If you are craving a succulent, flavor-packed meal that feels like a special occasion every time, look no further than this Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe. The rich, juicy steak enhanced by a heavenly garlic butter topping is a game-changer, bringing together vibrant herbs and just the right amount of seasoning for a taste sensation that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or pan-searing in your kitchen, this recipe captures the essence of Brazilian flavors with an easy-to-make garlic butter that melts into every bite. Prepare yourself for a steak experience that’s bursting with aroma, tenderness, and unforgettable flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe shines because it keeps things straightforward but full of impact. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—whether it’s the juicy ribeye providing unbeatable texture or the fresh herbs that brighten the garlic butter to perfection.
- 2 ribeye or flank steaks (about 1 inch thick): Choose well-marbled cuts for the best tenderness and flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps create a beautiful sear and locks in juices.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the natural steak flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle layer of garlic that complements the fresh butter.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional): Introduces a smoky depth reminiscent of Brazilian grilling.
- ½ teaspoon cumin (optional): Slightly earthy, it enhances the Brazilian vibe of the dish.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano (optional): Adds aromatic complexity to the seasoning mix.
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened: The star of the garlic butter, silky and rich.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic ensures that vibrant punch of flavor without overpowering.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the butter with a fresh herbal note.
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (optional): Introduces an earthy, almost lemony fragrance.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional): Provides a subtle zing that balances the richness of the butter.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To perfectly season the garlic butter and steak.
How to Make Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter
Start by combining the softened unsalted butter with fresh minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme if you’re using it, and a little lemon juice for brightness in a small bowl. Season this mixture lightly with salt and pepper, then mix thoroughly until it’s a smooth, fragrant blend. This garlic butter is going to be the magic touch that transforms your steak into something truly unforgettable.
Step 2: Chill the Garlic Butter
Once mixed, transfer the garlic butter onto plastic wrap or parchment paper and roll it into a compact log. Pop it into your refrigerator to chill until firm—about 15 to 20 minutes. This makes it easier to slice into perfect rounds later, so every steak gets that beautiful buttery topping.
Step 3: Season the Steaks
Before you start cooking, ensure your steaks are patted dry with paper towels—this is key for a fantastic sear. Rub each steak with olive oil and then sprinkle the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and oregano. Press the spices gently into the meat so those flavors really cling and develop during cooking.
Step 4: Cook the Steaks
You can either grill the steaks on a preheated medium-high grill or pan-sear them in a hot cast iron skillet. For grilling, 4 to 6 minutes on each side typically hits that perfect medium-rare mark, but always adjust to your preference. Use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak hits 130°F for medium-rare or 140°F for medium doneness. For pan-searing, make sure your pan is piping hot, and cook the steaks similarly 4 to 6 minutes per side. Adding a splash of oil to the pan helps create a gorgeous crust.
Step 5: Rest the Steaks
After cooking, remove the steaks from heat and let them rest for about 5 to 10 minutes. Resting is absolutely essential—it allows the juices to redistribute, giving you a steak that’s juicy and tender from edge to edge.
Step 6: Add the Garlic Butter
Slice your chilled garlic butter into rounds and place a generous piece right on top of each warm steak. Watch it melt into every crevice, bathing the meat in savory, garlicky richness that perfectly complements the Brazilian seasoning.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately alongside your favorite sides. This Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe is all about indulgence and the joy of great flavors coming together on one plate.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley or a sprinkle of chopped chives make excellent garnishes, adding a pop of vibrant green and a fresh, herbal flavor that cuts through the richness. A light drizzle of lemon juice just before serving can also lift the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
Consider pairing your steak with grilled vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini to bring smoky char and nutrition. Creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy white rice are classic companions that soak up the melting garlic butter perfectly. You can even add a simple tomato and avocado salad to bring crunch and acidity.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, slice the steak thinly against the grain and fan the slices out on a wooden board with rounds of garlic butter melting on top. Add colorful roasted vegetables around the edges and serve family-style for a shared feast full of warmth and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover steak, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the garlic butter separately wrapped to preserve its fresh flavor until you’re ready to enjoy the steak again.
Freezing
This Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe steaks freeze well. Wrap each steak tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer bag to avoid freezer burn for up to 2 months. The garlic butter can be formed into logs and frozen separately; slice off portions as needed.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the steak in a low oven or covered skillet over medium-low heat to avoid overcooking. Add a fresh round of garlic butter on top while reheating for that vibrant flavor boost. Avoid microwaving as it can dry out the steak.
FAQs
What cut of steak works best for this recipe?
Ribeye and flank steaks are ideal choices because they offer great flavor and texture, but you can also use sirloin or New York strip steaks depending on your preference and budget.
Can I make the garlic butter ahead of time?
Absolutely! The garlic butter can be mixed and formed into logs days in advance and kept refrigerated. It even freezes well, making it a perfect prep-ahead component.
Is it necessary to use all the spices listed?
While the optional smoked paprika, cumin, and oregano add a lovely Brazilian-inspired complexity, you can keep it simple with just salt, pepper, and garlic powder if preferred. The garlic butter will still shine wonderfully.
How do I know when the steak is cooked perfectly?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer. Aim for 130°F for medium-rare and 140°F for medium. Resting the steak will also help carry the residual heat to final perfection.
Can I use this recipe for other meats?
Definitely! This garlic butter mix pairs beautifully with chicken breasts, pork chops, and even grilled shrimp, adding a lush richness that elevates simple proteins.
Final Thoughts
If you want a steak recipe that delivers big on flavor and makes every meal feel like a celebration, this Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s simple to make, incredibly satisfying, and generously packed with the kind of mouthwatering garlic butter that turns steak into an unforgettable experience. Go ahead and try it soon — your taste buds will thank you!
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 perfectly seasoned ribeye or flank steaks cooked to medium-rare with a delicious homemade garlic herb butter that melts over the hot meat, infusing every bite with rich, savory flavors. Ideal for grilling or pan-searing, this dish offers a taste of Brazilian-inspired seasoning with optional smoked paprika, cumin, and oregano, complemented by fresh herbs and lemon juice in the butter.
Ingredients
Steak
- 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, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme (if using), and lemon juice (if using). Mix everything well and season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill the Garlic Butter: Transfer the garlic butter mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper and roll it into a log shape. Place it in the refrigerator to chill and firm up for about 15-20 minutes.
- Season the Steaks: Pat the steaks dry thoroughly using paper towels to ensure a good sear. Rub both sides of the steaks with olive oil, then generously season them with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and oregano (if using). Press the seasoning into the meat to help it adhere well.
- Cook the Steaks – Grilling Option: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the seasoned steaks on the grill and cook for about 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare, adjusting time based on steak thickness and preferred doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check; 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium.
- Cook the Steaks – Pan-Searing Option: Heat a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until hot. Optionally add a little oil to the pan for extra sear. Add the steaks and cook for 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust time to your liking.
- Rest the Steaks: Remove the steaks from heat and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat juicy and tender.
- Serve with Garlic Butter: Slice the chilled garlic butter into rounds. Place a slice of the garlic butter atop each warm steak, allowing it to melt and infuse the steak with rich garlic and herb flavors.
- Enjoy: Serve the steaks with your favorite sides such as grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice for a complete meal.
Notes
- The optional spices (smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, thyme, and lemon juice) provide a subtle Brazilian flavor but can be omitted if preferred.
- Make sure to pat steaks dry before seasoning to get a better crust when cooking.
- Adjust cooking times according to steak thickness and preferred level of doneness.
- Resting the steak after cooking is key for juicy, tender meat.
- Garlic butter can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
