The Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe is an absolute game-changer when it comes to delivering juicy, tender, and flavor-packed beef that feels like a special occasion in every bite. This dish brings together the rich, aromatic qualities of garlic and fresh herbs, all melded into luscious butter that coats each slice of perfectly cooked steak. Whether you’re hosting friends or savoring a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a beloved classic in your cooking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple but essential to crafting the authentic flavors and textures that make this Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe shine. Each element plays its part, from seasoning to finishing touch, to create a memorable meal.
- 2 pounds flank steak or picanha: The star of the dish, choose a cut with good marbling for maximum tenderness and flavor.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: This adds richness and helps carry the garlic and herbs deep into the meat.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic delivers a fragrant punch that infuses the steak beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped: Adds an earthy, pine-like aroma that complements the beef perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped: Offers a subtle herbal note that balances the bold garlic flavor.
- Salt, to taste: Crucial for enhancing all the natural flavors in the meat.
- Black pepper, to taste: Provides a gentle heat and depth to the seasoning.
- Olive oil, for grilling: Prevents sticking and adds a mild fruity flavor during cooking.
How to Make Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe
Step 1: Bring the Steak to Room Temperature
Start by taking the steak out of the refrigerator and letting it rest on the counter for about 15 minutes. This step may seem minor, but it ensures even cooking, helping the steak cook through without drying out the edges.
Step 2: Generously Season Your Steak
Next, season both sides of your steak with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Be generous here—well-seasoning the meat is key to building layers of flavor that make every bite irresistible.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Herb Butter
In a small bowl, combine your unsalted butter with minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and thyme. Mix these flavors together to create an herbaceous and savory butter that will elevate the steak’s taste remarkably.
Step 4: Preheat Your Grill or Cast-Iron Skillet
Whether you prefer grilling outdoors or cooking inside, heat your grill to high or your skillet to medium-high. Drizzle a little olive oil onto the surface to keep things from sticking and to encourage that beautiful sear on your steak.
Step 5: Cook the Steak
Place the steak on the hot surface and let it cook for 4 to 6 minutes on each side, depending on thickness. This timing aims for a perfect medium-rare, locking in all the precious juices and tenderness.
Step 6: Finish with Garlic Butter
During the last minute of cooking, spoon the garlic herb butter over the steak generously. The heat will melt the butter into the steak’s crust, creating a luscious coating that’s packed with flavor and aroma.
Step 7: Check for Doneness
Use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak reaches the ideal internal temperature of 130°F for medium-rare. Remember, carryover cooking will raise the temperature slightly after you remove it from heat.
Step 8: Rest the Steak
Allow your steak to rest for 5 to 10 minutes once off the heat. Resting helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, guaranteeing every slice is juicy and tender.
Step 9: Slice Against the Grain
To maximize tenderness, slice your steak against the grain. This simple technique shortens the muscle fibers, making each bite smooth and easy to chew.
Step 10: Serve and Drizzle
Arrange your sliced steak on a platter and drizzle any remaining garlic butter over the top for an extra bumper shot of flavor. This final touch makes the Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe truly unforgettable.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like extra rosemary or thyme sprigs add a lovely pop of color and aroma when sprinkled over the finished steak. A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the rich flavors beautifully, balancing the butter’s richness.
Side Dishes
This steak pairs perfectly with classic Brazilian sides like rice and black beans or something simple and fresh like a mixed green salad. Roasted vegetables or garlic mashed potatoes are also wonderful companions, soaking up the leftover garlic butter deliciously.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stylish dinner party, serve your sliced Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe on a wooden board with rustic bread and small bowls of chimichurri or a zesty salsa verde. This approach not only looks enticing but invites guests to personalize each bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To preserve the flavors, spoon some of the garlic butter over the slices before sealing.
Freezing
If you want to keep the steak longer, slice and wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze it for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low heat in a skillet with a bit of the reserved garlic butter to maintain juiciness. Alternatively, warming in a low-temperature oven will keep the steak tender without overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of beef for this Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe?
Absolutely! While flank steak or picanha are traditional and flavorful choices, ribeye or sirloin steaks can also work beautifully with the garlic butter and herbs.
Is it possible to make this recipe without fresh herbs?
Yes, dried rosemary and thyme can be used in a pinch—just use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Can I cook this recipe indoors without a grill?
Definitely! Using a cast-iron skillet on medium-high heat indoors will give you a delicious sear and is an excellent alternative to grilling.
How important is resting the steak?
Resting is crucial as it lets the juices redistribute back into the meat. Without resting, the steak may lose moisture, resulting in a drier bite.
What wine pairs well with Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe?
A full-bodied red like Malbec or Cabernet Sauvignon pairs wonderfully, as their bold flavors complement the robust taste of the garlic butter steak.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe that turns a simple cut of meat into a crowd-pleasing masterpiece. The combination of fresh garlic, herbs, and butter infuses every bite with rich, comforting flavors that will make you want to come back for more. Don’t hesitate to bring this recipe into your kitchen—the joy it delivers is absolutely worth it.
