This Garlic Butter Steak Bliss is a simple yet incredibly flavorful steak dinner featuring juicy, perfectly seared steak finished with rich garlic herb butter. The outside develops a beautiful golden crust while the inside stays tender and succulent. Best of all, it comes together in one skillet in just minutes.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless ribeye, strip, or sirloin steaks, about 1 inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, smashed
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika, optional
Instructions
1. Prepare the Steaks
Remove the steaks from the refrigerator about 20–30 minutes before cooking.
Pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and paprika if using.
2. Heat the Skillet
Place a heavy skillet, preferably cast iron, over medium-high to high heat.
Allow the pan to become very hot before adding the oil.
Add the olive oil and swirl to coat the bottom.
3. Sear the Steaks
Carefully place the steaks in the hot skillet.
Sear without moving them for approximately 3–4 minutes, until a deep golden-brown crust develops.
Flip the steaks and cook for another 2–4 minutes, depending on thickness and desired doneness.
4. Add the Garlic Butter
Reduce the heat to medium-low.
Add the butter, smashed garlic, rosemary, and thyme to the skillet.
As the butter melts, tilt the skillet slightly and repeatedly spoon the hot garlic butter over the steaks.
Continue basting for about 1–2 minutes, or until the steaks reach your preferred internal temperature.
For guidance:
- Rare: 120–125°F (49–52°C)
- Medium-rare: 130–135°F (54–57°C)
- Medium: 140–145°F (60–63°C)
- Medium-well: 150–155°F (66–68°C)
- Well-done: 160°F+ (71°C+)
For food safety, USDA guidance recommends cooking whole cuts of beef to at least 145°F (63°C) followed by a 3-minute rest.
5. Rest the Steaks
Transfer the steaks to a cutting board or plate.
Let them rest for approximately 5–10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
Spoon some of the remaining garlic herb butter over the steaks just before serving.
Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Steak
Pat the steaks dry: Moisture on the surface can prevent a good sear.
Use a very hot pan: Proper heat is essential for developing a flavorful crust.
Don’t constantly flip the steak: Give each side enough time to brown properly.
Baste with butter at the end: Adding butter too early can cause it to burn before the steak is finished.
Use a thermometer: The most reliable way to achieve your preferred level of doneness is to check the internal temperature.
Optional Garlic Butter Sauce
For an extra-rich finish, remove the steaks from the skillet and lower the heat.
Add another tablespoon of butter along with a little minced garlic and a splash of beef broth.
Stir for 1–2 minutes, scraping up the browned bits from the skillet.
Spoon the sauce over the sliced steak before serving.
What to Serve With Garlic Butter Steak
This steak pairs beautifully with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Crispy roasted potatoes
- Garlic butter vegetables
- Creamed spinach
- Roasted asparagus
- Green beans
- Fresh garden salad
- Garlic bread
For a complete steakhouse-style dinner, serve it with mashed potatoes and roasted asparagus, then spoon the garlic herb butter over everything.
Storage
Store leftover steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or enjoy the chilled leftovers sliced over a salad or in a sandwich.
This Garlic Butter Steak Bliss is all about simple ingredients and bold flavor. A beautifully seared steak, fragrant garlic, fresh herbs, and plenty of melted butter create a satisfying dinner that’s easy enough for a weeknight but special enough for a weekend meal.