If you’re seeking a show-stopping dinner that’s as easy as it is impressive, this Garlic Butter Steak Recipe is a true winner. Succulent ribeye steaks seared to perfection, bathed in a golden garlic butter, and finished with a fresh herb sprinkle—this dish transforms any night into a special occasion. Each bite is savory, juicy, and bursting with rich flavors, making it a favorite that’s both reliable and luxurious, whether you’re feeding a date, a crowd, or just treating yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Garlic Butter Steak Recipe calls for just a handful of simple, top-quality ingredients. Each one brings its own magic—layering deep flavors, enticing aromas, and irresistible color on your plate. Here’s what you’ll need and why you won’t want to skip a single piece.
- Boneless Ribeye Steaks (2, about 1 inch thick): Ribeye is marvelously marbled, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Just a touch helps achieve that iconic, crave-worthy steakhouse crust.
- Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper (to taste): The classic, can’t-skip duo that wakes up the steak’s natural flavor.
- Unsalted Butter (3 tablespoons): This is where the “butter” part shines—choose a good-quality brand for the richest flavor.
- Garlic Cloves (4, smashed): Smashed cloves infuse the butter with a mellow, aromatic punch without overwhelming the dish.
- Fresh Rosemary or Thyme (2 sprigs, optional): These herbs add a pop of color and a fragrant layer that feels restaurant-worthy.
- Chopped Fresh Parsley (1 tablespoon, garnish): Sprinkled on top, parsley gives a fresh finish and a beautiful, glossy green touch.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Recipe
Step 1: Bring the Steaks to Room Temperature
For steaks that cook evenly and stay juicy, let your ribeyes rest on the counter for about 30 minutes before cooking. This simple step pays off big time in texture and helps prevent that tough, gray ring around the outside of the steak. Give them a gentle pat dry with paper towels and season both sides liberally with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Steaks
Heat your trusty cast iron skillet over medium-high until it’s just shy of smoking, then pour in the olive oil. Carefully place the steaks into the hot pan—you should hear a sizzle right away. Let each side cook for 3–4 minutes for a beautiful, deep-brown crust. The key here is not to fuss—let the steak be, and only flip once.
Step 3: Add the Garlic Butter and Herbs
With the steak nearly done, lower the heat to medium and nestle the butter, smashed garlic cloves, and your optional rosemary or thyme into the skillet. As the butter melts, tilt the pan and use a spoon to baste the steaks with the garlicky, herby butter. This is when the smells will bring everyone running to the kitchen!
Step 4: Rest and Slice
Once your Garlic Butter Steak Recipe has reached your ideal doneness (130°F for medium-rare, if you’re using a thermometer), transfer the steaks to a cutting board. Give them a 5-minute rest—this lets all those delicious juices redistribute, keeping each bite tender. Then, slice against the grain for the absolute best texture.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Drizzle any extra garlic butter from the pan over your sliced steaks and shower everything with fresh parsley. The vibrant green not only makes the dish pop visually, but it adds a fresh, clean note that balances all that savory richness.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Recipe
Garnishes
A final sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley is my favorite, but you can get creative—a little extra cracked pepper, flakes of sea salt, or even thinly sliced chives are welcome. Serve with a few cloves of the roasted garlic from the skillet for a rustic, restaurant-quality feel.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Butter Steak Recipe sings best with a classic cast of sides. Think creamy mashed potatoes that soak up all that extra garlic butter, or crisp roasted vegetables that you can toss right into the skillet after the steak’s done. A simple green salad adds a fresh, crunchy contrast to all the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a bistro-style vibe, slice the steak and fan it out atop a bed of arugula tossed in lemon juice and olive oil. Or, serve it family-style on a platter with herb-roasted potatoes and rainbow carrots. For extra wow, pair with a dipping ramekin filled with any extra garlic butter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let the steak cool completely before storing. Place slices in an airtight container with a spoonful of the leftover garlic butter to keep everything moist and flavorful. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
This Garlic Butter Steak Recipe actually freezes pretty well! Slice the steak, wrap tightly in foil or plastic, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Don’t forget to spoon over a little butter and garlic before sealing. Freeze for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
For juicy results, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a dab of butter if needed to freshen things up. You can also reheat in the oven, covered with foil, at 300°F for about 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave to prevent the steak from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this Garlic Butter Steak Recipe?
Absolutely! While ribeye is especially tender and flavorful, you can use strip steak, sirloin, or filet mignon with great results. Adjust cooking times based on thickness and preference.
How do I know when my steak is done?
A meat thermometer is your best friend: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium. You can also use the finger test—medium-rare will be just slightly springy to the touch.
Is it necessary to let the steak rest after cooking?
Yes, resting is essential! This helps the juices redistribute through the meat, so every slice of your Garlic Butter Steak Recipe stays juicy rather than spilling out onto the cutting board.
Can I make this Garlic Butter Steak Recipe in advance?
You can prep and season the steaks ahead, but for peak flavor and texture, sear and baste them right before serving. Leftovers do reheat well, especially if you save some of the garlic butter.
What’s the best skillet to use?
A heavy cast iron skillet is ideal for this recipe, as it retains heat beautifully and creates that unbeatable steakhouse crust. If you don’t have cast iron, use the heaviest pan you own.
Final Thoughts
If you’re new to cast iron searing or just looking to up your steak game, this Garlic Butter Steak Recipe is the perfect place to start. I hope you give it a try—you may soon find yourself making it every week, just like I do!
Print
Garlic Butter Steak Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of this succulent Garlic Butter Steak recipe. Perfectly seared ribeye steaks bathed in a luxurious garlic herb butter, this dish is a true delight for steak lovers.
Ingredients
Steak:
- 2 boneless ribeye steaks (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Garlic Butter:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves (smashed)
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Steaks: Remove steaks from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking. Pat dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Steaks: Heat olive oil in a skillet. Sear steaks for 3–4 minutes per side.
- Add Garlic Butter: In the last 2 minutes, add butter, garlic, and herbs. Baste the steaks.
- Rest and Serve: Transfer steaks to a cutting board, let rest for 5 minutes, slice, and drizzle with garlic butter. Garnish with parsley.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate steaks in olive oil, garlic, and herbs.
- Use a meat thermometer for desired doneness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 steak
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 44g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
