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Perfect Date Night Steak Dinner with Garlic Herb Butter

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A quick and easy steak dinner featuring ribeye or New York strip steak topped with a flavorful garlic herb butter, perfect for a cozy and indulgent date night at home.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 to 1 ½ pounds ribeye or New York strip steak (about 16 to 24 ounces), well-marbled for juiciness
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper (preferably coarse grind)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced finely
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
  • ½ teaspoon lemon zest
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional: a dash of freshly ground black pepper in the butter
  • Optional for serving: fresh arugula or baby spinach salad with vinaigrette
  • Optional for serving: roasted garlic mashed potatoes or loaded baked potatoes
  • Optional for serving: grilled vegetables or sautéed mushrooms

Instructions

  1. Bring the steak to room temperature by letting it sit on the counter for about 30 minutes.
  2. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme, lemon zest, a pinch of salt, and black pepper if using. Mix well and set aside or chill briefly.
  3. Pat the steak dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.
  4. Heat a heavy-bottomed cast iron skillet or stainless steel pan over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Heat until it just starts to smoke, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Place the steak in the hot pan and cook undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes for medium-rare on a 1-inch thick cut. Flip and sear the other side for another 3 minutes. Sear edges briefly if needed.
  6. Check doneness with a meat thermometer: 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium.
  7. Transfer the steak to a warm plate and tent loosely with foil. Let rest for 5-7 minutes to redistribute juices.
  8. Just before serving, top the steak with a generous dollop of garlic herb butter and let it melt over the meat.

Notes

Patting the steak dry before seasoning is crucial for a good crust. Use a hot pan and avoid overcrowding to ensure proper searing. Rest the steak after cooking to keep it juicy. Garlic herb butter can be prepared ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. For a smoky depth, finish under a broiler or add a splash of red wine or beef broth after searing.

Nutrition

Keywords: steak, garlic herb butter, date night dinner, ribeye, New York strip, quick steak recipe, easy steak, pan-seared steak

Find it online: https://bitefuljoy.com/perfect-date-night-steak-dinner-with-garlic-herb-butter-recipe/