Looking for a quick and tasty dinner idea? Let’s make Garlic Butter Steak & Broccoli Skillet! This dish is a perfect blend of tender flank steak and bright broccoli brought to life with garlic and butter. You’ll love how simple it is to whip up, and it’s packed with flavor. Join me as we dive into the easy steps to create this delicious meal that everyone will enjoy!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic butter and soy sauce infuses the steak and broccoli with rich, savory flavors that are absolutely irresistible.
- Healthy Ingredients: With lean steak and fresh broccoli, this dish is both satisfying and packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level and add your favorite vegetables, making this skillet dish versatile for any taste preference.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Garlic Butter Steak & Broccoli Skillet
- 1 lb flank steak, sliced thinly against the grain
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Seasoning and Additional Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to your spice preference)
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper
When you gather the ingredients for the Garlic Butter Steak & Broccoli Skillet, make sure you have fresh, high-quality items. The flank steak should be thinly sliced for the best texture. This cut is tender and perfect for quick cooking. Broccoli adds a nice crunch and bright color. The garlic and butter create a rich sauce that ties the dish together.
For seasoning, use extra virgin olive oil to cook the steak and broccoli. Soy sauce adds depth, while red pepper flakes give a bit of heat. You can skip the red pepper if you prefer a milder flavor.
Don’t forget the garnishes! Fresh parsley brightens the dish and adds a nice touch. Sea salt and black pepper enhance the flavors. Enjoy your cooking and the delicious meal that follows!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Steak
- Seasoning the flank steak
Start by slicing the flank steak thin. Use a sharp knife and cut against the grain. This helps make the steak tender. Next, season the slices with sea salt and black pepper. Use enough to coat each piece well.
- Searing the steak in the skillet
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet. Wait until the oil is hot and shimmering. Place the steak in a single layer in the skillet. Don’t crowd the pan; cook in batches if needed. Sear each side for 3 to 4 minutes. Look for a nice brown crust. Once done, take the steak out and set it aside.
Cooking the Broccoli
- Sautéing the broccoli florets
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Toss in the broccoli florets. Sauté them for about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir occasionally. You want them bright green and tender but still crisp.
- Adding garlic to the skillet
Push the broccoli to one side of the skillet. Add the butter and minced garlic to the empty space. Cook the garlic for around 1 minute. It should smell great but watch that it doesn’t burn.
Combining the Ingredients
- Adding soy sauce and optional spices
Stir the garlic into the broccoli. Next, add the cooked steak back into the skillet. Drizzle soy sauce over everything. If you like spice, sprinkle red pepper flakes too.
- Tossing everything together
Gently mix all the ingredients. Warm everything through for another 1 to 2 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more salt or pepper. Once heated, remove from the heat and garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips & Tricks
Perfectly Cooking the Steak
To cook the steak just right, aim for a good sear. Sear it for 3-4 minutes on each side. This gives it a nice brown crust. Use a meat thermometer to check the doneness. For medium-rare, aim for 130°F. Also, let the steak rest after cooking. This helps the juices stay inside. Rest it for about 5 minutes before slicing.
Enhancing the Flavor
To add extra flavor, consider using herbs like thyme or rosemary. A sprinkle of garlic powder can also boost taste. If you want less heat, try black pepper instead of red pepper flakes. You can also add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy kick.
Presentation Tips
When serving, you have two fun options. You can serve the meal directly in the skillet for a rustic feel. Or, plate each serving for a more refined look. For garnish, sprinkle fresh parsley on top. A squeeze of lemon juice adds brightness and color. If you want to go all out, drizzle more melted garlic butter over the dish. This makes it look and taste amazing.
Pro Tips
- Rest the Steak: Allow the seared steak to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite.
- Uniform Broccoli Size: Cut broccoli florets into similar sizes to ensure even cooking. This way, they'll be perfectly tender without being overcooked.
- Customize the Spice: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your spice preference. For a milder dish, you can omit them entirely.
- Enhance with Lemon: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the final dish before serving. The acidity brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the garlic butter.
Variations
Different Protein Options
You can change the protein in this dish. If you want to use chicken, take boneless breasts. Slice them thin, just like the steak. Cook them in the same way. Heat the oil, season the chicken, and sear until golden brown. You can also try shrimp. Just peel and devein them. Cook for only 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and curl up. For a vegetarian choice, use firm tofu. Press it to remove extra water, then cut it into cubes. Sear the tofu until golden on all sides.
Vegetable Alternatives
Broccoli is great, but other veggies can work too. Bell peppers add color and sweetness. Carrots bring a nice crunch. Snap peas or green beans add a fresh taste. You can even mix in mushrooms for a savory twist. Always choose in-season veggies for the best flavor. This can change with the seasons. In spring, add asparagus. In summer, try zucchini or corn.
Different Sauce Options
While soy sauce is tasty, you can switch it up. Teriyaki sauce adds a sweet glaze. Hoisin sauce brings a rich, savory flavor. If you like creamy sauces, try a garlic cream sauce instead. Just mix heavy cream with garlic and seasonings. Pour this over your dish for a rich finish. Mixing sauces can create new tastes and keep meals fun!
Storage Info
Proper Storage Techniques
To keep your Garlic Butter Steak & Broccoli Skillet fresh, follow these steps:
- Refrigerating leftovers: Let the dish cool down first. Store it in an airtight container. It lasts for 3-4 days in the fridge. Make sure not to leave it out for too long, as food safety is key.
- Freezing the dish for later use: If you want to save it for later, freeze the steak and broccoli separately. Use a freezer-safe container or bag. It can last up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating Instructions
To enjoy your leftovers, you need to reheat them properly:
- Best methods for reheating without drying out: The stovetop is best for reheating. Use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir frequently to heat evenly.
- Recommended reheating times: It usually takes about 5-7 minutes to heat through. Check that the steak reaches a safe temperature of 165°F. This ensures it is hot and safe to eat.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, you can use other cuts. Flank steak is great, but here are some ideas:
- Skirt steak: Very flavorful and tender.
- Ribeye: Rich and juicy with lots of marbling.
- Sirloin: Lean and easy to find.
These cuts will still give you a tasty dish.
How long will leftovers last in the fridge?
Leftovers last about three to four days in the fridge. To keep them fresh:
- Store in an airtight container.
- Let the dish cool before sealing.
- Reheat only what you plan to eat.
This way, it stays safe and tasty.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this dish is great for meal prep. Here are some tips:
- Cook in batches to save time.
- Divide into single servings for quick meals.
- Store in airtight containers for best results.
You can easily heat it up when you need a meal.
This blog post covered how to make a tasty Garlic Butter Steak and Broccoli Skillet. You learned about the main ingredients, like flank steak, broccoli, garlic, and butter. I shared simple steps to prepare and cook the recipe, plus tips to improve flavors and presentation. You also discovered variations and how to store leftovers safely.
Now, you can enjoy this dish anytime and make it your own. Happy cooking!
