This Easy Garlic Butter Skillet Flank Steak is juicy, tender, and packed with flavor! Cooking it in a skillet makes it quick and easy, perfect for a delicious dinner any night.
Just imagine the smell of garlic butter sizzling as you cook! It’s so tasty that leftovers often do not exist in my house. I love serving it with some veggies for a well-rounded meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank Steak: A lean cut, flank steak is perfect for quick cooking. If you can’t find it, you can use skirt steak or sirloin for similar results. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly.
Olive Oil: This adds a lovely flavor and helps achieve a good sear. If you prefer, avocado oil or any neutral oil will work fine, too.
Unsalted Butter: I love using unsalted butter to control the saltiness in the dish. You can substitute with ghee or even olive oil for a dairy-free option, but it might change the flavor slightly.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for rich flavor. While fresh is best, you can use garlic powder in a pinch—about 1 teaspoon per clove.
Fresh Herbs: I always use parsley, but feel free to switch with cilantro or even dill for a different twist!
How Can I Cook the Perfect Flank Steak?
Cooking flank steak can be tricky, but with some tips, you can achieve that juicy tenderness. First, always let the steak come to room temperature; this helps it cook evenly.
- Season the meat well! Salt and pepper make all the difference for flavor.
- Crank the heat high when searing to develop a great crust. Patience is key—don’t flip until a nice brown crust forms.
- Don’t skip the basting step with garlic butter! This enhances flavor and keeps the meat moist.
- Let the steak rest before slicing. This step redistributes the juices for succulent results.
- Always slice against the grain. This shortens the muscle fibers, making each bite more tender.
Enjoy making this steak dish a star of your dinner table!
How to Make Easy Garlic Butter Skillet Flank Steak
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 to 2 pounds flank steak
- Salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Optional: 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep and about 15 minutes of cooking time. Plus, you’ll want to let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes afterward. So, in total, plan for around 30 minutes from start to finish. Quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Steak:
Take the flank steak out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes. This helps it cook evenly and makes for a juicier steak!
2. Seasoning:
Generously season both sides of the flank steak with salt and ground black pepper. Seasoning is crucial for flavor!
3. Heat the Skillet:
Grab a large skillet, preferably cast iron, and heat it on medium-high. Add in the olive oil and let it get hot until shimmering but not smoking. This ensures you get a beautiful sear on the steak.
4. Sear the Steak:
Place the seasoned flank steak in the skillet without moving it. Cook for about 4-5 minutes—this helps develop a nice golden brown crust!
5. Flip and Cook:
Carefully flip the steak and cook for another 3-4 minutes for a medium-rare finish. Adjust time as needed based on your preferred level of doneness.
6. Add Garlic Butter:
Lower the heat to medium-low and add the butter, minced garlic, and any fresh herbs you’re using. The aroma will be amazing!
7. Baste the Steak:
As the butter melts, tilt the skillet slightly and use a spoon to baste the garlic butter over the steak for about 1-2 minutes. This adds incredible flavor and keeps the meat moist.
8. Let It Rest:
Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy steak when sliced.
9. Slice It Up:
Slice the flank steak thinly against the grain. This helps maintain tenderness, making each bite easier to chew.
10. Finish and Serve:
Drizzle any leftover garlic butter from the skillet over the sliced steak and garnish with extra parsley. Serve it up immediately with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad!
Enjoy your juicy, garlicky, buttery skillet flank steak! It’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Butter Skillet Flank Steak
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! While flank steak is perfect for this recipe, you can also use skirt steak or sirloin. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly due to differences in thickness and fat content.
How Do I Store Leftover Flank Steak?
Store any leftover steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, ensuring not to overcook it as it can dry out.
Can I Marinate the Steak Before Cooking?
Yes, marinating the steak for a few hours or overnight can enhance the flavor and tenderness! Use a simple marinade of olive oil, soy sauce, garlic, and your favorite herbs for added depth.
What Should I Serve with This Dish?
This garlic butter flank steak pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it over rice or noodles to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce!
