Quick Pan-Seared Steak in Butter Sauce for a Perfect Dinner

© Original Recipe By The Daily Garnish ©

Quick Pan-Seared Steak in Butter Sauce for a Perfect Dinner 🔥🥩🧈

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a restaurant-quality pan-seared steak that’s rich, juicy, and full of flavor, you’ve come to the right place. This steak recipe is perfect for a quick, satisfying dinner that impresses without requiring hours in the kitchen. The secret lies in the perfect sear and a luscious butter sauce steak that elevates the dish to a new level. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook, this guide will walk you through every step to achieve perfectly cooked quick dinner steak every time.

2. Ingredients Needed for the Perfect Pan-Seared Steak

  • 2 ribeye or sirloin steaks (about 1 inch thick)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs
  • Optional: red wine or beef broth for extra flavor

For a more detailed ingredient list and alternative options, visit our recipe for one-pan creamy parmesan spinach mushroom pasta.

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Your Pan-Seared Steak

Preparing the Steak

Remove the steaks from the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. This step ensures a crispy, flavorful crust.

Heating the Pan

Heat a heavy skillet, preferably cast iron, over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and let it heat until just beginning to shimmer. Proper heat is essential for a perfect pan-seared steak.

Searing the Steak

Place the steaks into the hot pan. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes for medium-rare, adjusting the time according to your preferred doneness. Do not move the steaks around; let them develop that beautiful crust.

Adding Butter and Aromatics

During the last minute of cooking, add 4 tablespoons of butter, minced garlic, and herbs like thyme or rosemary into the pan. Tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to baste the steaks continuously with the melting butter mixture. This step infuses extra flavor into your cut.

Resting the Meat

Once cooked, transfer the steaks to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes. Resting helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender steak recipe.

Creating the Butter Sauce

While the steaks rest, pour the remaining pan juices into a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer and, if desired, add a splash of red wine or beef broth. Stir in a tablespoon of butter to make a silky butter sauce steak. Serve over the steaks for added richness.

4. Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Store any leftover steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven for best results. Keep in mind that reheated steak may lose some of its original tenderness, but the flavor remains delicious.

5. Serving Suggestions for Your Quick Dinner Steak

This pan-seared steak pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Consider serving with roasted vegetables, a simple green salad, or creamy mashed potatoes. For a complete meal, check out our easy creamy chicken pasta soup as another dinner idea.

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Pan-Seared Steak

Can I make this steak recipe with different cuts of meat?

Yes, you can use other cuts like filet mignon or T-bone, but cooking times might vary. Thinner cuts will cook faster, so monitor the internal temperature for perfect doneness.

What’s the best way to achieve a perfect crust?

Ensure your pan is very hot before adding the steak, and avoid crowding the pan. Patting the meat dry beforehand also promotes better browning.

How long does it take to cook a pan-seared steak?

Typically, 3-4 minutes per side achieves medium-rare for 1-inch thick steaks. Adjust the time for your preferred doneness.

Are there any substitutes for butter for the sauce?

Yes, for a dairy-free option, use olive oil or animal fats like rendered beef fat. However, butter adds a rich flavor that enhances the sauce.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

8. Conclusion

Mastering the art of pan-seared steak with butter sauce elevates your weeknight dinners to a luxurious experience. This steak recipe offers juicy, flavorful meat with a delectably crispy crust complemented by a silky butter sauce. Whether for an intimate dinner or a special occasion, this quick dinner steak recipe guarantees satisfaction. Try it today and enjoy restaurant-quality results at home!

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A close-up of a perfectly cooked seared steak with a golden crust, topped with a glossy butter sauce and garnished with fresh herbs, on a rustic wooden plate with a side of sautéed vegetables, captured in warm natural light highlighting the textures and rich colors.

Quick Pan-Seared Steak in Butter Sauce for a Perfect Dinner

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A tender and juicy pan-seared steak cooked in butter with a rich sauce, perfect for an elegant but quick dinner.

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 ribeye steaks
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • Fresh thyme sprigs

Instructions

  1. Season steaks generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
  3. Add steaks and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
  4. Remove steaks and set aside.

  5. Reduce heat, add butter, garlic, and thyme to the skillet.
  6. Spoon butter mixture over steaks while cooking for another minute.

Notes

  • Use high-quality steaks for best flavor.
  • Let steaks rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Method: Pan-frying, Searing
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 steak
  • Calories: 350 Kcal
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 0g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg

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