There’s something magical about a perfectly seared steak coated in rich, golden garlic butter. This Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak is incredibly simple, yet it delivers a bold, mouthwatering flavor that will make you feel like you’re dining in a high-end Brazilian steakhouse. With just a handful of ingredients, this dish is all about maximizing taste with minimal effort.
The combination of tender, juicy skirt steak and fragrant, buttery garlic sauce creates a luxurious bite in every forkful. Whether you’re making this for a quick weeknight meal or a special dinner, this steak is guaranteed to impress. Serve it with a side of creamy mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or even a zesty Brazilian lemonade for a complete, unforgettable meal.
Full Recipe:
- 1 lb skirt steak
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 tsp minced garlic (reduce if you prefer less garlic)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter
Directions:
- Cut the steak into 3 or 4 equal parts. Pat dry and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat a heavy-duty skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the steak and sear each side for 2-3 minutes for medium-rare or longer if preferred. For well-done steak, cook each side for about 4 minutes. Remove from the skillet, place on a plate, cover with foil, and let rest.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over low heat. Add minced garlic and cook while stirring until lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour the garlic butter into a bowl and season with salt to taste.
- Slice the steak against the grain for tenderness. Drizzle the garlic butter over the steak and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 8 minutes | Total Time: 13 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 3 servings
Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak: A Flavor-Packed, Quick & Easy Dish
Brazilian cuisine is known for its bold flavors, high-quality meats, and rich, buttery sauces. This Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak is a perfect example of the simplicity and excellence that Brazilian cooking embodies. With just a handful of ingredients, this dish delivers an outstanding balance of juiciness, tenderness, and flavor, making it a go-to meal for steak lovers everywhere.
Unlike traditional steak recipes that may require marinating for hours, this recipe is all about speed and efficiency without sacrificing taste. In just 15 minutes, you can achieve a restaurant-quality steak that is perfectly seared on the outside and juicy on the inside. If you’re looking for a quick yet luxurious meal, this garlic butter steak is the perfect choice.
The Secret to a Perfect Brazilian Steak
The beauty of this dish lies in the quality of the ingredients and the cooking technique. Skirt steak is used for its tenderness and rich beefy flavor, making it ideal for high-heat searing. The golden garlic butter sauce adds an extra depth of richness, enhancing the natural flavors of the meat.
One of the essential techniques in achieving a perfect Brazilian steak is cooking at high heat. This ensures a beautifully seared crust while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Another critical step is letting the steak rest before slicing, which allows the juices to redistribute evenly, preventing dryness.
The steak is then sliced against the grain, which helps break up the muscle fibers and makes each bite incredibly tender. Pairing it with the garlic butter sauce adds a luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes this dish truly irresistible.
Why Garlic Butter Enhances Steak So Well
Garlic and butter are two of the most complementary ingredients when it comes to beef. The rich, creamy texture of butter melts into the steak, providing moisture and a silky mouthfeel. Meanwhile, garlic infuses the dish with an aromatic depth, giving it a restaurant-quality finish.
The key to making the perfect garlic butter sauce is not overcooking the garlic. If it burns, it can become bitter, which will negatively affect the overall taste of the dish. Instead, the garlic is gently cooked in butter over low heat until it turns a golden color, releasing its full aroma and flavor.
The Origins of Brazilian Steak
Brazil is famous for its churrasco-style barbecue, a centuries-old cooking tradition where various cuts of meat are grilled over open flames and served with chimichurri or buttery sauces. This Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak is a simplified version of those traditional flavors, bringing the essence of Brazilian cuisine to the home kitchen.
Unlike traditional churrasco, which often involves grilling large cuts of beef, this recipe uses skirt steak in a skillet for a faster, more accessible meal. The cooking method may differ, but the flavor remains authentically bold and delicious.
Perfect Pairings for Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak
While this steak is incredibly flavorful on its own, the right side dishes can elevate the entire meal. Here are some excellent pairings:
- Sour Cream Mashed Potatoes – The creamy texture of mashed potatoes balances the richness of the steak.
- Peruvian Fried Rice – A flavorful, slightly crispy rice dish that complements the steak beautifully.
- Brazilian Cheese Bread (Pão de Queijo) – A classic Brazilian side that adds a cheesy, chewy contrast.
- Grilled Vegetables – Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus provide a fresh, slightly smoky taste that pairs well with the richness of the garlic butter.
- Crisp Side Salad – A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can cut through the butteriness of the dish.
Tips for Cooking the Best Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak
1. Choose High-Quality Steak:
While skirt steak is commonly used in this recipe, flank steak can also be a great alternative. Look for well-marbled cuts, as marbling enhances juiciness and tenderness.
2. Use a Heavy-Duty Skillet:
A cast iron or stainless steel skillet is recommended for achieving the best sear. These materials retain heat well, ensuring even cooking and a perfect crust.
3. Get the Perfect Sear:
To achieve a beautifully caramelized crust, make sure your pan is very hot before adding the steak. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to steaming instead of searing.
4. Let the Steak Rest:
After cooking, let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This prevents juices from escaping, keeping the meat tender and flavorful.
5. Don’t Skip the Butter and Garlic:
The garlic butter sauce is the star of this dish. Make sure to cook the garlic just until it turns golden, as overcooked garlic can become bitter. Drizzling the warm butter over the steak just before serving enhances the overall richness and taste.
Variations of Garlic Butter Steak
One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some delicious variations:
- Spicy Brazilian Steak: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or fresh chili peppers to the garlic butter for a spicy kick.
- Herb-Infused Butter: Incorporate fresh rosemary, thyme, or oregano into the butter for an extra layer of flavor.
- Citrus-Garlic Steak: Add a splash of fresh lime or lemon juice to the garlic butter for a tangy, refreshing twist.
- Grilled Version: Instead of pan-searing, cook the steak on a hot grill for a smoky, charred flavor.
- Cheesy Steak: Melt some parmesan or blue cheese over the top of the steak for an indulgent, creamy bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak stands out for many reasons:
✔ Quick & Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
✔ Minimal Ingredients: Only a few ingredients are needed, but the flavor is outstanding.
✔ Restaurant-Quality at Home: Get the taste of a high-end Brazilian steakhouse without leaving your kitchen.
✔ Rich and Flavorful: The garlic butter sauce takes the steak to the next level.
✔ Customizable: Adjust the seasonings, butter, and side dishes to fit your preferences.
Conclusion
The Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak is a dish that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion, a romantic dinner, or a simple weeknight meal, this recipe never fails to impress. The combination of perfectly seared steak and rich, golden garlic butter creates a mouthwatering dish that is both comforting and luxurious.
Pair it with your favorite sides, experiment with different seasonings, and enjoy a taste of Brazilian cuisine in the comfort of your home. Once you try this recipe, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen!