Garlic Butter Steak with Parmesan Cream Sauce

There’s something undeniably indulgent about a perfectly cooked steak bathed in a rich, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce. This Garlic Butter Steak with Parmesan Cream Sauce is exactly that—a juicy, flavorful ribeye paired with a luscious, creamy sauce that elevates your dinner to restaurant-quality perfection.

Ideal for a weekend feast, a special date night, or any occasion where comfort meets elegance, this dish combines the savory satisfaction of butter-basted steak with the irresistible richness of garlic and Parmesan. It’s quick enough to make on a weeknight but impressive enough for entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Juicy, perfectly cooked steak every time
• Rich, creamy Parmesan sauce with aromatic garlic
• Quick prep and cooking—ready in just 30 minutes
• Flexible: works with ribeye, sirloin, filet mignon, or your favorite cut
• Elegant presentation that feels gourmet without the fuss

Ingredients

• 4 ribeye steaks (about 1-inch thick, 8 oz each) – Tender, flavorful, and perfect for searing
• Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning the steaks
• 4 tablespoons butter – Adds richness and helps develop a golden crust
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the butter with aromatic flavor
• ½ cup heavy cream – Creates a smooth, luxurious sauce
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Brings nutty, salty depth to the sauce
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley – Adds freshness and a pop of color for garnish

How to Make Garlic Butter Steak with Parmesan Cream Sauce

Season and Sear the Steaks

Season both sides of the ribeye steaks generously with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted and bubbling, add the steaks and cook for 4–5 minutes on one side until golden brown.

Flip and Add Garlic Butter

Flip the steaks using tongs. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 4–5 minutes for medium-rare, adjusting time for your preferred doneness.

Rest the Steaks

Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes. Resting ensures the juices redistribute, keeping the steak juicy and tender.

Prepare the Parmesan Cream Sauce

Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the heavy cream and whisk continuously, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Add grated Parmesan cheese and whisk until the sauce thickens, about 3–4 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Serve

Slice the steaks, plate them, and drizzle the Parmesan cream sauce over the top. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately for maximum flavor and indulgence.

Tips for Success

• Let the steaks come to room temperature before cooking for even searing
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary
• Adjust garlic amount to your taste preference
• Rest steaks after cooking to retain juiciness
• Whisk the sauce continuously to prevent curdling and achieve a smooth consistency

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Tongs for flipping steaks
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk for the sauce
• Cutting board and knife

Recipe Variations

• Alternative Steak Cuts: Use sirloin, filet mignon, or New York strip
• Extra Garlic Flavor: Add roasted garlic for a milder, sweeter garlic taste
• Cheesy Twist: Mix in Gruyère or Asiago cheese along with Parmesan
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the butter while searing

Serving Suggestions

Pair this garlic butter steak with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or a simple arugula salad. A glass of full-bodied red wine, like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, complements the richness beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use a different steak cut?
Yes! Sirloin, filet mignon, or New York strip all work beautifully. Adjust cooking time for thickness.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh. You can prepare heavy cream and Parmesan in advance, but whisk together just before serving.

How do I know when the steak is done?
For medium-rare, cook about 4–5 minutes per side for 1-inch thick steaks. Use a meat thermometer: 130–135°F for medium-rare.

Can I reduce the fat in the sauce?
You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce will be slightly less rich and thick.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely. The creamy Parmesan sauce appeals to kids, and you can adjust garlic to taste.

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Final Thoughts

This Garlic Butter Steak with Parmesan Cream Sauce is the perfect combination of simplicity and sophistication. With a juicy, flavorful steak and rich, garlicky cream sauce, it’s a dish that impresses every time. Make it for a special occasion, or treat yourself to a gourmet meal at home—you’ll love every decadent bite.