Garlic Herb Butter Steak in the Oven: The Ultimate Comfort Food

Introduction

When it comes to an elegant, yet easy-to-make steak dinner, a Garlic Herb Butter Steak cooked in the oven is a surefire winner. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion like Thanksgiving, a romantic dinner, or simply craving a decadent meal, this recipe delivers mouthwatering results every time. The combination of juicy steak, rich garlic herb butter, and the oven’s gentle heat makes for a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s both comforting and luxurious.

This oven-baked steak method is ideal for those who want a beautifully seared steak with the perfect medium-rare interior without the need to stand over a hot grill or stovetop. The oven roasting method locks in the flavors and juices, while the garlic herb butter adds layers of richness and complexity.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this recipe is approachable, easy to follow, and guaranteed to impress your guests. Perfect for cozy dinners or grand gatherings, a Garlic Herb Butter Steak cooked in the oven brings elegance and comfort in equal measure.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: With just a few basic ingredients, including a quality cut of steak, butter, garlic, and herbs, this dish is straightforward yet packed with flavor.
• Perfectly Cooked Steak: The oven method gives you complete control over the doneness of the steak, ensuring it’s cooked to perfection every time.
• Rich and Flavorful: The garlic herb butter melts over the steak, infusing it with savory and aromatic flavors that elevate the natural taste of the meat.
• No Need for a Grill: You can cook this steak entirely in the oven, making it a great option if you don’t have access to a grill or just prefer an easier, indoor method.
• Impressive Presentation: The sizzling, golden garlic herb butter cascading over the steak creates a dish that looks as good as it tastes—perfect for impressing dinner guests or family members.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 35 minutes (10 minutes prep, 25 minutes cooking)
• Servings: 2-4 people
• Nutrition Facts:
• Calories per serving: 450
• Protein: 35g
• Carbs: 2g
• Fat: 35g

Ingredients

• 2 (8 oz) bone-in or boneless ribeye steaks (or any steak of your choice like New York strip or filet mignon)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried rosemary)
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
• 1 tsp olive oil (for searing)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (optional, for a zesty finish)
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional, for extra depth of flavor)

Tools and Equipment

• Oven-safe skillet (cast-iron is ideal for even heat distribution)
• Tongs (for flipping the steak)
• Meat thermometer (for perfect doneness)
• Basting spoon (to drizzle the garlic butter)
• Sharp knife (for cutting the steak after it rests)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). The high heat will ensure a beautiful sear on the steak while allowing it to cook through evenly in the oven.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Herb Butter

In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well incorporated. If desired, you can add lemon juice and balsamic vinegar for a hint of acidity and extra depth of flavor. Set the butter mixture aside for later use.

Step 3: Season the Steaks

Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This ensures a good sear and prevents the steaks from steaming when they hit the pan. Season the steaks generously with salt and black pepper on all sides. The seasoning will help create a flavorful crust during searing and roasting.

Step 4: Sear the Steaks

Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet (preferably cast-iron) over medium-high heat until the oil is hot and shimmering. Once the skillet is hot, carefully add the steaks and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side. Use tongs to flip the steaks and ensure that both sides develop a rich, golden-brown crust. This searing step locks in juices and flavors, giving the steak a gorgeous exterior.

Step 5: Add the Garlic Herb Butter

After searing the steaks, remove the skillet from the heat and immediately place a generous dollop of the garlic herb butter mixture on top of each steak. Let the butter melt and coat the steaks with its rich, fragrant goodness. You can use a spoon to drizzle some of the melted butter over the sides of the steaks.

Step 6: Roast the Steaks

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast the steaks for 8-12 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness. Here are the recommended internal temperatures for various doneness levels:

• Rare: 120°F (49°C)
• Medium-rare: 130°F (54°C)
• Medium: 140°F (60°C)
• Medium-well: 150°F (66°C)
• Well-done: 160°F (71°C)

For best results, use a meat thermometer to check the temperature of the steaks. Insert it into the thickest part of the meat to ensure accurate readings.

Step 7: Rest the Steaks

Once the steaks reach the desired doneness, remove them from the oven and place them on a cutting board. Tent them with aluminum foil and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring the steaks remain juicy and tender when sliced.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

After resting, slice the steaks against the grain into thin slices. Spoon some of the garlic herb butter that has melted in the skillet over the steak before serving. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

How to Serve

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with roasted garlic pair perfectly with the richness of the steak and garlic butter.
• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, and baby potatoes make excellent sides that balance the richness of the steak.
• Creamed Spinach: The creamy texture and savory flavor of creamed spinach is a classic steakhouse side that complements the beef beautifully.

Sauces and Glazes

• Red Wine Sauce: For a more sophisticated touch, a red wine sauce made by deglazing the pan with wine and reducing it with some beef broth creates a deep, savory accompaniment.
• Peppercorn Sauce: A rich, creamy peppercorn sauce pairs beautifully with steak, adding both heat and depth of flavor.
• Chimichurri: For a zesty, herbaceous twist, serve your steak with chimichurri sauce made with parsley, garlic, red pepper flakes, and vinegar.

Wine Pairing

• Red Wine: A full-bodied red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, or Merlot pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the steak.
• White Wine: If you prefer white wine, a buttery Chardonnay can complement the garlic herb butter and the juicy beef.

Kid-Friendly Version

For a family-friendly version, slice the steak into bite-sized pieces and serve with kid-approved sides like macaroni and cheese, crispy fries, or steamed broccoli.

Additional Tips

1. Choosing the Right Steak

For this recipe, steaks with good marbling, such as ribeye, New York strip, or filet mignon, are ideal as they provide both flavor and tenderness. Bone-in steaks offer extra flavor, but boneless steaks work just as well.

2. Searing is Key

Don’t skip the searing step. Searing the steak creates a flavorful crust and locks in the juices. Make sure your pan is hot enough to get a good sear without overcooking the steak.

3. Use a Meat Thermometer

The best way to achieve your desired steak doneness is by using a meat thermometer. This ensures the steak is cooked just right without overcooking it.

4. Customize the Herb Butter

Feel free to experiment with the herbs and seasonings in the butter. You can use fresh sage, tarragon, or even add a bit of parmesan for an extra savory flavor.

5. Don’t Skip the Resting Time

Resting the steak is important to ensure that the juices settle, so don’t skip this step. Cutting into the steak too soon can cause the juices to spill out, making the steak less juicy.

Recipe Variations

Garlic Parmesan Butter Steak

Add freshly grated parmesan to the garlic herb butter for a cheesy twist. The parmesan will melt into the steak, adding a savory, umami flavor.

Spicy Steak with Sriracha Butter
For those who like a little heat, try mixing Sriracha or hot sauce into the garlic herb butter for a spicy kick that pairs well with the rich beef.

Herb-Infused Butter

Infuse the butter with herbs like thyme, rosemary, and sage by gently warming the butter with the herbs before mixing in the garlic.

Freezing and Storage

Storage

Leftover steak can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Slice it thinly and use it for sandwiches, salads, or steak tacos.

Freezing

If you want to save leftover steak for later, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.

Reheating

To reheat, place the steak slices in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also reheat steak in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of butter to keep it moist.

FAQ Section

Can I use a different cut of steak?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with any steak cut, including New York strip, filet mignon, or porterhouse. Just adjust cooking times based on thickness.

Can I make the garlic herb butter ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the garlic herb butter up to 2 days ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just allow it to soften before using.

Can I cook the steak entirely on the stovetop?

Yes, you can sear the steak on the stovetop and finish cooking it on low heat. However, using the oven gives you more consistent results and allows you to cook multiple steaks at once.

How do I know when the steak is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. Follow the recommended temperatures for your desired level of doneness.

Can I make this recipe without garlic?

If you’re not a fan of garlic, you can use other herbs like shallots or lemon zest to flavor the butter instead.

Conclusion

This Garlic Herb Butter Steak in the Oven is the perfect meal for any occasion, combining the elegance of a restaurant-quality steak with the convenience of an easy-to-follow recipe. The steak is perfectly seared, juicy, and tender, while the garlic herb butter adds richness and complexity. It’s sure to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy the indulgence of a classic steak dinner, made even more special with this simple, yet stunning, oven method.

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