© Original Recipe By The Cozy Crumb ©
Quick Pan-Seared Steak with Butter Sauce 🥩🧈✨
1. Introduction
If you’re craving a delicious and satisfying pan-seared steak recipe that comes together in minutes, you’re in the right place! This quick dinner steak recipe highlights the rich flavors of a perfectly seared cut of beef topped with a luscious butter sauce. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight meal or impressing guests, this recipe ensures a juicy, tender steak with minimal fuss. Achieve restaurant-quality results at home with this simple, flavorful method that highlights the beauty of good ingredients and proper technique.
2. Ingredients for your quick dinner steak
- 2 ribeye or sirloin steaks (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, smashed
- Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
3. Step-by-step instructions for the perfect pan-seared steak with butter sauce
Prepare and season the steaks
Remove the steaks from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature. Pat them dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides for optimal flavor.
Heat the pan
Place a heavy skillet such as a cast-iron pan on the stove over medium-high heat. When the pan is hot, add the oil, ensuring it heats evenly and starts to shimmer, indicating it’s ready for the steaks.
Sear the steaks
Carefully add the steaks to the hot pan. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes for medium-rare, or longer depending on your preferred level of doneness. Do not move the steaks around; allow them to develop a rich, golden crust.
Rest the steaks
Transfer the steaks to a plate and cover loosely with aluminum foil. Let them rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender, flavorful bite.
Prepare the butter sauce
While the steaks are resting, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the smashed garlic cloves and herbs if using. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, then tilt the pan and spoon the melted butter over the steaks for extra flavor.
Serve
Slice the steaks against the grain, drizzle with the butter sauce, and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately for the best experience.
4. Storage tips for leftovers
If you have any leftover steak, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or in the oven to help preserve moisture and texture. The butter sauce can be stored separately and reheated gently to retain its silky consistency.
5. Serving suggestions for your steak butter sauce
This steak butter sauce pairs wonderfully with classic sides like creamy Parmesan spinach mushroom pasta, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving alongside crispy roasted potatoes or a comforting baked potato. The versatility of this dish makes it perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.
6. FAQs about the pan-seared steak recipe
Can I use other cuts of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While ribeye and sirloin are ideal for their flavor and tenderness, you can also use filet mignon, New York strip, or flank steak, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
Dried herbs can be used, but use them sparingly — about half the amount — to prevent overpowering the butter sauce.
How long does it take to cook a steak to medium?
Typically about 4-5 minutes per side for a 1-inch thick steak. Use a meat thermometer for precision: 140°F (60°C) for medium.
Is there a vegetarian alternative?
For a vegetarian option, try grilling hearty vegetables like portobello mushrooms or eggplant slices, then top with a similar butter and herbs for a flavorful treat.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer — Ideal for versatile cooking and preparing sides to complement your steak. Its precise temperature control makes steak searing even easier!
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set — Ensures durable, non-stick cooking for your steaks and side dishes, making cleanup effortless.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo — Perfect for grilling or quick cooking, providing options to customize your steak experience in any weather.
8. Tips for the best pan-seared steak with butter sauce
- Ensure your steaks are at room temperature before cooking for even searing.
- Use a heavy skillet like cast iron for the best crust and heat retention.
- Aiming for a hot pan helps develop a beautiful crust; avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Use a meat thermometer for precise doneness — avoid cutting into the steak to check!
- Resting the meat is essential for juiciness, so don’t skip this step.
9. Conclusion
This pan-seared steak recipe with a rich butter sauce is a quick and easy way to elevate any dinner. Perfectly seared on the outside with a juicy interior, topped with fragrant garlic and herbs, this dish promises a satisfying meal with minimal fuss. Whether you’re impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in, mastering this steak butter sauce recipe will surely become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Pair it with your choice of sides and enjoy a delicious, restaurant-quality experience right at home!
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Quick Pan-Seared Steak with Butter Sauce
A quick and delicious pan-seared steak with a buttery sauce, ideal for a fast dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 sirloin steaks
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Season both sides of the steaks with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook steaks 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked to desired doneness.
- Reduce heat; add butter and garlic to the skillet.
- Spoon the melted butter mixture over the steaks and cook 1-2 minutes more.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Adjust cooking time based on steak thickness.
- Use fresh garlic for a more aromatic butter sauce.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: High-Protein
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 steak
- Calories: 450 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 45 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
