Enjoy steakhouse-style flavor at home with this Pan-Seared Flat Iron Steak topped with rich, homemade garlic butter. A well-heated skillet creates a beautifully browned exterior while keeping the steak juicy and flavorful inside. Montreal steak seasoning adds a savory blend of spices, and the warm garlic butter with fresh parsley makes a simple finishing sauce that brings everything together.
Why You’ll Love This Flat Iron Steak
Flat iron steak is a flavorful cut of beef that’s well suited to quick skillet cooking. This recipe uses a one-pound steak, a little vegetable oil, Montreal steak seasoning, kosher salt, butter, garlic, and fresh parsley. With just a handful of ingredients, you can make a satisfying main course without complicated preparation or a long marinade.
The garlic butter is what makes this recipe especially delicious. Gently cooking minced garlic in melted butter softens its sharpness and releases its aroma, creating a savory sauce to spoon over the sliced steak just before serving.
Tips for Perfect Pan-Seared Steak
For the best sear, pat the steak dry with paper towels before seasoning it. Moisture on the surface can interfere with browning, so start with a dry steak and a properly heated, heavy skillet. Cast iron or stainless steel works well because both can retain the heat needed for a flavorful crust.
Add the vegetable oil to the hot skillet, then cook the seasoned steak for about 2 to 3 minutes per side, adjusting for its thickness and your preferred doneness. Cooking time is only a guide, so use an instant-read thermometer to check the center. After cooking, let the steak rest for about five minutes before slicing.
While the steak rests, melt the butter in a separate skillet over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook gently until lightly golden, swirling the pan frequently to prevent burning. Slice the steak diagonally across the grain into thin strips, then spoon the garlic butter over the top and finish with chopped fresh parsley.
What to Serve with Flat Iron Steak
This steak pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted broccoli, sautéed spinach, or roasted asparagus. Whether you’re planning a quick weeknight dinner or a relaxed meal with family, this easy garlic butter steak is a flavorful way to make dinner feel special.
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Pan-Seared Flat Iron Steak
- Total Time: :20
- Yield: 4 1x
Ingredients
- 4–6 cloves garlic
- 1 (1-lb.) flat iron steak
- 2 teaspoons Montreal steak seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 oz. (4 Tbs.) unsalted butter
- 1 Tbs. chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
Instructions
- Peel the garlic cloves and smash them with the side of a chef’s knife. Sprinkle the garlic lightly with salt and mince it. Set aside.
- Rub steak evenly with steak seasoning and salt.
- Cook in hot oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat 2 to 3 minutes on each side or to desired degree of doneness. Let stand 5 minutes.
- In an 8-inch skillet, melt the butter over low heat. Add the garlic and cook, swirling the pan frequently, until lightly golden, about 4 minutes. Lightly salt to taste.
- Slice the steak diagonally across the grain into thin strips., if you like, and transfer to 4 plates. Spoon the garlic butter over the steak, sprinkle with the parsley, and serve.
- Prep Time: :05
- Cook Time: :10
- Category: Entree
- Method: Stove Top