Rosemary Garlic Butter Steak That’s Rich and Savory

Rosemary Garlic Butter Steak With 42g Protein and Bold, Buttery Flavor

Rosemary garlic butter steak is a classic, steakhouse-style dish that delivers rich flavor and juicy texture in every bite. With a sizzling pan-seared crust, a spoonful of fragrant garlic butter, and the earthy aroma of fresh rosemary, this steak is simple to make but feels indulgent and special.

Perfect for date nights, celebratory dinners, or elevating your weeknight meal, this steak brings restaurant-quality results with just a few ingredients and a hot skillet.

Each serving provides about 42 grams of protein and a satisfying balance of flavor, fat, and tenderness that makes it unforgettable. Whether you serve it with potatoes, salad, or crusty bread, rosemary garlic butter steak is the kind of meal that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients Overview

This dish uses minimal, high-quality ingredients that let the steak shine.

Steak:
Ribeye, strip steak, sirloin, or filet mignon all work well. Look for 1–1.5 inch thick cuts for even searing and juicy centers. Bone-in or boneless is fine.

Salt and Pepper:
Essential for building the flavorful crust. Be generous with seasoning—especially before searing.

Olive Oil or High-Heat Oil:
Used for the initial sear. Avocado oil or grapeseed oil are also good choices for high-heat cooking.

Butter:
Adds richness and flavor, especially when basted over the steak during the final minutes of cooking.

Garlic Cloves:
Smashed or halved—not minced—so they infuse the butter without burning.

Fresh Rosemary:
Adds deep herbal aroma and pairs beautifully with beef. You can also include thyme for added complexity.

Optional Extras:
A splash of balsamic or lemon juice at the end brightens the rich flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Bring Steak to Room Temperature:
Take steak out of the fridge 30–45 minutes before cooking. Pat dry with paper towels. Season generously on both sides with salt and black pepper.

2. Heat the Pan:
Use a cast-iron or heavy skillet. Heat 1 tablespoon oil over high heat until just smoking.

3. Sear the Steak:
Add steak to the pan. Let it sear without moving for 3–5 minutes (depending on thickness). Flip and sear the other side another 3–4 minutes.

4. Add Butter, Garlic, and Rosemary:
Reduce heat to medium-low. Add 2–3 tablespoons butter, 3 smashed garlic cloves, and 1–2 sprigs rosemary. Tilt the pan and spoon the melted garlic butter over the steak continuously for 1–2 minutes.

5. Check for Doneness:
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temp:

  • Rare: 120–125°F
  • Medium Rare: 130–135°F
  • Medium: 140–145°F

6. Rest the Steak:
Transfer steak to a plate. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

7. Slice and Serve:
Slice against the grain and drizzle with extra pan juices.

Avoid overcrowding the pan—cook one steak at a time if necessary. Let the butter brown slightly, but not burn. Use fresh garlic for the best flavor infusion.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Use Compound Butter:
Mix softened butter with garlic, herbs, and a pinch of salt in advance. Slice and top the steak after resting for bonus flavor.

Add Heat:
Toss in crushed red pepper flakes or serve with a spoonful of horseradish cream for contrast.

No Cast-Iron?
Use a heavy-bottomed stainless steel skillet. Avoid non-stick for proper searing.

Grill It:
Grill the steak over high heat, then finish with garlic butter on top just before serving.

Finish in the Oven:
For extra thick steaks, sear both sides then transfer the pan to a 400°F oven for 4–6 minutes to finish cooking.

Different Herbs:
Sage or thyme can be used in place of rosemary, or combined for added complexity.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

Serve rosemary garlic butter steak with:

  • Roasted or mashed potatoes
  • Grilled or sautéed asparagus
  • Creamed spinach or garlic green beans
  • Crusty bread or herb butter rolls
  • A crisp arugula or Caesar salad

Ideal for:

  • Date night at home
  • Father’s Day dinners
  • Celebrations without going out
  • Fast and flavorful weekend meals

This dish pairs well with red wine, iced tea, or sparkling water with lemon.

Nutritional & Health Notes

Each serving delivers about 42 grams of protein, depending on cut and portion size. Ribeye adds more fat and calories, while sirloin or filet mignon are leaner.

Steak is rich in iron, B vitamins, and zinc. Garlic and rosemary bring anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, while the butter provides flavor and satiety.

For a lighter version, reduce butter or use a smaller cut. Pair with lots of vegetables for a nutrient-dense, well-balanced plate.

FAQs

1. What steak cut works best for this recipe?
Ribeye for richness, sirloin for a leaner option, filet for tenderness. Choose what you enjoy and aim for 1–1.5 inch thickness.

2. Can I make this with frozen steak?
Thaw completely and pat dry before cooking. Moisture will prevent a proper sear.

3. How do I know when it’s done?
Use an instant-read thermometer and aim for your preferred doneness. Resting helps the temp rise a few degrees.

4. Can I use dried rosemary?
Fresh is best for aroma and appearance, but 1/2 teaspoon dried can be added to the butter if needed.

5. Is this keto or low-carb?
Yes—steak, garlic, and butter are naturally low in carbs. Just watch side dish choices.

6. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store sliced steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or eat cold in salads or wraps.

7. Can I use ghee instead of butter?
Yes. Ghee has a higher smoke point and brings a rich, nutty flavor—great for pan sauces.

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Rosemary Garlic Butter Steak That’s Rich and Savory

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Rosemary garlic butter steak is a classic pan-seared dish featuring juicy steak basted in garlic-infused butter and fresh herbs. Rich, flavorful, and perfect for date night or a special dinner.

  • Author: Maya Lawson
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

2 steaks (ribeye, sirloin, or filet, 1–1.5 inches thick)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
23 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 garlic cloves, smashed
2 sprigs fresh rosemary

Instructions

  1. Bring steak to room temperature. Pat dry and season with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat oil in a skillet over high heat.
  3. Sear steak 3–5 minutes per side.
  4. Add butter, garlic, and rosemary. Baste steak for 1–2 minutes.
  5. Check internal temperature for doneness.
  6. Remove steak and let rest 5–10 minutes.
  7. Slice against the grain and serve with pan juices.

Notes

Use fresh herbs for best flavor. Finish thick steaks in the oven if needed. Serve with potatoes or greens.

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