If you’re looking to dazzle your dinner guests or simply want to treat yourself to an incredible meal, let me introduce you to a meal that’s all about luxury—the irresistible Pan Seared Steak Recipe. This dish effortlessly combines simplicity with gourmet flair, making it a go-to for those special occasions or whenever you’re just in the mood for something truly indulgent.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortlessly Elegant: This Pan Seared Steak Recipe is both sophisticated and simple, perfect for any occasion.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic and thyme infuses the steak with an irresistible aroma and taste.
- Satisfying Texture: The seared crust creates a delightful contrast to the juicy, tender interior.
- Versatile Pairing Options: Easily complement your steak with a variety of sides for a complete meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Pan Seared Steak Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in elevating the dish, from the robust flavors of the ribeye to the aromatic touch of fresh thyme.
- Ribeye Steak: Known for its marbling, ribeye ensures a succulent, juicy bite. Opt for organic if possible.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Helps create that perfect sear while adding its own flavor complexity.
- On Everything All-Purpose Blend: A versatile seasoning that elevates the natural flavors of the steak.
- Sea Salt: Enhances the taste, bringing out the steak’s robust flavors.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds richness while aiding in the basting process for moist, flavorful meat.
- Garlic Cloves: Infuses the dish with deep, aromatic notes.
- Fresh Thyme Sprigs: Offers a fragrant herbal flair that complements the hearty steak.
Variations
This Pan Seared Steak Recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Feel free to swap out ingredients or add your favorite flavors to personalize it to your taste and needs.
- Herbal Twist: Swap thyme for rosemary or sage for a different aromatic experience.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the seasoning for some heat.
- Low-Sodium Option: Use a salt substitute to cut down on sodium without sacrificing flavor.
How to Make Pan Seared Steak Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Steak
Begin by patting your ribeye steaks dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps in creating that irresistible crust once seared. Liberally season both sides with sea salt and the On Everything All-Purpose Blend to enhance the natural flavors.
Step 2: Searing Perfection
Heat your cast iron skillet on medium-high and pour in the olive oil. Place the steaks gently into the skillet, letting them sear untouched for about 4-5 minutes on each side. This forms a delicious crust that’s bursting with flavor, thanks to the caramelization process.
Step 3: Infusing Flavor
After achieving a beautiful sear, reduce the heat to medium and introduce butter, garlic cloves, and thyme sprigs to the skillet. This step is all about infusion; continually spoon the fragrant butter mixture over the steaks for a couple more minutes to soak in all that goodness.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Transfer your steaks to a cutting board and allow them to rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period lets the juices redistribute, resulting in the perfect bite. Slice, garnish as you desire, and serve with your choice of sides.
Pro Tips for Making Pan Seared Steak Recipe
- Flavor Boost: Adding rosemary sprigs along with thyme amplifies the earthy tones, bringing out richer flavors.
- Searing Success: Ensure the skillet and oil are preheated; this prevents the steaks from sticking and creates the desired crust.
- Resting Isn’t Optional: Allowing the steak to rest is crucial for juiciness; cutting too soon leads to dryness.
- Temperature Know-How: Use a meat thermometer for precision. Medium-rare ranges between 130°–135°F for optimal tenderness.
How to Serve Pan Seared Steak Recipe
Garnishes
Finish your steak with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, a light drizzle of balsamic glaze, or even a dollop of garlic herb butter for an extra layer of deliciousness.
Side Dishes
This steak pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes, a fresh arugula salad, or classic roasted vegetables for a balanced and satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Slicing the steak against the grain and layering it over a bed of sautéed spinach not only looks elegant but also enhances the meal’s visual appeal. Adding a vibrant chimichurri sauce can also provide a pop of color and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your steak fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This will maintain its texture and flavor.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the cooked steak slices in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. This method prevents them from sticking together, allowing for easy reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftover steak gently by preheating your oven to 250°F, wrapping the slices in foil, and warming them for 20 minutes. This approach helps maintain moisture and prevents overcooking.
FAQs
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Can I use a different type of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While ribeye is the recommended choice for its marbling, a New York strip or top sirloin can also be delicious alternatives in this Pan Seared Steak Recipe.
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What if I don’t have a cast iron skillet?
A heavy-bottomed stainless steel pan is a good substitute for achieving a similar sear and texture to this dish. Just ensure it can handle high heat!
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How do I know when the steak is done?
Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate method. Aim for 130°–135°F for medium-rare, while adjusting based on your preferred doneness.
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Can I prepare the seasoning ahead of time?
Certainly! Mix the seasoning blend days in advance and store it in an airtight container. This not only saves time but also lets the flavors meld beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’re armed with this delightful Pan Seared Steak Recipe, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and dive into a sensational cooking experience. I promise, the end result will be nothing short of restaurant-quality excellence, and your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Pan Seared Steak Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
A quick and flavorful pan-seared steak recipe that yields tender, juicy steaks with a beautifully caramelized crust, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
STEAK:
- 2 lbs. Ribeye steak, organic (or substitute with New York Strip or Top Sirloin)
- 1 tablespoon Extra virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons On Everything All-Purpose Blend
- 1 1/2 teaspoons sea salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, peeled and halved
- 2-4 fresh thyme sprigs (or rosemary sprigs)
OPTIONAL GARNISH:
- Steak sauce
Instructions
- Prep the Steak: Pat the steaks dry with paper towels on both sides. Generously season with sea salt and On Everything All-Purpose Blend on all sides.
- Heat the Skillet: Place a 10-inch cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the olive oil to coat the bottom of the skillet.
- Sear the First Side: Carefully place the steaks in the hot skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes until a brown crust forms. Using tongs, flip the steaks to the other side and sear for another 4-5 minutes.
- Butter Baste and Aromatics: Reduce heat to medium. Add butter, garlic cloves, and thyme sprigs to the pan. As the butter melts, tilt the pan slightly and spoon the butter over the steaks for 1-2 minutes, basting continuously.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature: Medium Rare (130–135°F), Medium (140–145°F), Medium Well (150–155°F), Well Done (160–165°F). Continue to cook as needed.
- Rest the Steaks: Transfer the steaks to a cutting board and let rest for about 10 minutes to redistributes juices.
- Serve: Slice the steaks against the grain, garnish with sauce if desired, and serve with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, salad, or rice.
Notes
- Steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in a low oven at 250°F for 20 minutes to preserve juiciness.
- Mix or substitute the On Everything All-Purpose Blend with homemade dry rub or steak seasoning for variation.
- For best searing results, ensure the skillet is thoroughly preheated before adding the steaks.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 steak (approx. 8 oz.)
- Calories: 600 kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Fat: 45 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 45 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg
