Pan-Seared Steak in Butter Sauce is a simple and flavorful recipe perfect for dinner. This juicy steak is marinated, quickly seared, and coated with a silky butter sauce reduction, making it a delightful and satisfying dish.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Steak in Garlic Butter Mustard Sauce:
- 1 lb (450g) flank steak, cut into strips
- 1 + 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Pinch of red chili pepper flakes, to taste
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 3 teaspoons minced fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon finely minced chives
- ½ cup beef stock (or water)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and fresh cracked pepper, to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
For the Marinade:
- ¼ cup (60ml) soy sauce (or coconut aminos for paleo and gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha (or any hot sauce you like)
- Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste

Directions

Combine olive oil, Sriracha, black pepper, and soy sauce in a bowl. Marinate steak strips in this mixture for at least 30 minutes.
Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season steak with salt and pepper, then sear the strips quickly, turning once, until browned (1–2 minutes). Transfer steak strips to a covered plate and set aside.
Reduce heat to medium and cook shallots and garlic in the skillet until softened and fragrant (about 2 minutes). Add thyme, chives, chili pepper flakes, lemon juice, mustard, and beef stock. Scrape up browned bits from the pan with a wooden spoon and cook until the liquid reduces by half (about 5 minutes). Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, swirling the skillet to melt, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Return steak strips to the pan and reheat quickly. Garnish with parsley and chives, and serve with sautéed spinach or your favorite side dish.

Estimated Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: ~450–500 kcal
Protein: ~30–35g
Fat: ~30–35g
- Saturated Fat: ~12–15g
Carbohydrates: ~5–8g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Sugars: ~1–2g
Sodium: ~900–1,100mg (depending on soy sauce or coconut aminos used)

The Magic of Pan-Seared Steak

Pan-searing is one of the most effective methods for cooking steak to perfection. By using high heat, the meat develops a beautiful crust that locks in its juices and enhances the natural flavors. The technique is quick and efficient, making it ideal for weeknight meals or when you’re short on time. When paired with a luscious butter sauce, this cooking method creates a dish that feels indulgent without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Why Marination is Key

Marinating the steak is a step that takes this recipe from good to extraordinary. The marinade, featuring soy sauce, Sriracha, olive oil, and fresh cracked pepper, infuses the meat with bold flavors while tenderizing it. Soy sauce lends umami depth, while the heat from Sriracha adds a subtle kick. Olive oil ensures the steak remains moist, while black pepper enhances its natural flavor. Letting the steak sit in this marinade for at least 30 minutes ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.

The Role of Butter Sauce in Elevating the Dish

The butter sauce is the star of this recipe. Rich and velvety, it complements the bold flavors of the marinated steak. Made with ingredients like shallots, garlic, Dijon mustard, and fresh herbs, the sauce has layers of complexity. The addition of beef stock and lemon juice balances the richness of the butter with a touch of acidity, creating a harmonious flavor profile.

One of the standout elements of this sauce is its ability to enhance the steak’s natural flavors without overpowering them. The butter not only adds richness but also acts as a medium to carry the flavors of the herbs and spices. The result is a sauce that perfectly coats the steak, making every bite memorable.

A Play of Textures and Flavors

This dish is a celebration of contrasts. The seared steak has a crispy, caramelized exterior that contrasts beautifully with its tender and juicy interior. The silky butter sauce, with its hints of garlic, thyme, and mustard, adds a luxurious creaminess. The dish’s finishing touches—fresh parsley and chives—add a pop of freshness that balances the richness of the steak and sauce.

Customization and Versatility

One of the best things about Pan-Seared Steak in Butter Sauce is its adaptability. While the recipe uses flank steak, you can easily substitute it with your favorite cut, such as ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon. Each cut offers a unique texture and flavor, allowing you to tailor the dish to your preferences.

The butter sauce can also be customized. For a spicier kick, you can increase the amount of chili flakes or Sriracha. If you prefer a creamier sauce, a splash of heavy cream can be added toward the end of cooking. These adjustments make the dish a versatile option that you can tweak based on your mood or the ingredients you have on hand.

Perfect Pairings for Pan-Seared Steak

This dish is delicious on its own but truly shines when paired with the right sides. Some classic accompaniments include:

Sautéed Vegetables: Spinach, asparagus, or green beans sautéed in olive oil and garlic complement the richness of the steak and sauce.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting, starchy balance to the dish’s flavors.
Crispy Roasted Potatoes: For a contrast in textures, crispy potatoes add a delightful crunch.
Rice or Quinoa: These grains soak up the flavorful butter sauce, making them a great option.
Fresh Salad: A light, refreshing salad with a citrusy vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the steak and sauce.

Health Benefits and Nutritional Insights

While Pan-Seared Steak in Butter Sauce is undeniably indulgent, it also offers nutritional benefits. Steak is a fantastic source of high-quality protein, which supports muscle repair and growth. It’s also rich in essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins.

The addition of fresh herbs like thyme and parsley not only enhances the dish’s flavor but also adds antioxidants and vitamins. By using unsalted butter, you can control the sodium content of the recipe, making it a slightly healthier option. Choosing lean cuts of steak, like flank steak, further reduces the dish’s fat content without sacrificing flavor.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Pan-Seared Steak in Butter Sauce turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tips:

Preheat the Pan: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the steak. This helps create a flavorful crust on the meat.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Sear the steak in batches if necessary to avoid steaming it instead of searing.
Rest the Steak: Letting the steak rest after searing ensures that the juices redistribute, making the meat more tender and flavorful.
Deglaze the Pan: Scraping up the browned bits from the skillet when making the butter sauce adds depth to the flavor.
Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. A touch more salt, pepper, or lemon juice can make a big difference.

Conclusion

Pan-Seared Steak in Butter Sauce is a dish that exemplifies the beauty of simplicity. With minimal ingredients and straightforward techniques, it delivers a meal that feels luxurious and indulgent. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or a casual dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.

Its versatility, bold flavors, and rich textures make it a crowd-pleaser, while its ease of preparation ensures it’s accessible to cooks of all skill levels. Pair it with your favorite sides, tweak the ingredients to suit your tastes, and enjoy the satisfaction of creating a restaurant-quality meal at home. With this recipe in your arsenal, every dinner can feel like a celebration.

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