If you love steak, you know that the right topping can take it from good to unforgettable. Garlic butter is a classic and delicious way to add rich, savory flavor to your steak. But how do you make garlic butter for steak that melts perfectly and complements the meat without overpowering it? Let’s dive into an easy, foolproof recipe and some tips to help you create the best garlic butter for your next steak dinner.
What Is Garlic Butter for Steak?
Garlic butter, often called compound butter, is butter mixed with garlic and other flavorful ingredients like herbs, salt, and sometimes cheese or lemon zest. When placed on a hot steak, it melts into a luscious sauce that enhances the natural flavors of the beef without masking them.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make garlic butter for steak, you only need a few simple ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your kitchen:
– Butter: Use unsalted butter at room temperature for best control over salt levels. Salted butter works too, but reduce added salt accordingly.
– Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves, finely minced or pressed. Garlic is the star of this recipe, so use firm, plump cloves.
– Fresh herbs: Parsley is classic, but you can also add thyme, chives, or dill for extra flavor.
– Salt and pepper: To taste, enhancing the butter’s flavor.
– Optional extras: Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, or a splash of Worcestershire sauce can add complexity if you like.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Garlic Butter for Steak
1. Soften the Butter
Take your butter out of the fridge about 30–45 minutes before making the garlic butter so it’s soft and easy to mix.
2. Prepare the Garlic and Herbs
Peel and finely mince 2–4 cloves of garlic. Chop fresh parsley and any other herbs you want to include. The classic combo is garlic and parsley, but feel free to experiment.
3. Mix the Ingredients
In a bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly with a spoon, spatula, or hand mixer until everything is evenly distributed.
4. Shape and Chill
Scoop the butter mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Roll it into a log shape, twisting the ends to seal. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up the butter and let the flavors meld.
How to Use Garlic Butter on Steak
Once your steak is cooked to your liking, place a pat or slice of garlic butter on top while the steak is resting. The heat from the steak will melt the butter slowly, creating a rich, garlicky sauce that seeps into every bite.
Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Steak
– Choose the right butter: High-fat, unsalted butter is ideal for compound butter because it lets you control the seasoning.
– Use fresh garlic: Fresh garlic has the best flavor and aroma. Avoid pre-minced garlic in jars if possible.
– Don’t rush the resting: Let your steak rest for a few minutes after cooking and after adding the garlic butter. This helps the juices redistribute and the butter to melt evenly.
– Experiment with herbs: Try thyme, rosemary, or chives to find your favorite flavor profile.
– Make ahead: Garlic butter can be made in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer for convenience.
Bonus: Garlic Butter Steak Cooking Method
For an easy and delicious garlic butter steak:
– Season your steak with salt and pepper.
– Heat a cast-iron skillet with a bit of oil until very hot.
– Sear the steak for 3-5 minutes per side depending on thickness and desired doneness.
– Lower the heat, add a few tablespoons of garlic butter and baste the steak by spooning the melted butter over it.
– Remove from heat, rest the steak, and top with an extra pat of garlic butter before serving.
Garlic butter is a simple yet game-changing addition to your steak that adds richness and flavor with minimal effort. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can elevate any steak dinner into a restaurant-quality experience. Give it a try and watch your steak nights become legendary. Enjoy!