There's nothing quite like the mouthwatering aroma of a perfectly cooked steak sizzling in a hot pan. Achieving that restaurant-quality steak at home is simpler than you might think. This recipe guides you through the art of pan-searing steak and elevates it with a luscious garlic butter sauce that adds richness and depth to every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen
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Quick and easy to make with minimal ingredients
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Juicy, flavorful steak enhanced by garlic-infused butter
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Perfect for date nights, dinner parties, or a solo treat
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Customizable with your favorite herbs and sides
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon steak
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Fresh garlic cloves
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Unsalted butter
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Fresh thyme or rosemary
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Canola or avocado oil
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Salt
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Black pepper
Directions
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Bring Steak to Room Temperature
Remove the steak from the refrigerator 30 to 60 minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking. -
Prep the Steak
Pat the steak dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. -
Heat the Pan
Place a cast iron or heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add oil and swirl to coat. -
Sear the Steak
Carefully place the steak in the pan. Let it cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes to form a golden crust. Flip and cook another 4–5 minutes or until desired doneness. -
Add Garlic Butter
In the final minute, add butter, crushed garlic, and herbs. Tilt the pan and spoon the melted butter over the steak repeatedly. -
Rest the Steak
Transfer to a plate or cutting board. Let rest 5–10 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
Servings and timing
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Servings: 2
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Prep time: 5 minutes
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Cook time: 10 minutes
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Total time: 15 minutes
Variations
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Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter for a spicy twist
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Swap herbs like sage, oregano, or tarragon for different flavor profiles
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Finish with a splash of lemon juice or balsamic vinegar for brightness
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Use ghee or compound butter instead of plain butter for extra depth
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Keep leftover steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
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Reheating: Warm gently in a 250°F oven until heated through. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture
FAQs
How do I choose the best steak for pan-searing?
Ribeye, sirloin, and filet mignon are all excellent options due to their marbling and tenderness.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce the added salt to avoid an overly salty dish.
What kind of pan is best for searing steak?
A cast iron skillet is ideal, but any heavy-bottomed pan that holds heat well will work.
Why do I need to rest the steak?
Resting lets the juices redistribute, making the steak more tender and flavorful.
How do I know when my steak is done?
Use a meat thermometer: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, and so on.
Can I cook more than one steak at a time?
Yes, but don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed to maintain high heat.
What should I do if my butter burns?
Reduce heat or add the butter later in cooking. You can also add a splash of oil to raise the butter's smoke point.
Can I cook this without herbs?
Yes, but fresh herbs add a rich aroma and flavor. You can also use dried herbs in a pinch.
What sides go well with garlic butter steak?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, sautéed greens, or a fresh salad pair beautifully.
Can I make this in advance?
Steak is best served fresh, but you can prepare the garlic butter ahead of time.
Conclusion
Pan-seared steak with garlic butter is a simple yet luxurious dish that never fails to impress. With just a few steps and ingredients, you can enjoy a restaurant-worthy meal at home in under 20 minutes. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or treating yourself, this recipe delivers flavor, texture, and satisfaction every single time.
Perfect Pan-Seared Steak with Garlic Butter
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Perfect Pan-Seared Steak with Garlic Butter delivers juicy, restaurant-quality results at home in just 15 minutes. This quick and easy steak recipe is pan-seared to perfection, then finished with a rich garlic butter sauce and herbs for next-level flavor. Ideal for date nights, dinner parties, or an indulgent solo meal.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
1–2 Ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon steaks
2–3 fresh garlic cloves, crushed
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2–3 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary
1 tablespoon canola or avocado oil
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Instructions:
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Bring to Room Temperature: Remove steak from fridge 30–60 minutes before cooking.
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Season the Steak: Pat dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
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Heat the Pan: Heat a cast iron or heavy skillet over medium-high. Add oil and swirl to coat.
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Sear: Place steak in pan. Cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes to form a crust. Flip and cook another 4–5 minutes or until your desired doneness.
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Add Garlic Butter: In final minute, add butter, crushed garlic, and herbs. Baste the steak by spooning melted butter over it.
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Rest: Transfer steak to a plate. Rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer for precise doneness (130°F for medium-rare).
- Avoid overcrowding if cooking multiple steaks—sear in batches.
- Add red pepper flakes for spice, or a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently in a 250°F oven.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: American
