This Garlic Butter Skillet Flank Steak is a crowd-pleaser! It’s juicy, tender, and full of flavor, thanks to the delicious garlic butter sear in a skillet.
If you think cooking steak is tricky, think again! This recipe makes it easy and fun. I love serving it with some roasted veggies on the side. Who’s ready for dinner? 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank Steak: This cut of beef is flavorful and lean. If you can’t find flank steak, try skirt steak or sirloin for a similar taste and texture.
Unsalted Butter: I love using unsalted butter to control the salt level in the dish. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, plant-based butter works well too.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings the best flavor, but pre-minced garlic is a time-saver. If you’re sensitive to garlic, consider using shallots instead for a milder taste.
Thyme: Dried thyme is great, but fresh thyme gives a brighter flavor. You can swap thyme with rosemary or oregano if that’s what you have on hand.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a lovely smoky flavor. If you’re out, regular paprika and a pinch of cayenne can mimic that taste, though it won’t be as smoky.
How Do I Achieve a Perfectly Seared Steak?
Getting that nice crust on the steak takes some attention. First, ensure the steak is at room temperature before cooking; this helps it cook evenly. Patting it dry with paper towels reduces moisture and enhances browning.
- Heat your skillet until it’s shimmering with oil. This ensures a good sear.
- Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes without moving it, allowing it to develop a crust.
- After flipping, don’t forget to baste with melted butter and garlic to enhance the flavor.
Letting the steak rest after cooking for 5-10 minutes is crucial. This step keeps the juices from running out when you slice it, giving you a tender and juicy piece of meat!
How to Make Garlic Butter Skillet Flank Steak
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak:
- 1.5 lbs flank steak
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 teaspoons fresh thyme)
For the Garlic Butter:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: Lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and around 20 minutes for cooking, plus a little time for resting the steak. In total, you’re looking at about 35 minutes to make a delicious Garlic Butter Skillet Flank Steak that’s perfect for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, take the flank steak out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help your steak cook more evenly. Once it’s ready, pat the steak dry using paper towels and season both sides generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and thyme.
2. Sear the Steak:
In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Carefully add the seasoned flank steak to the skillet and sear it for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until a nice brown crust forms. This step is important for flavor, so don’t rush it!
3. Add Garlic Butter:
After searing, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet. As the butter melts, use a spoon to baste the steak with the garlicky butter for about 1-2 minutes. This will infuse the steak with wonderful flavor!
4. Roast and Rest:
Now, it’s time to finish cooking the steak! Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and roast the steak for about 8-10 minutes for medium-rare doneness (aim for an internal temperature of 135°F). If you want it more cooked, leave it in for a few extra minutes. Once done, carefully remove the skillet from the oven and let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to settle.
5. Slice and Serve:
Finally, slice the flank steak against the grain into thin strips. Drizzle it with the delicious garlic butter from the skillet, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges if you’d like. Enjoy your tasty Garlic Butter Skillet Flank Steak!
Can I Substitute the Flank Steak With Another Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! If flank steak is unavailable, you can use skirt steak or sirloin as alternatives. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly, so be sure to check for doneness using a meat thermometer. Skirt steak may require a shorter cooking time due to being thinner.
How Do I Store Leftover Garlic Butter Skillet Flank Steak?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water to help maintain moisture, or use the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Can I Make This Recipe in a Grill Instead of a Skillet?
Yes! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the flank steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side. After grilling, brush the garlic butter mixture over the steak while it rests for the best flavor!
What Else Can I Add to the Garlic Butter for Extra Flavor?
Feel free to mix in herbs like rosemary or oregano, or add a splash of balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce to the garlic butter for extra depth. Just ensure any added ingredients complement the garlic without overpowering it!
