Few dishes deliver the elegance and satisfaction of Pan-Seared Steaks with Herb Butter. A perfectly seared crust, tender interior, and luxurious butter infused with fresh herbs make this a restaurant-quality meal you can enjoy in the comfort of your own home.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this recipe guarantees steakhouse flavor without the hefty price tag.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, with minimal prep required.
- Unbeatable Flavor: Herb butter melts over the steak, adding richness and aromatic goodness.
- Steakhouse Quality: Achieve that perfect crust and juicy interior at home.
- Versatile: Works with any steak cut and complements a variety of sides.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need for this mouthwatering steak recipe:
For the Steaks:
- 2 (10 oz) steaks (ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, smashed
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
For the Herb Butter:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ tsp fresh thyme, chopped
- ½ tsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- ½ tsp lemon zest (optional)
- Pinch of salt
How to Make Pan-Seared Steaks with Herb Butter
Step 1: Prepare the Herb Butter
- In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, rosemary, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt.
- Mix until well blended, then transfer the mixture to a piece of plastic wrap.
- Roll into a log, twist the ends, and refrigerate until firm (about 20 minutes).
Step 2: Prep the Steaks
- Remove steaks from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to come to room temperature.
- Pat the steaks dry with paper towels and generously season both sides with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
Step 3: Sear the Steaks
- Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until very hot. Add olive oil.
- Place the steaks in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on one side without moving them. This creates a golden crust.
- Flip the steaks and add 1 tbsp unsalted butter, smashed garlic cloves, and fresh rosemary or thyme to the skillet.
Step 4: Baste and Finish Cooking
- Tilt the skillet slightly and spoon the melted butter over the steaks continuously for about 2-3 minutes.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer:
- Rare: 125°F
- Medium Rare: 135°F
- Medium: 145°F
- Medium Well: 150°F
Step 5: Rest and Serve
- Transfer the steaks to a plate and let them rest for 5-10 minutes to retain juices.
- Top each steak with a slice of the chilled herb butter. Serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
Enhance your steak dinner with these sides:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and flavorful, they pair perfectly with the rich steak.
- Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or baby carrots.
- Fresh Salad: A crisp arugula or Caesar salad for a refreshing contrast.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Pan: Use a heavy-bottomed skillet like cast iron for even heat distribution and a perfect sear.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook steaks in batches if necessary to avoid steaming instead of searing.
- Rest the Steaks: Allowing the meat to rest keeps it juicy and tender.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley, thyme, and rosemary elevate the herb butter’s flavor.
Variations and Customizations
- Spicy Herb Butter: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the butter for a kick.
- Garlic-Lover’s Butter: Double the garlic for a bolder flavor.
- Different Cuts: This method works with strip steaks, T-bone, or even pork chops.
- Keto-Friendly: Pair with a cauliflower mash or roasted broccoli for a low-carb meal.
FAQs
What’s the best steak cut for pan-searing?
Ribeye, sirloin, and filet mignon are excellent choices due to their tenderness and flavor.
Can I use dried herbs for the butter?
Yes, but reduce the quantity to avoid overpowering the flavor. Use 1/3 the amount of dried herbs as fresh.
How do I know when the steak is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature based on your desired level of doneness.
What if I don’t have a cast-iron skillet?
A heavy stainless-steel skillet works well. Avoid non-stick pans, as they don’t achieve the same sear.
Can I make the herb butter ahead of time?
Absolutely! Store it in the fridge for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months.
How do I reheat leftover steak?
Reheat in a skillet with a bit of butter over low heat or wrap in foil and warm in a 250°F oven.
Conclusion
Impress your family and friends with these Pan-Seared Steaks with Herb Butter. This simple yet elegant recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in the comfort of your kitchen. With its perfect sear, tender meat, and luxurious herb butter, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite. Treat yourself to steak night done right!