Craving a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant prices or hassle? Then look no further! This pan-seared T-bone steak recipe is your ticket to a delicious and satisfying dinner that's surprisingly easy to make. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe offers a foolproof method for achieving a perfectly cooked, juicy, and flavorful steak every time. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this simple yet elegant dish! It’s one of those healthy meals that tastes incredibly decadent.
Ingredients:
- 1 (1.5-2 pound) T-bone steak, about 1.5 inches thick
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary
- 1 sprig fresh thyme
Instructions:
Preparing the Steak:
- Pat the steak dry: This crucial step ensures a beautiful sear. Use paper towels to thoroughly dry the surface of the steak.
- Season generously: Rub the steak generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don't be shy with the seasoning! Let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the steak to come to room temperature for even cooking.
Pan-Searing the Steak:
- Heat the oil: Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet (or heavy-bottomed skillet) over medium-high heat until it shimmers. A hot pan is key to a good sear.
- Sear the steak: Carefully place the steak in the hot skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust according to your preferred doneness. Don't move the steak around too much during searing; let it develop a nice crust.
- Add butter and aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter, smashed garlic, rosemary, and thyme to the skillet. Tilt the pan and spoon the melted butter over the steak for about 2 minutes per side, basting constantly. This process adds flavor and richness.
Resting and Serving:
- Rest the steak: Once cooked to your liking, remove the steak from the skillet and place it on a cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
- Slice and serve: Slice the steak against the grain and serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Pan-Seared T-Bone Steak:
- Use a meat thermometer: For perfectly cooked steak every time, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The recommended temperatures are:
- Rare: 125°F (52°C)
- Medium-Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
- Medium-Well: 150-155°F (66-68°C)
- Well-Done: 160°F (71°C) and above
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If cooking multiple steaks, cook them in batches to ensure proper searing.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and your stovetop.
Variations:
- Garlic Herb Butter: Mix softened butter with minced garlic, parsley, and chives before basting.
- Spicy Steak: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning or butter mixture.
- Mushroom Sauce: Sauté sliced mushrooms in the pan after removing the steak and deglaze with a little wine or broth before serving the sauce over the steak.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a 6-ounce serving of T-bone steak and may vary based on the size of the steak and ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 0-1g
This easy recipe for pan-seared T-bone steak is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of delicious flavors and simple preparation makes it a favorite among homemade cooking enthusiasts, offering a healthy and fulfilling meal. Enjoy!