adding the garlic and rosemary just at the right moment. This allows their fragrance to infuse into the butter without burning, giving the steak an extra touch that makes my tastebuds sing with each bite!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Bold garlic flavor that enhances the steak's natural juiciness
- Buttery sauce that drapes over each slice, adding richness
- Perfectly seared crust complemented by a tender inside
Choosing the Right Cut of Steak
Selecting the right cut of steak is crucial for this recipe. Ribeye is a fantastic choice due to its marbling, which enhances juiciness and flavor during cooking. If you want a leaner option, sirloin works well, but be aware that the tenderness and richness will differ. Whatever cut you choose, aim for steaks that are about 1 to 1.5 inches thick for the best results.
Allowing the steaks to come to room temperature is another important step. This process takes about 30 minutes and helps achieve a more even cook. Cold steaks can seize up when they hit a hot pan, leading to uneven doneness. Ensuring your meat is properly dried before seasoning is equally essential, as moisture can prevent a good sear.
Perfecting the Sear
The searing technique is vital for developing that beautiful golden crust. Start by using a heavy skillet that retains heat efficiently; cast iron or stainless steel pans are ideal. Preheat the pan until it's nearly smoking; this can take several minutes. The oil should shimmer but not smoke. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can drop the temperature and lead to steaming instead of searing.
It's tempting to move the steaks around the pan, but let them rest undisturbed for those critical 4-5 minutes. This forms a rich, flavorful crust. Use tongs to flip the steaks only once, ensuring they cook evenly. If the crust isn't developing, you might need to increase the heat slightly; a lack of sizzle is a sign that the pan may be too cool.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Succulent Garlic Butter Steak
- 2 ribeye steaks
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Cooking Instructions
Prepare the Steaks
Start by taking the ribeye steaks out of the refrigerator and letting them rest at room temperature for 30 minutes. This helps them cook more evenly. Once they are ready, pat them dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Sear the Steaks
In a heavy skillet over high heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the steaks and sear each side for 4-5 minutes for medium-rare, depending on thickness. Avoid moving them around to allow a nice crust to form.
Add Garlic and Butter
When the steaks are nearing your desired doneness, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter, smashed garlic, and rosemary to the skillet. Tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to baste the steaks with the melted garlic butter for about 2 minutes.
Rest and Serve
Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest on a cutting board for about 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Slice against the grain, drizzle with the garlic butter from the pan, and serve.
Pro Tips
- For an even more intense flavor, consider marinating your steaks overnight in a mixture of garlic, herbs, and olive oil.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3 days. To reheat the steak while keeping it juicy, consider using a skillet over low heat. Adding a splash of beef broth can help maintain moisture, and covering the pan will create steam that warms the meat without drying it out.
Freezing is another option. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag, where they can last up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy again, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently to preserve the flavor and tenderness.
Variations and Enhancements
Feel free to experiment with different herbs beyond rosemary. Thyme or oregano can impart a unique flavor profile. You can also incorporate a splash of balsamic vinegar or a spoonful of Dijon mustard into the garlic butter for an extra layer of complexity. Just remember to add these additional ingredients while you're basting to ensure they meld beautifully with the butter.
To elevate the dish further, consider serving your steak on a bed of sautéed mushrooms or beside creamy mashed potatoes. A fresh arugula salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette can provide a nice contrast to the richness of the butter sauce and the steak's flavor.
Questions About Recipes
→ What type of steak is best for this recipe?
Ribeye is recommended for its marbling and rich flavor, but you can also use sirloin or filet mignon.
→ Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, but use about one-third the amount of dried herbs as they are more concentrated in flavor.
→ How can I ensure my steak is cooked to the perfect doneness?
Using a meat thermometer can help you achieve your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, aim for 130°F (54°C).
→ What sides pair well with garlic butter steak?
Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad are great complements to this flavorful dish.
Succulent Garlic Butter Steak
When I think of a meal that can impress anyone at a dinner party, I always come back to this succulent garlic butter steak recipe. The rich flavors meld perfectly as the garlic infuses into the butter, creating a sauce that perfectly complements the juicy steak. With just a few simple ingredients and techniques, I can transform a basic cut of meat into an unforgettable dish that's bursting with flavor. Join me as I take you through this delightful recipe that has quickly become a favorite in our household.
Created by: Lina
Recipe Type: Effortless Cooking Creations
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: Serves 2
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Succulent Garlic Butter Steak
- 2 ribeye steaks
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
How-To Steps
Start by taking the ribeye steaks out of the refrigerator and letting them rest at room temperature for 30 minutes. This helps them cook more evenly. Once they are ready, pat them dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
In a heavy skillet over high heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the steaks and sear each side for 4-5 minutes for medium-rare, depending on thickness. Avoid moving them around to allow a nice crust to form.
When the steaks are nearing your desired doneness, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter, smashed garlic, and rosemary to the skillet. Tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to baste the steaks with the melted garlic butter for about 2 minutes.
Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest on a cutting board for about 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Slice against the grain, drizzle with the garlic butter from the pan, and serve.
Extra Tips
- For an even more intense flavor, consider marinating your steaks overnight in a mixture of garlic, herbs, and olive oil.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 620 kcal
- Total Fat: 48g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 0g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 56g