Looking for a quick and tasty dinner? Try my Garlic Butter Steak Skillet! This dish brings rich flavor to your table in under 30 minutes. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll impress your family or guests. I’ll guide you through prepping, cooking, and serving this delightful meal. Get ready to savor every bite of juicy steak, buttery goodness, and savory vegetables. Let’s dive in!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner without sacrificing flavor.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, butter, and fresh herbs creates a rich and savory sauce that elevates the steak to new heights.
- Healthy Vegetables: Incorporating spinach and cherry tomatoes not only adds color but also boosts the nutritional value of the dish.
- Impressive Presentation: Slicing the steak and serving it with the vibrant sautéed veggies makes for a beautiful plate that will impress any guest.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
To make Garlic Butter Steak Skillet, gather these ingredients:
- 2 ribeye steaks (about 1 inch thick)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
Prepping the Ingredients
Start by taking the steaks out of the fridge. Let them sit for about 30 minutes. This step helps the meat cook evenly. Next, pat the steaks dry with paper towels. This is important to get a good sear. Season both sides of the steaks with salt and pepper. You want a nice crust, so don't be shy with the seasoning.
Now, prepare your garlic by mincing it finely. Chop the fresh rosemary and thyme, too. Fresh herbs add great flavor to the dish. Lastly, halve the cherry tomatoes and zest the lemon. This zest will brighten the whole meal.
Tools Needed for Cooking
For this recipe, you need a few essential tools:
- Large skillet: A heavy skillet works best for searing.
- Meat thermometer: This tool helps check the steak's doneness.
- Tongs: Use these to flip the steaks without piercing them.
- Cutting board: For resting and slicing the steaks.
- Paper towels: For patting the steaks dry before cooking.
With these ingredients and tools ready, you're set for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Steaks
Start by taking your ribeye steaks out of the fridge. Let them sit for 30 minutes to reach room temperature. This step helps the meat cook evenly. Next, dry the steaks with paper towels. This helps form a nice crust. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor.
Searing the Steaks
Grab a large skillet and heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Wait until the butter melts and starts to sizzle. Carefully add the steaks to the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side. Do not move them! This helps create a golden-brown crust that adds great flavor.
Flipping and Adding Flavor
After 4-5 minutes, it’s time to flip the steaks. Once flipped, add minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme to the skillet. Cook for another 4-5 minutes. Keep spooning the melted garlic butter over the steaks. This adds amazing flavor and moisture.
Checking for Doneness
For perfect doneness, use a meat thermometer. Aim for 130°F for medium-rare and 145°F for medium. Once done, remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest on a cutting board. Cover them loosely with foil. This helps keep the juices inside.
Sautéing the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the baby spinach and halved cherry tomatoes. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes. You want the spinach to wilt and the tomatoes to soften slightly. This adds color and nutrition to your dish.
Finishing the Sauce
Take the skillet off the heat. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Then add lemon zest and lemon juice. Mix everything well. This sauce will tie the dish together with a fresh, zesty flavor.
Plating and Serving
Slice the steaks against the grain for tenderness. Serve them on plates with the sautéed spinach and tomatoes. Drizzle the garlic butter sauce over the steaks. For a nice touch, add lemon wedges and sprinkle some fresh herbs. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Steak Skillet!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Steak Doneness
To cook steak just right, use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for 130°F. For medium, reach 145°F. This ensures your steak is juicy and tender. Let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to settle, making each bite delightful.
Choosing the Right Cut of Steak
Ribeye steak is a great choice for this recipe. It has rich flavor and tenderness. Look for steaks that are well-marbled. This means they have fat streaks throughout, which adds flavor and keeps the steak moist. Other good options include sirloin or filet mignon, depending on your taste.
Best Cooking Techniques for Skillet Steak
Start by preheating your skillet. A hot skillet creates a nice crust on the steak. Use unsalted butter for a rich flavor. Sear the steak without moving it for a few minutes to get that golden brown color. When flipping, add garlic and herbs for extra taste. Always spoon the melted garlic butter over the steak while cooking. This enhances flavor and keeps the meat juicy.
Pro Tips
- Rest Your Steaks: Allowing the steaks to rest after cooking helps the juices redistribute, making for a more flavorful and tender bite.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfect doneness, use a meat thermometer. This takes the guesswork out of cooking and helps prevent overcooking.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: Fresh herbs enhance the flavor of the dish significantly. If possible, use fresh rosemary and thyme instead of dried for the best taste.
- Enhance the Garlic Butter: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar to the garlic butter sauce before serving.
Variations
Different Cuts of Steak to Use
You can use many cuts of steak for this recipe. Ribeye is rich and tasty, but you could also try sirloin, filet mignon, or strip steak. Each cut has its own flavor and texture. Sirloin is lean but still juicy. Filet mignon is tender and buttery. Strip steak has a nice balance of fat and meat. Choose what you like best!
Adding Different Herbs and Spices
Herbs and spices can change the taste of your dish! Besides rosemary and thyme, you can add oregano or parsley for a fresh kick. If you want heat, add some red pepper flakes. For a unique taste, try a bit of smoked paprika. Mix and match to find your favorite combo. You can even switch garlic for shallots for a sweeter flavor.
Vegetarian Alternatives for the Recipe
If you want a vegetarian option, swap the steak for portobello mushrooms. They have a meaty texture and absorb flavors well. You can also use zucchini or eggplant slices. Sauté them just like the steak. Keep the garlic butter sauce to make it rich and tasty. Add some tofu for extra protein too!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
After enjoying your Garlic Butter Steak Skillet, let the leftovers cool down. Place the steak and veggies in an airtight container. Make sure to store them in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to three days. Keep the garlic butter sauce separate if you can. This helps maintain the flavors.
Reheating Best Practices
To reheat, use a skillet over low heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil for moisture. Heat until warm, stirring gently. This keeps the steak juicy and the veggies tender. You can also microwave the leftovers. Just cover them to keep moisture in. Heat for short bursts, stirring in between to prevent drying out.
Freezing Tips
If you want to freeze your leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer bag. Make sure to squeeze out as much air as possible. You can freeze the dish for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned before for the best results.
FAQs
What type of skillet is best for cooking steak?
A heavy cast iron skillet works best for cooking steak. It holds heat well and gives a nice sear. Stainless steel skillets are also great, as they are durable and can handle high heat. Avoid non-stick skillets; they don’t get hot enough for a good crust.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
You can use garlic powder, but fresh garlic is better. Fresh garlic gives a strong, rich flavor that powder can’t match. If you use powder, start with about 1/4 teaspoon to avoid overpowering the dish.
How do I avoid overcooking my steak?
To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer. Aim for 130°F for medium-rare and 145°F for medium. Take the steak off the heat just before it reaches the target temperature. It will continue to cook while resting.
What sides pair well with Garlic Butter Steak Skillet?
Great sides include creamy mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad. Garlic bread also makes a tasty addition. You can use sautéed mushrooms or asparagus for extra flavor.
How long should steaks rest after cooking?
Let the steaks rest for at least 5-10 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender. Cover loosely with foil to keep them warm while resting.
You now have a clear path to cook a delicious steak skillet. We discussed key ingredients, preparation methods, and essential tools. You learned step-by-step instructions to achieve perfect doneness and enhance flavors. Don't forget the tips for selecting cuts and cooking techniques. Try different variations to keep things fresh, including vegetarian options. Store your leftovers properly to enjoy later. With these techniques, you can cook with confidence. Enjoy your meals and impress your friends with your new skills!
