Pan-Seared Steak with Garlic Butter

This pan-seared steak recipe is all about simplicity and flavor. The garlic rosemary-infused butter gives the steak that perfect steakhouse touch—seared on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re new to cooking steaks or a seasoned pro, this recipe guarantees success with minimal ingredients and a quick 20-minute cook time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Easy & quick: This recipe takes just 20 minutes and doesn’t require any fancy techniques.
  • Steakhouse-quality: The garlic rosemary butter adds an irresistible richness that elevates the steak to restaurant quality.
  • Minimal cleanup: It’s made in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
  • Versatile: Pair it with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad.

How to Make Pan-Seared Steak with Garlic Butter:

Step-by-step overview:

  1. Prep the Steak
  2. Pat the steak dry with paper towels to ensure it sears perfectly. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
  3. Preheat the Pan
  4. Heat a large cast-iron pan (or heavy stainless steel pan) over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes. Add 1/2 tbsp of oil to the hot pan.
  5. Sear the Steak
  6. Once the oil is hot, add the steaks and sear for about 3-4 minutes per side until you get a nice brown crust. Sear the edges for about 1 minute per edge, using tongs.
  7. Add the Garlic Butter
  8. Reduce the heat to medium. Add 2 tbsp of butter, garlic cloves, and rosemary sprigs to the pan. Tilt the pan and spoon the melted butter over the steak for a minute or until the steak reaches your desired doneness.
  9. Rest and Slice
  10. Transfer the steak to a cutting board, cover loosely with foil, and let it rest for 10 minutes. Slice against the grain to serve.

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs New York Strip Steaks (or your choice of steak)
  • 1/2 tbsp vegetable oil (or any high-heat cooking oil)
  • 1 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, peeled and quartered
  • 1 sprig fresh rosemary

Steak Doneness Temperature Chart:

Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak:

  • Medium Rare: 125˚F (final temp 130˚F)
  • Medium: 135˚F (final temp 140˚F)
  • Medium-Well: 145˚F (final temp 150˚F)
  • Well Done: 155˚F (final temp 160˚F)

Pro Tip: The steak continues to cook while resting, so remove it from the pan 5-10 degrees before it reaches your desired temperature.

How to Serve:

Serve the steak with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or corn on the cob. Drizzle the garlic butter over the steak for added flavor.

Tips:

  • Dry the steak before cooking for a better sear.
  • Let the steak rest before slicing to lock in juices.
  • Use fresh rosemary and garlic for the best flavor infusion.
  • Use a thermometer to get the perfect doneness.

FAQs:

Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes, you can substitute with ribeye, filet mignon, or top sirloin.

How do I know when my steak is done?

Use a thermometer or the touch test (softer = less cooked, firmer = more cooked).

Can I cook this recipe in the oven?

This method is designed for stovetop cooking, but you can finish the steak in the oven if preferred.

Storage Instructions:

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
  • Freeze: Steak can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
  • Reheat: Reheat in a skillet over low heat to prevent the steak from drying out.

This Pan-Seared Steak with Garlic Butter is a simple, delicious way to make a steakhouse-quality meal at home. With just a few ingredients and a bit of time, you’ll have a juicy, flavorful steak that will impress anyone at your table.

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Pan-Seared Steak with Garlic Butter


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  • Author: carlosramirez
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: None

Description

A simple recipe for pan-seared steak infused with garlic and rosemary butter, delivering steakhouse-quality flavor at home.


Ingredients

  • 2 lbs New York Strip Steaks (or your choice of steak)
  • 1/2 tbsp vegetable oil (or any high-heat cooking oil)
  • 1 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, peeled and quartered
  • 1 sprig fresh rosemary


Instructions

  1. Pat the steak dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat a large cast-iron pan over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes and add vegetable oil.
  3. Add the steaks to the hot pan and sear for about 3-4 minutes per side until a brown crust forms, sear the edges for about 1 minute.
  4. Reduce heat to medium, add butter, garlic, and rosemary to the pan. Spoon melted butter over the steak until it reaches desired doneness.
  5. Transfer steak to a cutting board, cover loosely with foil, and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing against the grain.

Notes

Dry the steak before cooking for a better sear. Let it rest before slicing to lock in juices. Use fresh rosemary and garlic for the best flavor.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

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