Creamy Garlic Butter Steak Recipe

Get ready to meet your new favorite steak recipe! If you’re craving a juicy, tender steak bathed in a rich, velvety garlic butter sauce, you’ve just stumbled upon the ultimate creamy garlic butter steak recipe. This dish isn’t just for special occasions — it’s the perfect way to elevate any dinner into something extraordinary.

But wait, it gets better! We’ll show you not only how to make the most mouthwatering, buttery steak imaginable, but we’ll also talk about the best cuts to use, so you can take your steak game to the next level. Whether you’re a ribeye lover or a sirloin fan, we’ve got the perfect tips and tricks to help you pick the right steak and cook it to juicy, flavorful perfection.

Keep reading — we’ve got some seriously tasty secrets ahead! You’ll be flipping steaks like a pro in no time.

 Ingredients You’ll Need

For this creamy garlic butter steak, you don’t need a long list of fancy ingredients — just a few simple staples that pack a ton of flavor! Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless ribeye steaks (about 1 inch thick) – Ribeye is perfect for its marbling, but you can also use sirloin, New York strip, or filet mignon for different textures.
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter – The base of that silky, creamy sauce!
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic is key for that bold flavor.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream – This creates that luxurious, creamy texture.
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped – For garnish and a hint of freshness.
• 1 tbsp olive oil – For searing the steak to perfection.
• Salt and pepper, to taste – Keep it simple with a pinch of salt and a crack of pepper.
• 1 tsp lemon juice (optional) – A little squeeze at the end adds a zesty kick to balance the richness.

Substitutions & Variations:

• Butter: If you’re looking for a lighter option, try ghee or olive oil for a dairy-free alternative.
• Cream: You can swap the heavy cream with half-and-half for a slightly lighter sauce, or even try coconut cream for a dairy-free twist.
• Garlic: If fresh garlic isn’t available, garlic powder (1/2 tsp) can be used in a pinch, but fresh garlic gives the best flavor.
• Herbs: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or even basil can give a different, fragrant flavor to the sauce. Don’t be afraid to get creative!

Helpful Kitchen Tools

To make sure your creamy garlic butter steak comes out perfectly every time, here are the essential tools you’ll need:

1. Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy Bottom Pan

A cast iron skillet is the best tool for getting a nice, even sear on your steak. If you don’t have one, any heavy-bottomed pan will do, but cast iron holds and distributes heat better, giving you that perfect golden crust.

2. Tongs

Tongs are a must when flipping your steak without piercing it (which lets the juices escape)! You’ll get a great grip and avoid messing up that beautiful sear.

3. Meat Thermometer

Want your steak cooked just right? A meat thermometer ensures you hit the perfect internal temperature. For a medium-rare steak, aim for 130°F, and for medium, go for 140°F.

4. Sharp Knife

A sharp chef’s knife will make slicing through your steak a breeze. Plus, you’ll get cleaner, more precise cuts — no squishing the juicy goodness out of your steak!

5. Wooden Spoon or Spatula

A wooden spoon or heatproof spatula works best for stirring that creamy garlic butter sauce. You can easily scrape up any tasty browned bits from the pan for extra flavor in the sauce.

6. Small Bowl

You’ll need a small bowl for any pre-measurements (like garlic and herbs) and for mixing your lemon juice or any extra seasoning you might want to add to the sauce.

7. Basting Spoon

If you want to go the extra mile and baste your steak with that buttery sauce while it cooks (which, trust us, you do), a basting spoon will let you pour that luscious garlic butter all over for maximum flavor.

Directions

Let’s get to the good stuff — cooking that mouthwatering creamy garlic butter steak! Simply follow these steps, and you’ll be well on your way to perfecting your steak.

1. Prep the Steak

Start by bringing your steaks to room temperature. This helps them cook more evenly. Pat the steaks dry with paper towels, as moisture can prevent a perfect sear! Afterward, season both sides generously with salt and pepper.

2. Heat the Pan

Place your cast iron skillet (or heavy-bottomed pan) over medium-high heat. Allow it to heat for a few minutes until it’s thoroughly hot. Add 1 tbsp olive oil to the pan and swirl it around to coat the bottom.

3. Sear the Steaks

Carefully add your steaks to the pan. Don’t overcrowd the pan; if you’re cooking more than two steaks, work in batches. Sear the steaks for 3-4 minutes on each side until you achieve a golden-brown crust. For a medium-rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F. If you prefer medium, cook it to 140°F.

Pro Tip: Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature. It’s the most reliable way to ensure perfect doneness every time!

4. Rest the Steaks

Once the steaks are cooked to your liking, transfer them to a plate and tender them with foil. Allow the steaks to rest for 5-10 minutes so the juices can redistribute within the meat. This keeps the steak juicy and tender.

5. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

While the steaks are resting, it’s time to make the rich, creamy garlic butter sauce! In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add 3 tbsp unsalted butter. Let it melt and bubble gently.

Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant and golden, being careful not to burn it. You want that beautiful, savory garlic flavor without the bitterness!

6. Add the Cream

Add 1/2 cup of heavy cream and stir until well combined. Bring the sauce to a simmer, letting it thicken slightly for about 2-3 minutes. Add a pinch of salt and a squeeze of lemon juice (optional) to balance out the richness.

7. Finish the Sauce

Once the sauce is creamy and smooth, remove the skillet from the heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. For an extra touch, stir in a handful of chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

8. Serve

Slice your rested steak against the grain (this ensures maximum tenderness), drizzle with the creamy garlic butter sauce, and garnish with more parsley if desired. Serve with your favorite sides, and dig in!

Pro Tip for the Perfect Sauce: If you like your sauce extra creamy, you can stir in a bit more heavy cream or a splash of chicken broth for a thinner consistency. You can also add a bit of Parmesan cheese for an extra creamy, cheesy finish!

Recipe Tips and Variations

This creamy garlic butter steak recipe is versatile, so you can tailor it to your preferences with a few simple tweaks. Whether you prefer a different cooking method or want to give the sauce a unique twist, here are some tips and variations to make this dish your own.

Alternative Cooking Methods

While pan-searing is a popular method, there are other ways to cook your steak, depending on your equipment and preferences:

• Grilling: For a smoky flavor, grill your steak over medium-high heat for 4-6 minutes per side (depending on thickness). Make sure to season the steaks before grilling, and once they’re done, follow the same process for making the garlic butter sauce in a skillet.
• Oven-Roasting: If you prefer an oven method, sear the steak in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side until browned, then transfer the pan to a preheated oven at 400°F for 5-8 minutes for medium-rare. Finish with the garlic butter sauce just as you would with pan-searing.
• Sous Vide: For a steak that’s consistently tender, cook it sous vide at 130°F for 1.5-2 hours for a perfectly medium-rare steak. After sous vide cooking, sear it in a hot pan for a few minutes to develop a crust.

Variations for Different Tastes

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily switch up flavors and ingredients to suit your tastes.

• Herbs: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the garlic butter sauce for an herbal twist. Just throw a sprig or two in the pan while the garlic is sautéing, then remove them before serving.
• Spices: For a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika into the garlic butter sauce. If you want a more savory depth of flavor, ground mustard or a bit of cumin can add a unique touch.
• Cheesy Garlic Butter Steak: Add a handful of grated Parmesan or asiago cheese to the sauce for a cheesy, rich finish. This is perfect if you want to take the creamy factor up a notch!
• Creamy Mushroom Sauce: If you’re a fan of mushrooms, sauté sliced mushrooms in the pan after the steaks are seared, then add them to the garlic butter sauce. This creates a creamy mushroom sauce that perfectly complements the steak.
• Bacon and Garlic Butter: For extra richness, toss in some crispy bacon crumbles into the sauce. The smoky flavor from the bacon pairs wonderfully with the garlic butter and steak.
• Dairy-Free Option: You can swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a dairy-free cream to make this recipe dairy-free without sacrificing the creaminess. Use vegan butter or olive oil instead of regular butter to complete the swap.

More Steak Add-ins

Want to make your steak even more indulgent? Here are a few ideas to enhance your meal:

• Blue cheese: Crumble some tangy blue cheese on top of your steak just before serving.
• Sautéed onions: Add some caramelized onions to the garlic butter sauce for a sweet and savory flavor boost.
• Truffle oil: For a fancy, luxurious twist, drizzle some truffle oil over your finished steak.

Serving Suggestions

• For a lighter version: Pair the steak with steamed veggies or a fresh salad with a lemon vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the garlic butter.
• For a more indulgent meal: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes, crispy roasted potatoes, or buttery corn on the cob.

How to Serve

Now that you’ve created the ultimate creamy garlic butter steak, let’s talk about how to serve it up in style!

Side Dish Ideas

To balance the richness of the steak, here are a few side dishes that complement its savory, buttery flavor:

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a touch of garlic and butter are the perfect pairing. The richness of the potatoes complements the steak’s creamy sauce, making every bite heavenly.
• Crispy Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, brussels sprouts, or green beans with a sprinkle of sea salt and a drizzle of olive oil make for an earthy and crispy contrast to the steak’s creamy texture.
• Buttery Corn on the Cob: Sweet, tender corn on the cob slathered with butter and a touch of seasoning is a classic pairing that adds a little crunch and sweetness to your meal.
• Cauliflower Gratin: For something decadent, serve the steak with a cheesy cauliflower gratin. The creamy cheese sauce pairs wonderfully with the steak’s richness, and it’s a great low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes.
• Side Salad: A fresh mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a refreshing contrast to the heavy steak. The acidity in the dressing cuts through the richness of the sauce, providing balance to the dish.
• Garlic Bread: If you want something indulgent, serve your steak with crispy garlic bread. The crunchy texture and garlic flavor will elevate your steak experience.

Presentation Tips

Making your creamy garlic butter steak look as good as it tastes is easy with these simple tips:

• Slice the Steak: For a restaurant-worthy presentation, slice the steak against the grain into thick strips. This not only makes the steak easier to eat, but it also looks visually stunning when arranged on the plate.
• Drizzle the Sauce: Spoon the creamy garlic butter sauce generously over the sliced steak, letting it pool around the edges. For an extra touch, you can also drizzle a little bit of sauce on the plate for a restaurant-style presentation.
• Garnish: Add a pop of freshness with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or fresh thyme over the steak. A few fresh herbs will give the dish a vibrant contrast against the rich, creamy sauce.
• Use a Warm Plate: Warm your serving plates before plating to keep the steak at the perfect temperature. A warm plate ensures that the steak stays juicy and the sauce doesn’t cool too quickly.
• Add a Touch of Color: For extra visual appeal, add a few colorful side dishes, like roasted veggies, a vibrant salad, or a pop of color from caramelized onions or grilled tomatoes. Bright greens, oranges, and reds will make the dish look as delicious as it tastes!

How to Store and Reheat

Got some leftover creamy garlic butter steak? Don’t worry — you can easily store and reheat it without sacrificing its juicy tenderness or rich flavor. Here’s how to do it right:

Storing Leftovers

1. Cool It Down: Let your leftover steak cool down to room temperature for about 30 minutes before storing. This helps prevent condensation in the container and keeps your steak from becoming soggy.
2. Wrap It Up: Wrap the steak securely in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also place it in an airtight container to keep it as fresh as possible. For extra protection, you can drizzle a little bit of the garlic butter sauce over the steak to keep it moist.
3. Store in the Fridge: Place the wrapped steak or container in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for 3-4 days. If you’re storing the garlic butter sauce separately, place it in a small container and refrigerate it.
4. Freezing (for Longer Storage): If you want to store your steak for longer, freeze it! Wrap the steak in plastic wrap or freezer paper, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. The garlic butter sauce can also be frozen separately for easy reheating later.

Reheating Leftovers

Reheating properly is key to keeping your steak juicy and flavorful. Here are a few methods for reheating without compromising on quality:

1. Reheat in the Oven: Preheat your oven to 250°F. Place your steak on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the steak reaches your desired temperature. For an extra burst of flavor, you can drizzle a little garlic butter sauce over the steak before reheating.
2. Reheat in a Skillet: Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-low heat. Place a small amount of butter or olive oil in the pan. Add the steak to the skillet and cover it with a lid. Reheat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure it heats evenly. Add a spoonful of garlic butter sauce to keep the steak moist and flavorful.
3. Microwave (Quick Method): If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Place your steak in a microwave-safe dish, drizzle a bit of the garlic butter sauce over it, and cover with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel. Heat on medium in 30-second intervals, flipping the steak each time, until it’s warmed through. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can dry out the steak.
4. Reheating the Garlic Butter Sauce: To bring your garlic butter sauce back to life, simply place it in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir occasionally until it’s warm and smooth again. If it has thickened too much, you can add a splash of heavy cream or broth to thin it out.

Pro Tip for Reheating Steak Without Drying It Out:

When reheating, try to avoid cooking the steak beyond its original doneness. If it was medium-rare when cooked, aim to reheat it just enough to warm through, but don’t overdo it. Overheating can lead to a dry, tough steak. Reheating it gently and slowly is key!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Wondering what’s inside that creamy garlic butter steak? Here’s a general nutritional breakdown based on a typical serving of the recipe (1 steak with garlic butter sauce, assuming a 6-ounce ribeye steak with about 2 tablespoons of garlic butter sauce). Keep in mind that the exact nutrition will vary depending on portion size and any variations made.

Per Serving (1 Steak + Sauce)

• Calories: 600-700 kcal
• Protein: 40-45g
• Total Fat: 50-55g
  • Saturated Fat: 20-25g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 120-130mg
• Carbohydrates: 3-5g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 1-2g
• Sodium: 400-500mg
• Vitamin A: 10-15% of Daily Value (due to the butter and cream)
• Calcium: 4-6% of Daily Value
• Iron: 15-20% of Daily Value

Notes:

• Calories: The high calorie count is primarily due to the rich butter and cream in the garlic butter sauce, as well as the marbling in a ribeye steak.
• Fat: This recipe is definitely on the richer side, with healthy fats from the butter and steak. If you prefer to reduce the fat content, you can use leaner cuts of steak like sirloin or filet mignon and swap the heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free cream.
• Protein: Steak is an excellent source of protein, providing around 40-45g per serving, which makes it a great choice for a satisfying, muscle-building meal.
• Carbs: This recipe is quite low in carbs, making it a suitable option for low-carb or keto diets.

Customizations:

• Lower-Calorie Option: To cut back on calories, you can swap the butter for olive oil or ghee, and opt for a leaner cut of meat like flank steak or sirloin.
• Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream and vegan butter as substitutes for heavy cream and regular butter.

Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

If you loved this creamy garlic butter steak, why not try some of these delicious recipes that pair perfectly with it? Whether you’re craving more steak, seafood, or a tasty side, we’ve got you covered.

1. Garlic Butter Shrimp

A delicious seafood twist to complement your steak! Tender shrimp are sautéed in garlic butter sauce, creating a rich and savory flavor profile that’s just as indulgent as the steak. Perfect as a surf-and-turf duo!

2. Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic and fresh herbs are the ideal side dish to serve alongside your steak. The buttery potatoes soak up the garlic sauce and create a comforting, balanced bite with each forkful.

3. Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Mash

a sumptuous dish featuring tender, perfectly seared steak pieces coated in a rich, aromatic garlic butter sauce. The steak bites are paired with velvety mashed potatoes, infused with creamy butter and garlic, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. This dish delivers a satisfying, indulgent experience, ideal for both casual meals and elegant dinners.

4. Parmesan Roasted Asparagus

Roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil, seasoned with garlic, and sprinkled with Parmesan cheese is a simple but flavorful side that adds a fresh, crunchy element to your steak meal.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

And there you have it — the ultimate creamy garlic butter steak recipe! With tender steak, a rich and flavorful garlic butter sauce, and endless ways to customize it to your taste, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Whether you’re perfecting your steak-cooking skills or simply craving a delicious, indulgent meal, this recipe has you covered. So grab your favorite cut of steak, whip up that creamy garlic sauce, and enjoy a mouthwatering meal that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat! Happy cooking!

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