Steak with Garlic Herb Compound Butter

Name: Steak with Garlic Herb Compound Butter
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 ribeye steaks; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Steak with Garlic Herb Compound Butter because it elevates an already delicious meal into something truly special. The flavor of the buttery, herb-infused topping enhances the juicy steak perfectly, making it a family favorite. After years of experimenting with different combinations, I’ve settled on a blend of garlic, parsley, and chives that really highlights the meat's natural taste. This dish is as perfect for weeknight dinners as it is for entertaining, and it always receives rave reviews from everyone at the table.

Created by

Marina Lowe

Last updated on 2026-01-07T14:55:12.905Z

When I first tried making compound butter, I was amazed at how simple it was to create something so flavorful. Mixing softened butter with fresh herbs and garlic transformed my grilled steaks and took them to another level of deliciousness. The trick is to let the butter chill and firm up after mixing; this way, when you place a pat on the hot steak, it melts beautifully, creating a rich sauce right on your plate.

During one of my dinner parties, I paired the steak with roasted vegetables and a glass of red wine. The combination was exquisite, and my guests couldn't stop complimenting me on the dish. I learned that a nice resting time for the steak after cooking ensures it remains juicy and tender. This method truly enhances the experience of enjoying a hearty meal.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich garlic flavor complemented by fresh herbs
Juicy, perfectly cooked steak that is easy to achieve
Versatile compound butter that can be used on various proteins

      

The Importance of Compound Butter

Compound butter is a versatile ingredient that not only enhances the flavor of your steak but also adds a luxurious touch to the dining experience. The butter acts as a rich backdrop, allowing the herbs and garlic to shine through, creating a melty topping that combines beautifully with the juicy steak. The key here is to ensure that your butter is softened but not melted, as this allows for a smooth blend of flavors without losing the beneficial texture.

In this recipe, the mixture of garlic, parsley, and chives is not just about flavor; it also introduces a vibrant color contrast atop the steak. Fresh herbs contribute not only to the flavor but also bring aromatic notes that can elevate your meal. If you want to get creative, consider substituting the chives with thyme or rosemary for a different herbaceous twist or mixing in a bit of blue cheese for an added creaminess.

Achieving the Perfect Steak

To cook your ribeye steaks perfectly, preheating your cast-iron skillet adequately is essential. Start on a medium-high setting. You’ll know it’s ready when you can feel the heat radiating off the surface, and when you add the steaks, they should sizzle immediately—this helps to achieve a beautiful crust. Depending on the thickness of the steaks, adjust your cooking time; thicker cuts may require an additional minute or two per side.

Resting the steak post-cooking is critical for juicy outcomes. Allowing the meat to rest for five minutes lets the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and succulent. During this time, you can slice your compound butter and have it ready to go—this will allow it to melt quickly upon serving, creating a delightful, buttery sauce with every slice.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious steak with garlic herb compound butter.

For the Steak

4 ribeye steaks
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Garlic Herb Compound Butter

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Salt to taste

Once you have all the ingredients ready, let’s move on to the cooking process!

Instructions

Here’s how to prepare your delicious steak with garlic herb compound butter.

Prepare the Compound Butter

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped chives, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated. Place the mixture on a piece of parchment paper and roll it into a log shape.

Wrap it tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Cook the Steak

Season the steaks generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steaks and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until your desired doneness is reached.

Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes.

Serve

Slice the compound butter into rounds and place a piece on top of each steak just before serving. Allow the butter to melt over the warm steak and enjoy!

Now you can enjoy your perfectly cooked steak topped with aromatic garlic herb compound butter!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, let the steak rest longer after cooking. This helps retain its juices for an even more tender bite.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

The garlic herb compound butter can be made in advance, which is a perfect time-saver for a busy weeknight or entertaining guests. After rolling the butter into a log, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for up to three months. If frozen, simply slice off what you need, and it can be placed directly atop hot steak or other proteins for an instant burst of flavor.

If you happen to have leftovers from your steak dinner, storing them properly is key. Wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container, and they can be refrigerated for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to avoid overcooking the meat.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This steak pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a complete meal, consider serving it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad. The fresh flavors of the compound butter harmonize well with grilled asparagus or sautéed green beans, making them excellent accompaniments to balance the richness of the steak.

For those looking to switch things up, you can also use this compound butter on grilled chicken, fish, or even vegetables, making it a flexible addition to your cooking repertoire. Adding lemon zest to the butter can brighten the flavor, enhancing grilled fish dishes particularly well.

Questions About Recipes

→ What cuts of steak work best for this recipe?

Ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon are great choices for their tenderness and flavor.

→ Can I make the compound butter ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the compound butter several days in advance and keep it wrapped in the refrigerator.

→ How do I know when the steak is done cooking?

Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way. Aim for 130°F for medium-rare.

→ Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried herbs, but fresh herbs yield a better flavor in the compound butter.