Name: Simple Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Steak
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless ribeye steaks (about 1 inch thick); 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 garlic cloves, smashed; 2 sprigs fresh rosemary (or thyme)

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Simple Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Steak a no-fuss, restaurant-quality steak made right at home—juicy, tender, and infused with garlic butter flavor. I find it perfect for busy weeknights or when I want something extra special without leaving my kitchen.

Simple Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Steak

Ingredients

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

2 boneless ribeye steaks (about 1 inch thick)

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 garlic cloves, smashed

2 sprigs fresh rosemary (or thyme)

Directions

I remove the steaks from the fridge and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes—this helps them cook more evenly.

I pat the steaks dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with salt and pepper.

I heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s just starting to smoke.

Carefully, I place the steaks in the hot pan and sear them for 2–3 minutes without moving them, to get that beautiful golden crust.

I flip the steaks and cook them for another 2–3 minutes for a nice medium-rare (or longer if I want them more done).

I lower the heat to medium-low, then add butter, smashed garlic, and rosemary to the skillet.

Tilting the pan slightly, I spoon the melted garlic butter over the steaks for 1–2 minutes, basting them to lock in flavor.

Finally, I remove the steaks from the pan and let them rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 2

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Calories: 410 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes swap rosemary for thyme, depending on what’s fresh in my kitchen.

For extra heat, I’ll add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter as it melts.

If I want even more richness, I add a splash of heavy cream or blue cheese crumbles right at the end.

For a leaner cut, sirloin or filet mignon also works great, though I may need to adjust the cook time.

I’ve tried it with ghee instead of butter when I want a dairy-free version—it still turns out great.

Storage/Reheating

If I have leftovers, I store the steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I like to gently warm it in a skillet over low heat with a bit of butter to keep it juicy. Microwaving tends to dry it out, so I usually avoid that.

FAQs

How do I know when the steak is done?

I use the finger test or a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, I aim for an internal temperature of about 130–135°F (54–57°C).

Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes, I’ve used sirloin, New York strip, and filet mignon. Just keep an eye on thickness and adjust cooking time as needed.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

I use dried rosemary or thyme in a pinch—about ½ teaspoon. It’s not quite the same as fresh, but still adds great flavor.

Can I cook this in a non-stick pan?

I’ve tried it, but I get the best crust with a cast-iron skillet. If non-stick is all I have, I still make it work, just without that deep sear.

Do I need to let the steak rest?

Absolutely. Letting it rest for 5–10 minutes allows the juices to redistribute, so the steak stays juicy when I slice it.

Conclusion

This Simple Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Steak has become one of my favorite go-to meals when I want something easy, flavorful, and satisfying. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, I can serve a dish that feels like a steakhouse dinner at home. Whether I’m cooking for myself or someone special, this recipe always hits the mark.

Recipe:

Simple Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Steak

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 2 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A simple yet flavorful garlic butter pan-seared steak that's juicy, tender, and packed with rich, aromatic flavors. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions, and naturally low-carb and gluten-free.