If you have been craving a rich, flavorful steak that bursts with the perfect balance of garlic and butter, let me introduce you to the Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe. This dish is a celebration of tender, juicy beef seared to perfection and drenched in a luxurious, garlicky butter sauce that will have your taste buds singing. Whether you’re aiming to impress guests or simply indulge yourself, this recipe combines simplicity and incredible taste in a way only Brazilian-inspired cooking can deliver. Get ready to infuse your kitchen with unforgettable aromas and create a steak experience that’s both comforting and exciting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe is all about using simple, essential ingredients that create a layered and vibrant flavor profile. Each component plays a key role, from seasoning the steak perfectly to enriching it with a luscious garlic butter that enhances every bite.
- 1 ½ lbs sirloin or picanha steak: Choose a well-marbled cut for juicy, tender meat with rich Brazilian flair.
- 1 teaspoon coarse salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the steak.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth to the seasoning.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps create a perfect sear and prevents the steak from sticking.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: The star of the sauce that brings creaminess and richness.
- 5 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the butter with a savory, aromatic punch.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped): Adds a fresh, herbaceous finish and color contrast.
- Lime wedges (optional): Provides a bright citrusy kick to cut through the richness when served.
How to Make Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Steak
Start by patting your steak slices dry with paper towels—this is crucial for getting a good sear. Once dry, generously season both sides with coarse salt and black pepper. This simple seasoning allows the natural beef flavor to shine through and enhances the crust that will form during cooking.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully place the steak in a single layer—if your pan can’t fit all the pieces at once, cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Sear the steak for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until a deep golden-brown crust forms. This step locks in juices and develops that irresistible grilled flavor. Remove the steak to a plate once done.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter to the same skillet. As it melts, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic turns golden and releases its incredible aroma. Be careful not to let the garlic burn—it should be fragrant and slightly toasted.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Return the seared steak pieces to the skillet and toss them gently in the garlic butter sauce to coat them thoroughly. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a bright, fresh touch. The steak is now perfectly infused with that rich, garlicky goodness.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few lime wedges on the side is a simple but fantastic way to elevate this dish. A quick squeeze of lime just before eating adds a fresh acidity that cuts beautifully through the richness of the garlic butter. The chopped parsley sprinkled at the end not only adds vibrant color but also a refreshing herbal note that brightens every bite.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe pairs wonderfully with classic Brazilian-style sides such as fluffy white rice to soak up the sauce or grilled veggies that add texture and color to your plate. For a more adventurous touch, serve it alongside chimichurri sauce—it introduces a zesty, herby element that complements the steak perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, arrange the steak bites over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables. You can also serve the steak skewered as bite-sized pieces for a fun finger-food style dinner party or a festive gathering. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter over the top just before serving to keep the flavors vibrant and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 2 days to maintain optimum flavor and tenderness. Always separate your steak from any moist sides to prevent sogginess.
Freezing
If you want to keep the steak longer, freezing is a good option. Place the steak in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible to reduce freezer burn. It will stay good for up to 2 months, though some texture changes are expected after thawing. Avoid freezing with the butter sauce mixed in—add fresh garlic butter when reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the steak gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a little bit of fresh butter or olive oil to keep the meat moist. Avoid microwaving whenever possible as it can dry out the steak. Tossing the steak again in a fresh garlic butter mixture will revive its flavor beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While picanha is a traditional Brazilian cut and packed with flavor, sirloin, ribeye, or even flap meat can work wonderfully. Just make sure your choice has good marbling for juiciness.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Yes! The Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe is surprisingly straightforward to prepare and ideal for cooks at any skill level. The key is controlling the heat and timing when searing the steak for that perfect crust.
How do I know when the steak is done?
Sear the steak 2 to 3 minutes per side for medium-rare on thick slices, but you can adjust cooking time based on thickness and your preferred doneness. Letting the steak rest briefly after cooking helps redistribute the juices.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To keep it dairy-free, substitute the unsalted butter with a high-quality olive oil or a vegan butter alternative. The flavor profile will be slightly different, but still delicious and rich in garlic taste.
What’s the best way to serve leftovers?
Leftovers can be chopped and used in sandwiches, salads, or tacos for a tasty second meal. Warm them gently with fresh garlic butter to revive the original flavors of the Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe.
Final Thoughts
Cooking the Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe is such a rewarding experience, both for the incredible aromas that fill your kitchen and the rich, mouthwatering taste you get with every bite. This dish is a wonderful way to bring the spirit of Brazilian cooking to your home and share a memorable meal with friends or family. Don’t hesitate to try it soon—you might just find it becoming one of your all-time favorite go-to steak recipes.
Print
Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Brazilian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak is a flavorful and juicy dish featuring tender sirloin or picanha steak seared to perfection and tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce. This easy stovetop recipe highlights the bold flavors of Brazil and pairs beautifully with lime wedges for an extra burst of freshness.
Ingredients
Steak
- 1 ½ lbs sirloin or picanha steak (cut into thick slices or cubes)
- 1 teaspoon coarse salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Garlic Butter Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
To Serve
- Lime wedges (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the steak: Pat the steak dry with paper towels and season generously on all sides with coarse salt and black pepper to enhance the natural meat flavors.
- Sear the steak: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the steak in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until a brown crust forms and the steak reaches your desired doneness. Work in batches if necessary.
- Rest the steak: Transfer the seared steak pieces to a plate while you prepare the garlic butter sauce to maintain juices and temperature.
- Make the garlic butter sauce: Lower the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until the garlic is golden and fragrant but not burnt.
- Toss steak in garlic butter: Return the steak to the skillet and toss well to coat each piece evenly with the flavorful garlic butter sauce.
- Finish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the steak, and serve immediately with lime wedges on the side if desired to brighten the flavors.
Notes
- Picanha is the traditional Brazilian cut and adds an authentic rich flavor, but sirloin or ribeye are excellent substitutes.
- Do not overcrowd the pan when searing the steak to ensure a proper crust forms on each piece.
- Serving suggestions include rice, grilled vegetables, or chimichurri sauce for a complete and satisfying meal.
