Garlic Herb Butter Oven Steak Recipe

If you’re anything like me, you know the magic that a perfectly cooked steak brings to a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat. This Garlic Herb Butter Oven Steak Recipe is one of my all-time favorites because it’s simple yet bursting with flavor, thanks to the garlic and herb butter that melts into every juicy bite. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or just stepping up your steak game, you’ll find that this recipe is wildly forgiving, fast, and downright delicious. Let me walk you through everything you need to know to nail this steak every time.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Effortless Flavor Boost: The garlic herb butter melts beautifully over the steak, adding layers of rich, savory goodness without extra fuss.
  • Perfectly Juicy Every Time: Broiling at high heat and using a trusty thermometer ensures your steak hits the ideal doneness.
  • Hands-Off Cooking: Using onions as a rack is a clever trick that lets you set it and forget it for a bit, keeping the meat elevated and flavored.
  • A Crowd-Pleaser: From family dinners to casual get-togethers, this steak recipe always impresses without intimidating you in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The combination here is all about layering that deep, rich flavor while keeping the steak the star of the show. I always recommend picking a thick, quality cut like a rib-eye or a tomahawk if you’re feeling fancy—it holds up beautifully in the oven and soaks up all those garlic and herb tastes perfectly.

  • Rib-eye steak (or tomahawk): Go for a thick cut so it stays juicy and tender during broiling.
  • Onions: Halved horizontally to act as a natural roasting rack and add sweet aroma.
  • Garlic cloves: Smashed with skin on to infuse the steak subtly without burning.
  • Fresh cracked black pepper: Freshly cracked is essential for maximum flavor punch.
  • Kosher salt: Helps tenderize and season the steak thoroughly.
  • Beef bouillon cube (optional): Adds an umami depth if you want a richer taste.
  • Low-sodium soy sauce: Balances saltiness with a slight sweetness and umami.
  • Butter or olive oil: Melted butter gives that luscious finish, but olive oil works if you prefer.
  • Hot sauce (like Sriracha): Just a touch for smoky heat that complements the garlic and herbs.
  • Minced garlic: Fresh is best to keep that herb butter vibrant and flavorful.
  • Italian flat parsley and curly parsley: These herbs brighten the final butter and add fresh, herby notes.
  • Red chili flakes (optional): If you want extra heat or that slight kick.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love that this Garlic Herb Butter Oven Steak Recipe is super adaptable depending on what you have on hand or your taste preferences. I often tweak the herbs or add a bit more heat if it’s a weekend treat. You should feel free to personalize as you like!

  • Using different herbs: I’ve swapped out parsley for rosemary or thyme, which gives the steak an earthier vibe that’s equally delicious.
  • Dietary modifications: If you’re dairy-free, olive oil replaces butter nicely without losing the richness.
  • Spice level adjustments: Adding or leaving out the red chili flakes helps you control how much kick you want.
  • Alternative cuts: While rib-eye is my go-to, this method also works well with sirloin or New York strip steaks.

How to Make Garlic Herb Butter Oven Steak Recipe

Step 1: Bring the Steak to Room Temperature

One of the secrets I learned early on is never to throw a cold steak straight into the oven. Pull your rib-eye out of the fridge about 1 to 2 hours before cooking and let it come to room temperature. This helps the steak cook evenly and prevents that cold center that can happen otherwise. Be sure to pat your steak dry with paper towels to get a nice crust later.

Step 2: Preheat and Season Generously

Preheat your oven to broil mode at 500ºF (260ºC). I season liberally with kosher salt and fresh cracked black pepper on both sides. If you’re using a bouillon cube, crumble that in to add extra savory depth. Trust me, this step is where you build layers of flavor, so don’t be shy!

Step 3: Use Onions and Garlic as Your Roasting Rack

Here’s a fun trick I started doing after one too many unevenly cooked steaks: slice two onions horizontally, place them in your baking pan, and then arrange the smashed garlic cloves (with their skin on) around the pan. Set the steak on top of the onions—and watch how the onions act like a natural rack. This elevates the steak for even cooking and infuses it with a subtle sweetness and garlicky aroma that you’ll adore.

Step 4: Broil to Perfection

Pop your pan on the top rack of the oven and broil the steak for 5 to 7 minutes per side, depending on thickness. It sounds quick, but that initial broil sears in juices and forms a crust you’ll want to brag about. After you’ve flipped once, move your steak back to the broiler for another 5 minutes. Then, lower the oven temperature to 400ºF (200ºC) and finish broiling for 10 to 12 minutes more. Use an instant-read thermometer here—125ºF for medium-rare and 135ºF if you like it medium. This is the best way I found to avoid guessing and end up with the steak just the way you like it.

Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Herb Butter

While the steak is finishing, melt your butter (or warm olive oil) and stir in minced garlic, chopped Italian flat parsley, curly parsley, a splash of soy sauce, and a little hot sauce if you like that kick. Once your steak is out and resting, spoon this buttery, garlicky goodness right over the top. It melts into every nook and cranny—this is honestly where the magic happens.

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Pro Tips for Making Garlic Herb Butter Oven Steak Recipe

  • Room Temperature Trick: Bringing your steak to room temp ensures even cooking – I never skip this because it makes a huge difference.
  • Thermometer Is Your Best Friend: Use an instant-read thermometer to hit the perfect doneness and avoid any steak regrets.
  • Onion Rack Hack: This naturally lifts the steak while adding flavor and stops it from sitting in its own juices.
  • Rest Before Slicing: Let your steak rest for 10 minutes after broiling so juices redistribute and your steak stays moist.

How to Serve Garlic Herb Butter Oven Steak Recipe

The image shows a white plate with a large steak sliced into thick pieces, revealing a juicy pink inside with a dark seasoned crust on each slice. The steak has a visible bone on the side, and underneath it, there are cooked, slightly translucent onion slices soaked in a rich brown sauce. On the right edge of the image, there is a white bowl partially visible with a greenish dipping sauce. The overall scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I usually finish this steak off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and a quick drizzle of any leftover garlic herb butter. Sometimes a pinch of flaky sea salt on top just before serving takes it to the next level—it wakes up those bold flavors and adds a delightful crunch that my family goes crazy for.

Side Dishes

My go-to sides include crispy roasted potatoes or a creamy mashed potato to soak up every bit of that garlic butter. Steamed green beans or a fresh arugula salad balance the meal nicely with a little brightness. Honestly, you can’t go wrong pairing simple, fresh veggies with this rich steak.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I love serving the steak sliced on a wooden board surrounded by fresh herb sprigs and a ramekin of garlic herb butter on the side. It looks rustic and elegant, perfect for impressing guests without stress. You can also lay slices over garlic bread or atop warm polenta for a cozy touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your steak has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container. I usually keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days, making sure to reheat gently to keep that tender texture.

Freezing

If you want to freeze your steak, slice it before freezing so you can thaw portions as needed. Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer bag. I’ve found it freezes well up to 2 months, but best quality is within 1 month.

Reheating

To reheat, I prefer warming the steak gently in a low oven (about 250ºF) wrapped in foil, or using a quick pan sear with a bit of butter to freshen it up without drying it out. Microwaving is tempting but can make the steak tough, so I avoid that if possible.

FAQs

  1. Can I use a different cut of steak for the Garlic Herb Butter Oven Steak Recipe?

    Absolutely! While I prefer rib-eye for its marbling and tenderness, you can use sirloin, New York strip, or even filet mignon. Just adjust cooking time slightly depending on thickness and cut.

  2. How do I know when my steak is done without a thermometer?

    If you don’t have a thermometer, use the finger test method to check doneness or cut into the thickest part to peek at the color. But I highly recommend investing in an instant-read thermometer for foolproof results.

  3. Is it necessary to use the bouillon cube?

    The bouillon cube is optional but adds a wonderful depth of umami flavor that really complements the beef and herbs. If you’re watching sodium or prefer simpler flavors, you can skip it without losing too much.

  4. Can I prepare the garlic herb butter ahead of time?

    Yes! You can mix the garlic herb butter ahead and refrigerate it. Warm it slightly before spooning over the hot steak to get that melty, luscious effect.

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Garlic Herb Butter Oven Steak Recipe turns out every single time—juicy, flavorful, and not too complicated. When I first tried this method using the onion rack and garlic herb butter, it totally changed how I think about oven cooking steak. It’s perfect when you want to make something a bit special but don’t want to stand over the stove. I hope you’ll give it a go and have your family or friends asking for seconds in no time. Seriously, once you make it, this will be your new favorite way to enjoy steak!

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Garlic Herb Butter Oven Steak Recipe

Garlic Herb Butter Oven Steak Recipe

4.9 from 76 reviews
  • Author: Hannah
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Garlic Herb Butter Steak recipe showcases a perfectly broiled thick rib-eye steak infused with aromatic garlic, herbs, and a luscious butter mixture. The steak is cooked in the oven using a combination of broiling and roasting on a bed of smashed garlic and onions, enhancing its flavor and juiciness. Ideal for a hearty meal, this recipe delivers a tender, flavorful steak with a rich garlic herb butter sauce, perfect for steak lovers seeking an easy yet impressive oven-cooked dish.


Ingredients

Scale

Steak and Seasoning

  • 1 large and thick rib-eye steak (3 lb / 1500 g), tomahawk rib-eye recommended
  • 2 onions, halved horizontally
  • 4 garlic cloves, smashed, with peel on
  • 2 teaspoons fresh cracked black pepper, divided
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 crumbled beef bouillon cube (optional)

Marinade and Herb Butter

  • 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/2 cup melted butter or olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Sriracha)
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon Italian flat parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon curly parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Steak: Remove the steak from the refrigerator 1–2 hours before cooking to bring it to room temperature. Pat it dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure a good sear and crust.
  2. Preheat the Oven to Broil: Set your oven to broil mode at 500ºF (260ºC). Season the steak generously on both sides with kosher salt, 1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper, and the crumbled beef bouillon cube if using.
  3. Arrange Aromatics and Steak: Place the smashed garlic cloves and onion halves in a baking pan to create a flavorful roasting rack. Put the seasoned steak on top of this aromatic bed, which will elevate the steak and infuse it with flavor while preventing direct contact with the pan.
  4. Broil the Steak: Broil the steak on the top rack of your oven for 5–7 minutes depending on thickness. Flip the steak and broil the other side for an additional 5 minutes to develop a rich, browned crust.
  5. Finish Cooking at Lower Heat: Lower the oven temperature to 400ºF (200ºC) and continue broiling the steak for another 10–12 minutes. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness: 125ºF (51ºC) for medium-rare, 135ºF (57ºC) for medium.
  6. Prepare Herb Butter (Optional): While the steak cooks, mix the melted butter or olive oil with soy sauce, hot sauce, minced garlic, Italian flat parsley, curly parsley, red chili flakes (if using), and the remaining black pepper to create a flavorful herb butter to complement the steak after cooking.
  7. Rest and Serve: Let the steak rest for about 5–10 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute. Slice and drizzle with the prepared garlic herb butter for a rich finish.

Notes

  • Bringing the steak to room temperature ensures even cooking and a better crust when broiling.
  • The onion halves act as a natural roasting rack and add sweetness and aroma to the steak.
  • Using a meat thermometer is critical to achieve desired doneness without overcooking.
  • The beef bouillon cube is optional but adds an umami boost to the steak’s seasoning.
  • You can substitute melted butter with olive oil for a lighter option.
  • Adjust red chili flakes and hot sauce amount to control the heat level to your preference.
  • Resting the steak after cooking is essential for juicy, tender slices.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 steak (about 375g)
  • Calories: 700 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 55 g
  • Saturated Fat: 25 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 27 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 4 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 50 g
  • Cholesterol: 140 mg