Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe

The Juiciest Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe Ever Made

Sizzling steaks meet their match with this garlic butter Brazilian steak that promises an explosion of flavors.

Rich, succulent cuts of meat dance with zesty herb-infused butter in a culinary celebration.

Tender proteins melting under a golden, garlicky glaze that whispers tales of Brazilian grilling traditions.

Regional spices and classic techniques blend seamlessly in this mouthwatering dish that transports you directly to são paulo’s vibrant kitchens.

Each ingredient tells a story of passion and culinary craftsmanship.

Precision and simplicity define this recipe, where quality ingredients transform into an unforgettable meal.

You’ll be amazed how a few strategic steps create such remarkable depth of flavor.

Fire up your skillet and let the magic begin!

What Makes Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak So Bold

  • Quickly Elevate Flavor: The garlic butter sauce transforms a simple steak into a restaurant-quality dish with minimal effort, packing an incredible punch of rich, savory goodness that will make taste buds dance.
  • Master Simple Cooking Technique: This recipe showcases an easy one-skillet method that allows home cooks to achieve perfectly seared steak with a mouthwatering garlic butter finish, making professional-level cooking accessible to everyone.
  • Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Impact: With just a few pantry staples like butter, garlic, and basic seasonings, you can create a luxurious meal that feels indulgent without complicated preparation or expensive ingredients.
  • Speedy Weeknight Winner: From start to finish, this steak recipe takes less than 15 minutes, making it an ideal solution for busy families wanting a delicious, protein-packed dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

What You’ll Need For Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak

Protein:
  • Steak: Rich, flavorful meat that forms the star of the dish, best when high-quality and well-marbled.
  • Black Pepper, Salt: Classic seasoning enhancers that bring out the steak's natural flavors, use freshly ground for best results.
Fats and Cooking Base:
  • Olive Oil: Helps create perfect sear and prevents sticking, choose extra virgin for best flavor.
  • Butter: Provides rich, creamy base for garlic sauce, unsalted recommended for better control of saltiness.
Aromatics and Herbs:
  • Garlic: Powerful flavor builder that transforms simple steak into a gourmet experience, fresh cloves preferred over pre-minced.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: Optional spice element that adds subtle heat and complexity, adjust according to personal heat tolerance.
  • Fresh Parsley: Bright, fresh garnish that adds color and light herbaceous note to the finished dish.

Flavorful Spins On Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak

  • Chimichurri Infusion: Replace garlic butter with zesty Argentine chimichurri sauce, blending fresh parsley, oregano, garlic, red wine vinegar, and olive oil for a tangy herbal coating.
  • Pepper Crusted Version: Create a robust spice crust by pressing coarsely ground black and white peppercorns into the steak before searing, enhancing the meat's bold flavor profile.
  • Smoky Paprika Blend: Incorporate smoked paprika and Spanish-style seasoning into the butter sauce, adding a deep, rich southwestern-inspired complexity to the traditional recipe.
  • Brazilian Marinade Option: Marinate the steak beforehand in cachaça, lime juice, garlic, and fresh herbs to infuse traditional Brazilian flavors before the classic searing technique.

Your Questions About Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Answered

  • What makes Brazilian steak different from other steak recipes?

Brazilian steak is known for its simple yet bold seasoning and the delicious garlic butter sauce that adds incredible flavor and richness to the meat.

  • Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?

Yes, you can use different cuts like ribeye, sirloin, or flank steak. Just adjust cooking time based on the thickness and your preferred doneness.

  • How do I know when the steak is perfectly cooked?

Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 135°F. Let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking, as the temperature will continue to rise slightly.

  • Is it necessary to use red pepper flakes?

Red pepper flakes are optional. They add a subtle heat and complexity to the garlic butter sauce, but you can skip them if you prefer a milder flavor or don’t like spice.

How To Make Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak At Home

Step 1: Prepare The Steak

Grab a paper towel and thoroughly dry the steak. Sprinkle salt and black pepper generously across both surfaces, creating a flavorful coating that will lock in delicious flavors. Let the seasoned steak sit at room temperature for a few minutes to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Create A Perfect Sear

Heat a large skillet over medium-high flame. Pour olive oil and watch it shimmer with anticipation. Carefully place the steak into the hot pan, listening for that satisfying sizzle. Cook each side for 3-4 minutes, developing a beautiful golden-brown crust. For steak lovers who prefer specific doneness:
  • Rare: 2-3 minutes per side
  • Medium-rare: 3-4 minutes per side
  • Medium: 4-5 minutes per side

Remove the steak and let it rest on a cutting board.

Step 3: Craft Incredible Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add:
  • Unsalted butter
  • Minced garlic
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)

Swirl the ingredients, creating a fragrant mixture that will make mouths water. Saute for 1-2 minutes until garlic becomes golden and releases its aromatic oils.

Step 4: Combine And Elevate

Return the steak to the skillet, gently coating it with the luscious garlic butter sauce. Tilt the pan to ensure every inch of meat gets drenched in flavor. Let the steak absorb the sauce for about 30 seconds.

Step 5: Serve With Flair

Transfer the steak to a serving plate. Slice against the grain to ensure tender bites. Drizzle remaining garlic butter sauce over the top. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Top Tips For Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak

  • Moisture-Proof Seasoning: Pat the steak completely dry before salting to ensure a perfect golden-brown crust and enhance flavor absorption.
  • Temperature Control Trick: Let the steak rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking to guarantee even cooking and a juicier result.
  • Searing Perfection Technique: Use a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan to achieve maximum heat retention and create a delicious caramelized exterior.
  • Butter Sauce Balance: Watch garlic carefully while sautéing to prevent burning, which can make the sauce bitter and less appealing.
  • Dietary Adaptation Hack: Swap regular butter with ghee for a lactose-free version or use plant-based butter for a vegan alternative that maintains rich flavor.

How To Save Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak For Later

  • Refrigerate: Wrap sliced steak in aluminum foil or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain optimal flavor and texture.
  • Reheat Carefully: Warm steak gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of beef broth or leftover garlic butter sauce. This prevents drying out and keeps the meat tender and juicy.
  • Microwave Option: If using a microwave, place steak on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals to prevent overcooking.
  • Avoid Repeated Reheating: Reheat steak only once to preserve its quality and prevent potential bacterial growth. Consume reheated steak within 1-2 days for best taste.

What To Serve With Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak

  • Boost Flavor with Robust Red Wine: Pair this juicy Brazilian steak with a bold Malbec from Argentina, which complements the rich garlic butter sauce and cuts through the meat's richness with its deep fruit notes and peppery undertones.
  • Create Zesty Side Companions: Serve alongside roasted chimichurri potatoes or a crisp Brazilian-style vinaigrette salad to balance the steak's intense flavors and add refreshing contrast to the garlic butter's richness.
  • Elevate with Herbal Green Accompaniment: Add a light, herbaceous green like grilled asparagus or sautéed broccolini drizzled with olive oil and sea salt, which provides a fresh counterpoint to the steak's deep, savory profile and helps cleanse the palate between bites.
  • Enhance with Creamy Brazilian Cheese Bread: Include pão de queijo (Brazilian cheese bread) as a delightful side, whose cheesy, soft texture perfectly soaks up the garlic butter sauce and offers a traditional Brazilian culinary touch to the meal.
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Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe

Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe


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4.7 from 25 reviews

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Sizzling garlic butter Brazilian steak brings South American grilling passion straight to your dinner table. Juicy beef marinated in zesty herbs melts with rich butter, inviting you to savor an authentic culinary journey through Brazilian flavors.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (454 g) picanha steak (or sirloin cap, ribeye, or flank steak)
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons (45 g) unsalted butter

Seasoning Ingredients:

  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ teaspoon (1.25 ml) red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)

Garnish:

  • 2 tablespoons (8 g) fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the meat by thoroughly drying its surface with clean kitchen towels, then massaging a robust layer of seasoning across both surfaces.
  2. Ignite a heavy-bottomed skillet over robust heat, drizzling olive oil to create a sizzling foundation for searing the protein.
  3. Carefully position the seasoned cut into the scorching pan, allowing each side to develop a rich, caramelized exterior for approximately 3-4 minutes, adjusting timing based on desired internal temperature.
  4. Transfer the seared protein to a resting board, allowing internal juices to redistribute and muscles to relax.
  5. Reduce skillet temperature to a gentle warmth, introducing butter which will melt and transform into a silky base for aromatics.
  6. Introduce finely chopped garlic and optional red pepper flakes, gently toasting until fragrant and releasing their intense essence without burning.
  7. Reunite the rested protein with the infused butter sauce, delicately coating each surface to maximize flavor absorption.
  8. Remove from heat source, slice against the muscle grain to ensure tenderness, and shower with freshly chopped parsley for vibrant color and herbal brightness.
  9. Present immediately, drizzling remaining garlic-infused butter over the sliced protein for an extra layer of decadence.

Notes

  • Ensure meat is at room temperature before cooking to guarantee even searing and optimal tenderness.
  • Pat the steak completely dry to achieve a perfect golden-brown crust without steaming the meat.
  • Experiment with different pepper varieties like smoked or freshly cracked for enhanced flavor complexity.
  • Use a meat thermometer for precise doneness, aiming for 130-135°F for medium-rare without overcooking.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Brazilian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 0 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 36 g
  • Saturated Fat: 14 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 22 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 2 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 34 g
  • Cholesterol: 120 mg
Isabella Rossi

Isabella Rossi

Founder & Culinary Content Creator

Expertise

Recipe Development​, Traditional Irish and European Cuisines, Food Styling and Photography, Culinary Education​

Education

Dublin Institute of Technology (DIT) – School of Culinary Arts and Food Technology

  • Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in classical and modern cooking techniques, kitchen management, and menu development.​

Ballymaloe Cookery School

  • Program: 12-Week Certificate Course
  • Focus: Intensive, hands-on experience emphasizing farm-to-table cooking and sustainable practices.​

Liam is the voice behind many of Craft Meats’ most flavorful features. With roots in Dublin’s smoky barbecue scene and a culinary degree from the Dublin Institute of Technology, he brings time-tested cooking techniques to life. 

His training at Ballymaloe Cookery School sharpened his farm-to-table approach, giving him a deep respect for every ingredient he writes about.

He’s not about overcomplicating the process, just helping you cook meat that’s worth talking about. When he’s not writing or grilling, he’s out foraging or nerding out on regional spice blends to add to his next recipe.

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