This Easy Garlic Butter Flank Steak is a juicy and flavorful dish that anyone can whip up! The steak is smothered in a tasty garlic butter sauce that brings out its natural goodness.
Honestly, who can resist butter and garlic? This meal is perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to something special. I love serving it with a side of veggies for a fun dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank Steak: This cut is lean and flavorful but can be tough if not cooked properly. If you can’t find flank steak, try skirt steak or sirloin as alternatives—both provide great taste!
Butter: Unsalted butter gives you control over the saltiness. You can use salted butter if that’s what you have, just reduce any additional salt in the recipe.
Garlic: Fresh garlic creates a robust flavor. If you’re out of fresh garlic, garlic powder can be used, but fresh is always better for that bold taste!
Parsley: This adds a nice touch of color and freshness. You can substitute with other herbs like cilantro or chives if that’s what you have on hand.
Worcestershire Sauce: It’s optional but adds depth to the flavor. If you don’t have it, a splash of soy sauce can also work!
How Do You Cook Flank Steak to Get It Just Right?
Cooking flank steak is all about the technique! You want it juicy and tender, so here are some tips:
- Bring the steak to room temperature before cooking; this helps it cook evenly.
- Make sure your skillet is hot! This creates a nice sear that locks in flavor.
- Don’t overcook. Aim for medium-rare for the best texture. Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure; 130-135°F is perfect.
- Let it rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite moist.
- Slice against the grain. This means cutting across the muscle fibers, which leads to more tender bites.
With these tips and the right ingredients, you’re set for a delicious steak dinner!
Easy Garlic Butter Flank Steak
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 to 2 pounds flank steak
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fantastic recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 10-15 minutes of cooking time. In total, you should be enjoying your delicious flank steak in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak:
Start by taking the flank steak out of the refrigerator and letting it come to room temperature for 20-30 minutes. This helps it cook more evenly. Generously season both sides of the steak with salt and black pepper.
2. Heat the Skillet:
Place a large skillet on the stove and heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. This means it’s hot enough for the steak!
3. Cook the Flank Steak:
Add the flank steak to the skillet and cook it for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Keep in mind, if you like it more well-done, you can adjust the cooking time accordingly.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
After flipping the steak, lower the heat to medium. Add the unsalted butter and minced garlic into the skillet. If you’re using Worcestershire sauce, add that as well. Spoon the melted garlic butter over the steak for 1-2 minutes as it cooks to let those flavors infuse!
5. Rest the Flank Steak:
Once cooked to your liking, remove the steak from the skillet and place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting period keeps the juices locked inside, making for a tender steak.
6. Slice and Serve:
After resting, slice the steak thinly against the grain. This will ensure each bite is tender. Drizzle the delicious garlic butter sauce from the skillet over the sliced steak and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a lovely touch.
7. Enjoy:
Serve your tasty garlic butter flank steak immediately, ideally alongside your favorite vegetables or potatoes. Enjoy the deliciousness!
This recipe yields a juicy, flavorful flank steak bathed in savory garlic butter—perfectly balanced for an easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak?
Absolutely! If you can’t find flank steak, skirt steak or sirloin are great alternatives and will still yield delicious results. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on thickness.
What Are the Best Cooking Times for Doneness?
For medium-rare, aim for about 4-5 minutes per side. Here are some general guidelines for steak doneness:
- Rare: 120-130°F (about 3-4 minutes per side)
- Medium-Rare: 130-135°F (4-5 minutes per side)
- Medium: 135-145°F (5-6 minutes per side)
- Medium-Well: 145-155°F (6-7 minutes per side)
- Well-Done: 155°F and above (7-8 minutes per side)
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover flank steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it from drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the garlic butter sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just warm it up when you’re ready to cook the steak!
