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Pan Seared Steak
Connie Hope

Pan Seared Steak + Steak Meal Prep Ideas

A simple and flavorful pan seared steak recipe with a golden crust, juicy center, and buttery garlic herb finish. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner and smart steak meal prep ideas for the week ahead.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 50
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 510
Ingredients Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Steak

  • 2 boneless steaks (about 1 pound each, 1 to 1¼ inches thick)  New York strip, ribeye, top sirloin, or filet mignon
  • 1 tablespoon high-heat cooking oil  Avocado oil, vegetable oil, canola oil, or light olive oil
  • 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, lightly crushed
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme
Optional Flavor Additions

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Chopped parsley for garnish
For Steak Meal Prep

  • Cooked rice or quinoa
  • Roasted broccoli or asparagus
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Salad greens
  • Tortillas for wraps or tacos

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Steak
    Remove steak from the refrigerator 20 to 30 minutes before cooking.
    Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
    Heat the Skillet
    Place a cast iron skillet or heavy pan over medium-high heat for about 4 to 5 minutes.
    Add oil and swirl to coat the pan.
    Sear the Steak
    Carefully place steaks in the skillet.
    Cook without moving for 3 to 4 minutes until a rich golden crust forms.
    Flip and cook the second side for another 3 to 4 minutes.
    Using tongs, sear the edges for about 30 to 60 seconds if needed.
    Add Garlic Butter
    Reduce heat to medium.
    Add butter, garlic cloves, and fresh herbs.
    Tilt the pan slightly and spoon the melted garlic herb butter over the steak for about 1 minute.
    Check Doneness
    Remove steak when it reaches:
    125°F for medium rare (final temp 130°F)
    135°F for medium (final temp 140°F)
    145°F for medium-well (final temp 150°F)
    155°F for well done (final temp 160°F)
    Rest the Steak
    Transfer steak to a cutting board and loosely cover.
    Rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing.
    Slice and Serve
    Slice against the grain and serve warm.
    Save leftovers for steak meal prep ideas like rice bowls, wraps, tacos, or salads.

Video

Notes

  • Dry the steak thoroughly before cooking for the best crust.
  • A hot skillet is essential for proper browning.
  • Avoid flipping the steak repeatedly. One flip usually works best.
  • Resting helps keep the steak juicy and tender.
  • Slice only what you plan to eat immediately if meal prepping.
  • Skill Level: Easy
  •  

Nutrition (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 510
  • Protein: 44g
  • Fat: 36g
  • Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Fibre: 0g
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 780mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients and portion sizes.