This Garlic Butter Skillet Flank Steak is a tasty and quick dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner! The juicy flank steak is cooked in a buttery, garlicky sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Honestly, this steak is so good that my family thinks I’ve been taking cooking lessons! 🍽️ It’s easy to make, and I love serving it with some veggies on the side for a complete meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank Steak: This cut is lean yet flavorful. If you can’t find flank steak, skirt steak or sirloin make great alternatives. They may change the texture a bit, but the flavor will still be fantastic.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives more control over the saltiness of the dish. If you prefer a dairy-free option, use olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for its strong flavor. In a pinch, garlic powder can be used, but reduce the amount since it’s more concentrated—about 1/8 teaspoon per clove.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme add brightness, but dried versions work too. Just remember to use less—about one-third of the amount—since dried herbs are more potent.
Lemon Wedges: They’re optional but add a fresh zing! If you don’t have lemons, try a splash of balsamic vinegar or a vinegar-based dressing for a different flavor twist.
How Do You Get the Perfect Sear on Flank Steak?
Searing is all about technique to lock in flavor and juiciness. Start by making sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the steak. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a cast iron or heavy skillet for even heat distribution.
- Pat the steak dry to avoid steaming; moisture can prevent that nice sear.
- Add the olive oil and let it heat until it shimmers but isn’t smoking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; sear one steak at a time for the best results.
- Avoid moving the steak around too much—let it sit for those 3-4 minutes for that golden crust.
How to Make Garlic Butter Skillet Flank Steak
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Flank Steak:
- 1.5 to 2 pounds flank steak
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Garlic Butter Mix:
- 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)
For Garnish and Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious garlic butter skillet flank steak recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time and approximately 20 minutes of cooking time. So, in about 35 minutes, you can enjoy a flavorful and juicy steak!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for getting that perfect roast on the steak later!
2. Season the Flank Steak:
Take the flank steak and pat it dry using paper towels. Sprinkle salt and black pepper on both sides of the steak. This seasoning will give it a wonderful flavor!
3. Sear the Steak:
In an oven-safe skillet (like cast iron), heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the flank steak to the skillet. Sear it for about 3-4 minutes on each side until you see a lovely golden-brown crust forming. This step adds a delicious texture!
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium, and then add the butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and chopped thyme to the skillet. Let the butter melt and use a spoon to pour it over the steak for about 1-2 minutes. This will infuse the flavors into the meat!
5. Roast in the Oven:
Now, carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Roast the steak for 6-10 minutes, depending on how well-done you like it. If you want it rare, go for 6 minutes; for medium, try 8 minutes; and for medium-well, about 10 minutes should do the trick.
6. Rest the Steak:
Once done, take the skillet out of the oven and let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute for a more tender bite!
7. Slice and Serve:
After resting, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. Arrange the slices on a serving platter, and don’t forget to drizzle any remaining garlic butter sauce from the skillet over the top. This adds an extra layer of flavor!
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finally, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on your steak for a pop of color and serve with lemon wedges if you like. Enjoy your delicious garlic butter skillet flank steak!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Absolutely! If flank steak isn’t available, you can substitute with skirt steak or sirloin. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the thickness of the meat, so watch for your preferred level of doneness!
How Long Should I Let the Steak Rest?
Letting your steak rest for at least 5-10 minutes is crucial. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and flavorful. Cover it loosely with foil while resting to keep it warm.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Garlic?
Of course! If you need to avoid garlic, you can simply omit it. For added flavor, consider using other herbs or spices, like a pinch of smoked paprika or some crushed red pepper for a kick.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place the sliced steak in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of broth or water to keep it moist. Enjoy it in salads, sandwiches, or with your favorite sides!
