Garlic Butter Skillet Steak

Ingredients

Instructions

1. 1

   TEMPER THE STEAKS: Remove steaks from the refrigerator 30-45 minutes before cooking. This lets them come to room temperature, which ensures even cooking (cold steaks will be overcooked on the outside before the center warms up). Pat completely dry with paper towels - moisture prevents browning. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides (more than you think - some will fall off).

2. 2

   HEAT THE PAN: Place a cast iron skillet over high heat for 3-4 minutes until very hot. The pan should be smoking slightly - this is essential for a good sear. Add oil and swirl to coat. If the oil immediately shimmers and starts to smoke, you're ready. Turn on your range hood - this will be smoky!

3. 3

   SEAR THE STEAKS: Lay steaks away from you in the pan (to avoid oil splatter). Press down gently with a spatula. Do NOT move them - let them develop a crust. Sear 3-4 minutes until the bottom has a dark brown crust. Flip and sear the other side 3-4 minutes. FOR MEDIUM-RARE (130-135°F internal temp): The steak should feel like the flesh at the base of your thumb when you touch your thumb to your index finger - soft with slight resistance. Use a meat thermometer if unsure.

4. 4

   ADD THE AROMATICS: Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the pan - it will melt and foam. Add the garlic, rosemary sprigs, and thyme sprigs. Tilt the pan slightly toward you so the melted butter pools on one side.

5. 5

   SPOON BUTTER OVER THE STEAKS (this is called basting): Using a large spoon, scoop up the pooled garlic herb butter and pour it over the top of the steaks. Repeat continuously for 1-2 minutes, spooning the butter over the steaks every few seconds. This infuses the meat with garlic and herb flavor and adds extra richness. The butter should be foamy and fragrant, not burning.

6. 6

   REST AND SERVE: Transfer steaks to a cutting board. Rest for 5 minutes (this is essential - cutting too soon releases all the juices). The internal temperature will rise about 5 degrees during resting. Slice against the grain if desired. Spoon the garlic herb butter from the pan over the sliced steak. Serve immediately.