If you’re in the mood to dazzle your tastebuds with a timeless classic, this Pan-Seared Steak in Butter Sauce will surely steal the show. Picture this: tender beef steak strips marinated to perfection, seared just right, and then luxuriated in a luscious butter sauce that’s a symphony of flavors with hints of garlic, thyme, and a kick of red chili. Let’s dive into this sensational recipe and turn your kitchen into a steakhouse haven!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: The blend of garlic, thyme, and chili pepper flakes creates an irresistible sauce.
- Quick and Easy: From start to finish, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish in under 30 minutes.
- Perfectly Tender: Marinating the steak ensures a tender, juicy texture with every bite.
- Impressive Presentation: Ideal for both cozy dinners and fancy gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe leans on the power of simplicity. Every ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to enhance the rich, savory flavors of the Pan-Seared Steak in Butter Sauce. Each component plays a critical role, from the fragrant herbs to the succulent steak.
- One 1lb flank steak: Choose a fresh, high-quality steak for optimal flavor and tenderness.
- Unsalted butter: Nutty and rich, it forms the base for our sauce, offering both creaminess and depth.
- Shallot and garlic: They provide a subtle sweetness and aromatic base that enhances the sauce.
- Red chili pepper flakes: Just a touch gives the sauce a delightful heat to balance its richness.
- Dijon mustard: A hint of tanginess elevates the sauce with sophistication.
- Fresh thyme and chives: These herbs add freshness and a pop of color to the dish.
- Beef stock: Brings umami and depth to the sauce, making it luscious and flavorful.
- Lemon juice: A squeeze for acidity, brightens and balances the richness.
- Soy sauce for marinade: Infuses the steak with umami and helps tenderize it.
- Sriracha: Use your favorite hot sauce for a personal touch of heat.
Variations
One of the joys of making Pan-Seared Steak in Butter Sauce is its adaptability. Whether you’re cooking for dietary preferences or just want to mix things up, these variations will keep your palate entertained.
- Herb Switch: Substitute rosemary for thyme for a woodier herbal note.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red chili pepper flakes according to your spice tolerance.
- Wine Kick: Add a splash of red wine instead of beef stock for a richer sauce.
How to Make Pan-Seared Steak in Butter Sauce
Step 1: Marinate the Steak
In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, Sriracha, fresh cracked black pepper, and soy sauce. Toss the flank steak strips into this flavorful marinade and let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This not only infuses the meat with flavor but also tenderizes it for a heavenly texture.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
Over medium-high heat, melt a tablespoon of butter in your skillet. Sear the marinated steak strips briefly, ensuring they brown beautifully. Each side should only take 1–2 minutes, capturing the juicy interior while locking in those flavors. Remove the strips and set them aside.
Step 3: Create the Butter Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and add the chopped shallot and minced garlic into the same skillet. Stir them gently until they’re soft and aromatic—about 2 minutes. Add thyme, chives, and chili pepper flakes, then stir in lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and beef stock. Stir the mixture, scraping any brown bits to infuse the sauce with richness. Let it reduce for about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Add the remaining butter, allowing it to melt into the sauce, then reintroduce the steak. Toss everything together ensuring the steak is well coated with the butter sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and chives before serving. Pair it with a hearty side for a complete meal. Enjoy!
Pro Tips for Making Pan-Seared Steak in Butter Sauce
- Marinade Magic: Allow the steak to sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor infusion and tenderness.
- Heat Control: Start with a hot pan to get a nice crust on your steak, then reduce the heat when cooking the shallot and garlic for flavors that melt in your mouth.
- Butter Swirl: When making the sauce, swirl in butter for a glossy finish that enhances both texture and flavor.
- Herb Choice: Fresh herbs make a huge impact in flavor; dried herbs can be used in a pinch but adjust to your taste preference.
How to Serve Pan-Seared Steak in Butter Sauce
Garnishes
Enhance the visual appeal and freshness of your dish by scattering chopped parsley and chives over the top before serving. These garnishes add a burst of color and a subtle pop of flavor that ties the dish together beautifully.
Side Dishes
Classic pairings like sautéed spinach or roasted potatoes, carrots, and zucchini complement the richness of the butter sauce and steak. Light salads or steamed vegetables also balance the meal, offering a lighter contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Impress your guests with a restaurant-style presentation by fanning the steak strips over a bed of mashed potatoes. Drizzle the luscious butter sauce in a zig-zag fashion across the top for that gourmet touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure the steak strips are covered in a bit of the sauce to keep them moist during storage.
Freezing
For longer storage, place the steak and sauce in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat the steak and sauce in a skillet over low heat to maintain its tenderness and avoid overcooking. Add a splash of beef stock to refresh the sauce if necessary.
FAQs
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Can I use a different cut of steak for Pan-Seared Steak in Butter Sauce?
Absolutely! While flank steak is recommended for its tenderness and flavor, cuts like sirloin or ribeye can also work wonderfully in this recipe.
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How do I prevent the butter sauce from separating?
To maintain a smooth sauce, ensure you swirl the butter into the sauce over low heat and do not allow it to boil vigorously.
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What can I substitute for beef stock in the sauce?
If you don’t have beef stock handy, water can be used as a substitute, or opt for chicken or vegetable stock for a different flavor profile.
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Is it necessary to marinate the steak for 30 minutes?
While marinating for 30 minutes is ideal for maximizing flavor, if you’re short on time, even a quick 10-minute soak can improve the taste significantly.
Final Thoughts
No need to reserve this decadent Pan-Seared Steak in Butter Sauce just for special occasions—it’s simple enough for any night of the week! Your family and friends will thank you for putting this spectacular meal on the table. Dive into this comforting dish and savor every bite, knowing you’ve mastered a classic that hits all the right notes.
PrintPan-Seared Steak in Butter Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes (including marinating time)
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan Searing
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Pan-Seared Steak in Butter Sauce delivers tender, flavorful strips of flank steak infused with a rich, savory butter-based pan sauce, perfect for a quick and elegant meal. Marinated in a spicy soy-sriracha mixture, the steak is quickly seared to lock in juices and then finished with a fragrant thyme and garlic butter sauce, garnished with fresh herbs. Ideal for a satisfying dinner with vegetable sides.
Ingredients
For the Steak and Marinade:
- 1 lb (450g) flank steak, cut into strips
- 1/4 cup (60ml) soy sauce (or coconut amino)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha (or hot sauce of choice)
- Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste
For the Pan Sauce and Steak:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Pinch of red chili pepper flakes, to taste
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 3 teaspoons minced fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon finely minced chives
- 1/2 cup beef stock (or water)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and fresh cracked pepper, to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Steak: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, olive oil, Sriracha, and black pepper. Add the steak strips, ensuring they are well coated, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Pan and Sear the Steak: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Remove steak from marinade, season with salt and pepper, and sear quickly for about 1–2 minutes per side until browned. Transfer to a covered plate and set aside.
- Make the Pan Sauce: Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, add shallots and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Stir in thyme, chives, chili flakes, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and beef stock. Scrape up browned bits and cook until the liquid reduces by half, approximately 5 minutes. Stir in the remaining butter until melted. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Combine and Serve: Return the steak to the pan, reheat briefly, and garnish with chopped parsley and chives. Serve immediately with your choice of side vegetables or potatoes.
Notes
- Ensure the steak is evenly coated with marinade for maximum flavor.
- Quick searing preserves the tenderness and juices of the steak.
- The pan sauce can be made ahead and reheated gently before serving.
- Serve with sautéed spinach, roasted vegetables, or potatoes for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (half of total recipe)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 1020 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 36 g
- Cholesterol: 105 mg