This Garlic Butter Skillet Flank Steak is a real treat! Juicy steak cooked in flavorful garlic butter makes dinner feel like a special occasion, even on a weeknight.
The best part? You can whip it up in just one skillet! I love how quick and tasty it is—perfect for when friends are coming over. Just don’t forget some bread for those buttery juices! 🥖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank Steak: This cut is lean and flavorful. If you can’t find flank steak, you can substitute with skirt steak or sirloin for a similar taste and texture.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best here as it lets you control the seasoning. If you need a dairy-free option, you can use plant-based butter or olive oil instead.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a robust flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use 1/8 tsp of garlic powder per clove for a milder taste.
Fresh Herbs: If you don’t have parsley or thyme, fresh rosemary or oregano can also work well. Just chop them finely to release their flavors.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds depth. If you don’t have it, a splash of soy sauce or balsamic vinegar can give a nice tang.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Sear on Flank Steak?
Searing is key to developing flavor. Start with a very hot skillet—this helps form a lovely crust. Here’s how to do it:
- Pat the steak dry to remove moisture that can prevent browning.
- Heat olive oil until it shimmers before adding the steak.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—if it’s too full, the steak will steam instead of sear.
- Leave the steak undisturbed for the first few minutes; this helps get that nice brown crust.
- Flip only once! This keeps the crust intact. Cook 4-5 minutes per side depending on thickness.
How to Make Garlic Butter Skillet Flank Steak
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak:
- 1.5 lbs flank steak
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
For the Garlic Butter:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1-2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- Juice of 1 lemon (for serving)
For Searing:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10-15 minutes of active cooking time and an additional 5-7 minutes in the oven, plus 30 minutes of resting time. So, set aside approximately 45 minutes to enjoy this flavorful flank steak!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Steak:
First, take the flank steak out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps the steak cook evenly. While it warms up, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Seasoning the Steak:
After the steak has rested, pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Generously season both sides with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. This ensures maximum flavor in every bite!
3. Searing the Steak:
In a large oven-safe skillet—cast iron works best—heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the flank steak to the skillet and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side until it’s beautifully browned. This step locks in the juices and flavors.
4. Adding Garlic and Butter:
Reduce the heat to medium. Carefully add the minced garlic and butter to the skillet. As the butter melts, spoon it over the steak. Let it cook for about 1-2 minutes, just until the garlic becomes fragrant, but be careful not to let it turn brown.
5. Finishing in the Oven:
Now, it’s time to transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Roast the steak for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 130°F for medium-rare. Adjust the time based on your desired doneness.
6. Resting and Slicing:
Once cooked, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting time helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a tender steak.
7. Serving:
Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. Drizzle any leftover garlic butter from the skillet over the top for extra flavor. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten everything up. Enjoy your tasty creation!
8. Optional Sides:
If you want to round out the meal, consider pairing the steak with sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a refreshing salad. These will complement the steak beautifully!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While flank steak is great for this, you can substitute with skirt steak, sirloin, or even ribeye. Just be mindful of cooking times, as different cuts might require adjustments for doneness.
How Do I Store Leftover Steak?
Store any leftover steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, using a damp paper towel to retain moisture and prevent it from drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Worcestershire Sauce?
Yes, you can skip the Worcestershire sauce if you prefer a simpler flavor or if you don’t have it on hand. Alternatively, try using soy sauce or balsamic vinegar for a different twist!
How Can I Tell If My Steak is Done?
The best way to check the doneness is to use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for 130°F. If you prefer it more well-done, cook it to about 145°F for medium. Remember to let it rest afterward for optimal juiciness!
