Elevate your cooking game with this beef steak recipe. Perfectly seasoned, seared, and infused with rich garlic butter, this steak promises to be the star of your dinner table. Whether hosting a weekend gathering or craving a luxurious solo meal, this recipe combines simple ingredients with precise techniques to create a tender, flavorful dish.
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What Makes This Juicy Garlic Butter Beef Steak Recipe Special?
A great steak relies on the right balance of texture, flavor, and seasonings. This recipe uses garlic butter to create an irresistible richness while keeping the beef tender and juicy. You’ll master key cooking techniques, from choosing the right cut to achieving the perfect sear, ensuring every bite melts in your mouth.
Ingredients for a Perfect Garlic Butter Beef Steak
Collecting the necessary ingredients beforehand helps ensure a seamless cooking process. Here’s everything you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Ribeye or Sirloin | 2 (8-10 oz) | Choose well-marbled cuts for tenderness and flavor. |
| Garlic Cloves | 4-6 cloves | Fresh, minced garlic enhances the rich, buttery taste. |
| Unsalted Butter | 4 tbsp | Adds creaminess and creates a flavorful basting sauce. |
| Olive Oil | 1 tbsp | Helps achieve the perfect sear without burning the butter. |
| Fresh Thyme or Rosemary | 2-3 sprigs | Aromatic herbs elevate the steak’s flavor profile. |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste | Use coarse sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper for depth. |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tbsp | Balances the richness of butter and enhances flavor. |
Optional Toppings
- Crumbled blue cheese for added indulgence.
- Sautéed mushrooms for an earthy contrast.
- Caramelized onions for a touch of sweetness.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking the Best Garlic Butter Beef Steak
Step 1: Selecting the Right Beef Cut
- Opt for cuts like ribeye, sirloin, or New York strip for marbling and tenderness.
- Thicker cuts (approximately 1 to 1.5 inches) help preserve juiciness while cooking.
Step 2: Preparing the Beef Steak
- Allow the steak to sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes after retrieving it from the fridge, ensuring it cooks evenly.
- Pat the steak dry with paper towels to help it form a crisp, golden crust.
- Coat both sides of the steak generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
Step 3: Preheating the Pan
- Heat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until smoking hot.
- for a small amount of olive oil into the pan to prevent the butter from burning and ensure a perfect sear.
Step 4: Searing the Steak
- Lay the steak in the pan and allow it to sear untouched for 2–3 minutes per side. This helps retain the juices and creates a crust.
- For even cooking, sear the sides by holding the steak upright with tongs.
Step 5: Adding Garlic Butter
- Reduce the heat to medium, then add the butter, chopped garlic, and fresh herbs to the pan.
- Carefully tilt the pan and use a spoon to repeatedly baste the steak with the melted butter mixture.
Step 6: Checking Doneness
- Check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer:
- Rare: 125°F
- Medium-rare: 135°F
- Medium: 145°F
- Medium-well: 155°F
Step 7: Resting the Steak
- Lift the steak from the pan and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute. Allowing the steak to rest helps redistribute the juices, making each bite tender.
Step 8: Serving the Steak
- Slice against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Drizzle the remaining garlic butter sauce over the steak for extra flavor.
Tips for the Juiciest Garlic Butter Steak
- Room Temperature Steak: Always start with room-temperature steak to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook one steak at a time to maintain the pan’s heat.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and garlic make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Prevent overcooking: by taking the steak off the heat just before it reaches your desired doneness; the residual heat will complete the cooking.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450-500 |
| Protein | 35-40g |
| Total Fat | 30-35g |
| Saturated Fat | 15-18g |
| Carbohydrates | 2-3g |
| Sodium | 600-800mg |
Pairing Your Steak: Side Dish Ideas
Complement your juicy garlic butter beef steak with these sides:
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Perfect for soaking up the garlic butter sauce.
- Steamed Asparagus: Adds a crunchy, fresh contrast to the rich steak.
- Garlic Butter Mushrooms: For a cohesive flavor profile.
- Caesar Salad: A refreshing option to balance the meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Beef Steak
- Skipping the Resting Period: Cutting the steak too early leads to loss of juices.
- Over-flipping the Steak: Flip only once to maintain the crust.
- Not Seasoning Enough: Don’t shy away from using ample salt and pepper.
FAQs
Which beef cut is ideal for this recipe?
- Ribeye is the top choice for its marbling and flavor, but sirloin and tenderloin work well too.
How do you make steak tender?
- Resting, basting with butter, and slicing against the grain contribute to tenderness.
Can I use salted butter?
- Yes, but reduce additional salt to avoid overpowering the flavor.
What’s the best pan for cooking steak?
- A cast-iron skillet provides even heat distribution and an excellent crust.
How do I store leftovers?
- Tightly wrap the steak in foil and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.
For more inspiration on beef recipes, visit SavorNest. You can also explore similar recipes on AllRecipes and SimplyRecipes.
Conclusion
This juicy garlic butter beef steak recipe isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience. The blend of tender beef, aromatic garlic, and creamy butter creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or just starting out, this recipe is simple and rewarding. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and prepare to impress your family and friends with a steakhouse-quality meal at home.