One-Skillet Garlic Butter Steak Recipe (Perfectly Juicy in 20 Minutes)

If you’re craving a quick, juicy, and flavor-packed dinner, this one-skillet garlic butter steak is your answer. At Quickly Meal Recipes, we believe delicious meals shouldn’t take hours, or a pile of dishes. That’s why this simple skillet steak recipe is one of my personal go-tos.

Hi, I’m Barbara, the cook behind this blog. Growing up, food meant family and steak night was always special. Today, between work, family, and life, I still bring that same magic to the table, just faster. This garlic butter steak comes together in just 20 minutes no fuss, one pan. It’s tender, rich, and perfect for busy nights when you want steakhouse flavor without the fuss.

Why One-Skillet Garlic Butter Steak Is So Popular

The Rise of One-Skillet Meals for Busy Lifestyles

In today’s fast-paced world, convenience matters. That’s why one-skillet meals like garlic butter steak have become a kitchen favorite. With minimal cleanup and faster cook times, they’re ideal for anyone juggling work, school, or parenting. Instead of using multiple pans or finishing steak in the oven, this method keeps it all in one heavy-bottomed skillet usually cast iron for maximum flavor and efficiency.

One-skillet garlic butter steak hits the sweet spot: easy prep, bold flavor, and restaurant-style results right at home. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this dish scales beautifully and keeps your cooking stress-free.

Don’t miss our ground beef and potato recipes for more one-pan wonders.

Why Garlic Butter Makes Steak Taste Steakhouse-Quality

Garlic butter is the not-so-secret weapon behind many steakhouse favorites. As the butter melts in the hot skillet, it blends with garlic and herbs usually rosemary or thyme to create an aromatic baste. Spoon it over the steak as it finishes cooking, and it infuses every bite with rich, buttery flavor and a fragrant kick of garlic.

It’s this finishing touch that gives one-skillet garlic butter steak its deep, savory flavor. Combined with a good sear and quality steak, you get all the indulgence of a $40 restaurant meal without leaving your kitchen.

Looking for more beef inspiration? Check out our flavorful beef sirloin steak recipe.

One-Skillet Garlic Butter Steak – The Best 20-Minute Dinner

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• Author: Quickly meal Recipes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This One-Skillet Garlic Butter Steak is juicy, buttery, and packed with flavor. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s the perfect weeknight steakhouse-style dinner.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

2 lbs New York Strip Steaks (or Ribeye or Sirloin)

1/2 Tbsp vegetable oil

1 1/2 tsp sea salt

1 tsp freshly ground black pepper

2 Tbsp unsalted butter

2 cloves garlic, peeled and quartered

1 fresh rosemary sprig

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Instructions

1. Pat steaks dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.

2. Preheat cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil and swirl to coat.

3. Add steaks and sear for 3-4 minutes per side. Sear edges for 1 minute each.

4. Reduce heat to medium. Add butter, garlic, and rosemary to the pan.

5. Baste steak with melted garlic butter for 1-2 minutes.

6. Remove steak when 5–10°F below your desired doneness. Let rest for 10 minutes.

7. Slice against the grain and serve with remaining garlic butter from the pan.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.

This recipe works well with sirloin, ribeye, or strip steak.

Resting the steak before slicing locks in juices and improves tenderness.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Pan-Searing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/2 steak
• Calories: 542
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 40g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 46g
• Cholesterol: 145mg

Choosing the Best Steak for one-skillet garlic butter steak Searing

Ideal Steak Cuts for Skillet Cooking

When it comes to making the perfect one-skillet garlic butter steak, the cut of beef you choose makes all the difference. You’ll want a steak that sears beautifully, retains moisture, and holds up to bold flavors like garlic and butter.

Here are the best cuts for one-skillet garlic butter steak-searing:

Discover great ideas like our beef back ribs recipe for more hearty beef dishes.

Fat Marbling and Thickness: Why They Matter for One-Skillet Garlic Butter Steak

When selecting your steak, look for good marbling those white streaks of fat within the meat. Marbling melts as the steak cooks, adding moisture and flavor. Steaks that are about 1 to 1¼ inches thick are ideal. They allow you to get a beautiful crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender.

Avoid ultra-thin steaks for this recipe they cook too quickly and can dry out before you get that gorgeous sear. On the other hand, steaks thicker than 1½ inches might require finishing in the oven, which defeats the purpose of a true One-Skillet Garlic Butter Steak meal.

Don’t miss our beef chuck eye steak, a hidden gem for flavor-packed skillet meals.

Essential Ingredients for One-Skillet Garlic Butter Steak

Garlic, Rosemary, and Butter: The Flavor Boosters

At the heart of this recipe are three kitchen heroes garlic, rosemary, and unsalted butter. Together, they elevate your steak from simple to sensational.

• Garlic: Quartered cloves infuse the butter with a warm, rich aroma. As they cook, they mellow and sweeten, creating a base that soaks beautifully into the steak.
• Rosemary: Just one fresh sprig adds an earthy, almost pine-like depth that pairs perfectly with red meat.
• Unsalted butter: brings a luxurious texture while giving you full control over the seasoning. Butter also helps caramelize the outer crust of the steak, locking in flavor.

This blend isn’t just tasty, it’s pure comfort on a plate. And when spooned over sizzling one-skillet garlic butter steak, it creates that signature steakhouse-style finish.

Don’t miss our flavorful garlic butter steak bites and potatoes for another twist on this winning combo.

Pantry Staples You Already Have

Aside from your choice of steak, the remaining ingredients are things you likely already have on hand:

• Vegetable oil: Or any high-heat oil like canola or light olive oil for the initial sear.
• Sea salt & freshly ground black pepper: Essential for drawing out the natural flavor of the beef.
• Optional aromatics: Thyme, sage, or crushed red pepper flakes if you want to add a twist.

Here’s a quick ingredient checklist to keep handy:

You’ll be surprised how such a short list of ingredients delivers a dish that’s rich, complex, and deeply satisfying.

Looking for something leaner? Try our beef tender recipe it’s a great low-fat steak alternative.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Garlic Butter Steak in a Skillet

Prepping the Steak: Dry, Season, Rest

The key to a great one-skillet garlic butter steak starts before the pan even gets hot. Proper prep ensures you get a beautiful crust and juicy interior.

1. Pat the steak dry using paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of a good sear.
2. Season both sides liberally with sea salt and coarse black pepper to build deep, savory flavor. Don’t be shy steak needs bold seasoning.
3. Allow the steak to rest at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before cooking. Letting it rest at room temperature ensures even cooking and tender, relaxed meat fibers.

For more seasoning and prep secrets, check out our expert tips in the beef sirloin steak guide.

How to Sear Steak Perfectly in a Skillet

Here’s how to achieve that golden sear and buttery softness in under 20 minutes:

1. Preheat your skillet for 5 minutes on medium-high heat until hot.
2. Add ½ tablespoon of high-heat oil, swirling to coat the bottom evenly.
3. Sear steak on the first side for about 3–4 minutes without moving it. You want a crisp, brown crust to form.
4. Turn the steak and sear the opposite side for another 3 to 4 minutes until beautifully browned. Use tongs to gently press the steak for full, even contact with the hot pan.
5. Sear the sides (especially the fat edge) for about 1 minute per side.

Learn more about one-pan searing methods in our ground beef and potato recipes.

Finishing with Garlic Butter for That Steakhouse Flair

This is where the magic happens:

1. Lower the heat to medium, then melt in 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
2. Toss in the quartered garlic cloves and fresh rosemary sprig.
3. As the butter melts and sizzles, tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to baste the steak with the infused butter. Do this for 1–2 minutes.

It infuses rich flavor while basting the meat for a juicy, glistening finish. Stop cooking when your steak is about 5–10°F below your desired doneness residual heat will finish it off.

Looking for more buttery goodness? Discover our garlic butter steak bites and potatoes for another crowd-pleaser.

How to Make and Use Garlic Butter in Your Skillet

When to Add Butter for Maximum Flavor

In the world of steak, timing is everything especially with butter. Add it too early, and it can burn. Add it too late, and your One-Skillet Garlic Butter Steak misses out on all that glorious, infused richness. The sweet spot? Right after searing both sides of the steak.

Once your steak is golden and nearly cooked through, lower the heat to medium, then toss in:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves (quartered)
• 1 fresh rosemary sprig (or thyme)

Let the butter melt and sizzle around the aromatics. You’ll instantly smell that warm, herby goodness.

Spoon-Basting: The Secret to a Steakhouse Finish

Once your butter is melted and foaming, it’s time to baste. This step is what takes your steak from good to unforgettable.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Angle the pan gently to gather the melted butter along one edge.
2. With a spoon, continuously ladle the butter over the steak to baste it as it cooks.
3. Do this for 1–2 minutes. The garlic and rosemary will flavor the butter as it coats the meat.

Not only does spoon-basting deepen the flavor, it also helps the steak cook more evenly without drying out.

Discover great ideas like this in our beef tender recipe perfect for practicing basting technique.

Bonus Tip: Make Compound Garlic Butter in Advance

If you want to elevate your dish further, consider making garlic compound butter ahead of time. Just mix softened butter with:

• Finely minced garlic
• Chopped fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley)
• Sea salt and a touch of lemon zest

Roll it in parchment paper and chill. Then, slice a round and place it on your hot steak just before serving. It melts slowly, releasing flavor with every bite.

Don’t miss our tips in the beef back ribs recipe for more ways to finish meats with flavor-packed butters.

Steak Doneness and Internal Temperatures Explained

How to Know When Your one-skillet garlic butter steak Is Done

Even the most beautifully seared one-skillet garlic butter steak can be ruined if overcooked or underdone. That’s why knowing internal temperature targets is essential.

The best way to gauge doneness is with an instant-read meat thermometer. Insert it sideways into the thickest part of the steak without touching fat or bone.

Here’s the doneness breakdown:

Learn more about optimal cooking temps in our beef sirloin steak recipe.

Why Resting Your one-skillet garlic butter steak Matters

After cooking, let your steak rest for at least 10 minutes on a cutting board, loosely covered with foil. Why?

• It allows juices to redistribute.
• It finishes the cooking process gently.
• It keeps your steak moist when sliced.

Cutting too early will cause flavorful juices to spill out, leaving you with a dry steak.

Looking for more techniques to keep beef juicy? Check out our beef chuck eye steak for prep tips that lock in flavor.

One-Pan Meal Ideas and Garlic Butter Steak Pairings

Perfect Sides to Complement Garlic Butter Steak

A perfectly seared one-skillet garlic butter steak deserves equally satisfying side dishes. Since the steak already brings bold, buttery flavor, it pairs best with simple, earthy, and slightly crispy accompaniments.

Here are some top favorites:

You can toss many of these into the same skillet once the steak rests fewer dishes, more flavor.

Check out our garlic butter steak bites and potatoes for an all-in-one combo idea.

Quick Sauces and Toppings to Elevate the Dish

If you want to go a step beyond, add a sauce or topping. These can be prepared while the steak rests and are excellent for drizzling over the final plate.

• Chimichurri Sauce: Bright, herby, and cuts through the butter richness
• Balsamic Reduction: A touch of tangy sweetness to balance savory meat
• Blue Cheese Crumble: Melts slightly over hot steak for bold flavor
• Caramelized Onions: Adds a touch of sweetness and texture

And if you’re keeping it simple, just spoon extra garlic butter from the skillet over everything including the sides.

Don’t miss our ground beef and potato recipes for more easy pairings and skillet-style meals.

Leftovers? Here’s How to Repurpose Garlic Butter Steak

Smart Ways to Use Leftover Steak

Got extra one-skillet garlic butter steak? Don’t let it go to waste. Leftovers from this recipe are perfect for quick meal prep ideas that feel fresh, not recycled. The key is slicing the steak thinly once it’s cold, then repurposing it in creative ways.

Try these tasty ideas to give your leftover steak a second life:

Looking for inspiration? Try our flavorful beef sirloin steak recipe and apply these leftover hacks too!

How to Store and Reheat Garlic Butter Steak

Proper storage keeps the steak fresh and delicious even days later. Follow these simple storage guidelines:

• Refrigerate leftover steak in a sealed container and enjoy within 4 days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, freeze in vacuum-sealed or airtight bags for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of beef broth or a pat of butter to keep it moist.

Avoid microwaving it toughens the steak and dries it out quickly.

Discover great ideas like our beef tender recipe for easy-to-store and reheat steak dishes.

Expert Tips for Perfect Steak Every Time

Pan Selection: Cast Iron vs. Stainless Steel

Your skillet matters just as much as your steak. For the ideal one-skillet garlic butter steak, nothing beats cast iron. It holds heat evenly, creates a rich crust, and transitions from stovetop to oven if needed.

• Cast Iron Skillet: Best for heat retention and that classic sear.
• Stainless Steel: A solid runner-up if seasoned well and preheated correctly.

Avoid nonstick pans they don’t reach high enough temperatures for proper searing.

Don’t miss our cast-iron tested recipe for beef back ribs that showcases bold flavors.

Searing, Resting, and Slicing One-Skillet Garlic Butter Steak Like a Pro

Here are some final tips straight from the test kitchen:

• Preheat your pan for at least 5 minutes before adding oil, this helps prevent sticking.
• Press the steak down gently when it first hits the pan to ensure full surface contact.
• Hold off on flipping let a rich, golden crust develop first for maximum flavor.
• Rest your steak for 10 minutes after cooking. This keeps juices locked in.
• Slice against the grain, at an angle, for tender, steakhouse-style bites.
• Avoid slicing too thin, or the steak will lose heat quickly and compromise its texture.

Learn more about texture, slicing, and serving in our beef sirloin steak recipe.

With these tips, you’re not just cooking, you’re mastering the art of steak.

Conclusion

When you’re craving bold, juicy, and comforting flavor fast, nothing beats a one-skillet garlic butter steak. Quick, rich, and ready in 20 minutes—this is your no-fail favorite for steak night, any night.

Whether you’re cooking for guests, your family, or just yourself, this recipe proves that you don’t need a grill or a fancy oven to create restaurant-quality results. With the right cut, a sizzling skillet, and a spoonful of garlicky rosemary butter, you’re just one pan away from dinner perfection.

So grab your cast iron, fire up the stove, and treat yourself to a steakhouse-style meal at home minus the fuss.

Learn more about storing and reheating beef in our beef chuck eye steak guide.
Looking for a leaner cut? Try this beef tender recipe.
Don’t miss our bold, buttery beef back ribs recipe.
Check out our garlic butter steak bites and potatoes for another skillet winner.

for more recipes, follow me in Facebook and Pinterest.

FAQs: One-Skillet Garlic Butter Steak