Pan-Seared Steak in Butter Sauce

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Introduction

Pan-Seared Steak in Butter Sauce is the epitome of a delicious, decadent meal that showcases the pure, rich flavors of a perfectly cooked steak. Imagine a thick, juicy steak seared to perfection, forming a crispy, golden crust on the outside while remaining tender and succulent on the inside. Topped with a velvety, garlic-infused butter sauce that melts into every bite, this dish is both indulgent and comforting. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or treating yourself to a satisfying meal, this recipe never fails to impress.

The first time I made this steak, I couldn’t believe how quickly it came together. The process of searing the steak and watching it develop that beautiful crust was incredibly rewarding. Once the butter sauce came together, with the garlic and herbs infusing the rich, melted butter, I could already tell it was going to be a standout dish. When I took my first bite, the combination of the tender steak and the savory butter sauce was absolutely irresistible.

What I love most about Pan-Seared Steak in Butter Sauce is how simple yet refined it is. It’s a straightforward recipe that doesn’t require complicated techniques, yet it always feels like a luxury meal. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad to round out the perfect dinner. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this steak is a showstopper that’s guaranteed to leave everyone wanting more.

Perfect for:

  • Special occasions
  • Date nights
  • Weeknight dinners
  • Celebratory meals
  • Steak lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Pan-Seared Steak in Butter Sauce will become your go-to steak recipe:

  • Perfectly Seared Steak: The steak develops a rich, caramelized crust while staying juicy and tender on the inside.
  • Indulgent Butter Sauce: The garlic and herb-infused butter sauce elevates the steak’s flavor, creating a mouthwatering finish.
  • Quick and Easy: This recipe is quick to make, taking only 20 minutes from start to finish.
  • Impressive Presentation: The glossy butter sauce and beautifully seared steak make this dish perfect for serving at dinner parties or special events.
  • Customizable Sauce: You can adjust the flavor of the butter sauce by adding herbs, spices, or even a splash of wine.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 5 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Servings: 2 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 500-600 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 45g, Carbs: 1g, Fat: 35g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Pan-Seared Steak in Butter Sauce:

  • 2 ribeye or New York strip steaks (about 1 inch thick)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary (or both)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Steak: Ribeye or New York strip steak works best for this recipe, as they offer the perfect balance of tenderness and flavor.
  • Olive Oil: Used to sear the steak and create a rich crust.
  • Butter: The unsalted butter forms the base for the sauce and enhances the steak’s flavor.
  • Garlic and Herbs: Fresh garlic and herbs like thyme or rosemary infuse the butter with aromatic flavors that pair beautifully with steak.
  • Lemon Juice (optional): A splash of lemon adds brightness and balance to the rich butter sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Steak:

  1. Bring Steak to Room Temperature: Remove the steaks from the refrigerator 15-20 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature.
  2. Season the Steak: Generously season both sides of the steaks with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Pan-Sear the Steak:

  1. Heat the Pan: In a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until hot and shimmering.
  2. Sear the Steaks: Place the steaks in the hot pan. Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or 5-6 minutes for medium, depending on the thickness of the steak. Avoid moving the steaks around in the pan to ensure a good sear.
  3. Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature—130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium. Adjust cooking time to your preferred doneness.

Make the Butter Sauce:

  1. Melt the Butter: After removing the steaks from the pan and setting them aside to rest, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the same pan and let it melt.
  2. Add Garlic and Herbs: Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and fresh thyme or rosemary. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Finish the Sauce: If using, add a teaspoon of lemon juice for added brightness. Stir the sauce, making sure the garlic and herbs infuse the butter.
  4. Pour Over the Steak: Pour the butter sauce over the rested steaks, making sure to spoon some of the garlic and herbs over the top.

Rest and Serve:

  1. Rest the Steak: Let the steak rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
  2. Serve: Serve the steak with the butter sauce spooned over the top, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

How to Serve

Pan-Seared Steak in Butter Sauce is a rich and indulgent dish that can be served in a variety of ways:

  • With Sautéed Vegetables: Pair the steak with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or green beans for a classic, well-rounded meal.
  • With Mashed Potatoes: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious butter sauce.
  • With Salad: A fresh arugula salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the steak.
  • With Fries or Roasted Potatoes: Serve alongside crispy fries or roasted potatoes for a more casual meal.
  • For Special Occasions: Present the steak with a glass of red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec, to elevate the experience.

Additional Tips

  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the steaks one or two at a time to avoid overcrowding and ensure they get a good sear.
  • Rest the Steak: Allow the steak to rest after cooking to ensure it’s juicy and tender.
  • Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or even sage works wonderfully for flavoring the butter sauce.
  • Adjust Doneness to Preference: Adjust the cooking time based on your preferred steak doneness. Use a meat thermometer to be precise.
  • Finish with Extra Butter: If you prefer a richer sauce, add an additional tablespoon of butter to the pan right before serving.

Recipe Variations

Here are 10 variations you can try for Pan-Seared Steak in Butter Sauce:

  • Mushroom Butter Sauce: Add sautéed mushrooms to the butter sauce for an earthy, savory twist.
  • Peppercorn Sauce: Add crushed black peppercorns to the sauce for a spicy, flavorful kick.
  • Blue Cheese Butter: Stir crumbled blue cheese into the butter sauce for a creamy, tangy finish.
  • Balsamic Butter Sauce: Use a splash of balsamic vinegar in the sauce for a sweet and tangy depth of flavor.
  • Chimichurri Sauce: Top the steak with a fresh chimichurri sauce for an Argentine-inspired twist.
  • Lemon Garlic Butter: Add more lemon juice and zest to the butter sauce for a bright, citrusy flavor.
  • Spicy Butter Sauce: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
  • Garlic Herb Butter: Enhance the butter sauce with a variety of fresh herbs like oregano, basil, or parsley.
  • Wine-Infused Butter Sauce: Add a splash of red wine or white wine to the butter sauce for added depth and complexity.
  • Smoked Paprika Butter Sauce: Add smoked paprika to the butter sauce for a smoky flavor.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: While cooked steak can be frozen, it’s best to freeze it before searing and buttering. You can freeze raw, seasoned steaks and cook them when ready.
  • Storage: Store leftover steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan with a little butter to maintain flavor.

Special Equipment

  • Cast Iron Skillet: Ideal for achieving a perfect sear due to its heat retention and even cooking surface.
  • Tongs: To flip the steak without piercing it and losing precious juices.
  • Instant-Read Thermometer: For checking the internal temperature of the steak, ensuring it’s cooked exactly how you like it.
  • Basting Spoon: To spoon the butter sauce over the steak while cooking for enhanced flavor and moisture.
  • Searing Torch: For adding a final touch of crispy, caramelized crust if desired.
  • Meat Resting Rack: A rack allows air circulation around the steak while it rests, preventing it from getting soggy.
  • Silicone Basting Brush: For applying butter or oil evenly to the steak as it sears.
  • Heavy Duty Spatula: Useful for flipping or lifting the steak out of the pan without damaging the crust.
  • Pan Lid: Helps retain heat and moisture during cooking and when basting with butter.
  • Sous-Vide Precision Cooker (optional): If you prefer a perfectly cooked steak before searing, sous-vide ensures uniform cooking, followed by a quick pan sear.

FAQ

  1. Can I use a different cut of steak? Yes, you can use other cuts like filet mignon, sirloin, or flank steak, but adjust the cooking time based on the thickness and cut.
  2. Can I make this recipe without garlic? Yes, you can skip the garlic and still have a delicious butter sauce.
  3. Can I cook the steak in the oven instead? You can sear the steak in a pan and finish it in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 4-6 minutes, depending on the steak thickness.
  4. How do I know when the steak is done? Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked to your desired doneness.
  5. Can I use salted butter? It’s best to use unsalted butter so you can control the seasoning, but salted butter will work if you adjust the salt added.

Conclusion

Pan-Seared Steak in Butter Sauce is an elegant yet simple dish that’s perfect for any steak lover. The rich, tender steak, paired with a decadent garlic butter sauce, creates an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight treat or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress with its flavorful and indulgent combination.

The seared steak has a beautifully crisp exterior, while the buttery sauce adds a smooth, garlicky finish that elevates the entire dish. You can customize the recipe by adding fresh herbs, spices, or even a splash of wine for extra depth. It pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

I can’t wait to see your Pan-Seared Steak creations! Be sure to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see how you make this dish your own. Don’t forget to share your variations or tips in the comments. Happy cooking!

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