If you have ever dreamed of mastering the perfect juicy, flavorful steak at home, this Garlic Butter Steak Recipe is an absolute game-changer. It brings together the rich succulence of a ribeye steak with the irresistible aroma of garlic-infused butter, creating a dish that feels indulgent yet surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether you’re impressing guests or just treating yourself, this recipe promises tender, mouthwatering results every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of straightforward ingredients, this Garlic Butter Steak Recipe lets the natural flavors shine through. Each item plays a crucial role in building layers of taste, texture, and visual appeal that will make your steak dinner truly unforgettable.
- 2 ribeye steaks (1 to 1 1/2 inches thick): Choose well-marbled steaks for maximum juiciness and flavor.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Creates a beautifully seared crust thanks to its high smoke point.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and highlighting the steak’s natural flavors.
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds a luscious richness and helps carry the garlic and herb flavors.
- 4 garlic cloves, smashed: Infuses the butter with that signature bold, aromatic flavor.
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme (optional): Fresh herbs elevate the dish with an earthy, fragrant note.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Steaks
Start by removing your ribeye steaks from the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature. This step is key for even cooking. Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels—moisture is the enemy of a good sear. Then, season both sides generously with salt and black pepper to enhance the natural beefy flavor.
Step 2: Heat Your Pan
Place a heavy skillet on your stove—cast iron is the gold standard here—and heat olive oil over high heat until it’s almost smoking. This intense heat is what gives your steak that irresistible crust. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan if cooking more than two steaks at once.
Step 3: Sear the Steaks
Carefully lay your steaks into the hot pan without moving them. Allow them to sear for 3 to 4 minutes on one side, forming that deep golden crust. Then flip the steaks over to sear the other side for about 2 minutes before you begin adding the finishing touches.
Step 4: Add Butter, Garlic, and Herbs
Now the magic begins. Drop in your butter, smashed garlic cloves, and fresh herbs into the pan. As the butter melts, tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to baste the steaks repeatedly with the garlicky, herb-infused butter. This generous basting infuses incredible flavor and helps reach that perfect medium-rare doneness of 130°F (54°C) after 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
After cooking, transfer your steaks to a plate and let them rest for 5 to 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender. Then slice against the grain and get ready to dig in!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Recipe
Garnishes
A sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme on top adds a beautiful touch of color and complements the aromatic garlic butter perfectly. You can also sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt right before serving to add a subtle crunch and pop of flavor.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Butter Steak Recipe pairs wonderfully with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the butter, roasted seasonal vegetables for a burst of color, or a crisp mixed green salad to balance the richness. Choose what suits your mood, but definitely serve something that complements the steak’s richness.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress the crowd, present the sliced steak artfully fanned out on a wooden board drizzled with garlic butter sauce. You could also serve individual portions atop a bed of garlic herb mashed potatoes, garnished with microgreens or finely chopped parsley for freshness and visual appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover steak, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days, making for an easy next-day meal or protein-packed addition to a salad or sandwich.
Freezing
While fresh is best, you can freeze cooked steak wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed inside a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat your steak slowly in a covered skillet over low heat, spooning some additional butter or drippings over it to keep it moist. Avoid microwaving, which tends to dry out the meat and diminish its wonderful texture.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of steak for this Garlic Butter Steak Recipe?
Absolutely! While ribeye is prized for its marbling and flavor, this method works wonderfully with New York strip, filet mignon, or even sirloin. Just adjust cooking times slightly based on thickness.
What’s the best way to achieve medium-rare doneness?
Using a meat thermometer is your best bet. Aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C) before resting. The temperature will rise a few degrees during resting to perfect doneness.
Can I skip the herbs if I don’t have them on hand?
Your steak will still be delicious without the rosemary or thyme. Herbs add a lovely aromatic dimension, but the garlic butter alone is absolutely satisfying on its own.
Is it important to let the steak rest after cooking?
Yes! Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making every bite tender and juicy instead of dry or tough.
What sides are quick and easy to serve with this steak?
A simple green salad, steamed asparagus, or even garlic bread can round out your meal beautifully without much extra effort.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Steak Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines simplicity with gourmet flavor. With just a few essential ingredients and straightforward steps, you can transform a humble ribeye into a restaurant-worthy delight that your family or friends will rave about. So go ahead, fire up your skillet, and treat yourself to this luscious steak experience!
Print
Garlic Butter Steak Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Garlic Butter Steak recipe features perfectly seared ribeye steaks cooked in a hot cast iron skillet and basted with flavorful garlic butter and fresh herbs. It’s a simple yet elegant main course ideal for steak lovers seeking a rich, tender, and juicy steak dinner with minimal prep and cook time. Served best with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, this dish balances robust flavors and classic cooking techniques.
Ingredients
Steak and Seasoning
- 2 ribeye steaks (1 to 1 1/2 inches thick)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Garlic Butter Basting
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, smashed
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Steaks: Remove the ribeye steaks from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature. Pat both sides dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season generously on both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Heat the Skillet: Place a heavy skillet, preferably cast iron, over high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Heat until the oil is just smoking, which indicates the pan is hot enough to sear the steaks properly.
- Sear the Steaks: Carefully add the steaks to the hot skillet, being sure not to move them around. Sear the first side for 3 to 4 minutes to develop a rich, brown crust.
- Flip and Add Butter and Aromatics: Flip the steaks and immediately add the unsalted butter, smashed garlic cloves, and fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs to the pan.
- Baste the Steaks: Tilt the pan slightly so the melted butter collects on one side. Using a spoon, continuously baste the steaks with the garlic butter mixture for 2 to 3 minutes, helping them cook evenly and absorb the aromatic flavors. Aim for a medium-rare temperature of 130°F (54°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove the steaks from the pan and let them rest on a plate for 5 to 10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer for best and accurate results to avoid overcooking.
- This cooking method also works perfectly with New York strip or filet mignon steaks.
- Pair the steak with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a crisp fresh salad for a complete meal.
