This Garlic Butter Skillet Flank Steak is juicy and full of flavor, thanks to the mix of garlic and butter that makes the meat shine. Cooking it in a skillet adds a nice sear!
I love how simple it is to whip up this dish. Just sear, baste with butter, and finish in the oven—easy and perfect for busy nights or impressing guests!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank Steak: This cut has a great beefy flavor and is lean. If flank steak isn’t available, you can substitute skirt steak or sirloin, both of which will also work well.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives you control over the seasoning. If you have salted butter, just remember to adjust the added salt accordingly. You can also use plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic flavor. If you are in a pinch, garlic powder can work, but use only about a 1/4 teaspoon for a subtler taste.
Herbs: Fresh herbs add great flavor, but dried herbs can substitute in a pinch. I prefer fresh rosemary and thyme for their intense flavors. If using dried, remember that they are more concentrated, so use less.
Worcestershire Sauce: For a similar tangy flavor, try soy sauce or tamari. You could also use balsamic vinegar for a different twist!
How Can I Ensure My Steak Is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the steak cooked just right can be tricky. Here’s how to achieve the perfect level of doneness:
- Make sure to bring your steak to room temperature before cooking. This helps it cook evenly.
- When searing, keep an eye on it. You want a nice crust but do check that it’s not burning. Cooking for 4-5 minutes on each side is a good rule.
- Use a meat thermometer: 125°F (52°C) for medium-rare, and 135°F (57°C) for medium.
- After roasting, always let the steak rest. This step is crucial for juicy meat, so don’t skip it!
Garlic Butter Skillet Flank Steak
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak:
- 2 pounds flank steak
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Garlic Butter:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
For Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Garlic Butter Skillet Flank Steak will take you about 30 minutes of preparation time and around 25 minutes for cooking and resting. It’s a quick dish that’s packed with flavor and sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak:
Start by taking the flank steak out of the refrigerator and letting it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This step helps the steak cook evenly for the best taste and texture. While you wait, you can gather the rest of your ingredients.
2. Season the Steak:
Next, pat your flank steak dry with paper towels. This will help it sear nicely. Generously sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the steak, being sure to cover it well.
3. Sear the Steak:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Carefully place the seasoned flank steak in the skillet and let it sear for about 4-5 minutes on one side until a lovely crust forms. Flip the steak and repeat on the other side. If your skillet is small, it might be best to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
4. Add Garlic and Herbs:
Once both sides of the steak are beautifully seared, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, and half of the butter to the skillet. As the butter melts, use a spoon to baste the steak with the flavorful garlic butter for about 1-2 minutes—this infuses the steak with delicious seasoning.
5. Transfer to Oven:
Next, drizzle the Worcestershire sauce over the steak. Carefully transfer the entire skillet into a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). Roast for 10-15 minutes. For medium-rare, aim for around 10 minutes, and for medium, go for about 15 minutes. Use a meat thermometer if you want to be precise!
6. Rest the Steak:
Once your steak is done cooking, remove the skillet from the oven. Transfer the steak to a cutting board and loosely cover it with aluminum foil. Let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting time is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your steak juicy and tender.
7. Serve:
Finally, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter from the skillet over the slices. Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges to brighten up the dish. Now, enjoy your flavorful garlic butter flank steak!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While flank steak is ideal for its flavor and tenderness, you can substitute it with skirt steak, sirloin, or even ribeye. Just adjust cooking times according to the thickness of the meat and desired doneness.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
If you’re planning to meal prep, you can marinate the steak with the garlic, herbs, and Worcestershire sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, follow the recipe instructions as usual!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the steak and warm in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Skillet?
Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the skillet after searing the steak. Just toss them in with the garlic and herbs, and adjust cooking times as needed for each vegetable’s doneness preference.
