There’s a unique pleasure that comes from stepping into the kitchen and transforming everyday ingredients into a mouthwatering feast. Picture this: thick, juicy rib-eye steaks sizzling away in a hot skillet, the tantalizing aroma of garlic wafting through your home as your homemade garlic butter melts over the top, creating a rich, savory masterpiece. If you’ve ever craved a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss, let me introduce you to my Easy Garlic Butter Steak recipe.
This dish stands out because it’s incredibly simple yet delivers restaurant-level flavor, perfect for impressing family or indulging yourself after a long day. The magic of this recipe lies not only in the quality of the steaks but in that luscious garlic butter that elevates each bite into a symphony of taste. Join me as we dive into this delightful cooking experience—your dinner routine will never be the same again!
Why is Easy Garlic Butter Steak at Home a Must-Try?
Simplicity at its finest: Using just a handful of ingredients, you’ll create something spectacular without cumbersome techniques.
Irresistible flavor: The rich combination of garlic and butter melds perfectly with the savory steak, satisfying even the most discerning palates.
Quick cooking: Dinner is ready in under 30 minutes, so you can enjoy a home-cooked meal even on the busiest nights.
Impressive presentation: Serve it up with the melted garlic butter for a gourmet look that will wow your guests.
Versatile pairing: This steak is delicious on its own but can also star alongside roasted veggies or mashed potatoes for a heartwarming dinner.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe never fails to impress! Discover more delicious options with my Easy Steak Marinade to elevate your cooking game!
Easy Garlic Butter Steak Ingredients
Here’s everything you need for the perfect Easy Garlic Butter Steak at Home!
For the Steaks
• Rib-Eye Steaks – 3 pieces, 12 oz each, 1 ¼-inch-thick for that juicy, tender bite.
• Olive Oil – 4 tablespoons, perfect for searing and enhancing flavors.
• Kosher Salt – to taste, brings out the juicy essence of the steak.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper – to taste, adds a lovely warmth and depth.
For the Garlic Butter
• Unsalted Butter – 1/2 cup, at room temperature for easy mixing and rich flavor.
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced for that aromatic kick.
• Kosher Salt – 1/2 teaspoon, to season the butter mix perfectly.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper – 1/4 teaspoon, elevates the garlic butter with a hint of spice.
How to Make Easy Garlic Butter Steak at Home
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Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a bowl, mix together the unsalted butter, minced garlic, 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper until well combined. Transfer the mixture onto a piece of parchment paper, shaping it into a log. Twist the ends to seal and refrigerate for up to a week.
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Preheat the Skillet: Set your oven to broil, placing an oven-proof skillet inside to heat up. This step is key for that perfect sear!
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Pat and Season the Steaks: Use paper towels to pat the rib-eye steaks dry on both sides. Drizzle with olive oil and generously season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This ensures great flavor throughout!
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Heat the Skillet: Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven and place it over medium-high heat on the stovetop. Wait for a few moments until the pan is sizzling hot.
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Sear the Steaks: Add the steaks into the center of the skillet, cooking for about 1 minute until a deep, dark crust forms on one side. Use tongs to flip the steaks and sear the other side for another minute.
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Cook in the Oven: Remove the skillet from the stove and transfer it to the oven. Cook the steaks for about 4-5 minutes for medium-rare doneness, flipping them halfway through. Let them rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking while tented with foil.
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Serve with Garlic Butter: Slice the steaks and top each portion with a generous slice of your homemade garlic butter. Serve immediately and relish in the rich flavors!
Optional: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Easy Garlic Butter Steak at Home in advance is a fantastic way to save time on busy weeknights! You can make the garlic butter up to one week ahead by mixing all the ingredients, shaping it into a log, and refrigerating it. If you’re planning to have this meal within a couple of days, you can season the steaks, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and store them in the fridge for up to 48 hours—this enhances the flavor as the seasoning penetrates the meat. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply heat your skillet and follow the cooking directions as outlined. Rest assured, prepped this way, your steak will turn out just as delicious and satisfying!
What to Serve with Easy Garlic Butter Steak at Home?
Imagine gathering around the table, beautiful plates filled with complementary flavors that enhance your delightful garlic butter steak.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, buttery potatoes soak up the steak juices, offering a rich, comforting contrast.
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Grilled Asparagus: This adds a fresh, slightly charred dimension to your meal, balancing the richness of the steak beautifully. Asparagus brings a bright color and a delightful crunch.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their caramelized edges give a sweet, nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with savory steak. Plus, they add a delightful textural contrast.
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Garlic Bread: Nothing beats the classic combination of garlic bread alongside steak. The bread is perfect for soaking up any extra garlic butter left on your plate!
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and tangy dressing provide a refreshing counterpoint to the hearty steak. It’s not just a side; it’s a palate cleanser that keeps the meal light.
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Red Wine: An elegant glass of Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec complements the steak’s flavors while enhancing the dining experience. A perfect way to toast a delicious dinner!
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light and airy chocolate mousse can provide a sweet finish. Its richness contrasts beautifully with the savory flavors of the meal.
Expert Tips for Easy Garlic Butter Steak at Home
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Choose Quality Meat: Opt for well-marbled rib-eye steaks; they offer superior flavor and tenderness compared to leaner cuts.
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Pat Dry for Searing: Ensure your steaks are completely dry before seasoning. This prevents steaming and helps achieve that coveted crust.
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Preheat the Skillet Well: Don’t rush this step! A properly preheated skillet is essential for a good sear and enhances the flavor of the steak.
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Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfect doneness, invest in a meat thermometer. Aim for 130°F for medium-rare, ensuring a juicy steak every time.
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Rest the Steak: Always let your steak rest after cooking. This helps redistribute the juices, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.
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Customize the Butter: Get creative! Mix in herbs like rosemary or thyme with your garlic butter for an extra flavor boost to your Easy Garlic Butter Steak at Home.
How to Store and Freeze Easy Garlic Butter Steak
Fridge: Store any leftover Easy Garlic Butter Steak in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Let it cool before covering to avoid condensation.
Freezer: Wrap the cooked steak tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: For best results, thaw the steak in the fridge overnight. Reheat on a skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a bit of garlic butter for extra flavor.
Garlic Butter Storage: Keep any leftover garlic butter in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze it in tablespoon-sized portions for easy use later.
Easy Garlic Butter Steak Variations
Feel free to switch things up and make this dish your own with a few simple tweaks!
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Herb-Infused Garlic Butter: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the garlic butter for a fragrant twist. The herbs lend a delightful aroma and freshness.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a warm, spicy flavor. It’s that perfect balance of heat that wakes up your taste buds!
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Mushroom Medley: Accompany the steaks with sautéed mushrooms for extra umami. The earthiness pairs beautifully with the rich steak and garlic butter.
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Lemon Zest: Incorporate lemon zest into the garlic butter for a bright, zesty flavor that elevates the dish. It adds a refreshing contrast, perfectly balancing the richness of the steak.
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Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze on the plated steak for a touch of sweetness and acidity. This adds depth, making each bite more complex and flavorful!
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Garlic and Herb Marinade: Marinate the rib-eye steaks in olive oil, garlic, and your favorite herbs for a few hours before cooking. This creates a more robust flavor and delightful aroma.
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Cheesy Delight: Top the finished steak with crumbled blue cheese or parmesan for a deliciously creamy finish. This adds a rich texture and tang that complements the garlic butter perfectly.
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Cajun Seasoning: Spice things up with a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning before cooking. This popular seasoning adds a delightful, warm heat that makes every bite exciting!
Easy Garlic Butter Steak Recipe FAQs
What type of rib-eye steaks should I use?
Absolutely! Look for well-marbled rib-eye steaks that are about 1 ¼-inch thick and weigh approximately 12 oz each. The marbling will enhance the flavor and tenderness, ensuring a beautifully juicy steak.
How should I store leftover Easy Garlic Butter Steak?
You can store any leftover Easy Garlic Butter Steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess.
Can I freeze the Easy Garlic Butter Steak?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, wrap the cooked steak tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring no air gets in. Then, place it inside a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on a skillet over low heat.
What’s the best way to reheat steak without losing flavor?
For the best reheat, thaw the steak in the refrigerator overnight. Then, place the steak in a skillet over low heat, adding a slice of garlic butter to keep it moist and flavorful. Heat each side for a few minutes until warmed through, making sure not to overcook.
Can my dog eat garlic butter steak?
While a small amount of plain, cooked steak is fine for dogs, garlic is toxic to them. If you’d like to share with your furry friend, I recommend giving them plain, cooked steak without any seasonings. Always consult your vet if unsure.
How can I tell if my garlic is ripe and ready to use?
Very! Fresh garlic should feel firm and have a dry, papery skin. Avoid garlic that has dark spots or sprouted cloves, as these indicate age. For maximum flavor, use fresh garlic within a few weeks of purchase, and store it in a cool, dry place.
Sizzle Up Easy Garlic Butter Steak at Home Tonight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Garlic Butter by mixing together the unsalted butter, minced garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper until well combined. Shape it into a log with parchment paper and refrigerate.
- Preheat the Skillet by setting your oven to broil and placing an oven-proof skillet inside to heat up.
- Pat and Season the Steaks by drying them with paper towels, drizzling with olive oil, and seasoning with kosher salt and black pepper.
- Heat the Skillet by removing the hot skillet from the oven and placing it over medium-high heat until sizzling.
- Sear the Steaks by adding them into the skillet and cooking for about 1 minute on each side until a crust forms.
- Cook in the Oven by transferring the skillet to the oven and cooking for 4-5 minutes for medium-rare doneness, flipping halfway through. Let rest for 3-5 minutes.
- Serve with Garlic Butter by slicing the steaks and topping with the homemade garlic butter. Serve immediately.