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Simple Pan-Seared Steak Recipe with Perfect Juicy Crust

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A quick and easy pan-seared steak recipe that delivers a perfect, juicy crust using simple ingredients and straightforward steps. Ideal for busy weeknights or any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (8-12 oz) ribeye, sirloin, or New York strip steak (well-marbled cuts preferred)
  • Kosher salt or sea salt, to season generously
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to season
  • 12 tablespoons vegetable oil or canola oil (high smoke point oil for searing)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for basting and rich flavor)
  • 2 fresh garlic cloves, smashed (optional)
  • 12 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring steak to room temperature (about 20-30 minutes).
  2. Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove moisture.
  3. Season both sides generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  4. Preheat a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until smoking hot (about 3-5 minutes).
  5. Add 1-2 tablespoons of high smoke point oil to the pan and swirl to coat.
  6. Place the steak in the pan away from you and sear without moving for 3-4 minutes (for 1-inch thick steak) until a brown crust forms.
  7. Flip the steak and sear the other side for another 3-4 minutes.
  8. Reduce heat to medium-low, add butter, smashed garlic, and herbs to the pan.
  9. Tilt the pan and baste the steak continuously with melted butter and herbs using a spoon.
  10. Check doneness with an instant-read thermometer aiming for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
  11. Transfer steak to a plate and cover loosely with foil; rest for 5-10 minutes to redistribute juices.
  12. Slice against the grain and serve immediately.

Notes

Use a cast iron pan for best crust. Pat steak dry before seasoning to avoid steaming. Rest steak after cooking to keep it juicy. Avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking multiple steaks. For dairy-free option, omit butter and use olive oil for basting.

Nutrition

Keywords: pan-seared steak, steak recipe, juicy steak, easy steak recipe, ribeye steak, sirloin steak, New York strip, steak crust, quick steak