If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances rich, savory flavors with a touch of comforting home-cooked charm, this Garlic Butter Skillet Flank Steak Oven Recipe is destined to become your new go-to. Flank steak is a wonderfully lean cut that, when cooked just right, boasts incredible tenderness and a deep, beefy flavor. The magic happens when a luscious garlic butter sauce is spooned over the steak, bringing warmth and a burst of fragrant garlic that elevates every bite. This recipe captures the essence of a cozy dinner that feels special enough for guests but is effortless enough for any weeknight. Trust me, once you try this Garlic Butter Skillet Flank Steak Oven Recipe, you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is key to nailing the bold flavors and beautiful texture of this dish. Each ingredient plays an important role to create a perfect harmony of taste and a stunning presentation that will impress at the dinner table.
- 1 ½ pounds flank steak: This flavorful and lean cut is perfect for quick cooking and slicing thin for maximum tenderness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps achieve a gorgeous sear on the steak and keeps the meat juicy during cooking.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances natural flavors while helping to form a tasty crust on the steak.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and depth of flavor to balance the garlic and butter.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the meat with a gentle garlic essence before searing.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Offers a mild smoky note and vibrant color to the steak’s exterior.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Melts into a velvety garlic butter sauce, enriching every bite with luxurious flavor.
- 4 garlic cloves (minced): Fresh garlic provides an intense aroma and punch that complements the richness of the butter.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: Adds a bright, herbal freshness as a garnish and color contrast.
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary (optional): Infuses subtle earthy notes that pair beautifully with the garlic butter.
How to Make Garlic Butter Skillet Flank Steak Oven Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Steak
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F so it’s ready for the final roasting. Pat your flank steak dry with paper towels—this step is crucial for creating the perfect sear. Rub both sides of the steak with olive oil, then sprinkle generously with kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This combination ensures every bite bursts with flavor and has an irresistibly crispy crust.
Step 2: Sear the Steak in a Skillet
Use a large, oven-safe skillet—cast iron is ideal for even heat distribution. Heat it over medium-high until it is very hot but not smoking. Place the steak in the skillet and let it sear without moving it for 2 to 3 minutes to develop a deep brown crust. Flip and repeat on the other side. This searing locks in juices and creates those wonderful caramelized flavors.
Step 3: Add Garlic Butter and Roast in the Oven
Add the unsalted butter and minced garlic to the skillet around the steak. As the butter melts, carefully spoon the aromatic garlic butter over the steak repeatedly—this bastes the meat and infuses it with incredible richness. Slide the skillet into the preheated oven and roast the steak for 6 to 8 minutes until it reaches your preferred doneness; 135°F is perfect for medium-rare. Remember that the steak will continue cooking slightly while resting.
Step 4: Rest and Slice
Remove the skillet from the oven and transfer the steak to a cutting board. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes—this step is essential to redistribute the juices and ensure every slice is tender and juicy. When ready, slice the steak thinly against the grain for the best texture and tenderness.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Skillet Flank Steak Oven Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and your choice of fresh thyme or rosemary over the sliced steak for a pop of vibrant green and an extra touch of herbal brightness. These fresh herbs contrast delightfully with the buttery richness and add a pleasing aroma that invites you in.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Butter Skillet Flank Steak Oven Recipe pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes that soak up every drop of garlic butter, or roasted vegetables that add a sweet, caramelized crunch to the plate. Crisp salads also offer a refreshing, crisp balance that cuts through the richness of the steak.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style meal, arrange the sliced flank steak on a large wooden board, drizzle extra garlic butter sauce over the top, and nestle sides around the edges. You can also use it to elevate steak sandwiches or wraps—adding arugula and a tangy sauce adds exciting layers of flavor and texture for a casual yet impressive meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it is cooled to room temperature before sealing to maintain flavor and texture.
Freezing
If you want to save steak for longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or use a vacuum-sealed bag before freezing. It will keep well for up to 3 months without sacrificing too much quality.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm slices in a skillet over low heat with a spoonful of butter or beef broth to keep the steak moist and tender. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the meat and diminish the garlic butter’s delicious flavor.
FAQs
Can I use another cut of steak for this recipe?
Yes! Though flank steak is ideal for its flavor and quick cooking, sirloin or skirt steak can also work well with the Garlic Butter Skillet Flank Steak Oven Recipe, though cook times may vary slightly.
How do I know when the steak is done?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, look for an internal temperature of 135°F. Let it rest, and the temperature will rise a few more degrees for perfect doneness.
Can this recipe be made without an oven-safe skillet?
If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, sear the steak in a regular pan and then transfer it to a preheated baking dish for finishing in the oven.
Is it necessary to let the steak rest after cooking?
Absolutely! Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making the steak juicier and more flavorful when sliced.
Can I prepare the garlic butter ahead of time?
You can mince the garlic and soften the butter beforehand to speed up the cooking process, but it’s best to combine and add them to the steak fresh to preserve that vibrant garlic flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Skillet Flank Steak Oven Recipe is a true winner for anyone who loves big flavor with minimal fuss. The combination of carefully seared flank steak and luscious garlic butter creates a meal that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Give it a try for your next dinner and watch how quickly it becomes a favorite in your recipe rotation! Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
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Garlic Butter Skillet Flank Steak Oven Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Oven
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Garlic Butter Skillet Flank Steak recipe combines the robust flavors of garlic and butter with a perfectly seared and oven-roasted flank steak. The steak is first seasoned and seared in a cast iron skillet to develop a rich crust, then roasted to your preferred doneness in the oven. Finished with fresh herbs, this dish delivers a juicy, tender steak ideal for a simple yet elegant main course.
Ingredients
Steak and Seasoning
- 1 ½ pounds flank steak
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Garlic Butter and Herbs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F to prepare for roasting the steak after searing.
- Prepare Steak: Pat the flank steak dry with paper towels to ensure proper browning. Rub both sides evenly with olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to infuse flavor.
- Sear Steak: Heat a large oven-safe skillet, preferably cast iron, over medium-high heat until hot. Place the steak in the skillet and sear for 2–3 minutes on each side until a nice brown crust forms, locking in juices.
- Add Garlic Butter: Add the unsalted butter and minced garlic to the skillet. As the butter melts, spoon the garlic butter over the steak continuously to enhance flavor and moisture.
- Roast in Oven: Transfer the skillet with the steak to the preheated oven. Roast for 6–8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare doneness, or adjust based on your preference.
- Rest the Steak: Remove the steak from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board. Let it rest uncovered for 5–10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender bite.
- Slice and Garnish: Slice the steak thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and optional thyme or rosemary before serving.
Notes
- Allow the steak to come to room temperature for 20–30 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Serve this flavorful steak alongside mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
