This Garlic Butter Skillet Flank Steak is juicy and full of flavor! It’s cooked beautifully in a skillet and finished in the oven, making it a hassle-free meal for any night.
I love how the garlic butter seeps into the meat, giving it a delightful taste. It’s perfect for serving with some veggies or on a nice bed of mashed potatoes. Yum! 🥩
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank Steak: This cut is flavorful but can be tough if overcooked. If flank steak isn’t available, you can substitute with skirt steak or sirloin, which are also great for quick cooking methods.
Butter: Unsalted butter is recommended here to control the salt level. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using olive oil or avocado oil instead. They will still keep the dish rich without the butter.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you don’t have fresh, use jarred minced garlic, but reduce the amount because it can be stronger. Just 1 teaspoon from a jar is usually enough.
Herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme really boost the flavor. If only dried herbs are on hand, that’s fine. Use a third of the amount since dried herbs are stronger! I also love adding a pinch of crushed red pepper for a spicy kick.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds depth to the dish, but it can be skipped if you’re looking for a simpler flavor profile or if you want to keep it vegan. Soy sauce can be a solid alternative for umami flavor.
How Do I Get a Great Sear on the Flank Steak?
Getting that beautiful brown crust on your flank steak is all about the right technique. Use a heavy, oven-safe skillet for even heat. Here’s how to do it:
- First, dry the steak with paper towels. The drier surface will help it sear better.
- Heat the skillet over medium-high heat and ensure it’s hot before adding the oil—this helps prevent sticking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook the steak in batches if necessary. It needs room to sear properly.
- Once you place it in the pan, resist the urge to move the steak around. Let it sear for 3-4 minutes before flipping. This will lock in those tasty juices!
Using these tips, you’ll get a steak that’s both tender and bursting with flavor every time.
How to Make Garlic Butter Skillet Flank Steak
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak:
- 1 ½ pounds flank steak
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
For the Garlic Butter:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious flank steak recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep, 15-20 minutes to cook, and an additional 10 minutes for resting. So, in total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a tasty weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Flank Steak:
Start by taking the flank steak out of the refrigerator. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps the steak cook more evenly—no one likes a tough steak!
2. Preheat the Oven:
While the steak is sitting, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s ready to go when you’re done searing the meat.
3. Season the Steak:
Generously sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the flank steak. If you like, you can rub some Worcestershire sauce on it for an extra burst of flavor. Don’t be shy with the seasoning!
4. Sear the Steak:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is nice and hot, carefully add the flank steak. Sear it for about 3-4 minutes on each side until you see a lovely brown crust forming.
5. Add Garlic Butter:
Now it’s time to reduce the heat to medium. Push the steak a little to the side and add the butter, minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme to the pan. Let the butter melt and mix with the garlic for 1-2 minutes until you smell that delicious aroma!
6. Baste the Steak:
While the garlic butter is melting, tilt the skillet slightly so the butter pools on one side. Use a spoon to baste the steak with the melted butter mixture for about 1 minute. This is where the flavor really comes to life!
7. Transfer to Oven:
Once the steak is seared and basted, place the skillet in your preheated oven. Roast for about 10-15 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—135°F (57°C) is perfect for medium-rare, but feel free to cook it a little longer for your preferred doneness.
8. Rest and Slice:
When the steak is done, take the skillet out of the oven. Move the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This step is crucial because it helps the juices redistribute, making for a juicier steak!
9. Slice and Serve:
Now, thinly slice the flank steak against the grain. Arrange the slices on a serving platter, drizzle with the remaining garlic butter from the skillet, and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Skillet Flank Steak!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While flank steak is great for this dish, you can substitute it with skirt steak or sirloin. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as different cuts can vary in thickness and tenderness. Always use a meat thermometer to check for your desired doneness!
How Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
If you want to make this recipe dairy-free, simply swap the unsalted butter for a vegan butter alternative or olive oil. You can also add a splash of lemon juice or a dairy-free margarine to keep the flavors rich without the dairy!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the steak in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist, or heat in the microwave using short intervals to avoid drying it out.
What Should I Serve With Garlic Butter Skillet Flank Steak?
This steak pairs beautifully with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad. You could also serve it sliced in a sandwich or atop a bed of rice or quinoa for a hearty meal!
