There’s nothing quite like a perfectly cooked steak, and this Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak delivers on all fronts. Tender, juicy skirt steak is pan-seared to perfection and drizzled with a rich, golden garlic butter sauce. The simplicity of this dish highlights the deep, beefy flavor of the steak, while the butter and garlic create an indulgent finishing touch.
What makes this recipe even better? It’s quick and easy—ready in just 15 minutes with only a handful of ingredients! Whether you’re serving it with creamy mashed potatoes, a fresh side salad, or a flavorful Peruvian fried rice, this dish is sure to impress. Bring the taste of a Brazilian steakhouse to your home and elevate your weeknight dinner with this simple yet mouthwatering recipe!
Full Recipe:
- 1 lb skirt steak
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 tsp minced garlic (adjust to preference)
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Directions:
- Cut the skirt steak into 3 or 4 parts. Pat the steaks dry and season both sides liberally with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a heavy-duty skillet over medium-high heat until very hot.
- Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or cook longer until your preferred doneness. Remove the steak from the pan, place it on a plate, cover with foil, and let it rest.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over low heat, then add minced garlic. Stir continuously until the garlic turns lightly golden. Be careful not to burn it.
- Slice the steak against the grain for tenderness.
- Drizzle the garlic butter over the sliced steak, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 8 minutes | Total Time: 13 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 3 servings
Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak – A Flavorful and Juicy Delight
Brazilian cuisine is known for its bold flavors, vibrant seasonings, and high-quality meats. One dish that stands out for its simplicity and mouthwatering taste is Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak. This dish features tender, juicy skirt steak cooked to perfection and drizzled with a rich garlic butter sauce. With only a handful of ingredients and a quick cooking time, it’s the perfect meal for steak lovers looking for an easy yet restaurant-quality dish.
What Makes Brazilian Steak Special?
Brazilian steakhouses, known as churrascarias, have a tradition of serving beautifully grilled meats with simple yet robust seasonings. Unlike heavily marinated or sauced steaks found in other cuisines, Brazilian steak relies on high-quality meat, minimal ingredients, and expert cooking techniques to bring out its natural flavors.
Skirt steak, the cut used in this recipe, is a popular choice in Brazil. It has a deep, beefy flavor and a slightly coarse texture that becomes incredibly tender when cooked properly. The combination of high heat searing and the addition of butter and garlic enhances the richness of the steak, making each bite succulent and packed with umami.
The Secret to a Perfectly Cooked Steak
One of the keys to achieving the best results with this recipe is choosing the right steak and preparing it correctly. Skirt steak is best cooked quickly over high heat to achieve a flavorful crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Overcooking can make this cut tough, so it’s important to sear it for just a few minutes on each side and let it rest before slicing.
Another essential step is cutting the steak against the grain. Skirt steak has visible fibers running across the surface. Cutting against the grain shortens these fibers, making the steak much easier to chew and significantly enhancing its tenderness.
The Role of Garlic Butter in This Dish
Garlic butter plays a crucial role in elevating this dish from a simple steak to a rich, indulgent meal. The butter melts into the steak, adding a silky texture and depth of flavor, while the garlic provides a savory, aromatic punch that complements the meat’s natural richness.
One of the biggest advantages of making garlic butter at home is customization. You can add additional seasonings like paprika, chili flakes, or lemon zest to create a unique variation of the classic garlic butter sauce. Whether you keep it simple or experiment with flavors, this element makes the steak even more irresistible.
Pairing Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak with Sides
While this steak is delicious on its own, pairing it with the right side dishes enhances the experience. Traditional Brazilian meals often include rice, beans, and farofa (toasted cassava flour) as accompaniments. However, this dish also pairs beautifully with:
- Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture balances the richness of the garlic butter.
- Grilled Vegetables: Adds a smoky and slightly charred contrast to the steak.
- Fresh Salads: A light, crisp salad with citrus dressing helps cut through the richness of the butter.
- Peruvian Fried Rice: A flavorful rice dish that complements the deep flavors of the steak.
Pairing it with a refreshing drink, such as Brazilian lemonade or a Tequila Sunrise mocktail, adds another layer of enjoyment to the meal.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion
One of the best things about this Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak is its versatility. It’s a meal that can be enjoyed in various settings:
- Weeknight Dinner: Ready in just 15 minutes, making it a great option for busy evenings.
- Special Occasions: Its restaurant-quality flavor makes it an excellent dish for celebrations.
- Outdoor Grilling: While this recipe is made in a skillet, you can also grill the steak for a smoky, charred finish.
It’s also a great option for meal prep. Cooking the steak ahead of time and storing it properly allows you to have a quick and delicious protein option for salads, sandwiches, or rice bowls throughout the week.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To achieve the best results, here are a few common mistakes to watch out for:
- Overcooking the steak: Skirt steak should be cooked quickly at high heat. Overcooking will make it tough and chewy.
- Not letting the steak rest: Cutting into the steak immediately after cooking will cause the juices to run out, leading to a drier texture. Always let it rest for a few minutes.
- Using low-quality butter: Since butter is a key component of the sauce, using high-quality unsalted butter ensures a better taste.
- Burning the garlic: Garlic cooks quickly, and if left unattended, it can turn bitter. Keep the heat low and stir continuously.
A Brief Look at Brazilian Steakhouse Culture
Brazilian steakhouses, known as churrascarias, are famous for their rodizio-style service, where waiters bring skewers of meat directly to the table and slice portions onto diners’ plates. These steakhouses serve a variety of meats, including picanha, ribeye, and skirt steak, seasoned with rock salt and grilled over an open flame.
While this recipe is a simplified home-cooked version, it captures the essence of Brazilian flavors and brings a taste of this rich culinary tradition into your kitchen.
Final Thoughts – Why You Should Try This Recipe
This Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak is an absolute must-try for anyone who loves steak. The combination of juicy, tender meat and the richness of garlic butter makes it a simple yet gourmet dish. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this recipe is sure to impress.
With its quick cooking time, minimal ingredients, and incredible flavors, it’s a go-to recipe that delivers restaurant-quality results at home. If you’re looking for a new favorite steak dish that’s both easy and delicious, this Brazilian-style garlic butter steak should be at the top of your list.
Now that you know all about this incredible dish, it’s time to fire up your skillet, prepare your ingredients, and enjoy a taste of Brazil in your own home!