If you love rich, savory flavors paired with perfectly cooked steak, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe. It’s a beautiful marriage of tender, juicy ribeye or flank steak with a luscious homemade garlic butter that melts into every bite, delivering a burst of warmth, herbaceous notes, and just the right hint of citrus. Whether you grill or pan-sear, this recipe transforms a simple cut of meat into an unforgettable feast that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might be straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in crafting that iconic Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe. From the sizzling steak to the creamy, garlicky butter enhanced by fresh herbs and spices, every element contributes to the depth of flavor and mouthwatering texture you’ll love.
- 2 ribeye steaks or flank steaks (about 1 inch thick): Choose steaks with good marbling for optimal juiciness and flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps the seasoning stick and ensures a great sear on your steak.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Fundamental for elevating the natural beef flavors.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic boost that complements the fresh garlic butter.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional): Brings a smoky complexity reminiscent of Brazilian churrasco.
- ½ teaspoon cumin (optional): Introduces an earthy depth with a Brazilian flavor twist.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano (optional): Offers a hint of herbiness that rounds out the seasoning.
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened: The star of the garlic butter—creamy and rich.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is essential for that punch of robust flavor in the butter.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a bright, fresh herbal lift to the butter.
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (optional): For an earthy, aromatic layer of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional): A splash of acidity to brighten the butter’s richness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Fine-tunes the seasoning of your garlic butter.
How to Make Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter
Start by blending softened butter with freshly minced garlic, chopped parsley, and thyme if you’re using it. The addition of lemon juice adds a wonderful contrast that keeps the butter from feeling too heavy. Season this mixture lightly with salt and pepper to balance and bring out each fresh note beautifully. To make handling easier, roll the butter mixture into a log using plastic wrap or parchment paper, then chill it until firm. This step lets all the flavors harmonize while giving you the perfect shape for slicing later.
Step 2: Season the Steak
Patting your steak dry is crucial to getting that lovely, crusty sear. Once the steaks are dry, rub them with olive oil to help the seasonings adhere. Sprinkle your salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and oregano evenly, pressing them gently into the meat. The optional spices bring subtle layers that echo traditional Brazilian churrasco flavors, adding a unique and delicious twist.
Step 3: Cooking the Steak
You have two fantastic ways to cook this steak depending on your preference and equipment. For grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the steaks for about 4-6 minutes on each side for medium-rare—always adjust based on thickness and preference. For a pan-seared finish, heat a cast-iron skillet until it’s scorching hot, then add the steaks with a touch of oil if needed, cooking each side about the same time. Both methods develop a savory crust while sealing in the juicy, tender interior.
Step 4: Rest the Steak
Patience now! Once cooked, let your steaks rest for 5-10 minutes. This little pause allows the juices trapped inside to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful rather than dry. It’s one of those kitchen secrets that truly elevates your Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe experience.
Step 5: Serve with Garlic Butter
Slice your chilled garlic butter into rounds and place a piece on top of each steak while still warm. Watch it melt slowly, infusing the meat with garlicky richness and herbal freshness. This finishing touch is what makes the dish so decadently satisfying and memorable.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley or thyme sprigs make beautiful, fragrant garnishes, giving your steak plate a pop of color and aroma. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt right before serving can also add delightful texture and flavor bursts that contrast perfectly with the smooth garlic butter.
Side Dishes
This steak pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides: think creamy mashed potatoes, garlic-roasted vegetables, or even fluffy rice to soak up every last bit of melted butter. Grilled vegetables also echo the Brazilian cooking style, adding smoky sweetness that complements the meat’s robust flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, consider slicing the steak thinly and serving it as a tapas-style platter with the garlic butter dolloped on the side for dipping. Alternatively, you could build a hearty steak sandwich loaded with fresh arugula and caramelized onions, topped off with a spread of garlic butter for an indulgent meal that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your feast, store any leftover steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best eaten within 2-3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Keep the garlic butter log wrapped separately so it stays pristine and ready for your next steak night.
Freezing
You can freeze the garlic butter log wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Steaks freeze well too if cooked less than medium and thawed gently before reheating. Freezing preserves the essence of your Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe, letting you enjoy it again without sacrificing taste.
Reheating
To bring your leftovers back to life, gently reheat the steak in a skillet over low to medium heat, avoiding direct high heat which can dry it out. Add a bit of garlic butter while warming to refresh the flavor and moisture. This thoughtful reheating keeps the steak tender and succulent, making it almost as good as freshly cooked.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of steak for this Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe?
Absolutely! While ribeye and flank steaks are preferred for their flavor and texture, other cuts like sirloin or strip steak also work beautifully. Just adjust cooking times based on thickness and your desired doneness.
Is it necessary to use all the optional spices in the steak seasoning?
Not at all! The optional smoked paprika, cumin, and oregano add a slight Brazilian flair, but feel free to keep it simple with just salt, pepper, and garlic powder if that suits your taste better.
Can I prepare the garlic butter in advance?
Yes, making the garlic butter ahead of time is encouraged. It allows the flavors to meld together nicely. Keep it chilled until ready to use, and slice off rounds as needed for serving.
What if I don’t have a grill or cast iron skillet?
You can cook the steaks on a regular non-stick pan at medium-high heat or even broil them in the oven. Just watch them carefully to avoid overcooking and ensure a nice crust.
How do I know when the steak is cooked to medium-rare?
The best way is using a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C). If you don’t have one, look for slight resistance when pressing the steak and a warm red center when sliced.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe is a true celebration of vibrant flavors and simple cooking techniques that bring the best out of a great cut of meat. If you’ve been craving a steak dish that’s not only delicious but also feels special and homemade, this recipe is your new go-to. Gather your ingredients, fire up your grill or skillet, and get ready to savor every buttery, garlicky bite with family and friends. I promise, once you try it, it will become one of your favorite ways to enjoy steak!
Print
Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Brazilian
Description
This Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak recipe features juicy ribeye or flank steaks seasoned with a fragrant blend of spices and topped with a rich, homemade garlic butter infused with fresh herbs. Perfectly cooked on the grill or pan-seared to medium-rare, this dish delivers bold Brazilian-inspired flavors with a buttery finish that’s sure to impress at any meal.
Ingredients
Steaks and Seasoning
- 2 ribeye steaks or flank steaks (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for added flavor)
- ½ teaspoon cumin (optional for a Brazilian-inspired taste)
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
Garlic Butter
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (optional)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional for brightness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme (if using), and lemon juice (if using). Mix thoroughly and season with a pinch of salt and pepper for balanced flavor.
- Chill the Garlic Butter: Transfer the butter mixture onto plastic wrap or parchment paper and roll into a log shape. Refrigerate for 15-20 minutes until it firms up to allow easy slicing later.
- Season the Steaks: Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to ensure proper searing. Rub them evenly with olive oil and then generously season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and oregano (if using), pressing the spices into the meat to adhere well.
- Choose Cooking Method – Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the steaks on the grill and cook them for 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check—aim for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare or 140°F (60°C) for medium.
- Choose Cooking Method – Pan-Searing: Heat a large cast-iron skillet or heavy pan on medium-high heat. Add a little oil if desired for extra sear. Place the steaks in the hot pan and cook for 4-6 minutes per side until your preferred doneness is reached.
- Rest the Steaks: Remove the steaks from heat and allow them to rest for 5-10 minutes. Resting redistributes the juices inside, ensuring a tender and juicy steak.
- Serve with Garlic Butter: Slice the chilled garlic butter log into rounds and place one on each warm steak. Let the butter melt over the meat, enhancing the steak with rich garlic and herb flavors.
- Serve: Present the steak with your favorite sides like grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice to complete this delicious meal.
Notes
- Adjust the steak seasoning spices to your taste preference, adding or removing optional spices as desired.
- For best results, use a meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked steaks to your preferred doneness.
- Resting the steak before serving is crucial for juicy, flavorful meat.
- The garlic butter can be made ahead and stored refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
- This recipe works well with ribeye, flank, or other preferred steak cuts.
- If pan-searing, a cast-iron skillet is recommended for the best sear.
