Are you ready to elevate your steak game? This pan-seared steak recipe is a game-changer that will leave your taste buds craving for more. With its simplicity and incredible flavors, it’s bound to become one of your all-time favorite ways to prepare steak.
The Art of Perfect Pan-Seared Steak
If cooking steak has always felt intimidating to you, you’re not alone. The high price tag and the fear of overcooking can make it quite daunting. But fear not! With a few simple tips and tricks, cooking steak can be a breeze.
Imagine sinking your teeth into a beautifully seared steak with a crispy browned exterior, perfectly complemented by a rich garlic butter sauce. It’s a dish that will impress everyone at the table.
And the best part? This method works year-round, even when your grill is covered in snow during the winter!
Mastering the Steak Cooking Process
Here’s a step-by-step guide to achieving steak perfection:
-
Bring the steaks to room temperature: Let the steaks rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook more evenly.
-
Heat up your skillet: Heat some vegetable oil in a 12-inch cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the skillet gets hot, as this is crucial for achieving that incredible sear.
-
Season the steaks: Pat the steaks dry with paper towels, then season them generously with salt and pepper. Some people suggest waiting to add the pepper until the end to prevent burning, but in my experience, burnt pepper hasn’t been an issue.
-
Sear the steaks: Place the steaks in the skillet and press down with metal tongs to ensure the entire bottom surface makes direct contact with the skillet. Let them cook until nicely browned on the bottom, approximately 3 minutes.
-
Flip and continue cooking: Flip the steaks and cook for an additional 3 minutes or until the steak is about 10 degrees away from your desired level of doneness.
-
Add the garlic butter: Reduce the heat to medium-low and add a luxurious combination of butter, garlic, and thyme to the skillet. Tilt the pan to allow the butter to pool to one side, and spoon it over the steaks as they continue to cook. This will add an extra layer of richness and flavor.
-
Rest and enjoy: Transfer the steaks to plates and let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender and juicy steak.
Tips for Achieving Steak Perfection
To ensure the best possible steak every time, here are some valuable tips:
-
Choose high-quality steak: Opt for prime or choice cuts. This recipe works particularly well with Ribeye or New York Strip steaks. If possible, go for boneless cuts, as they cook more evenly.
-
Use a cast iron skillet: The heavy pan holds heat exceptionally well, ensuring a beautiful brown sear and even cooking.
-
Preheat the skillet: Take the time to preheat the pan properly. Let it heat until the oil shimmers and is close to smoking. This will give your steak that irresistible sear.
-
Keep it dry: Pat your steaks dry with paper towels before seasoning them. A drier exterior leads to a crispier crust.
-
Season generously: Don’t skimp on the salt and opt for kosher salt for more even seasoning.
-
Time the butter: Add the butter towards the end of cooking to prevent it from burning due to its low smoke point.
-
Invest in an instant-read thermometer: To ensure your steak is cooked to perfection, use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature. This way, you can avoid serving an undercooked or overcooked steak.
-
Let it rest: Give your beautifully cooked steak a 5-minute rest before slicing into it. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.
Exploring the Perfect Pairings
Now that you have mastered the art of pan-seared steak with garlic butter, it’s time to think about what to serve alongside this mouthwatering dish. Here are a few ideas to inspire your taste buds:
- Parmesan Roasted Potatoes
- Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes, Carrots, and Green Beans
- Mashed Potatoes or Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
- Baked (Russet) Potatoes
- Baked Sweet Potato Fries
- Honey Roasted Carrots
- Roasted Squash, Zucchini, and Tomatoes
- Steamed Asparagus or Green Beans
With these delectable side dishes, your steak dinner will be a complete and memorable culinary experience.
So, why wait? Head to your kitchen, fire up your skillet, and discover the joy of indulging in a perfectly pan-seared steak with garlic butter. Your taste buds will thank you!