Garlic Herb Butter Steak Skillet Simple Dinner Recipe

Looking for a quick and tasty dinner? The Garlic Herb Butter Steak Skillet is your answer! This dish combines juicy ribeye steaks with rich butter, fresh garlic, and fragrant herbs. It’s easy to make and packed with flavor. In this simple recipe, I’ll guide you through every step so you can impress your family or friends. Let’s get cooking and create a meal you’ll love!

Ingredients

To make a delicious Garlic Herb Butter Steak Skillet, you need the following ingredients:

– 2 ribeye steaks (approximately 1 inch thick)

– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

– 4 cloves garlic, finely minced

– 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped

– 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, finely chopped

– Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

– 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

– Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

These ingredients come together to create rich flavors. Ribeye steaks are juicy and tender, making them ideal for this dish. The unsalted butter helps to create a silky sauce that coats the steak. Garlic adds a strong, savory note, while rosemary and thyme bring fresh herbal flavors to the mix. Salt and pepper enhance the natural meat taste. Extra virgin olive oil helps to sear the steaks, making a perfect crust. You can also use fresh parsley as a bright garnish to finish the dish. Each ingredient plays a key role in crafting a meal that is both simple and sophisticated.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Steaks

Allow Steaks to Rest

Start by taking the ribeye steaks out of the fridge. Let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps the steaks cook evenly. Cold steaks can cook unevenly, so this step is key.

Seasoning Techniques

Next, pat the steaks dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a great sear. Generously sprinkle salt and cracked black pepper on both sides. This simple seasoning enhances the natural flavor of the meat.

Cooking Techniques

Heating the Skillet

Now, grab a large, heavy-bottomed skillet. Heat some extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil shimmers lightly. This means it’s hot enough for searing.

Searing for the Perfect Doneness

Carefully place the steaks in the hot skillet. Try not to overcrowd the pan. Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes for medium-rare. Adjust the time if you like your steak more or less done.

Adding Garlic Herb Butter

Once cooked to your liking, reduce the heat to medium. Add the unsalted butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and thyme to the skillet. Let the butter melt and mix with the herbs. The aroma will be amazing!

Finalizing the Dish

Basting for Flavor

Tilt the skillet slightly. Use a spoon to baste the steaks with the garlic herb butter. Do this for 1-2 minutes. This adds rich flavors and keeps the meat moist.

Resting the Steaks

Carefully move the steaks to a plate. Let them rest for about 5 minutes. Resting helps the juices settle back into the meat, making it juicy and tender.

Serving Suggestions

Slice the steaks against the grain for the best texture. Drizzle any leftover garlic herb butter from the skillet over the slices. For a pop of color, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top. Enjoy your meal!

Tips & Tricks

Enhancing Flavor

Choosing the Right Cut of Steak

For this recipe, I love using ribeye steaks. They have a great balance of fat and meat. This fat adds flavor and keeps the steak juicy. If you want to try something different, sirloin or filet mignon works well too.

Importance of Seasoning

Seasoning is key to a tasty steak. I always use salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Generously coat both sides. This simple step brings out the natural flavors of the meat.

Cooking Techniques

Best Skillet Types for Steaks

I recommend a heavy-bottomed skillet, like cast iron. It heats evenly and holds heat well. This helps you get that perfect sear on your steak. Non-stick pans can work, but they may not give the same results.

Adjusting Cooking Time for Doneness

Cooking time varies based on thickness and desired doneness. For medium-rare, sear each side for about 4-5 minutes. Use a meat thermometer for best results. Aim for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium.

Presentation Suggestions

Serving on Rustic or Modern Dishware

How you serve the steak matters. A rustic wooden board adds charm. A sleek white plate enhances the dish’s colors. Choose what fits your style.

Adding Colorful Garnish

Finish your dish with fresh parsley. It adds a pop of color and flavor. You can also use edible flowers or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a beautiful touch.

Variations

Different Cuts of Steak

You can swap ribeye for other cuts like sirloin or flank. Sirloin is lean and has a nice beefy flavor. Flank steak is thinner, so it cooks fast. If you use thinner steaks, cut the cooking time by a couple of minutes. Aim for a medium-high heat to avoid overcooking them.

Herb Substitute Ideas

If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs work too. Use one-third the amount of dried herbs as fresh. You can also add some red pepper flakes for a kick. For a different flavor, consider using garlic powder or onion powder. These options still pack a punch without fresh herbs.

Serving Pairings

Pair your steak with simple sides like mashed potatoes or sautéed greens. Roasted vegetables add color and flavor too. For a drink, a bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon goes well. It complements the richness of the steak and garlic butter nicely.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

Store leftover steak in an airtight container. This keeps moisture in and air out. Make sure to refrigerate within two hours of cooking. The steak will stay fresh for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing.

Reheating Techniques

The best way to reheat steak is in a skillet. Heat a little oil on medium-low heat. Add the steak and cover it. This method warms the steak without drying it out. You can also use an oven. Preheat it to 250°F (121°C), then place the steak in for about 20 minutes. This helps keep it juicy.

Freezing Advice

To freeze steak, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place it in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as you can. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze steak for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

FAQs

How do I know when the steak is done?

You can check the doneness of your steak by using a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can also use the touch test. Press the center of the steak with your finger. If it feels soft and squishy, it’s rare. If it feels like the fleshy part of your palm, it’s medium-rare. Remember to let your steak rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This helps keep the juices locked in, making it tender and juicy.

Can I use other herbs instead of rosemary and thyme?

Yes, you can use other herbs! Basil, oregano, or sage can work well for this dish. You can even try some spicy herbs like red pepper flakes for a kick. Fresh herbs give the best flavor, but dried ones can work too. Just use about one-third the amount of dried herbs, as they are stronger in flavor.

What is the best way to reheat leftover steak?

The best way to reheat steak is in a skillet. Heat the skillet over low heat. Add a little butter or oil to keep it moist. Cook for 3-5 minutes, flipping occasionally. You can also use the oven. Wrap the steak in foil and heat at 250°F for about 20-30 minutes. This method keeps the steak juicy and tender.

How can I achieve a perfect sear on my steak?

To get a perfect sear, start with a hot skillet. Use a heavy-bottomed pan for even heat. Make sure your steak is dry before seasoning. Pat it with paper towels to remove moisture. Season generously with salt and pepper. Place the steak in the hot skillet and let it cook without moving it for about 4-5 minutes. This creates a nice brown crust. Flip and sear the other side for the same time. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook one or two steaks at a time for the best result.

In this blog post, we explored the key ingredients for ribeye steak, from butter to fresh herbs. I shared step-by-step instructions for preparing and cooking your steak perfectly. Tips on enhancing flavor and techniques for presentation were also covered. Remember, the right cut and seasoning make all the difference. With these insights, you can create a delicious steak meal to impress anyone. Enjoy your cooking journey, and don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and pairing