Skillet Seared Steak with garlic butter is a culinary delight that transforms a simple cut of meat into a gourmet experience. This recipe highlights the beauty of ribeye or New York strip steaks, cooked to perfection with a rich garlic butter sauce infused with fresh thyme. Picture the tantalizing aroma wafting through your kitchen as you prepare this dish, ideal for impressing guests or treating yourself to an indulgent meal at home.
Why You’ll Love This Skillet Seared Steak with
This Skillet Seared Steak with garlic butter offers a variety of reasons to fall in love with it. First, it takes only 45 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Second, the use of a cast iron skillet ensures even cooking and a beautiful sear on the steak, enhancing its flavor. Third, the garlic butter sauce elevates this dish, providing richness and depth. Additionally, it is gluten-free, accommodating various dietary needs. You can easily customize the flavor with herbs, and it pairs wonderfully with side dishes like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. Lastly, it’s a fantastic way to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients for Skillet Seared Steak with
Gather these items:
- 2 (12 oz) Ribeye or New York strip steaks (about 1 1/4-inches thick)
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 3/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 Tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed
How to Make Skillet Seared Steak with Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Let steaks rest at room temperature for 30 minutes. This helps them cook evenly.
- Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a 12-inch cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- Step 3: Pat both sides of steaks dry with paper towels to ensure good sear, then season evenly with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.
- Step 4: Place steaks into the hot skillet. Using metal tongs, press down on the steaks so the entire bottom surface contacts the skillet for an even sear.
- Step 5: Cook until the bottom is browned, approximately 3 minutes.
- Step 6: Flip steaks and cook for about 3 more minutes until the internal temperature is about 10 degrees below your desired doneness.
- Step 7: Reduce heat to medium-low and add butter, smashed garlic, and thyme to the skillet.
- Step 8: Tilt the pan and spoon butter over the steaks for about 1 additional minute.
- Step 9: Transfer steaks to plates and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Step 10: Slice and serve immediately, enjoying the flavorful garlic butter sauce infused steaks.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Skillet Seared Steak with
Keep these in mind:
- This recipe is perfect for a quick gourmet meal.
- Adjust cooking time based on your desired doneness.
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the steak for the best sear.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness accurately.
- Let the steak rest before slicing to ensure maximum tenderness.
Best Ways to Serve Skillet Seared Steak with
There are several delicious ways to serve this dish. First, consider pairing it with a fresh garden salad for a light contrast. Second, roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts complement the richness of the steak beautifully. Lastly, if you’re looking for a heartier option, serve it with creamy mashed potatoes or garlic bread to soak up the delightful garlic butter sauce.

How to Store and Reheat Skillet Seared Steak with
To store leftovers, place the sliced steak in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, use a skillet on low heat, adding a bit of butter to maintain moisture. This method ensures your steak stays flavorful and doesn’t dry out, making it suitable for meal prep as well.
Frequently Asked Questions About Skillet Seared Steak with
What’s the secret to perfect Skillet Seared Steak with?
The secret lies in the initial sear. Ensure your skillet is hot, and don’t overcrowd the pan. This allows for proper browning, which locks in juices and enhances flavor.
Can I make Skillet Seared Steak with ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the garlic butter sauce ahead of time. Just reheat the sauce and sear the steak just before serving for optimal taste.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Skillet Seared Steak with?
Common mistakes include not letting the steak rest before cooking or slicing. Always pat the meat dry and ensure your skillet is sufficiently heated for the best results.
Variations of Skillet Seared Steak with You Can Try
If you’re looking to mix things up, consider these variations: try adding different herbs like rosemary or oregano for unique flavor profiles. You can also experiment with marinades like teriyaki or chimichurri for different tastes. Lastly, consider using different cuts of meat, such as filet mignon or sirloin, for a different texture and flavor experience.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making chocolate oatmeal bars for a sweet treat. If you’re interested in more cooking tips, visit this guide on scalloped potatoes.
Additionally, you can learn more about the benefits of cooking with garlic butter from Healthline.
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Skillet Seared Steak with Garlic Butter: 7 Steps to Perfection
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple yet indulgent skillet seared steak recipe featuring ribeye or New York strip steaks, cooked to perfection with a flavorful garlic butter sauce infused with fresh thyme.
Ingredients
- 2 (12 oz) Ribeye or New York strip steaks (about 1 1/4-inches thick)
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 3/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 Tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed
Instructions
- Let steaks rest at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a 12-inch cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- Pat both sides of steaks dry with paper towels and season with kosher salt and black pepper.
- Place steaks into the hot skillet and press down with metal tongs.
- Cook until the bottom is browned, approximately 3 minutes.
- Flip steaks and cook for about 3 more minutes until internal temperature is about 10 degrees below desired doneness.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and add butter, smashed garlic, and thyme to the skillet.
- Tilt the pan and spoon butter over the steaks for about 1 additional minute.
- Transfer steaks to plates and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Slice and serve immediately.
Notes
- This recipe is perfect for a quick gourmet meal.
- Adjust cooking time based on your desired doneness.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 steak
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 45 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 42 g
- Cholesterol: 130 mg
Keywords: Skillet Seared Steak, Garlic Butter Steak, Gourmet Steak Recipe