Garlic Butter Steak Recipe
Sink your teeth into sizzling perfection with this Garlic Butter Steak Recipe—juicy ribeye steaks kissed by a golden, garlicky butter bath and finished with aromatic herbs. Whether you’re hosting date night or simply treating yourself, this steak is the ultimate comfort food moment. From the irresistible crust to every buttery bite, you’ll be amazed at how such a simple method unlocks premium steakhouse flavor right at home. Trust me, this is a dish you’ll crave again and again!

Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Garlic Butter Steak Recipe is in its simplicity—every ingredient plays an essential role. Choose the best-quality steaks you can and let each element shine to create rich, mouthwatering results.
- Ribeye steaks (2, 1 to 1 1/2 inches thick): Choose well-marbled steaks for juicy, melt-in-your-mouth texture and flavor.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): Helps achieve a gorgeous brown sear without burning the butter in the early stage.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Season generously; these are key for bringing out the natural savoriness of the steak.
- Unsalted butter (3 tbsp): Creates a rich, silky pan sauce to spoon over the steaks—don’t skimp!
- Garlic cloves (4, smashed): Infuses the butter with deep, savory flavor and that unmistakable aroma.
- Fresh rosemary or thyme (2 sprigs, optional): Adds bright, herbaceous notes; either herb will complement the garlic beautifully.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Recipe
Step 1: Bring the Steaks to Room Temperature
Remove your ribeye steaks from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking. Letting them come to room temperature ensures even cooking and that gorgeous caramelized crust. Pat them dry with paper towels—don’t skip this, as moisture is the enemy of a good sear!
Step 2: Season Generously
Sprinkle both sides of your steaks generously with salt and black pepper. Give the seasoning a gentle press so it adheres. This simple step is what transforms your Garlic Butter Steak Recipe from ordinary to mouthwatering magic.
Step 3: Sear the Steaks
Heat the olive oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet—cast iron works wonders here—over high heat until it’s just smoking. Carefully lay the steaks in the pan (you should hear an instant sizzle!). Sear for 3–4 minutes on the first side, resisting every urge to move them; this is how you get that beautiful, flavorful crust.
Step 4: Add Garlic, Butter, and Herbs
Flip the steaks with tongs. Immediately add the unsalted butter, smashed garlic cloves, and rosemary or thyme sprigs right into the pan. As the butter melts, aromatics will infuse the fat, sending an irresistible scent through your kitchen.
Step 5: Baste with Garlic Butter
Tilt the pan slightly and, using a spoon, baste the tops of the steaks with the bubbling, fragrant garlic butter for 2-3 minutes. This not only adds flavor but also keeps the steaks moist. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should reach 130°F—check with a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
Step 6: Rest and Slice
Transfer the steaks to a cutting board and let them rest for at least 5–10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite of your Garlic Butter Steak Recipe is supremely juicy.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Recipe

Garnishes
Top your steak with a final spoonful of the pan’s garlicky butter and scatter a few fresh herb leaves for color and aroma. A pinch of flaky sea salt at the last second makes the flavors pop. For an upscale finishing touch, a sprinkle of microgreens or chives is always a win.
Side Dishes
Nothing beats serving this Garlic Butter Steak Recipe alongside classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables (think: asparagus or Brussels sprouts), or a fresh, crisp salad. Crusty bread is ideal for mopping up that irresistible garlic-butter pan sauce. Choose what you love—the steak is the star!
Creative Ways to Present
For a wow-factor, slice your rested steaks against the grain and fan the pieces out on a large platter, drizzled with any extra garlic butter from the pan. Pair with colorful roasted veggies or artistically swirl mashed potatoes beside the steak. Individual cast iron pans can also turn dinner into a restaurant-style experience right at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have steak left over (lucky you!), wrap slices tightly in foil or airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Store any remaining garlic butter separately to drizzle over leftovers when reheating for extra flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked steak for up to 2 months. Wrap portions well in plastic wrap and foil so the meat stays tender. For best results, freeze the garlic butter separately in small containers or ice cube trays for quick, flavorful portions when you’re ready to use.
Reheating
To gently reheat steak without drying it out, warm slices in a covered skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or a bit of reserved garlic butter. Avoid microwaving if you can, as it can make the meat rubbery. A few minutes on the stovetop is all you need to bring your Garlic Butter Steak Recipe back to life.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While ribeye is beautifully marbled and flavorful, this Garlic Butter Steak Recipe works equally well with New York strip, filet mignon, or even sirloin. Just adjust cook times based on thickness and cut.
Do I have to use fresh herbs?
Fresh rosemary or thyme add a bright aromatic touch, but if you don’t have them on hand, feel free to skip or use a small pinch of dried herbs in a pinch. The stars here are definitely the steak and that luscious garlic butter.
How do I know when my steak is done?
Using a meat thermometer is the surest way! For medium-rare, aim for 130°F in the thickest part of the steak. The steak will continue to cook slightly as it rests. If you prefer it more or less done, adjust accordingly.
Can I make this Garlic Butter Steak Recipe without a cast iron pan?
Yes! A heavy-bottomed stainless steel skillet will work almost as well. The key is to get the pan very hot and avoid overcrowding, so you still achieve that coveted sear.
Is this Garlic Butter Steak Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this steak is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure any sides or extras you serve it with also fit your dietary needs.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Garlic Butter Steak Recipe, your homemade steak nights will never be the same! It’s surprisingly easy and outrageously delicious, perfect for sharing with family or savoring solo. Grab a skillet, invite someone you love, and give it a try—you’re in for a real treat!
Print
Garlic Butter Steak Recipe
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of perfectly seared ribeye steaks bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce. This easy-to-follow recipe guarantees a restaurant-quality meal right at home.
Ingredients
Ribeye Steaks:
- 2 ribeye steaks (1 to 1 1/2 inches thick)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, smashed
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Steaks: Take steaks out of the fridge 30 minutes before cooking, pat dry, and season with salt and pepper.
- Sear Steaks: Heat olive oil in a skillet, sear steaks for 3–4 minutes per side.
- Add Flavors: Add butter, garlic, and herbs to the pan. Baste steaks with garlic butter until desired doneness.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from heat, let rest for 5–10 minutes, then slice and serve.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Recipe is also great with New York strip or filet mignon.
- Pair with roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 steak
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 135mg