Description
This Perfect Pan-Seared Steak with Garlic Butter recipe delivers a beautifully seared steak with a rich, aromatic garlic butter finish. Ideal for ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon, this simple yet elegant dish highlights methodical seasoning, precise searing, and a flavorful herb-infused butter baste to create a tender and juicy steak perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Steaks
- 1–2 Ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon steaks
Seasoning and Butter
- 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
- Bring to Room Temperature: Remove the steak from the fridge 30–60 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking and better sear.
- Season the Steak: Pat the steak dry completely with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance flavor and crust formation.
- Heat the Pan: Place a cast iron or heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the canola or avocado oil and swirl to evenly coat the pan surface.
- Sear: Place the steak carefully in the hot pan and cook without moving for 4–5 minutes to develop a rich brown crust. Flip the steak and cook for an additional 4–5 minutes, adjusting time as necessary to reach your preferred doneness (medium-rare recommended).
- Add Garlic Butter: In the final minute of cooking, add the unsalted butter, crushed garlic cloves, and fresh thyme or rosemary to the pan. Continuously baste the steak by spooning the melted garlic butter mixture over the top, infusing the meat with deep flavor.
- Rest: Transfer the steak to a plate and let it rest for 5–10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring tenderness and juiciness when sliced.
Notes
- Allowing the steak to come to room temperature helps it cook more evenly.
- Patting the steak dry is crucial to getting a perfect crust.
- Use a cast iron skillet for best heat retention and searing results.
- Adjust cooking times based on steak thickness and desired doneness.
- Resting the steak is key to maintaining juiciness.
- For a stronger herb flavor, use rosemary or thyme according to preference.
- Use unsalted butter to control the seasoning balance.
