If you’re craving a steak dish that boasts rich flavors and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, you’re going to love this Pan-Seared Steak in Butter Sauce Recipe. It’s a true celebration of simplicity and elegance, transforming everyday ingredients like garlic, thyme, and butter into a luscious sauce that perfectly complements juicy flank steak strips. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a special occasion, this recipe delivers bold taste with a comforting twist you won’t want to miss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white plate sits on a white marbled surface holding a dish with three main layers. On the bottom right is a pile of cooked, dark green leafy spinach with a shiny, soft texture. Above and slightly covering the spinach are many slices of brown strips of meat soaked in a light brown sauce with bits of herbs and spices visible, giving a glossy look. A small wedge of lemon with a pale yellow inside and white rind rests at the top edge of the plate. A silver fork with a simple design lies on the left side of the plate. The overall look is fresh and rich without being crowded. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is your first step to success. Each one plays an essential role in building the depth of flavor, creating that perfect sear, and ensuring your steak shines with a buttery, herby sauce that’s simply irresistible.

1 lb (450g) flank steak, cut into strips: A lean cut that’s perfect for quick cooking and soaking up marinade flavors.
1+2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided: Butter adds richness and helps create that silky, decadent sauce.
1 small shallot, finely chopped: Provides a delicate sweetness and subtle onion flavor.
3 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic intensifies the aroma and adds a savory punch.
Pinch of red chili pepper flakes, to taste: A little heat brings balance to the creamy butter sauce.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds tang and depth, cutting through the richness.
3 teaspoons minced fresh thyme: Fresh thyme offers an earthy, aromatic touch.
1 tablespoon finely minced chives: Adds color and a mild onion flavor to brighten the sauce.
½ cup beef stock (or water): Boosts savory flavors and helps loosen the sauce.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: A splash of acid to brighten and balance all the richness.
Salt and fresh cracked pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to bring all ingredients together.
Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish: Freshness and color to finish the dish beautifully.

How to Make Pan-Seared Steak in Butter Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

Start by marinating your flank steak strips in a mix of soy sauce, olive oil, Sriracha, and freshly cracked black pepper. This marinade not only tenderizes the meat but infuses it with a savory, spicy backbone that makes every bite unforgettable. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes so the flavors soak in deeply.

Step 2: Prepare the Butter Sauce Base

While the steak marinates, finely chop your shallot and mince the garlic. These aromatics will be the star contributors to your butter sauce. Having fresh herbs like thyme and chives ready ensures your sauce will have that fresh garden flair that elevates the dish from simple to spectacular.

Step 3: Sear the Steak

Heat 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter in a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Add your marinated steak strips in a single layer — avoid overcrowding for the best sear. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until a beautiful brown crust forms. Remove the steak and set it aside, letting it rest briefly while you prepare the sauce.

Step 4: Build the Butter Sauce

Lower the heat slightly and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan. Toss in the finely chopped shallots and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Stir in chili flakes, Dijon mustard, fresh thyme, and chives to create a flavorful base. Pour in the beef stock and lemon juice, giving the sauce a hearty and bright personality. Let it simmer gently until it thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return the steak strips to the pan, tossing them gently in the butter sauce so every piece is lovingly coated. Season with salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste and cook for another minute just to marry those flavors perfectly. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for that touch of freshness and color.

How to Serve Pan-Seared Steak in Butter Sauce Recipe

The image shows a white bowl filled with several long, thin, brown strips of cooked meat covered in a thick, shiny, brown sauce with small green herb pieces sprinkled on top. At the top left edge inside the bowl, there are two pale yellow lemon wedges. A silver fork is placed inside the bowl slightly to the left, with its handle resting on the white marbled surface below. The sauce looks rich and glossy, pooling around the meat strips, creating a warm and inviting texture photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley is not only visually appealing but also adds a bright contrast to the rich butter sauce. For a touch of elegance, a few extra chive snips on top can enrich the color palette and provide a delicate onion note that complements the steak beautifully.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides like creamy mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes that soak up the butter sauce effortlessly. Steamed green beans or sautéed asparagus add a great crunch and freshness, balancing the meal with vibrant color and texture.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleasing presentation, arrange the steak strips fanned out on a wooden serving platter with the butter sauce drizzled generously over. Adding lemon wedges on the side invites guests to personalize their tanginess level. You can also serve it over buttery garlic noodles for a unique twist that turns it into a hearty, satisfying feast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Pan-Seared Steak in Butter Sauce Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the steak and sauce together to maintain moisture and flavor, and bring it back to life gently when reheating.

Freezing

If you want to freeze the leftovers, separate the steak from the sauce if possible and freeze both in airtight containers. The sauce freezes well and can be thawed slowly in the fridge. Use within 2 months for best taste and texture.

Reheating

The best way to reheat is on the stovetop over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through. Avoid the microwave, which can toughen the steak and separate the butter sauce. Adding a splash of beef stock or water while reheating keeps the sauce silky and smooth.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?

Absolutely! While flank steak works wonderfully for its quick cooking and flavor absorption, cuts like skirt or sirloin can also be used. Just remember that thicker cuts will need a bit longer cooking time.

What if I don’t have fresh thyme or chives?

You can substitute with dried herbs, but use about one-third the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated. Alternatively, parsley and rosemary also work well to maintain that herbal note in the sauce.

How spicy is this Pan-Seared Steak in Butter Sauce Recipe?

The chili flakes and Sriracha bring a mild to moderate heat that can be adjusted to your taste. Feel free to reduce or omit the chili if you prefer a gentler flavor profile.

Can I make this recipe paleo or gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the soy sauce with coconut aminos and make sure your hot sauce is free of gluten. The rest of the ingredients are naturally paleo and gluten-free friendly.

What is the best way to slice the steak for this recipe?

Always slice flank steak against the grain into thin strips; this makes it more tender and easier to eat. Cutting against the grain shortens the muscle fibers and enhances the overall mouthfeel.

Final Thoughts

This Pan-Seared Steak in Butter Sauce Recipe is one of those dishes that feels special yet is surprisingly easy to prepare. The harmonious blend of butter, herbs, and a little heat transforms simple flank steak into a luscious, unforgettable meal. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy the same delight every bite brings!

Pan-Seared Steak in Butter Sauce Recipe