Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak

Name: Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Brazilian
Ingredients: 4 picanha steaks (or sirloin/ribeye), about 1-inch thick; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; Fresh parsley for garnish

Published: May 28, 2025

by Victoria

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavorful and Juicy: The combination of quality steak and garlic butter packs an incredible flavor punch.
Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you can make this gourmet dish at home without any fuss.
Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with various sides like rice, grilled veggies, or even bread.
Impressive Presentation: A beautifully cooked steak drizzled with garlic butter makes for an eye-catching dish.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this steak is sure to impress.

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the best results when making Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak, you’ll need some essential tools that make the cooking process easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Cast-iron skillet
Grill (optional)
Tongs
Small saucepan
Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Cast-iron skillet: Ideal for searing steaks at high temperatures, creating a delicious crust.
Tongs: Perfect for flipping steaks without piercing the meat, preserving its juices.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you will need for Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak:

For the Steak

4 picanha steaks (or sirloin/ribeye), about 1-inch thick
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt (preferably coarse sea salt)
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for added smokiness)

For the Garlic Butter Sauce

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

Remove the steaks from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to let them reach room temperature. This ensures even cooking.
Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to help create a perfect crust when searing.
Drizzle the steaks with olive oil, then season generously with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Rub the seasoning evenly over the meat.

Step 2: Cook the Steak (Grill or Stovetop)

For Grilling

Preheat the grill to high heat (about 450°F – 500°F).
Place the steaks on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare (internal temp: 130°F).
Remove from the grill and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

For Stovetop (Cast-Iron or Skillet Method)

Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy pan over high heat until very hot.
Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and place the steaks in the pan.
Sear for 3-4 minutes per side until a deep brown crust forms.
Use tongs to hold the steak on its side, rendering the fat cap for 30-60 seconds.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in lemon juice, parsley, and red pepper flakes. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Drizzle garlic butter sauce over the rested steaks.
Garnish with extra parsley and serve immediately.
Pair with classic Brazilian sides like grilled vegetables, rice, or pão de queijo (cheese bread).

How to Serve Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak

Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions that enhance its rich flavors and create a memorable meal experience.

Grilled Vegetables

Fresh vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus complement the steak’s richness. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper before grilling.

Rice Pilaf

A light rice pilaf adds a subtle flavor base for the steak. Cook with broth and herbs for an aromatic side that balances the meal.

Pão de Queijo

These Brazilian cheese breads are soft and cheesy. Serve warm for a deliciously indulgent pairing with the steak.

Avocado Salad

A refreshing avocado salad with tomatoes, onions, and lime juice provides a cool contrast to the steak’s savory richness.

Chimichurri Sauce

This vibrant herb sauce made from parsley, garlic, and vinegar offers a zesty kick that enhances the flavor of the garlic butter steak.

Roasted Potatoes

Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make for a satisfying side. They’re perfect for soaking up any leftover garlic butter sauce.

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak

To ensure your Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak turns out perfectly every time, consider these essential tips.

Use quality meat – Opt for high-quality picanha or ribeye steaks for better flavor and tenderness.
Let it rest – Allowing the steak to rest after cooking helps retain its juices, resulting in a more flavorful bite.
High heat cooking – Cooking at high temperatures creates a beautiful crust while keeping the inside juicy.
Season generously – Don’t skimp on salt and pepper; they enhance the natural flavors of the meat.
Wrap in foil – If you need to keep it warm before serving, wrap the steak in foil to maintain temperature without overcooking.
Experiment with spices – Feel free to add spices like cumin or coriander to customize the flavor profile of your garlic butter sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak

Pairing your Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak with complementary sides elevates your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brushed with butter and grilled until charred is a classic summer treat.
Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing adds freshness and crunch against the richness of the steak.
Black Beans – A simple dish of seasoned black beans offers protein and fiber while enhancing traditional Brazilian flavors.
Fried Plantains – Sweet fried plantains provide a lovely contrast to savory dishes; serve them hot for best results.
Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots brings crunch and balance to each bite of steak.
Quinoa Salad – This protein-packed grain salad can be mixed with herbs, veggies, and lemon for a refreshing side dish.
Sweet Potato Mash – Creamy mashed sweet potatoes add sweetness that beautifully complements garlic butter flavors.
Cilantro Lime Rice – Fluffy rice tossed with fresh cilantro and lime juice gives a bright, zesty finish to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make a few missteps while preparing Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

Not bringing the steaks to room temperature: Skipping this step can lead to uneven cooking. Always allow your steaks to sit out for about 30 minutes before cooking.
Over-seasoning the steak: While seasoning is key, too much salt can overwhelm the flavor. Use just enough salt and pepper to enhance the meat’s natural taste.
Skipping the resting period: Cutting into the steak immediately after cooking can cause juices to run out. Let the steak rest for at least 5-10 minutes for a juicier result.
Ignoring the garlic butter sauce: The sauce is essential for flavor! Don’t rush this step; let the garlic infuse into the butter for that rich taste.
Using low-quality cuts of meat: Opt for good quality picanha or ribeye steaks for the best texture and flavor. Cheaper cuts may not yield the same delicious results.

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak in an airtight container.
It can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak

Wrap each steak tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag.
The steak will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the steak on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power in short bursts of 30 seconds until warmed, checking frequently.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little olive oil and sear each side of the steak briefly, just until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak?

Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak is a flavorful dish made by seasoning picanha or ribeye steaks and finishing them with a rich garlic butter sauce. It’s perfect for grilling or stovetop cooking.

How do I know when my steak is cooked properly?

For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C). A meat thermometer is your best tool for accuracy.

Can I customize my Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak?

Absolutely! You can add herbs like thyme or rosemary, or adjust spices according to your taste preferences.

What sides pair well with Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak?

Classic sides include grilled vegetables, rice, or pão de queijo (Brazilian cheese bread) which enhance the meal beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak is not only mouthwatering but also versatile enough to suit various occasions. Its rich flavors and juicy texture make it a fantastic choice for any dinner table. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different seasonings or sides to make this dish uniquely yours!

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