This Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak is a treat for meat lovers! Juicy steak cooked to perfection with a rich garlic butter sauce that makes each bite so tasty. It’s easy to make and smells amazing!
I love serving this steak with some fresh veggies or a simple salad. It’s a quick dinner that makes me feel like a grill master! Plus, who doesn’t love the smell of garlic? 🧄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: Sirloin or ribeye are great choices, but Brazilian cuts like Picanha give that authentic flavor. If you’re looking for something leaner, you can substitute with flank or skirt steak, though they may cook a bit faster.
Garlic: Fresh garlic holds the most flavor, but if you don’t have any, garlic powder can serve in a pinch. Just use about 1 teaspoon instead of 6 cloves.
Butter: I love using unsalted butter since you can control the saltiness. If you want a lighter option, try using ghee or even olive oil, though butter definitely gives the richest taste.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a nice smoky depth, but feel free to skip it if you want more of the pure steak flavor. Alternatively, chipotle powder could give it a different kind of spice.
How Can You Get the Perfect Crust on Your Steak?
Getting that beautiful crust is key to a great steak. Start by ensuring the pan is really hot before adding the steak. This high heat creates a nice sear. Here’s how to do it:
- Take your steak out of the fridge 30 minutes before cooking. This helps it reach room temperature.
- Preheat your skillet on medium-high for several minutes – I usually let it heat up for about 5 minutes.
- Don’t crowd the pan. If you’re cooking more than one steak, do it in batches.
- Let the steak cook without moving it. This helps form that crust.
After flipping, basting it with the garlic butter will keep it juicy while enhancing flavor. Just remember to let it rest before slicing. Happy cooking!
Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs (900g) of sirloin or ribeye steak (Brazilian cuts like Picanha also work great)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for smoky flavor)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak recipe takes about 10-15 minutes of active cooking time. Plus, allow an additional 30 minutes for the steak to come to room temperature before cooking. Overall, you’re looking at approximately 45 minutes to complete the dish from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak:
Start by taking the steak out of the fridge about 30 minutes before you plan to cook it. This helps the meat cook evenly. While it’s sitting, you can season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. If you’re using smoked paprika, sprinkle it on now too!
2. Heat the Pan:
Get a heavy skillet or cast iron pan and preheat it over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the tablespoon of olive oil and swirl it around to coat the bottom of the pan.
3. Sear the Steak:
Carefully place the seasoned steak in the hot pan. Let it cook without moving it for about 4-5 minutes. This helps form a beautiful crust. Check the underside to see if it’s browned before flipping.
4. Cook to Desired Doneness:
Flip the steak and cook the other side for another 3-5 minutes for medium-rare, or adjust the time according to your preferred doneness. Feel free to use a meat thermometer for the best results—medium-rare is typically around 130°F (54°C).
5. Add Garlic Butter:
Once the steak is cooked to your liking, reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and minced garlic to the pan. Allow the butter to melt, and then use a spoon to baste the garlic butter over the steak for about 1-2 minutes. This adds incredible flavor!
6. Let It Rest:
Remove the steak from the pan and place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for 5-7 minutes so the juices redistribute throughout the meat. This step is crucial for a juicy steak!
7. Slice and Serve:
After resting, slice the steak against the grain. This will ensure tender bites! Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lime wedges on the side for a refreshing zing.
Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak with your favorite sides! It pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Happy cooking!
FAQ for Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak
Can I Use Different Cuts of Steak?
Absolutely! While sirloin and ribeye are great choices, cuts like flank or skirt steak can also work. Just be aware that they may cook a bit faster, so adjust your cooking times accordingly.
What If I Don’t Have Unsalted Butter?
If you only have salted butter, that’s fine to use! Just be cautious with adding extra salt to the steak before cooking, as it might make the dish too salty.
How Do I Know When the Steak is Done?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C). If you prefer medium, target about 140°F (60°C).
Can I Prepare This Steak Ahead of Time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can marinate the steak in advance! Just season and wrap it tightly, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bring it to room temperature before cooking for the best results.
