Why You’ll Love This Country Steak Recipe
If you’re looking for a hearty dish that’s packed with flavor, you’ll love this Garlic-Butter Country Steak recipe. It’s my go-to for impressing guests or simply treating myself after a long day. The combination of juicy, tender meat and rich garlic-butter sauce creates a symphony of flavors that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make! I appreciate how it transforms a regular dinner into something special. Each bite melts in your mouth, leaving you craving more. Trust me, once you try it, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. You won’t regret it!
Ingredients of Country Steak
When it comes to whipping up a delicious Garlic-Butter Country Steak, the ingredients are pretty simple yet incredibly effective. You don’t need a ton of fancy stuff to create a dish that can wow anyone at your dinner table. Trust me, the combination of juicy beef tenderloin steaks, aromatic garlic, and rich butter makes for a truly irresistible meal.
As you gather everything, just remember that quality ingredients will take your steak from good to unforgettable. Ready to plunge into what you’ll need?
Here’s your list of ingredients for this mouthwatering dish:
- 2 beef tenderloin steaks (1-inch to 1 1/2-inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1/2 tablespoon salt
- 1/2 tablespoon pepper
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1-2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tablespoon flour (more or less)
- 1 tablespoon milk (more or less)
- 1 tablespoon sour cream
- 1/8 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper (to taste)
Now, let’s chat about the ingredients a bit. First off, beef tenderloin is a star player here; it’s tender and flavorful, making it perfect for this recipe.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even try different cuts like ribeye or sirloin, but they might require a little tweak in cooking times. And while those spices seem small, they pack a punch—garlic powder is a must for that rich flavor, but don’t skimp on the fresh garlic either.
It adds a lovely aroma and depth to the sauce. Oh, and about the butter? Well, let’s just say you can never have too much butter when it comes to steak. It’s like the cherry on top of a delicious sundae.
How to Make Country Steak
Alright, let’s explore the process of making that delicious Garlic-Butter Country Steak. First things first, grab your 2 beef tenderloin steaks (1-inch to 1 1/2-inch thick) and let them hang out at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This little step is essential, trust me. It helps the meat cook more evenly.
While those steaks are warming up, you can whip up your seasoning rub. In a small bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon of garlic powder, 1/2 tablespoon of salt, and 1/2 tablespoon of pepper. Now, take 2 tablespoons of olive oil and rub it on both sides of each steak. Then, sprinkle your dry seasoning all over like you’re giving it a spa treatment. Don’t forget to pierce the steaks with a fork; this will help those flavors soak in beautifully.
Next, heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. When it’s hot enough to make you feel like you’re in a sizzling steakhouse, place your steaks in the pan and let them sear for about 30 seconds on each side. This is where the magic happens—those lovely grill marks!
After that initial sizzle, turn the heat down to medium-low and let the steaks cook for about 7 minutes on each side. For that perfect medium-rare doneness, you’re aiming for an internal temperature of 130 to 135 degrees Fahrenheit. After the steaks are done, take them out of the pan and let them rest for about 5-7 minutes. This is the time when they relax and become even more juicy—like a mini vacation for your steak.
Now, while your steak is resting, let’s make that luscious garlic butter sauce. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the same grill pan and let it melt, scraping up any tasty bits left from the steaks.
In a separate small saucepan, melt another 2 tablespoons of butter and toss in 1-2 minced garlic cloves. Let that simmer for a bit until it’s fragrant—don’t burn it, though; burnt garlic is a culinary crime.
Now, pour the deglazed butter from the grill pan into the saucepan, give it a good whisk, then add 1 tablespoon of sour cream. Add in 1 tablespoon of flour and whisk to thicken it up a bit, then gradually stir in 1 tablespoon of milk until it reaches your desired creamy consistency. Taste it, and if it needs a little more love, sprinkle in some salt and pepper.
Finally, slice your rested steaks against the grain, arrange them on plates, and drizzle that velvety sauce right over the top. Pair it with a side of Warm Honey & Potato Cabbage salad, and you’ve got yourself a meal that’ll make everyone think you’re a culinary genius. Enjoy!
Country Steak Substitutions & Variations
While the classic Garlic-Butter Country Steak is delicious as is, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
For a leaner option, try using chicken or turkey breast instead of beef. If you’re vegetarian, grilled portobello mushrooms can be a fantastic alternative.
You can also swap out the butter for olive oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free version. Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or thyme to change the flavor profile.
Finally, adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce can enhance the umami for a delicious twist. Enjoy your culinary creativity!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your Garlic-Butter Country Steak turns out perfectly, I recommend paying close attention to the cooking times and temperatures.
Use a meat thermometer to check for that ideal 130-135°F for medium-rare. Remember, resting the steak is essential; it lets the juices redistribute, making each bite tender.
If you want extra flavor, consider marinating the steaks beforehand. Don’t skip the deglazing step; it adds depth to your gravy.
Finally, feel free to experiment with the gravy’s thickness by adjusting the flour and milk. Enjoy your delicious steak with confidence, knowing you’ve mastered the technique!