Pan-Seared Steak with Garlic Butter is the ultimate dish for steak lovers. With a beautifully seared crust, juicy interior, and a luscious garlic butter sauce poured over the top, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in the comfort of your own kitchen. It’s quick, rich, and absolutely satisfying—perfect for a special occasion or an indulgent weeknight treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This steak recipe is all about simplicity and bold flavor. With just a few ingredients, you get a perfectly seared steak that’s bursting with savory goodness. The combination of fresh herbs and garlic-infused butter adds depth and richness that enhances the natural flavor of the beef. Best of all, it’s fast—ready in under 20 minutes with minimal prep and cleanup. Whether you’re a seasoned steak pro or trying it for the first time, this recipe guarantees juicy, flavorful results every time.

Ingredients

2 ribeye steaks (or any preferred cut)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season both sides of the steaks generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Add olive oil to the hot skillet, swirling to coat the bottom evenly.
Once the oil is shimmering, place the steaks in the skillet. Sear for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or adjust the time based on your preferred doneness.
While the steaks are cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
Add the minced garlic to the butter and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid burning the garlic.
Once the steaks are done, transfer them to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes to retain their juices.
Drizzle the garlic butter over the steaks and sprinkle with fresh parsley and thyme.
Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Total Time: 15-20 minutes

Variations

Add lemon zest: Stir in a bit of lemon zest to the garlic butter for a fresh, zesty flavor.
Spicy kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic butter.
Use different herbs: Rosemary, sage, or tarragon can be used in place of thyme for a different herbaceous note.
Baste with butter: During the last minute of cooking, spoon melted butter from the pan over the steak for even more flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, covered, for 1-2 minutes. Add a bit of butter or broth to help retain moisture.

FAQs

What cut of steak works best for this recipe?

Ribeye is a great choice for its marbling and tenderness, but New York strip, filet mignon, or sirloin will also work well.

How do I know when my steak is done?

Use a meat thermometer:

Rare: 125°F (52°C)
Medium-rare: 130°F (54°C)
Medium: 140°F (60°C)
Medium-well: 150°F (65°C)
Well-done: 160°F (71°C)

Can I cook the steak in butter instead of oil?

Butter alone can burn at high heat. It’s best to use oil for searing, and then add butter for flavor at the end or during the last minute of cooking.

Do I need to rest the steak?

Yes, resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making the steak juicier and more flavorful.

Can I make the garlic butter in advance?

Yes, garlic butter can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just melt it when you’re ready to serve.

What sides go well with garlic butter steak?

Try mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, a crisp salad, or garlic bread to complement the richness of the steak.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Cook garlic on low heat in butter, stirring frequently, and remove it from heat once it’s golden and fragrant.

Can I grill the steak instead?

Yes, this recipe works great on the grill too. Sear on high heat and finish with garlic butter after grilling.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

Yes, this steak with garlic butter is low in carbs and fits well within a keto or low-carb diet.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, but use them sparingly—dried herbs are more concentrated. Use about 1/3 of the amount of fresh herbs.

Conclusion

Pan-Seared Steak with Garlic Butter is an impressive yet easy recipe that brings out the best in a good cut of meat. With its perfectly seared crust and mouthwatering garlic butter sauce, it’s a go-to dish for steak night or any special meal at home. Fast, flavorful, and foolproof—this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal from your own kitchen.

Pan-Seared Steak with Garlic Butter

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Print Recipe

This Pan-Seared Steak with Garlic Butter is a restaurant-quality recipe you can make at home in under 20 minutes. Featuring a perfectly seared crust, juicy center, and a rich, aromatic garlic butter sauce, it’s an indulgent, flavor-packed dish ideal for date nights, special occasions, or a satisfying weeknight dinner. Quick, easy, and unbelievably delicious!

Total Time: 15–20 minutes
Yield: 2 servings

Ingredients

2 ribeye steaks (or your favorite cut)

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat.
Season steaks generously with salt and pepper.
Add olive oil to the skillet. Once hot, sear steaks for 4–5 minutes per side (or until desired doneness).
While steaks cook, melt butter in a small pan over low heat. Add garlic and cook 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Transfer cooked steaks to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes.
Drizzle garlic butter over steaks and top with parsley and thyme.
Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Notes

Searing Tip: Don’t move the steak around—let it form a crust for best flavor.
Flavor Boost: Add a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter.
Herb Options: Swap thyme for rosemary, sage, or tarragon.

Author: Sophia
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10–15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop, Pan-Seared
Cuisine: American, Steakhouse-Style