There’s something undeniably satisfying about cooking steak to perfection while being enveloped by the fragrant embrace of garlic butter. Welcome to the ultimate guide for crafting a garlic butter steak skillet that will tantalize your taste buds and elevate your culinary prowess. This recipe combines tender steakiness with the rich, buttery aroma of garlic, resulting in a decadent dish you can whip up in no time. Perfect for any dinner occasion, let’s explore creating this masterpiece in your very own kitchen!
Ingredients

To make this delicious garlic butter steak skillet, you will need the following ingredients: 500g (approximately 1 lb) of sirloin steak, 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 4 cloves of garlic (minced), 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste, and optional fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for garnish.
Equipments
Prepare yourself with a heavy-duty skillet (preferably cast iron), a sharp knife, cutting board, and tongs for easy flipping of the steaks. Additionally, have a small bowl handy for mixing your ingredients.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Skillet – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
Begin by allowing your steak to come to room temperature. This allows for even cooking throughout. Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture; this step ensures a perfect sear. Season each side generously with salt and freshly ground pepper. If possible, try to let your seasoned steak rest for at least 30 minutes to let the salt work its magic.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
Place your skillet on medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Allow the oil to heat until it is shimmering but not smoking. This will give your steak a beautiful, caramelized crust. Remember, the pan must be scorching hot to achieve that desirable sear.
Step 3: Cook the Steak
Once the oil is hot enough, carefully place the steak in the skillet using tongs. Cook the steak without moving it around—let it sizzle undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your steak and desired level of doneness. For a medium-rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C).
Step 4: Infuse with Garlic Butter
Reduce the heat to medium and add butter to the pan. As the butter melts, add the minced garlic to the center of the pan and let it simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent it from burning. Tilt the pan to pool the garlic butter mixture on one side, then use a spoon to baste the steak with the butter continually. This adds layers of flavor and helps keep the steak juicy.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Remove the steak from the pan and let it rest on a cutting board for at least 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute within the steak, making it tender and juicy. Slice the steak against the grain and drizzle with the remaining garlic butter from the pan. Garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme if desired.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Skillet
This garlic butter steak skillet is versatile and pairs beautifully with various sides such as garlic mashed potatoes, a fresh garden salad, or roasted vegetables. A crusty loaf of bread is also perfect for mopping up any of the delightful garlic butter.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For best results, ensure your skillet is sizzling hot before adding your steak and avoid overcrowding. Allow the steak to achieve a nice crust by cooking undisturbed for the specified time. Experiment with different herb infusions like sage or tarragon in the garlic butter for unique flavor profiles.
Pumped-Up Protein: High Protein Version of Garlic Butter Steak Skillet
Transform your classic steak skillet into a protein powerhouse by adding black beans or chickpeas sauteed in the remaining garlic butter after removing the steak from the pan. Feel free to include chia or flaxseeds for additional texture and nutritional punch.
Keto-liciously Low Carb: The Low Carb Garlic Butter Steak Skillet Version
For those embracing a low-carb lifestyle, enhance your steak with a fresh avocado side or cauliflower mash, which perfectly complements the rich garlic butter without tipping the carb scales.
Storage Instructions
Leftover steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently in a skillet over low heat with a dab of butter to keep it moist. The steak can also be frozen for up to two months; remember to thaw it slowly in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Q: Can I use another cut of steak?
A: Yes, you can use ribeye, filet mignon, or New York strip with slight cooking adjustments.
Q: What herbs can I add to the garlic butter?
A: Rosemary, thyme, and parsley are all excellent choices for additional flavor.
Q: How do I know if my steak is medium-rare?
A: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare doneness.
Q: Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
A: It’s best enjoyed freshly made, but you can prepare and season the steak in advance, storing it in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
Enjoy, Share, and Savor: Make This Recipe Yours
The garlic butter steak skillet is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Embrace the aromas, the textures, and the flavors, and share this culinary delight with your family and friends. Leave a comment on how your steak turned out or any interesting twists you’ve added to the recipe!

Garlic Butter Steak Skillet
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- sirloin steak
- unsalted butter
- cloves garlic
- olive oil
- salt and pepper
Instructions
Steps
- Allow the steak to come to room temperature and pat it dry. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Place the seasoned steak in the hot skillet and sear each side for 3-4 minutes.
- Reduce heat, add butter and minced garlic, and baste the steak in the garlic butter.
- Transfer steak to rest for five minutes before slicing against the grain.
