Introduction
Garlic butter steak with Parmesan cream sauce is the kind of dish that instantly feels indulgent and special. It is bold, comforting, and deeply satisfying, yet surprisingly simple to prepare at home. I usually turn to this recipe when I want a steak dinner that goes beyond the basics without becoming complicated. The steak is pan-seared until perfectly tender, then finished with a buttery garlic base that builds incredible flavor. The Parmesan cream sauce ties everything together with a silky, savory richness.
What makes this dish stand out is the balance. The steak remains the star, while the sauce enhances it without overpowering its natural flavor. I tested this recipe with different cuts and found that the combination of garlic butter and Parmesan cream works beautifully across the board. Whether served for a date night, a family dinner, or a special occasion, this garlic butter steak delivers a restaurant-quality experience right from your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is rich, flavorful, and impressive while remaining approachable. It comes together in one pan, uses simple ingredients, and delivers tender steak with a luxurious sauce that feels worthy of a fine-dining menu.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Steak
Well-marbled cuts such as ribeye, sirloin, or strip steak work best, providing tenderness and deep flavor when seared.
Salt
Salt enhances the natural flavor of the steak and helps create a beautiful crust during searing.
Black pepper
Freshly ground black pepper adds warmth and balances the richness of the butter and cream.
Olive oil
Olive oil raises the smoke point of the butter and helps achieve an even sear.
Unsalted butter
Butter forms the base of the garlic butter and adds richness to both the steak and the sauce.
Garlic
Garlic infuses the butter with aromatic depth and provides a savory backbone to the dish.
Heavy cream
Heavy cream creates the luxurious texture of the sauce and mellows the sharpness of the Parmesan.
Parmesan cheese
Parmesan adds saltiness, umami, and body to the cream sauce.
Italian seasoning
This blend of herbs adds subtle complexity and complements both the steak and sauce.
Fresh parsley
Parsley provides freshness and a clean finish to balance the richness.
Directions
Begin by bringing the steak to room temperature and seasoning generously with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steak and sear until a deep golden crust forms on both sides. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside to rest.
Lower the heat and add butter to the same skillet. Stir in the minced garlic and cook gently until fragrant, taking care not to brown it. Pour in the heavy cream and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
Allow the sauce to simmer gently, then add the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly. Return the steak to the pan and spoon the sauce over the top, letting it warm through and absorb flavor.
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Equipment Needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves two people. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20 minutes. The total time is around 30 minutes.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover steak and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream if the sauce thickens too much. Avoid high heat to prevent overcooking the steak.
Variations and Customizations
This recipe adapts well to different preferences. Mushrooms can be added to the pan after searing the steak for extra depth and texture. A splash of white wine can be used to deglaze the pan before adding cream. For a sharper flavor, increase the Parmesan slightly or add a touch of Dijon mustard to the sauce. You can also serve this steak over pasta, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables to make it a complete meal.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
This dish is high in protein and rich in fats from butter, cream, and cheese. It is suitable for low-carbohydrate diets and is naturally gluten-free. Due to its richness, it is best enjoyed in moderation.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Rest the steak
Allowing the steak to rest keeps it juicy and tender.
Control the heat
Lower heat prevents the cream sauce from separating.
Use freshly grated Parmesan
This melts more smoothly and improves texture.
FAQs
What cut of steak works best?
Ribeye, sirloin, or strip steak are excellent choices.
Can I use half-and-half instead of cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich.
How do I know when the steak is done?
Use a thermometer or check for desired doneness by touch.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
It is best made fresh, but can be reheated gently.
Does this work with chicken?
Yes, the same sauce pairs very well with chicken breast.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, spinach or mushrooms work particularly well.
Why is my sauce grainy?
Heat may be too high or the cheese added too quickly.
Should I slice the steak before serving?
Slicing is optional and depends on presentation preference.
Is this dish very salty?
Balance seasoning carefully, especially with Parmesan.
What sides pair well with this steak?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or pasta pair beautifully.
Conclusion
Garlic butter steak with Parmesan cream sauce is a bold, comforting dish that transforms a simple steak into something truly special. With its rich sauce, tender meat, and deep savory flavor, it delivers a satisfying restaurant-style meal at home. Perfect for special dinners or when you simply want to elevate your cooking, this recipe is one you will return to again and again.
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