Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring the steak to room temperature: Remove the steak from the refrigerator 30-60 minutes before cooking.
- Pat the steak dry: Use paper towels to thoroughly dry the surface of the steak.
- Season generously: Season both sides of the steak generously with salt and pepper.
- Melt the butter: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter.
- Add the garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the herbs: Stir in the chopped fresh thyme and rosemary.
- Add red pepper flakes (optional): Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
- Season to taste: Season the garlic butter with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Add lemon juice (optional): Add a squeeze of lemon juice if using.
- Keep the garlic butter warm over very low heat.
- Heat the pan: Place a heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron is ideal) over high heat. Let the pan get screaming hot (you should see a faint wisp of smoke).
- Add the oil: Add the olive oil to the hot pan. The oil should shimmer and be very hot.
- Sear the steak: Carefully place the steak in the hot pan and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, without moving it, to form a beautiful crust.
- Reduce the heat (Optional): If the pan is getting too hot or the steak is browning too quickly, reduce the heat to medium-high.
- Add the garlic butter: After searing both sides, add the garlic butter to the pan. Tilt the pan to pool the butter, and use a spoon to continuously baste the steak with the garlic butter.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to cook the steak to your desired level of doneness:
- Rare: 125-130°F (52-54°C)
- Medium-Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 135-145°F (57-63°C)
- Medium-Well: 145-155°F (63-68°C)
- Well-Done: 155°F+ (68°C+)
- Rest the steak: Remove the steak from the pan and place it on a cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes.
- Slice and serve: Slice the steak against the grain and serve with your favorite sides.
Notes
For optimal searing, ensure your pan is preheated to a high temperature. Don't overcrowd the pan; cook steaks in batches if necessary. Basting the steak with garlic butter infuses it with flavor and keeps it moist. Resting the steak is crucial for redistributing juices, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. Store leftover steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.
