Garlic butter pan-fried steak with onions

Garlic butter pan-fried steak with onions features seared beef fillet enhanced by rich garlic butter and sweet caramelized onions. This simple yet gourmet recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or special occasion.

06 Jan 2026
Cook time 5 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

8 tbsp butter
1 garlic clove
28 oz beef fillet
1 tbsp olive oil
2 dash black pepper
2 onions

Garlic butter pan-fried steak with onions is a delectable and savory dish that's perfect for a special dinner or a simple, satisfying meal. The rich garlic butter enhances the flavor of the beef fillet, while the caramelized onions add a sweetness that balances the savory notes. This recipe is straightforward and quick to make, ensuring that you can have a gourmet meal on the table in no time.

Instructions:

1. Heat Pan:
- In a large skillet or frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.

2. Caramelize Onions:
- Add the sliced onions to the pan and sauté until they begin to soften and caramelize, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Remove the onions from the pan and set aside.

3. Cook Steaks:
- Season the beef fillet steaks with a dash of black pepper on each side.
- In the same pan, add 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt and sizzle.
- Increase the heat to high, add the steaks to the pan, and sear each side for about 3-4 minutes for medium-rare doneness. Adjust the time according to your preferred level of doneness. Cook in batches if necessary, adding more butter as needed.

4. Add Garlic Butter:
- Reduce the heat to medium-low, then add the minced garlic and remaining butter to the pan. Allow the butter to melt and the garlic to become fragrant, about 1 minute.

5. Combine & Finish:
- Return the caramelized onions to the pan, distributing them around and over the steaks. Spoon some of the garlic butter over the steaks to coat them.

6. Serve:
- Remove the steaks and onions from the pan and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

7. Enjoy:
- Plate the steaks with a generous topping of the caramelized onions, drizzled with the garlic butter sauce from the pan.

This Garlic butter pan-fried steak with onions recipe delivers a gourmet experience with minimal effort. The combination of tender beef, rich garlic butter, and sweet caramelized onions creates a dish that's sure to impress. Whether you're cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Enjoy your perfectly cooked steak!

Garlic butter pan-fried steak with onions FAQ:

What is the ideal cooking time for the steak?

Sear the beef fillet for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare doneness. Adjust the cooking time based on your preferred doneness level.

How should I store leftover steak?

Store any leftover steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet to avoid overcooking.

Can I substitute the beef fillet with another cut of meat?

Yes, you can use other cuts like ribeye or sirloin, but cooking times may vary. Adjust based on the thickness of the meat.

What can I use instead of garlic if I have an allergy?

If you have a garlic allergy, you can omit it entirely or use garlic-infused olive oil for a milder flavor without the actual garlic.

What pan size is best for cooking this steak?

A large skillet or frying pan is ideal for cooking this steak. Ensure it has enough space to avoid overcrowding, which can affect searing.

Cooking Tips:

- Choosing the Right Beef: Opt for a high-quality beef fillet to ensure tenderness and flavor. Look for well-marbled meat as it will stay juicy and flavorful when cooked.

- Preparing the Steak: Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly.

- Using Garlic Butter: Melt the butter slowly and add minced garlic just before cooking the steak to infuse the butter with garlic without burning it.

- Cooking the Steak: Use a hot pan and only turn the steak once to develop a nice crust. Cook to your preferred level of doneness: 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, 5-6 minutes for medium.

- Caramelizing Onions: Cook the onions in the same pan after the steak for maximum flavor, deglazing the pan with a little bit of beef broth or wine if desired.

- Resting the Steak: Allow the steak to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist and flavorful.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 610kcal
Protein 60g
Carbohydrates 1.34g
Fiber 0.27g
Sugar 0.90g
Fat 44g

Garlic butter pan-fried steak with onions