Wagyu Steak with Garlic Butter
Wagyu Steak with Garlic Butter is a deliciously rich and tender meal that feels special every time. The steak itself is famously marbled, which makes it incredibly juicy and full…
Tip: save now, cook later.Wagyu Steak with Garlic Butter is a deliciously rich and tender meal that feels special every time. The steak itself is famously marbled, which makes it incredibly juicy and full of flavor, while the garlic butter adds a wonderful, creamy touch with just the right amount of savory punch. It’s a dish that’s both simple and elegant, perfect for treating yourself or impressing guests without a lot of fuss.
I love making this when I want something comforting but still a little fancy. The garlic butter is my secret weapon—I melt it right over the hot steak so it soaks in all those flavors and brings everything together perfectly. Sometimes, I’ll even toss in some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to give it an extra boost, but it’s great on its own too. Cooking the Wagyu just right, with a good sear and a juicy center, really makes all the difference, and I find it’s worth taking a little extra time to get it perfect.
My favorite way to serve this dish is alongside some roasted veggies or a simple salad to balance the richness. Sharing a Wagyu steak meal feels a bit like a mini celebration at home, and I always feel a little proud when it turns out this good. Whether it’s a weekend dinner with family or a special occasion for just me, this steak with garlic butter never fails to make the table feel welcoming and cozy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Wagyu Steak: This is the star. Its marbling gives great tenderness and flavor. If Wagyu isn’t available, you can try prime ribeye or sirloin for a tasty alternative.
Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control salt levels better. If you want a dairy-free option, try a vegan butter substitute, but the richness will be different.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides the best punch. Garlic powder is a quick swap but won’t have the same vibrant flavor.
Fresh herbs: Parsley and chives add a fresh touch. If you don’t have chives, green onions or thyme work well too.
How Can I Get the Perfect Sear on Wagyu Steak?
Searing is key to locking in juices and getting a nice crust without overcooking inside. Here’s how I do it:
- Bring the steak to room temperature first to ensure even cooking.
- Dry the steak well with paper towels; moisture interrupts the searing process.
- Use a heavy skillet or cast iron and preheat it until very hot but not smoking.
- Add a small amount of a high smoke-point oil, like vegetable or canola oil.
- Place the steak gently on the pan and avoid moving it for 2-3 minutes until a good crust forms.
- Flip the steak once and sear the other side for equal time for medium-rare, adjusting for thickness.
- Rest the steak after cooking; it lets juices redistribute for better flavor and texture.
With this method, you’ll have a beautifully browned outside and a juicy, tender center every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Cast iron skillet – it holds heat well for a perfect sear and helps create a crusty steak surface.
- Tongs – to easily flip the steak without piercing it and losing juices.
- Small mixing bowl – for combining garlic butter ingredients smoothly.
- Sharp knife – to slice the steak into even pieces for serving.
- Cutting board – a stable surface to rest and slice the steak safely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try rosemary or thyme in the garlic butter for an herby note that pairs well with beef.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the butter for a mild, smoky flavor boost.
- Top with blue cheese crumbles instead of garlic butter for a bold, tangy alternative.
- Serve with sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions on the side to add sweetness and earthiness.
How to Make Wagyu Steak with Garlic Butter
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 Wagyu steaks (6-8 oz each, ribeye or sirloin)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil (for searing)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh chives, finely chopped (optional)
- ½ teaspoon sesame seeds (optional garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep, including mixing the garlic butter, plus around 10 minutes to cook and rest the steak. Overall, plan for about 20-25 minutes from start to finish to enjoy a perfectly cooked Wagyu steak with delicious garlic butter.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Steak:
Take the Wagyu steaks out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking so they come to room temperature. Pat them dry well with paper towels to ensure a great sear. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Cooking the Steak:
Heat a heavy skillet or cast iron pan over high heat. When the pan is hot (but not smoking), add vegetable or canola oil. Place the steaks carefully into the pan. Let them sear without moving for 2-3 minutes until a nice brown crust forms. Flip and sear the other side for another 2-3 minutes for medium-rare. Adjust time if your steak is thicker or you like it more or less done.
3. Making and Adding Garlic Butter:
While the steaks cook, mix softened butter with minced garlic, chopped parsley, and chives (if you have them). After cooking, remove the steaks from the pan and let them rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes. Then cut the steak into thick slices. Spoon the garlic butter over the warm slices so it melts beautifully, and sprinkle with sesame seeds if you like.
4. Serving:
Serve your Wagyu steak with garlic butter immediately for the best flavor. Pair it with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced and satisfying meal. Enjoy!
Can I Use Other Types of Steak Instead of Wagyu?
Yes, you can substitute Wagyu with high-quality ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon. While the flavor and tenderness may differ, using a well-marbled cut will still give you a delicious result.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover steak in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave to avoid overcooking.
Can I Prepare the Garlic Butter in Advance?
Absolutely! Garlic butter can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. Bring it to room temperature before spreading it over the warm steak for easy melting.
How Do I Adjust Cooking Time for Different Doneness Levels?
For medium-rare, sear about 2-3 minutes per side. For medium, add about 1-2 extra minutes per side. Thicker steaks may need a minute or two longer. Always rest the steak after cooking for best juiciness.