There are nights when you want something cozy and indulgent, but still simple enough to pull together without stress. This pan seared steak with garlic butter is exactly that kind of dinner. It feels restaurant-worthy, yet it is made with just a handful of ingredients and one good pan.
This pan seared steak with garlic butter is all about technique and timing. When done right, you get a golden crust, a juicy center, and warm garlic butter melting into every bite. It is one of those meals that makes you slow down and savor dinner. Let's get started.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish
- Simple ingredients with rich, comforting flavor
- Tender, juicy steak with a beautiful sear
- Perfect for date nights or easy weeknight dinners
- Easy to customize with your favorite herbs
Ingredients
For the Steak
- 2 ribeye or sirloin steaks, 1-inch thick, about 8 ounces each
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon canola oil or avocado oil
For the Garlic Butter
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 sprig fresh thyme or rosemary
- Optional: red pepper flakes, to taste
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
Ribeye steaks give the richest flavor thanks to their marbling, but sirloin works beautifully if you want something a little leaner. The key is choosing steaks that are about one inch thick so they sear evenly without overcooking.
For the butter, unsalted is best so you can control the seasoning. Thyme adds a gentle, earthy note, while rosemary brings a deeper aroma. Use whichever feels right for you.
Instructions
Prepare the Steak
- Remove the steaks from the refrigerator 30 to 60 minutes before cooking so they can come to room temperature.
- Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. This helps create that golden crust we are after.
- Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
Heat the Pan
- Place a cast iron skillet or heavy pan over medium-high heat and let it get hot.
- Add the oil and swirl to coat the bottom of the pan.
Sear the Steak
- Carefully place the steaks in the hot pan, leaving space between them. You should hear a strong sizzle.
- Let the steaks sear for 4 to 5 minutes without moving them.
- Flip the steaks using tongs and sear the other side for another 4 to 5 minutes.
Add Garlic Butter
- During the last minute of cooking, add the butter, crushed garlic, and herbs to the pan.
- Tilt the pan slightly and spoon the melted garlic butter over the steaks. The smell alone is incredible.
Rest the Steak
- Transfer the steaks to a cutting board and let them rest for 5 to 10 minutes.
- This resting time allows the juices to settle, giving you a tender, juicy steak.
Pro Tips for Success
- Do not rush the sear. Let the steak form a crust before flipping.
- Always pat the steak dry before seasoning. Moisture prevents browning.
- Use a thermometer if you are unsure. It takes the guesswork out.
- Spoon the butter continuously during the last minute for maximum flavor.
Storage and 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 little butter to keep it tender.
Make Ahead and Freezing
While steak is best cooked fresh, you can season it a few hours ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Cooked steak can be frozen for up to 2 months, though the texture is best when enjoyed fresh.
Tips and Variations
- Add a splash of lemon juice to the butter for brightness.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
- Slice the steak and serve over salads or grain bowls.
- Turn leftovers into steak bites with extra garlic butter.
FAQs
A cast iron skillet holds heat well and gives the best sear.
Yes, but choose a high-heat olive oil to avoid smoking.
When it releases easily from the pan and has a deep brown crust, it is ready.
📖 Recipe
Pan Seared Steak with Garlic Butter
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 Servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan Searing
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Pan Seared Steak with Garlic Butter recipe offers a simple yet elegant way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. With just a few high-quality ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can create a tender, flavorful steak topped with rich garlic butter.
Ingredients
For the Steak
- 2 ribeye or sirloin steaks (1-inch thick, about 8 oz each)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon canola oil or avocado oil
For the Garlic Butter
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 sprig fresh thyme or rosemary
- Optional: Red pepper flakes, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Steak: Remove steaks from the fridge 30-60 minutes before cooking. Pat dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat the Pan: Preheat a cast iron or heavy skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add oil and swirl to coat the pan.
- Sear the Steak: Place steaks in pan. Sear for 4-5 minutes without moving. Flip and sear another 4-5 minutes.
- Add Garlic Butter: In the last minute of cooking, add butter, garlic, and thyme. Baste steaks with melted butter using a spoon.
- Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer:
- Rare: 120°F
- Medium-rare: 130°F
- Medium: 140°F
- Medium-well: 150°F
- Well-done: 160°F+
- Rest the Steak: Remove from pan, place on cutting board, and rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Letting steak reach room temperature ensures more even cooking.
- Resting after cooking helps juices redistribute and keeps steak juicy.
- Optional: Add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 steak
- Calories: 550
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pan seared steak with garlic butter alongside mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. It also pairs beautifully with crusty bread to soak up every drop of that buttery sauce.
Nutrition and Notes
Each serving has about 550 calories and is rich in protein and flavor. I have made this recipe many times, adjusting heat and timing until the steak turned out consistently tender with a crisp crust.
Reader Reviews or Testimonials
"This tasted like a steakhouse dinner at home."
"So simple and full of flavor. The garlic butter made it perfect."
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