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Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak is a weeknight showstopper when you are craving a bold yet unfussy dinner. This recipe transforms a juicy steak into restaurant-level food with a rich garlic butter sauce inspired by classic Brazilian flavors.
The first time I put garlic butter on a perfectly seared steak my family made me promise to always do it that way. Even picky eaters ask for seconds.
Ingredients
- Picanha steaks or sirloin or ribeye: Steak that is about one inch thick lets you get a great crust and keeps it juicy Try to buy well marbled beef for best tenderness
- Olive oil: Adds richness while helping create the crust Use extra virgin for better flavor
- Salt preferably coarse sea salt: Brings out the natural flavors of the meat Look for big crystals if you can
- Black pepper: Gives just enough bite Always grind it fresh
- Smoked paprika: Optional but adds a delicious hint of smokiness Spanish smoked paprika will give you the most aroma
- Unsalted butter: Makes the sauce creamy and rich Use high quality European butter if possible
- Garlic: Freshly minced absolutely essential for that punchy aroma and flavor Pick heavy firm cloves
- Lemon juice: Brightens the sauce and balances the richness Only use fresh squeezed
- Fresh parsley: Chopped for color and a herby finish Choose leaves that are deep green and perky
- Red pepper flakes: Optional for a little heat Look for flakes that have a vibrant red color
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Steak:
- Let the steaks sit out at room temperature for at least thirty minutes before cooking so the inside cooks evenly and stays tender Pat them completely dry with paper towels to help form that iconic steakhouse crust Use your hands to drizzle on olive oil and massage in salt black pepper and smoked paprika if you like that hint of smoke
- Cook the Steak:
- If using a grill heat it super hot and sear each steak for about four to five minutes per side for medium rare or until you see dark grill marks and the surface feels springy Rest them on a plate tented with foil for five to ten minutes so juices do not run out If cooking in a skillet use a cast iron or heavy pan and get it screaming hot before adding oil Sear until the bottom is a deep golden brown about three to four minutes Flip and repeat To crisp any fat caps press those edges against the pan for about a minute with tongs
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- Melt butter gently in a small saucepan over medium heat Do not let it brown Add the minced garlic and sauté until it smells sweet and pungent about one or two minutes Stir in fresh lemon juice chopped parsley and red pepper flakes right after and pull off the heat
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Drizzle the garlicky butter sauce over the steaks just before serving Sprinkle with extra parsley Eat straight away with your favorite Brazilian sides like grilled veggies fluffy rice or cheesy pão de queijo
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Every time I cook with fresh garlic my kitchen fills with the most irresistible aroma It always reminds me of gathering around the table with family and fighting over who gets the last spoonful of buttery sauce
Storage Tips
Keep leftover steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Always slice against the grain before reheating to keep the texture tender Steak can be gently warmed in a skillet with a dab more butter or enjoyed cold as part of a salad Hot garlic butter sauce can be stored separately and rewarmed when needed
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find picanha use sirloin or ribeye with good marbling For the butter sauce you can swap parsley with chopped cilantro and lemon juice with a splash of lime Smoked paprika can be replaced with a pinch of chipotle powder for another layer of flavor
Serving Suggestions
Serve your steaks family style on a large platter Drizzle the butter sauce just before bringing it to the table Some favorite sides are grilled corn on the cob garlicky sautéed greens or a fresh tomato salad This recipe also makes amazing steak tacos or sandwiches
Cultural Context
Picanha steak is the star of Brazilian barbecue known as churrasco Classic churrasco is all about simple seasonings and fire to let the meat shine The garlic butter sauce is my take on riffing up tradition while keeping those beloved Brazilian elements alive
Recipe FAQs
- → What cut of beef works best for this dish?
Picanha is traditional, but sirloin or ribeye also deliver tender, flavorful results with a nice crust.
- → Can the steak be cooked indoors?
Absolutely. A hot cast-iron skillet or heavy pan will develop a beautiful sear just like grilling.
- → How do I get a juicy, evenly cooked steak?
Letting the steak reach room temperature before cooking ensures even doneness and a juicy texture.
- → Is the garlic butter sauce spicy?
Red pepper flakes add optional heat; adjust the amount or omit for a milder finish.
- → What sides pair well with this steak?
Classic options include grilled vegetables, fluffy rice, or Brazilian cheese bread (pão de queijo).