Are you ready to elevate your dinner game? My Garlic Butter Steak & Broccoli Skillet is a quick and tasty dish that impresses every time. With tender flank steak and vibrant broccoli, this one-pan meal is full of rich flavors. Plus, it only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish! Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking. You won't want to miss this delicious option for your next dinner!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Combination: The garlic butter sauce elevates the flank steak and broccoli, creating a dish that's both savory and satisfying.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and vegetables, this skillet meal is a nutritious choice without sacrificing taste.
- Versatile: Customize this dish by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the spice level to suit your palate.
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak, sliced against the grain
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
To make this dish shine, start with quality flank steak. Slice it against the grain for the best texture. The olive oil adds a nice base for cooking. Unsalted butter brings rich flavor, and garlic gives the dish that lovely aroma.
Vegetable Component
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Broccoli adds color and crunch. Cut it into florets, so it cooks evenly. Fresh parsley at the end brightens the dish and adds a fresh taste.
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Soy sauce gives umami depth. If you like heat, red pepper flakes are a fun addition. Salt and black pepper are key to enhancing all the flavors. Adjust these to your taste for a perfect bite.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Steak
1. Heating the skillet
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet. Use medium-high heat. You want the skillet hot before adding the steak. This helps to sear the meat well.
2. Seasoning the steak
While the skillet heats up, season your flank steak. Generously sprinkle salt and black pepper on both sides. This makes the steak full of flavor.
3. Cooking the steak slices
Once the skillet is hot, add the steak slices in a single layer. If needed, cook in batches. Let them cook for 3-4 minutes on each side. You want them nicely browned. Cook until they reach your desired doneness. When done, remove the steak from the skillet and keep it warm.
Sautéing the Broccoli
1. Cooking broccoli florets
In the same skillet, add the rest of the olive oil. Now add the broccoli florets. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes. You want them bright green and slightly tender but still crunchy.
2. Ensuring ideal texture and color
Make sure to stir the broccoli often. This helps it cook evenly. You want to avoid overcooking, as it can lose its vibrant color and crunch.
Combining Ingredients
1. Sautéing garlic
Push the broccoli to one side of the skillet. Add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.
2. Mixing steak and broccoli
Stir the garlic and broccoli together. Then, add the cooked steak back into the skillet.
3. Adjusting seasoning and serving
Drizzle everything with soy sauce. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top. Toss everything together to mix and heat through for an extra 1-2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Steak & Broccoli Skillet!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Techniques
To get the best steak, know how to check doneness. Use a meat thermometer. Aim for 130°F for medium-rare. Let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps keep the juices in.
For broccoli, cook it just right. Sauté it for about 3-4 minutes. This keeps the bright green color. It also helps maintain a nice crunch.
Flavor Enhancements
You can change the recipe to suit your taste. Add more garlic for a stronger flavor. If you like spice, use more red pepper flakes.
For garnish, try some fresh lemon juice. It adds brightness. Chopped parsley gives a nice touch too. You can even sprinkle some cheese on top if you like.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the dish right from the skillet for a fun look. This keeps everything warm. If plating, make sure to stack the steak and broccoli nicely.
Pair this meal with rice or a salad. A nice glass of red wine goes great too. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Steak & Broccoli Skillet!
Pro Tips
- Slice Against the Grain: Always slice flank steak against the grain for maximum tenderness. This helps break down the muscle fibers and results in a more enjoyable bite.
- High Heat for Searing: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the steak. This ensures a good sear and helps lock in the juices, making the meat more flavorful.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the steak, work in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can cause the meat to steam rather than sear, leading to a less desirable texture.
- Fresh Garlic Matters: Use fresh garlic for the best flavor. Pre-minced garlic from jars can lack the aromatic punch that freshly minced garlic provides.
Variations
Alternative Proteins
You can swap flank steak for chicken or shrimp. Chicken thighs work well for tender bites. Simply cut them into strips and cook as you would the steak. For shrimp, peel and devein them, then sauté until they turn pink.
If you prefer plant-based options, try tofu or tempeh. Press tofu to remove excess water, then cube it. Sauté it until golden brown. Tempeh can be sliced thin and cooked in the same way. Both choices soak up the garlic butter flavor beautifully.
Additional Vegetables
You can add more veggies for color and nutrition. Bell peppers are great! Slice them into strips and sauté them with the broccoli. Snap peas are another fun option. They add a nice crunch. Just toss them in with the broccoli and cook until bright green.
Seasonal vegetables are also perfect for this dish. In the summer, add zucchini or summer squash. In the fall, consider adding butternut squash or Brussels sprouts. Each veggie brings its own flavor and texture.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need gluten-free options, use tamari instead of soy sauce. This keeps the great flavor without gluten. For a low-carb meal, skip the soy sauce and focus on the garlic butter and steak.
For vegan modifications, use olive oil instead of butter. Coconut aminos can replace soy sauce for flavor. Use tofu or tempeh as proteins. These changes keep the dish tasty and satisfying while meeting dietary needs.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Garlic Butter Steak and Broccoli fresh, store leftovers right away. Let the dish cool down. Then, place it in an airtight container. This helps lock in flavors. Make sure to refrigerate within two hours. Use the leftovers within three days for the best taste.
Reheating Instructions
When reheating, I recommend using the stove. This method helps keep the steak juicy. Heat a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying. Stir occasionally for about 5 minutes. You can also use the microwave. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds. Make sure it’s warm all the way through.
Freezing Tips
Yes, you can freeze this dish! To do this, let it cool completely first. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. Be sure to remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can store it for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat it gently to enjoy a tasty meal again.
FAQs
How do I tell if flank steak is cooked properly?
To check if flank steak is cooked right, use a meat thermometer. Here are the doneness levels:
- Rare: 120°F (49°C)
- Medium Rare: 130°F (54°C)
- Medium: 140°F (60°C)
- Medium Well: 150°F (66°C)
- Well Done: 160°F (71°C)
Each level gives a different taste and texture. Use the touch test too. Press the steak; if it feels soft, it's rare. If it’s firm, it’s well done. I like medium rare for the best flavor.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. It saves time and is easy to prepare. However, the texture may change. Frozen broccoli can be softer after cooking. Fresh broccoli keeps a nice crunch. If you choose frozen, thaw it before cooking. This helps it cook evenly in the skillet.
What can I serve with Garlic Butter Steak & Broccoli Skillet?
This dish pairs well with many sides. Here are some great options:
- Rice: White or brown rice adds a nice base.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes balance the dish.
- Quinoa: A healthy choice with a nutty flavor.
- Salad: A fresh salad adds crunch and color.
Try these sides to make your meal even better!
This blog post covered the essentials for making Garlic Butter Steak and Broccoli. You learned about the key ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and useful tips for perfect results. Exploring variations, storage methods, and frequently asked questions helps tailor the dish to your needs.
Remember, cooking is about finding joy and flavor. Use this guide to create a meal you'll love and share with others!
