Tired of the same old weeknight dinners? Craving something flavorful, yet surprisingly simple to make? Then look no further! This caramelized garlic steak recipe is your answer. It's a delicious, healthy meal that's ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or a satisfying weekend dinner. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this incredibly easy yet elegant dish! This recipe offers a fantastic blend of sweet and savory flavors, making it one of the best recipes for steak lovers of all skill levels.
Ingredients:
- 2 (8-ounce) steaks (ribeye, sirloin, or New York strip work well)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup butter, unsalted
- 10 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Steaks
Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. This helps them sear properly and develop a beautiful crust. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Caramelizing the Garlic
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until deeply golden brown and caramelized. This takes about 5-7 minutes; be patient – the magic happens with the slow caramelization! Don't rush this step, as it truly elevates the flavor of the dish.
Step 3: Searing the Steaks
Once the garlic is beautifully caramelized, add the olive oil to the skillet. Increase the heat to medium-high. Carefully place the steaks in the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer depending on your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure your steaks reach your preferred internal temperature.
Step 4: Infusing Flavor
Add the fresh thyme leaves to the skillet during the last minute of cooking. This allows the thyme to infuse its aromatic flavor into the steak and garlic butter.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for 5-7 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. During the resting period, you can optionally add balsamic vinegar to the skillet and let it simmer briefly to create a delicious pan sauce.
Step 6: Plating and Enjoying
Slice the steaks against the grain and arrange them on plates. Spoon the caramelized garlic butter sauce over the steaks, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy this simple yet impressive meal!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Caramelized Garlic Steak:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you're cooking more than two steaks, sear them in batches to ensure even browning.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most accurate way to determine the doneness of your steaks.
- Let the steaks rest: This crucial step prevents the juices from running out when you slice the steak.
- Adjust garlic quantity: Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic to your preference.
- Experiment with herbs: Try adding other herbs, like rosemary or oregano, to the skillet along with the thyme.
Variations:
- Spicy Steak: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet along with the garlic for a little heat.
- Herb Butter: Mix in chopped fresh herbs like chives or parsley into the butter before adding the garlic.
- Mushroom Addition: Sauté sliced mushrooms in the skillet with the garlic for an added earthy flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: Approximately 35-40 grams
- Fat: Approximately 30-35 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10 grams
This caramelized garlic steak recipe is a delicious and easy addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It's a perfect example of how homemade cooking can be both satisfying and effortless. Enjoy!