1. Prepare the Steak

Start by choosing your preferred cut of steak, whether it’s flank, skirt, or sirloin. Each cut offers a unique texture, but all work wonderfully for this recipe. Allow the steak to come to room temperature by letting it sit on the counter for about 15-20 minutes before cooking. This ensures more even cooking and helps achieve the perfect sear.

Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, as this helps the steak sear better and achieve a rich, brown crust. Season both sides of the steak generously with salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, and garlic powder. The seasoning mix provides a smoky, slightly spicy, and well-rounded flavor that complements the steak beautifully.

2. Sear the Steak

In a large skillet or grill pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the steak to the pan. Make sure the pan is hot enough that the steak sizzles as soon as it touches the surface. Searing the steak is key to locking in the juices and developing a flavorful crust.

Sear the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust the time depending on your desired level of doneness. Use tongs to flip the steak so that you don’t pierce the meat and lose juices. Once seared, transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Resting the meat allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a juicy steak.

3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

While the steak is resting, prepare the garlic butter sauce. In a small saucepan or skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden (be careful not to burn the garlic).

If you like, you can add grated Parmesan cheese to the butter mixture for a richer, savory flavor. After the garlic is sautéed, stir in the lemon juice for a bright, fresh note, and chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Keep the sauce warm while you slice the steak.

4. Slice the Steak

Once the steak has rested, it’s time to slice it. Using a sharp knife, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. Slicing against the grain breaks down the muscle fibers, making the steak more tender and easier to chew. Arrange the sliced steak on a serving platter.

5. Serve with Garlic Butter Sauce

Pour the warm garlic butter sauce over the sliced steak, ensuring each piece is coated in the rich, aromatic sauce. You can garnish the dish with additional chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve immediately, pairing with your favorite side dishes.