Garlic Butter Steak Recipe

If you have been dreaming of a steak that delivers rich, buttery flavor with a savory garlic punch, then this Garlic Butter Steak Recipe is your new go-to. It’s everything you love about a perfectly cooked NY Strip steak, enhanced with an aromatic blend of fresh herbs and decadent melted butter. Whether it’s a weekday treat or a weekend celebration, this recipe brings restaurant-quality taste right to your kitchen, with just a handful of straightforward ingredients and some simple steps that anyone can follow. Trust me, once you make this Garlic Butter Steak Recipe, it will become a staple that you rave about to your friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is key to nailing the perfect balance of flavors and textures in this dish. Each component plays a crucial role, from seasoning the steak to infusing the butter with aromatic goodness that makes every bite unforgettable.

• 2 NY Strip Steaks (1” thick, 1 pound each): Choose good-quality steaks with nice marbling for tender, juicy results.
• 4 teaspoons sea salt flakes (divided): Coarse salt flakes add texture and help bring out the steak’s natural flavors.
• 2 teaspoons coarse black pepper: Freshly cracked pepper adds a subtle heat to balance the richness.
• ½ cup unsalted butter (4 ounces): The star of the show, butter coats the steak with creamy richness and allows the herbs and garlic to shine.
• 8 garlic cloves (crushed): Crushed garlic provides a sweet, mellow punch that infuses the butter beautifully.
• 1 shallot (chopped): Adds a hint of mild onion flavor that complements the garlic and herbs perfectly.
• 4 sprigs fresh thyme: This herb contributes an earthy, slightly floral aroma that elevates the dish.
• 4 sprigs fresh rosemary: Rosemary’s piney fragrance pairs beautifully with steak, making every bite fragrant.

How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Recipe

Step 1: Season the Steaks

Start by placing your NY Strip steaks in a small baking dish and sprinkling each one with 1 teaspoon of sea salt flakes. This initial seasoning step isn’t just about taste; it helps tenderize the meat and draws out moisture for a more concentrated beefy flavor. Let the steaks rest while you prepare the garlic butter.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter

Heat a pan over medium heat and melt the unsalted butter gently. Once melted, add the crushed garlic cloves, chopped shallot, fresh thyme and rosemary sprigs, the remaining 2 teaspoons of sea salt, and coarse black pepper. Cook this mixture for about 4 minutes so that the butter absorbs all those wonderful flavors, creating a rich and aromatic base for your steaks.

Step 3: Marinate the Steaks

After your garlic butter is perfectly infused, pour it evenly over the steaks, allowing it to coat every surface. Let the steaks rest for around 1 hour. During this time, the butter will start to solidify on the meat, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate—this is what turns a simple steak into a flavor-packed culinary delight.

Step 4: Heat the Skillet

A high heat is essential for that irresistible crust on your steak. Preheat a cast iron or large skillet over high heat until it’s smoking hot. This high temperature ensures the Maillard reaction happens quickly, sealing in juices and flavor for a steak that’s beautifully charred yet tender inside.

Step 5: Prepare for Searing

Remove the steaks from the butter marinade carefully. Make sure enough garlic butter remains on the surface of each steak to aid in searing and to add layers of rich flavor as you cook.

Step 6: Sear the Steaks

Place the steaks in the hot skillet, searing one side for about 2 minutes until a golden crust forms. Flip them over and sear the other side for 1 minute. Then move the steaks to the top half of the pan and tilt it slightly to let the melted butter pool on one side, preparing for the basting step.

Step 7: Baste the Steaks

Using a spoon, continuously baste the steaks with the hot garlic butter for 2 to 3 minutes. This constant basting bastes the meat with flavor while also helping it cook evenly. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer and remove the steaks when they are about 5ºF below your desired doneness. This helps achieve the perfect medium-rare, medium, or well-done steak after resting.

Step 8: Finish with Herbs and Butter

Transfer the steaks to a serving plate and top each with a fresh sprig of rosemary and thyme. Pour any remaining garlic butter from the skillet over the steaks, enhancing both presentation and flavor.

Step 9: Rest and Serve

Let the steaks rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a steak that is juicy and tender. Slice against the grain for maximum tenderness, then serve immediately to enjoy the full flavor of your Garlic Butter Steak Recipe.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs such as rosemary and thyme not only add aroma but also make your plate look gorgeous. A light sprinkle of sea salt flakes right before serving can provide a subtle crunch and enhance the seasoning. A drizzle of leftover garlic butter over the sliced steak amps up the indulgence, creating melt-in-your-mouth bites.

Side Dishes

This steak pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider creamy mashed potatoes that soak up every bit of the delicious butter or roasted vegetables that add color and a touch of sweetness. For something lighter, a crisp arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the steak.

Creative Ways to Present

Serving your Garlic Butter Steak Recipe on a wooden cutting board gives a rustic and inviting look, perfect for a casual dinner with friends. For a more elegant feel, arrange the sliced steak fanned out on a white plate with fresh herb sprigs and a side ramekin of extra garlic butter. Don’t forget to add colorful vegetable sides to brighten the plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Garlic Butter Steak, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Store it in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days for best flavor and safety.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked steak, but it’s best to slice it first for easier reheating. Wrap the slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. The steak will keep well for up to 2 months without losing too much flavor or texture.

Reheating

The best way to reheat your Garlic Butter Steak is gently on the stovetop. Use a low heat setting and cover the pan partially to keep the steak moist while warming it through. Alternatively, reheating in the oven wrapped in foil at 250ºF until warm works well. Avoid the microwave as it can cook the steak unevenly and dry it out.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?

Absolutely! While NY Strip is ideal for its balance of tenderness and flavor, ribeye, filet mignon, or sirloin can also work wonderfully with this Garlic Butter Steak Recipe. Just keep in mind the cooking times may vary slightly based on thickness and fat content.

How do I know when my steak is cooked to the right doneness?

The most reliable way is to use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for 130ºF internal temperature; for medium, 140ºF; and for well-done, 160ºF. Remember to remove the steak from heat when it is about 5ºF below target, as it will continue to cook while resting.

Can I prepare the garlic butter in advance?

Yes, you can make the garlic butter mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just warm it gently before pouring over the steaks for marinating. This step can save you some prep time on the day you cook.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs on hand?

Dried herbs can be used in a pinch, but fresh rosemary and thyme really elevate the dish with their bright, natural flavors. If using dried, reduce the amount by half to avoid overpowering the butter.

Is this recipe suitable for beginners?

Definitely! The Garlic Butter Steak Recipe is straightforward with easy-to-follow steps and simple ingredients. Even if you’re new to cooking steak, following the method here guarantees delicious results with that restaurant-quality feel.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about a steak bathed in garlicky, buttery goodness with fresh herbs adding that extra burst of flavor. This Garlic Butter Steak Recipe is an absolute winner for anyone craving a satisfying and impressive meal with minimal fuss. I encourage you to give it a try, enjoy the process, and most importantly, savor every juicy, buttery bite. Your taste buds will thank you!

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