Every time I cook this Brazilian Steak, the aroma of garlic and melted butter fills my kitchen and takes me straight to a bustling Rio street market. There’s a chaotic joy in hearing the sizzle on the cast iron, the aroma drifting as I flip the steak—crust forming, juices locking in. It’s a celebration of simplicity and flavor, something that feels like a small rebellion against the usual weeknight dinners.
What makes this dish stand out is how the garlic butter seeps into every inch of the meat, locking in moisture and giving it a tender, almost melt-in-your-mouth quality. It’s my go-to when I crave comfort but want something a little special—something that pays homage to my travels and my everyday meals.
WHY I LOVE THIS RECIPE?
- The smell of garlic and butter sizzling together evokes childhood memories of family cookouts.
- It’s chaotic in the best way—tongs, hot oil, and a loud crackle that makes cooking feel alive.
- The tenderness of the steak, every bite bursting with rich, savory goodness, makes me proud to serve it.
- It’s quick but feels like a treat, perfect for last-minute dinners that cast a total flavor spell.
- Whenever I make this, I feel a rush of nostalgia for Brazil’s vibrant food scene and the simple pleasures of good steak and good company.
Cooking this dish reminds me that sometimes the most straightforward ingredients create the most memorable meals. The initial chaos of the pan, the squelch of the garlic butter, and the final glow on the steak make every effort worthwhile. It’s a recipe that brings a little samba into everyday life, one juicy cut at a time.
With the season’s fresh herbs and the cold evenings creeping in, this Brazilian steak offers a cozy yet vibrant escape to warmer places. It’s about celebrating bold flavors and sharing a meal that’s rooted in tradition but made for tonight’s table.
Brazilian Garlic Butter Steak
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, then season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s very hot, and add a drizzle of oil if desired to prevent sticking.
- Place the steak carefully into the hot skillet, hearing a loud sizzle as it touches the surface, and cook for about 3-4 minutes without moving it, letting a golden crust develop.
- Flip the steak with tongs, revealing a rich, brown crust, and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side for medium-rare, or longer for your preferred doneness.
- Add the minced garlic and butter directly into the skillet, tilting the pan gently to pool the butter around the meat. As the butter melts and bubbles, spoon it over the top of the steak repeatedly to infuse flavor and promote even cooking.
- Continue basting for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and the butter turns a light golden color, then turn off the heat.
- Transfer the steak to a cutting board or plate, letting it rest for 5 minutes so the juices can redistribute and stay moist.
- Slice the steak against the grain to serve, spoon some of the garlic butter from the pan on top, and enjoy the tender, flavorful meat with a golden crust and aromatic garlic butter.
Notes
This steak isn’t just a meal; it’s a story on a plate. The combination of garlic, butter, and perfectly cooked meat offers a sensuous experience that’s both familiar and surprising. It’s a reminder that the simplest ingredients—when treated right—can bring joy and connection.
Taking the time to sear, baste, and savor each slice transforms dinner into an event worth lingering over. Each bite holds the memory of sizzling pans and warm kitchens, celebrating the art of real, honest cooking that feels close to home.
Hi there! I’m Elias Carter, the foodie and recipe creator behind Dramatically Stirring.
Food has always been my love language. Growing up in the heart of North Carolina, I spent countless hours in the kitchen with my grandmother, learning how a simple meal could tell a story, bring people together, and stir up emotions far beyond taste. That’s the spirit behind this blog — food that isn’t just cooked, but dramatically stirring.