Brown Butter–Basted Steak
Brown Butter–Basted Steak is a simple but delicious way to take a good steak and turn it into something extra special. The star here is brown butter, which gives the…
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Brown Butter–Basted Steak is a simple but delicious way to take a good steak and turn it into something extra special. The star here is brown butter, which gives the steak a rich, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the juicy, seared meat. It’s all about cooking the steak in a hot pan, then using that browned butter with a bit of garlic and herbs to baste the steak right at the end.
I love how easy it is to make this at home but still feel like I’m treating myself to a fancy meal. The smell of the butter browning and the sizzling steak always makes me happy. My favorite trick is to spoon that buttery sauce over the steak a few times while it cooks—it locks in the flavor and keeps the meat wonderfully tender. It’s a little step that makes a big difference.
This steak goes great with just about anything—mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a simple salad. I often serve it with crusty bread to soak up the buttery sauce because nobody wants to waste those extra drippings! Whenever I make this, guests always ask for the recipe because it feels like such a special dinner but is really quick to pull together.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: Ribeye or strip steak are great because they have enough fat to stay juicy. If you can’t find those, sirloin or flat iron steak work well, but watch the cooking time as they’re leaner.
Butter: Unsalted butter is key to control the salt balance. Brown butter adds a nutty, rich flavor that lifts the steak. If you prefer, you can use ghee or clarified butter as a substitute, but the taste will be less nutty.
Herbs and Garlic: Fresh thyme and smashed garlic add lovely aroma to the butter. Rosemary or sage can be swapped in if you like a different herb twist. Garlic adds depth but can be skipped if you want a simpler flavor.
Onions (Optional): Sliced onions add sweetness and caramelized flavor to the pan sauce. If you don’t have onions or prefer, you can leave them out or use shallots for a milder touch.
How Do You Master the Brown Butter Basting Technique?
Basting the steak with browned butter is what makes this recipe stand out. Here’s how to get it right:
- After searing one side, flip the steak and add butter, garlic, and herbs to the pan.
- Let the butter melt and start to foam. Watch closely as it changes from bubbling butter to a golden brown color and smells nutty—that’s when the flavor develops.
- Tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to scoop the butter and pour it over the top of the steak repeatedly. This coats the meat evenly and keeps it moist.
- Keep basting for 3-4 minutes or until the steak hits your desired doneness.
Pro tip: Don’t let the butter burn; remove the pan from heat for a moment if it starts to smoke too much. This step adds a rich finish you’ll notice in every bite!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Cast iron skillet – perfect for getting a hot, even sear and can go from stove to oven if needed.
- Tongs – help you easily flip and hold the steak while basting without piercing the meat.
- Spoon – essential for scooping and pouring the browned butter over the steak.
- Meat thermometer – great for checking the steak’s doneness without cutting into it.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap thyme for rosemary to add a pine-like aroma that pairs well with beef.
- Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce to the butter for a tangy kick.
- Mix in finely chopped shallots with the garlic for a sweeter, milder flavor.
- Try topping the steak with blue cheese or crumbled feta right before serving for a bold contrast.
How to Make Brown Butter–Basted Steak?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (1 to 1½-inch thick) ribeye or strip steak (about 12 ounces)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, smashed
- 3 fresh thyme sprigs
- 1 small onion, sliced (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 40 minutes in total: 30 minutes to let the steak come to room temperature and around 10 minutes for cooking and resting. It’s a quick process with a big payoff in flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak:
Take your steak out of the fridge and let it rest on the counter for about 30 minutes. This helps it cook evenly. Then, pat it dry with paper towels and season both sides well with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Sear the Steak:
Heat a cast iron or heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat until it’s very hot. Place the steak in the dry pan and let it cook undisturbed for about 3 to 4 minutes until a deep, golden-brown crust forms.
3. Brown Butter Baste:
Flip the steak, then add butter, smashed garlic, thyme sprigs, and sliced onions (if using) to the pan. As the butter melts and turns golden brown with a nutty aroma, tilt the pan and spoon the browned butter over the steak repeatedly. Keep basting as you cook the steak for another 3 to 4 minutes, or until it reaches your preferred doneness (130°F for medium-rare).
4. Rest and Serve:
Remove the steak from the pan and place it on a cutting board. Spoon some of the brown butter, garlic, and thyme from the pan over the top. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes — this helps keep it juicy. Slice against the grain and serve warm, drizzled with more of the buttery sauce.
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak?
Yes! While ribeye and strip steak work best for their marbling and flavor, you can use sirloin, filet mignon, or flat iron. Just adjust cooking time since leaner cuts cook faster and can dry out easily.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can season the steak in advance and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours to enhance flavor. However, it’s best to cook and baste the steak fresh for maximum tenderness and that delicious brown butter aroma.
How Should I Store Leftover Steak?
Wrap leftover steak tightly in foil or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat with a little butter to keep it moist without overcooking.
What Can I Serve With Brown Butter–Basted Steak?
This steak pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. Don’t forget some crusty bread to mop up the leftover brown butter sauce!
