This Garlic Butter Skillet Flank Steak is a tasty way to enjoy a juicy dinner. The steak is cooked in a skillet and topped with rich garlic butter, making it super flavorful!
I love how quick this meal is to whip up; it’s perfect for busy nights! Just sear the steak, let it rest, and slice it for a delicious, tender treat. Yum! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank Steak: This cut is lean and flavorful. If you can’t find flank steak, skirt steak or sirloin can make a good substitute. Do keep an eye on cooking times, as these can vary slightly.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for this recipe, but you can use garlic powder if in a pinch. Just know that fresh garlic gives a stronger flavor, which I personally love!
Unsalted Butter: While I recommend unsalted butter to better control salt levels, salted butter can be used. Just reduce the added salt to avoid over-seasoning.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil works nicely, but if you have a different cooking oil like avocado or canola, those would work too!
Smoked Paprika: For a smoky flavor, smoked paprika is great! However, regular paprika or even cayenne for a kick can be good substitutes if you prefer something different.
How Do I Get a Perfect Sear on the Flank Steak?
Getting the perfect sear is all about high heat and timing. Here’s what you need to know:
- Make sure your skillet is very hot before adding the steak. A well-preheated pan helps achieve a nice crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! If your steak doesn’t fit comfortably, consider cooking it in batches.
- After adding the steak, let it sear without moving it for the full 3-4 minutes—this helps create that delicious browned crust.
By following these tips, you’ll enhance the steak’s flavor and texture, making every bite enjoyable! Happy cooking!
Garlic Butter Skillet Flank Steak Oven Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 lbs flank steak
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and around 20-25 minutes total to cook. You’ll have delicious skillet flank steak ready in no time—perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will prepare your cooking environment so that the steak can roast perfectly.
2. Season the Steak:
Take your flank steak and season both sides with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if you’re using it). Make sure to rub the spices in so the steak is well coated.
3. Sear the Steak:
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the flank steak. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until it’s browned and deliciously fragrant.
4. Add Garlic and Butter:
Once the steak is browned, add the minced garlic right into the skillet. Quickly follow by adding the butter. As the butter melts, stir it together with the garlic. Use a spoon to drizzle the garlicky butter over the steak continuously for extra flavor.
5. Roast in the Oven:
Now it’s time to transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Roast the steak for about 10-12 minutes for medium-rare. If you like it a bit more cooked, just adjust the time a little.
6. Rest the Steak:
After roasting, carefully remove the skillet from the oven (it will be hot!). Let the steak rest for about 5-7 minutes. This helps keep all the juices inside for more flavor!
7. Slice and Serve:
When ready, slice the steak against the grain to ensure every bite is tender. Drizzle some of that leftover garlic butter from the skillet over the slices. Finish by garnishing with fresh parsley and any optional herbs you like.
Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Skillet Flank Steak!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! While flank steak is excellent for this recipe, you can substitute it with skirt steak or sirloin if desired. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the meat, so adjust accordingly!
What Can I Substitute for Unsalted Butter?
If you’d like a healthier option, you can use olive oil or ghee instead of unsalted butter. For a dairy-free version, plant-based butter works well too! Keep in mind that using oil may change the richness of the dish slightly.
How to Store Leftovers?
Let the leftover steak cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave for a few seconds until heated through.
What’s the Best Way to Slice Flank Steak?
The secret to juicy flank steak is to slice it against the grain. Look for the direction of the muscle fibers and cut perpendicular to them. This will help ensure the meat is tender and easy to chew!