Garlic butter steak with Parmesan cream sauce is a true weeknight treat. I remember the joy of cooking up this delicious dish on a Friday evening, savoring the aroma of sizzling garlic and steak filling my kitchen. It’s a straightforward recipe that packs a punch in flavor, making it feel like you’re dining at a fancy restaurant, all while keeping the prep and cleanup easy. You can whip this up in less than 30 minutes!
The combination of buttery ribeye steak and a rich Parmesan cream sauce creates a fantastic contrast of flavors and textures. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just indulging yourself, this garlic butter steak will impress. The savory steak melts in your mouth, while the creamy sauce adds depth and richness, elevating the entire meal. It’s perfect for serving with a side of sautéed vegetables or over a bed of mashed potatoes, making it a versatile choice for any dinner table.
Why you’ll love this
- Quick to prepare for busy weeknights.
- Rich, savory flavor profiles to satisfy any palate.
- Elegant enough for entertaining guests.
- Minimal clean-up with just one skillet required.
- Satisfies that craving for a hearty, comforting meal.
"The perfect steak, bursting with flavor and so easy to make!"
Step-by-step overview
This garlic butter steak with Parmesan cream sauce comes together in just a few steps. Season the ribeye steaks, sear them in a hot skillet, and then create a luscious Parmesan sauce in the same pan. With just a little time and effort, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal at home.
What you’ll need
- 4 pieces ribeye steaks (About 1-inch thick, 8 oz each.)
- To taste salt
- To taste pepper
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic (Minced.)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (For garnish.)
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Ribeye: This cut is marbled with fat, making it juicy and flavorful, but you can use sirloin or filet mignon for a leaner option.
- Salt and pepper: Season to taste; feel free to experiment with your favorite steak rub.
- Heavy cream: For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated will provide the best flavor; pre-grated works in a pinch, but it won’t be as creamy.
Directions to follow
This method for garlic butter steak with Parmesan cream sauce is straightforward and rewarding. Here’s a simple way to make it:
- Season the ribeye steaks evenly with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the steaks to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side.
- Flip the steaks using tongs, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic to the skillet, and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes for medium-rare.
- Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes.
- In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the heavy cream, whisking continuously to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet and whisk until the sauce is thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Slice the steaks, plate them, and drizzle the Parmesan cream sauce over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley.
Pro Tip: To achieve the best sear on the steak, ensure it’s at room temperature before cooking and pat it dry with a paper towel.
Visual doneness cues: Look for a nice crust on the steak and a warm, pink center for medium-rare. The garlic should become fragrant but not burnt.
Helpful cooking tips
- Rest your steaks: Always let your cooked steaks rest for a few minutes to retain juices and enhance flavor.
- Butter flavor: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness in your dish.
- Whisk for smoothness: When making the sauce, whisk continuously to avoid lumps and ensure the cheese melts evenly.
- Temperature control: Keep heat moderate once adding the cream to prevent it from boiling over.
- Taste as you go: Adjust seasoning of the cream sauce to your preference for the best flavor enhancement.
Serving suggestions
Plate your garlic butter steak over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or alongside sautéed asparagus for a balanced meal. A simple garnish of fresh parsley brightens the dish visually and adds a fresh flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with a full-bodied red wine, making it a complete gourmet experience.
Storage & reheating tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can easily reheat the steak in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth to help retain moisture. Be sure to reheat the cream sauce gently on low heat, whisking to maintain a smooth texture.
How to fix common issues
- Dry steak: If your steak turns out dry, it may have been overcooked. In the future, use a meat thermometer for precise cooking; aim for 130°F (medium-rare).
- Bland cream sauce: If your sauce lacks flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or lemon juice for acidity and brightness.
- Separation: If your cream sauce separates, remove it from the heat and whisk vigorously to bring it back together.
- Soggy components: Ensure the steak is patted dry before seasoning and searing to achieve a nice crust.
Recipe variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the cream sauce for extra flavor and nutrition. If you’re looking for a bit of heat, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes will add a warm kick. For a lighter twist, swap heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk.
Common questions
What is the best cooking method for ribeye steaks?
The best cooking method for ribeye steaks is pan-searing, which creates a tasty crust while keeping the inside juicy. You can also grill or broil them, but stove-top cooking allows for the delicious butter and garlic flavors to enhance the steak.
Can I marinate ribeye steak before cooking?
Yes, marinating ribeye can enhance flavor and tenderness. Common marinades include balsamic vinegar, garlic, and herbs, but avoid over-marinating as the steak can become mushy. Aim for a marinade time of 30 minutes to 2 hours.
What sides pair well with garlic butter steak?
Great sides to pair with garlic butter steak include green vegetables like asparagus or green beans, creamy mashed potatoes, and a fresh salad. The creamy sauce complements many textures and flavors, adding richness to any side.
How can I tell when my steak is done cooking?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, look for 130°F; for medium, aim for 140°F. Another method is the finger test for doneness, where you compare the firmness of the steak to the flesh of your palm.
Can I freeze cooked ribeye steak?
Yes, you can freeze cooked ribeye steak. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place it in an airtight container. Be sure to label it with the date. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently.
Garlic Butter Steak with Parmesan Cream Sauce
Ingredients
Method
- Season the ribeye steaks evenly with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the steaks to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side.
- Flip the steaks using tongs, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic to the skillet, and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes for medium-rare.
- Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes.
- In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the heavy cream, whisking continuously to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet and whisk until the sauce is thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Slice the steaks, plate them, and drizzle the Parmesan cream sauce over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley.