This Garlic Butter Skillet Flank Steak is a tasty treat! It’s juicy, tender, and packed with flavor thanks to the rich garlic butter. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
You just sear the steak and finish it in the oven—so easy! I love serving it with roasted veggies for a full meal. It always impresses guests without much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank Steak: This cut is lean and packed with flavor, making it perfect for searing. If you can’t find flank steak, skirt steak, sirloin, or even ribeye would work, though they may alter the texture and flavor slightly.
Butter: Unsalted butter is recommended for better control over salt levels. You can substitute with ghee or a plant-based butter if you’re dairy-free, but it won’t have the same rich flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for that robust taste. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work, but use it sparingly since it’s more concentrated (about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove).
Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary bring freshness. Dried herbs are a suitable alternative if fresh isn’t available. Remember to use about a third of the amount when substituting dried for fresh.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds a hint of umami. If you’re avoiding it, try soy sauce or coconut aminos for a similar flavor profile.
How Do I Get a Perfectly Sear on the Steak?
Searing creates a delicious crust, which is key to flavor. Preheat your skillet until it’s shimmering, not smoking. Make sure the steak is dry—this helps it brown. Place it gently in the skillet, and don’t move it around too much; let it sear for about 3-4 minutes.
- Start with medium-high heat and add the olive oil just before the steak.
- Look for a deep brown color before flipping to ensure a great sear.
- For best results, use a cast iron or stainless-steel skillet, which retains heat well.
How to Make Garlic Butter Skillet Flank Steak
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak:
- 1 pound flank steak
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Garlic Butter:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious flank steak recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing and seasoning, and then roughly 15-20 minutes cooking (including searing and baking). Plus, a little time to let it rest before slicing. Simple and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot when the steak is ready to go in.
2. Season the Steak:
Grab your flank steak and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps it get a great sear! Now, season both sides generously with salt and pepper to make it extra flavorful.
3. Sear the Steak:
In a large oven-safe skillet—cast iron if you have it—heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add your flank steak and sear it for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for a nice brown crust. Yum!
4. Prepare the Garlic Butter:
While the steak is searing, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary in a small bowl. This is where the magic happens! Once your steak is beautifully browned, take the skillet off the heat.
5. Add the Butter Mixture:
Pour that tasty garlic butter mixture all over your flank steak. Don’t forget to spoon some over the top to make it extra delicious!
6. Bake in the Oven:
Now it’s time for the oven! Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and let it roast for about 10-12 minutes. You want the internal temperature to reach your preferred doneness—135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium.
7. Rest the Steak:
Once the steak is done baking, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This step is super important because it lets the juices redistribute, making it juicy and tender.
8. Slice and Serve:
After resting, slice the flank steak against the grain into thin strips. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter and juices over the slices, and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color before serving. Enjoy your flavorful Garlic Butter Skillet Flank Steak!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak?
Absolutely! You can substitute flank steak with flank steak alternatives like sirloin or skirt steak, though cooking times may vary slightly. Just remember to adjust your cooking time based on the thickness of the steak you choose.
What Can I Substitute for Butter?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use olive oil or a vegan butter alternative in place of unsalted butter. Just melt the substitute in the skillet before mixing in the garlic and herbs.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to prevent the steak from becoming tough.
How Can I Tell When the Steak is Done?
A meat thermometer is your best friend! For medium-rare, aim for 135°F (57°C) and for medium, 145°F (63°C). Remember that the steak will continue to cook a bit while resting, so take it out of the oven just before it reaches your desired temperature.
