Are you craving a steak dinner that bursts with flavor but is easy to make? Look no further! This Garlic Herb Butter Steak recipe showcases juicy ribeye steaks infused with garlic and fresh herbs. You'll learn how to prepare, season, and cook the perfect steak, ensuring a delicious crust and tender inside. Plus, I’ll share handy tips and variations to customize your meal. Let’s get started and impress your taste buds!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: This garlic herb butter steak is packed with rich flavors that elevate the simple ribeye to an extraordinary dish.
- Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can impress your guests with minimal effort.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a special celebration, this steak is versatile and always a hit.
- Resting Time Matters: The resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 2 ribeye steaks (about 1 inch thick)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
To make garlic herb butter steak, start with ribeye steaks. They are known for their rich flavor and tenderness. Using two steaks, each about one inch thick, gives a great result.
Next, you need four tablespoons of unsalted butter. This butter will melt and mix with garlic and herbs to create a tasty sauce.
You will also need four cloves of garlic. Mince them finely to release their full flavor. Fresh herbs are key, so grab one tablespoon each of chopped rosemary and thyme.
Seasonings include salt and freshly ground black pepper. These add extra flavor to the steaks.
Finally, use one tablespoon of olive oil. It helps cook the steaks and adds a nice touch.
Optionally, you can garnish the finished dish with fresh parsley. This adds a pop of color and freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Steaks
To start, take your ribeye steaks out of the fridge. Let them sit for about 30 minutes. This helps the meat cook evenly. After that, pat the steaks dry with a paper towel. This step is key for a nice sear. Next, season both sides with salt and fresh black pepper. Don’t be shy! This seasoning adds great flavor.
Cooking the Steaks
Now, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pour in the olive oil and watch for it to shimmer. That’s your cue to add the steaks. Place them in the hot skillet and do not move them for 4 to 5 minutes. This creates a tasty crust. After that time, use tongs to flip the steaks. Cook them for another 4 to 5 minutes for medium-rare. Adjust the time if you like your steak more or less cooked.
Once you flip the steaks, add minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and thyme around them in the skillet. Then, place the butter right on top of each steak. As the butter melts, use a spoon to baste the steaks with the butter and herbs. This adds amazing flavor. Baste for about 2 more minutes.
Resting and Serving
After cooking, take the skillet off the heat. Move the steaks to a cutting board and let them rest for 5 to 10 minutes. Resting is very important. It helps the juices stay in the meat. When ready to serve, slice the steaks against the grain. This makes each bite tender. Drizzle the melted garlic herb butter over the slices for extra flavor. For a nice touch, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top. Enjoy your meal!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Sear
To get that great sear, start by drying the steaks. Use a paper towel to pat them dry. This helps the steak form a nice crust. A wet surface will steam the meat instead. Next, heat your skillet until it shimmers. Aim for medium-high heat. A hot skillet ensures the steak cooks quickly and evenly.
Flavor Enhancements
Choosing the right herbs makes a big difference. Fresh rosemary and thyme work well with steak. Their flavors blend nicely with garlic. Try adding other herbs too, like oregano. For extra flavor, baste the steak with the melted butter. Use a spoon to drizzle the buttery mix over the steak while it cooks.
Cooking Temperature Guidelines
For best results, watch the steak’s internal temperature. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Here are some guidelines:
- Rare: 120°F
- Medium Rare: 130°F
- Medium: 140°F
- Medium Well: 150°F
- Well Done: 160°F
Meat continues to cook a bit after you take it off heat. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep all the juices in.
Pro Tips
- Resting the Meat: Always allow your steaks to rest after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak.
- Choosing the Right Oil: Use an oil with a high smoke point, like canola or avocado oil, to prevent burning and achieve a great sear on the steaks.
- Don't Rush the Sear: Let the steak sear undisturbed for the recommended time. This creates a crust that locks in flavor and moisture.
- Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with different herbs or add a splash of red wine to the pan after cooking for an extra layer of flavor in your sauce.
Variations
Alternative Cuts of Steak
You can use other cuts of steak for this recipe. Sirloin and New York Strip work well. They have great flavor and tenderness. When using these cuts, adjust the cooking time. Thinner steaks need less time, while thicker ones need more. Keep an eye on the steak so it doesn't overcook.
Herb Combinations
Switch up the herbs in this recipe for new tastes. Oregano and sage can bring a fresh twist. You can mix in spices like paprika or cumin for a kick. Feel free to experiment! Each herb and spice adds its own flavor, making the steak unique.
Cooking Methods Beyond Skillet
While the skillet is great, you can also grill the steak. Grilling adds a nice smoky flavor. Preheat your grill and cook the steaks as you would in a skillet. Another option is oven-broiling. Place the steaks in a broiler pan and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side. This method gives a nice crust too!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To store leftover garlic herb butter steak, first let it cool to room temperature. Wrap the steak tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This keeps out air and moisture. You can also place it in an airtight container. Make sure to use a container that seals well. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it.
Reheating Tips
To reheat steak without losing flavor, use a low heat method. The oven works best for this. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Place the steak on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes. This keeps the steak juicy and warm. You can also use a skillet. Heat it on low and add a bit of butter. Cook the steak for a few minutes on each side. This adds flavor and moisture back into the meat. Always check the internal temperature. Aim for around 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
FAQs
What is the best cut of steak for Garlic Herb Butter Steak?
The best cut for Garlic Herb Butter Steak is ribeye. Ribeye has a good balance of fat and meat. The fat gives it great flavor and keeps it tender. You can also use sirloin or New York strip if you prefer. Both options work well, but ribeye is king for flavor.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter. However, it will change the flavor a bit. Salted butter adds more salt to the dish. This may make it taste too salty if you season the steak before cooking. If you like control over the salt, stick with unsalted butter.
How do I know when the steak is done?
You can tell when the steak is done by feeling it or using a thermometer. For medium-rare, the steak should reach about 135°F. You can also check by pressing it. A soft steak means it’s rare, while a firm one means it’s well done. Always let it rest after cooking to keep the juices in.
In this blog post, we explored how to prepare a delicious Garlic Herb Butter Steak. You learned about the best ingredients, like ribeye and fresh herbs. I shared step-by-step instructions to cook and serve your steak perfectly. We also covered tips for the ideal sear and explored variations with other cuts and herbs.
Remember, the secret to a great steak is in the details. Enjoy your cooking journey, and savor each bite!
