Introduction
Few dishes rival the satisfaction of a perfectly seared steak finished with melting garlic herb butter. Garlic Herb Butter Steak is simple in concept, yet when executed properly, it feels luxurious and restaurant-worthy. The sizzling crust, tender interior, and rich butter infused with fresh herbs create layers of flavor in every bite. I remember the first time I tried basting steak with butter, garlic, and thyme in the pan—the aroma alone transformed the kitchen into something special. What I love most about this recipe is that it requires minimal ingredients while delivering maximum impact. Whether you are preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting guests, this steak offers a reliable, impressive option. With a few simple techniques and quality ingredients, you can achieve a beautifully caramelized crust and a juicy center that rivals any steakhouse experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe delivers bold, savory flavor with minimal preparation. The garlic herb butter enhances the natural richness of the steak without overpowering it. It cooks quickly, making it ideal for busy evenings or last-minute entertaining. The method is straightforward and adaptable to different cuts of steak. Best of all, it produces a crisp, golden crust and a tender, juicy interior every single time.
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Garlic Herb Butter Steak: Juicy, Flavor-Packed Perfection Every Time
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
Description
Juicy, pan-seared Garlic Herb Butter Steak finished with a rich butter baste infused with fresh garlic and aromatic herbs for a tender, restaurant-quality meal at home.
Ingredients
- 2 ribeye or sirloin steaks (about 1-inch thick, 10–12 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Remove steaks from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring to room temperature. Pat dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a heavy skillet over high heat until very hot.
- Add steaks to the skillet and sear for 3–4 minutes without moving, until a golden crust forms.
- Flip the steaks and cook for another 3–4 minutes for medium-rare (adjust time for desired doneness).
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Add butter, smashed garlic, rosemary, and thyme to the skillet.
- Tilt the pan slightly and spoon the melted herb butter over the steaks continuously for 1–2 minutes.
- Remove steaks from the skillet and let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Use a cast iron skillet for best searing results.
- For accurate doneness, use a meat thermometer (130°F for medium-rare).
- Letting the steak rest helps retain juices.
- Butter basting adds extra flavor and richness.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Steak (Ribeye, Sirloin, or New York Strip)
Choose a well-marbled cut for optimal flavor and tenderness. Ribeye offers richness, while sirloin provides a leaner option with excellent taste.
Unsalted Butter
Butter forms the base of the herb topping and is used for basting during cooking, adding depth and richness.
Garlic
Freshly crushed garlic infuses the butter with aromatic intensity and complements the beef beautifully.
Fresh Thyme
Thyme adds earthy, slightly floral notes that balance the richness of the steak.
Fresh Rosemary
Rosemary provides a fragrant, pine-like aroma that pairs exceptionally well with beef.
Olive Oil
A small amount of olive oil helps achieve a high-heat sear without burning the butter.
Salt
Coarse salt enhances the natural flavor of the meat and aids in forming a crisp crust.
Black Pepper
Freshly ground black pepper adds mild heat and complexity.
Directions
Remove the steak from the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to reach room temperature. Pat it dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure a proper sear. Season generously on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat until very hot. Add olive oil and swirl to coat the pan evenly. Place the steak in the skillet and allow it to cook undisturbed for about 3 to 4 minutes, forming a deep golden crust.
Flip the steak and reduce the heat slightly. Add butter, crushed garlic, thyme, and rosemary to the pan. As the butter melts, tilt the skillet slightly and use a spoon to baste the steak repeatedly with the garlic herb butter. Continue cooking for another 3 to 5 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness.
Use a meat thermometer for accuracy: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium. Once cooked to your preference, transfer the steak to a cutting board and allow it to rest for at least 5 to 10 minutes. Spoon the remaining butter from the pan over the steak before slicing and serving.
Equipment needed : Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 2 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Resting time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftover steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a small amount of butter to prevent drying out, or slice thinly and enjoy cold in salads or sandwiches.
Variations and Customizations
This recipe can easily be customized based on your flavor preferences. For a smoky twist, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the seasoning before searing. If you prefer a spicy kick, a small amount of crushed red pepper flakes in the butter adds subtle heat.
You can experiment with different herbs such as parsley, oregano, or chives. I once substituted thyme with sage for a deeper, more robust flavor, and it worked surprisingly well. For a richer finish, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the butter during basting.
If cooking for a larger group, you can finish the steaks in the oven after searing. Simply transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F and cook until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness. For those avoiding dairy, you may substitute butter with a plant-based alternative while keeping the garlic and herbs intact.
Different steak cuts also provide unique results. Filet mignon offers extreme tenderness, while flank steak benefits from slicing against the grain after resting. The versatility of this method allows you to tailor it to your preferred taste and occasion.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Approximate values per serving (based on 2 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 540 kcal |
| Protein | 42 g |
| Carbs | 1 g |
| Fat | 40 g |
| Saturated Fat | 18 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Sodium | 520 mg |
This dish is high in protein and low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb and ketogenic diets.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Achieve the Perfect Crust
Ensure the steak is completely dry before seasoning to promote browning.
Do Not Overcrowd the Pan
Cook one or two steaks at a time to maintain proper heat.
Resting Is Essential
Allowing the steak to rest redistributes juices and prevents dryness.
Use a Thermometer
Precise temperature control guarantees your preferred doneness.
Finish with Extra Butter
A final spoonful of garlic herb butter just before serving enhances flavor and presentation.
FAQs
What is the best cut of steak for this recipe?
Ribeye is ideal for its marbling, but sirloin and New York strip also work beautifully.
Can I cook this steak on a grill?
Yes, grill over high heat and finish with garlic herb butter after cooking.
How do I know when the steak is done?
Use a meat thermometer for accurate internal temperature readings.
Can I prepare the garlic herb butter ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix and refrigerate it up to 3 days in advance.
Why is resting the steak important?
Resting allows juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender steak.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Fresh herbs provide the best flavor, but dried herbs may be used in smaller quantities.
Conclusion
Garlic Herb Butter Steak is a timeless dish that delivers bold flavor and impressive results with minimal effort. The combination of a perfectly seared crust and aromatic herb butter creates a steakhouse-quality meal at home. With proper technique and simple ingredients, this recipe ensures a tender, juicy steak every time.
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