Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak: 10-Minute Prep

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Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak has a way of making any night feel like a celebration. I still remember the first time I had it at a local churrasco – the aroma of sizzling garlic and butter filled the air, and the steak was unbelievably tender. It’s become my go-to for a quick and impressive meal. This easy Brazilian steak with garlic butter recipe delivers that same incredible flavor and juicy texture right in your own kitchen. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but special enough for guests. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak

This recipe is a winner for so many reasons:

Incredible Flavor: The rich garlic butter sauce perfectly complements the succulent steak, creating a truly decadent bite.
Lightning Fast Prep: With just 10 minutes of prep, you can have this dish on the table in no time.
Healthy Choice: It’s a fantastic source of protein, and you can easily adapt it to fit healthier eating plans.
Budget-Friendly: Enjoy a restaurant-quality steak experience without the hefty price tag.
Family Approved: Even picky eaters will devour this flavorful steak.
Simple Garlic Butter Picanha: It simplifies the process of making authentic picanha at home.
Juicy Brazilian Steak Garlic Butter Sauce: The sauce ensures every bite is moist and bursting with flavor.
Impressive Presentation: It looks and tastes gourmet, perfect for when you want to wow your guests.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak

Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious and authentic picanha garlic butter recipe. Don’t worry if you don’t have picanha; ribeye works beautifully and is often easier to find!

1 lb ribeye steak (1-inch thick) – This cut is wonderfully marbled and becomes incredibly tender when seared.
1 tsp kosher salt – Essential for bringing out the steak’s natural flavor.
½ tsp black pepper – Freshly ground pepper adds a nice kick.
4 cloves garlic (minced) – The star of our rich sauce; mince it finely so it distributes evenly.
¼ cup unsalted butter – This forms the luscious base of our garlic butter sauce, making the steak extra decadent.
2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped) – For a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous finish.

How to Make Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak

Ready to learn how to make Brazilian garlic butter steak? It’s simpler than you think! This method focuses on getting a perfect sear and a luscious sauce.

Step 1: Take your 1 lb ribeye steak out of the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking. Season it generously all over with 1 tsp kosher salt and ½ tsp black pepper. Letting it come to room temperature helps it cook more evenly.
Step 2: Heat a tablespoon of high-heat oil (like canola or grapeseed) in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat until it just starts to shimmer. Carefully place the seasoned steak in the hot skillet. You should hear a satisfying sizzle! Sear for 4-5 minutes per side until a beautiful golden-brown crust forms. This is the foundation of a great pan-seared Brazilian steak garlic butter experience.
Step 3: Once both sides are nicely browned, remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside on a cutting board to rest. Don’t clean the pan! Reduce the heat to medium-low.
Step 4: Add the ¼ cup unsalted butter to the same skillet. Once melted, toss in the 4 cloves minced garlic. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn it! The aroma will be amazing.
Step 5: Spoon the hot garlic butter sauce generously over the rested steak. Let it sit for a few minutes to let the flavors meld.
Step 6: Finally, sprinkle the steak with 2 tbsp fresh parsley for a touch of green and freshness. Slice the steak against the grain into thick pieces. Serve immediately, spooning any extra garlic butter from the pan over the slices. Enjoy your delicious homemade steak!

Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak

Want to elevate your steak game? These Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak cooking tips will ensure your steak is always perfect.

Room Temperature Steak: Always let your steak rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This allows for more even cooking from edge to center.
Don’t Crowd the Pan: If you’re cooking multiple steaks, cook them in batches. Overcrowding lowers the pan temperature, leading to steaming instead of searing.
Resting is Crucial: After cooking, let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and moist steak.
Quality Matters: Use good quality butter and fresh garlic for the best flavor in your sauce.

What’s the secret to perfect Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak?

The best way to cook picanha garlic butter involves a hot sear to create a flavorful crust, followed by a quick basting with garlic butter. Resting the steak afterward is non-negotiable for juiciness. For more on achieving the perfect sear, check out these steak searing techniques.

Can I make Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak ahead of time?

You can season the steak and prepare the garlic butter sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator. Cook the steak just before serving for the best texture and flavor. Learn more about food storage best practices.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak?

Avoid burning the garlic by adding it to the pan *after* the butter has melted and reducing the heat. Also, resist the urge to move the steak too much while searing; let it develop a nice crust.

Best Ways to Serve Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak

This versatile steak is fantastic on its own, but it truly shines when paired with complementary sides. For a truly authentic experience, consider serving your perfectly cooked picanha steak with garlic butter alongside classic Brazilian accompaniments. Imagine a vibrant rice and beans dish, a refreshing vinaigrette salad, or some crispy fried plantains to balance the richness of the steak and sauce.

Another delightful option is to serve it with a simple side of roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. The earthiness of the vegetables provides a wonderful contrast to the savory garlic butter. For a heartier meal, mashed potatoes or a creamy polenta also make excellent companions, soaking up any extra garlic butter sauce beautifully. Explore delicious side dish ideas to complement your meal.

Nutrition Facts for Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak

This recipe yields about 4 servings, and here are the estimated nutritional values for each portion.

Calories: 450
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Protein: 34g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 600mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

How to Store and Reheat Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak

Properly storing your delicious Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak ensures you can enjoy its incredible flavor even days later. Once the steak has cooled completely to room temperature – this is important to prevent condensation and bacterial growth – transfer it to an airtight container. This method is key for preserving the quality of this classic garlic butter steak recipe South America has to offer.

In the refrigerator, your leftover steak should stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. If you’re planning to keep it longer, freezing is your best bet. Wrap the cooled steak tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. For tips on freezing food, see this guide.

When you’re ready to reheat, opt for gentle methods to maintain tenderness. You can gently warm slices in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water, or reheat covered in a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) until heated through. Microwaving is also an option for a quick reheat, but be mindful not to overcook it, which can make the steak tough.

Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak

What is Brazilian Garlic Butter Steak?

Brazilian Garlic Butter Steak is a popular South American dish featuring a tender cut of steak, often picanha or ribeye, pan-seared to perfection and then generously coated in a rich, savory sauce made from melted butter, fresh garlic, and sometimes herbs. It’s known for its incredible aroma and mouthwatering flavor, making it a staple in Brazilian churrascarias and home kitchens alike.

Can I use a different cut of steak?

Absolutely! While picanha and ribeye are excellent choices for their marbling and tenderness, this recipe is quite forgiving. Flank steak, skirt steak, or sirloin will also work well. Just adjust the cooking time slightly based on the thickness and cut to ensure you don’t overcook it. Learn more about different steak cuts.

How do I get a good sear on my steak?

The key to a great sear is a hot pan and a dry steak. Make sure your skillet is properly heated before adding the steak, and pat your steak completely dry with paper towels before seasoning. This removes surface moisture, allowing the steak to brown beautifully rather than steam.

Can I add other flavors to the garlic butter sauce?

Yes, feel free to get creative! A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick, a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavors, or a splash of white wine can add depth. Some people also like to add chopped fresh rosemary or thyme along with the parsley for an extra layer of herbaceousness. For more on flavor pairings, consider herb and spice combinations.

Variations of Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak You Can Try

While the classic recipe is divine, don’t hesitate to experiment and create your own signature flavorful garlic butter Brazilian steak! Here are a few ideas to get you started.

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the garlic butter mixture for a touch of heat that complements the richness.
Herbaceous Delight: Incorporate other fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme along with the parsley into the garlic butter sauce for a more complex aroma and taste.
Marinated Brazilian Steak Garlic Butter: For an extra layer of flavor, marinate your steak for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours) in a mixture of olive oil, lime juice, garlic, and a touch of cumin before searing.
Grill It Up: Instead of pan-searing, grill your steak over medium-high heat for a smoky char. Prepare the garlic butter sauce separately and drizzle over the grilled steak just before serving.