Description

This Pan Seared Steak with Garlic Butter recipe delivers a perfectly cooked, juicy ribeye or sirloin steak infused with rich, aromatic garlic butter and fresh thyme. The steak is seared in a hot cast iron skillet to achieve a flavorful crust, then basted with melted butter and garlic to enhance its taste. Ideal for a quick yet elegant meal, this method ensures tender, restaurant-quality steak at home.

Ingredients

Scale

Steak

2 ribeye or sirloin steaks (1-inch thick, about 8 ounces each)
Salt (to taste)
Black pepper (to taste)

Cooking

1 tablespoon canola oil (or avocado oil)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic (crushed)
1 sprig fresh thyme (or rosemary)
Optional: Red pepper flakes (to taste)

Instructions

Prepare the Steak: Remove the steaks from the refrigerator 30-60 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, ensuring a better sear. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
Heat the Pan: Preheat a cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until it is very hot. Add the canola oil and swirl it to coat the bottom evenly.
Sear the Steak: Carefully place the steaks into the hot pan without crowding them; a loud sizzle should be heard. Let them sear undisturbed for 4-5 minutes to develop a crust. Flip the steaks with tongs and sear the other side for another 4-5 minutes.
Add Garlic Butter: During the last minute of cooking, add the butter, crushed garlic, and thyme to the pan. Tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to continuously baste the steaks with the melted garlic butter to infuse flavor.
Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for 120°F for rare, 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, 150°F for medium-well, and 160°F or above for well done.
Rest the Steak: Remove the steaks from the pan and transfer them to a cutting board. Let them rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute for a juicy, tender result before slicing and serving.

Notes

Allowing the steak to reach room temperature helps it cook evenly.
Patting the steak dry is essential for achieving a good sear and crust.
Use a cast iron skillet for best heat retention and even cooking.
Basting with garlic butter adds richness and enhances flavor.
Resting the steak after cooking is crucial to keep it juicy.
Adjust cooking time slightly depending on steak thickness and your preferred level of doneness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes (including resting time for steaks to reach room temperature)
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American

Keywords: pan seared steak, garlic butter steak, ribeye, sirloin steak, steak recipe, cast iron skillet steak, easy steak dinner