Easy Keto Garlic Butter Steak – Dinner Recipe

If there’s one thing that can make a steak even better, it’s butter. But not just any butter—garlic butter. Add that to a perfectly cooked, juicy steak, and you’ve got yourself a meal that feels indulgent while still being totally keto-friendly. Whether you’re new to keto or have been living that low-carb life for a while, this Keto Garlic Butter Steak recipe is going to become a household favorite. It’s fast, simple, and will hit the spot without knocking you out of ketosis.

Why Keto Garlic Butter Steak?

When you’re doing keto, you quickly learn that fat is your friend. In fact, it’s more like your best friend. The high-fat, low-carb nature of the keto diet means you need meals that are loaded with healthy fats and minimal carbs. And what better way to get those fats than from a nice, marbled steak and a generous amount of butter? Not only does it keep you satisfied longer, but the flavors together are simply unbeatable.

This dish isn’t just keto—it’s gourmet on a budget. It’s something you’d easily find at a fancy steakhouse, but with a fraction of the cost and a lot more keto love. Plus, garlic butter steak is one of those meals that looks impressive, tastes amazing, but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.

What You’ll Need for Keto Garlic Butter Steak

Let’s be honest: steak is delicious on its own. But adding a simple garlic butter sauce can take it from delicious to legendary. The ingredients for this recipe are simple and easy to find. Most of them are probably sitting in your pantry or fridge right now.

Ingredients:

  • 2 ribeye steaks (or any other preferred cut like sirloin or New York strip)
  • 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter (you can go with grass-fed for an extra keto boost)
  • 4 cloves of garlic (minced)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs (optional but adds great flavor)
  • Lemon juice (optional squeeze for a touch of acidity)

Step-by-Step Recipe for Keto Garlic Butter Steak

Let’s break it down into easy steps so you can have this meal on the table in no time.

1. Choosing the Right Steak

First thing’s first: you need a good steak. While you can use just about any cut, I highly recommend ribeye for this recipe. Ribeye steaks are tender, juicy, and marbled with fat, which is perfect for keto. If ribeye isn’t your jam, you could also go with a sirloin or New York strip.

The thickness of the steak matters too. You want something that’s at least an inch thick so you can get a nice sear on the outside without overcooking the inside. Steak that’s too thin can cook too fast and become chewy.

2. Seasoning the Steak

Before you even turn on your stove, make sure your steaks are at room temperature. Pull them out of the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking throughout.

Generously season both sides with salt and pepper. This is where a lot of the flavor will come from, so don’t be shy. Salt helps draw out moisture and makes for a better sear.

3. Searing the Steak

Heat a heavy-duty skillet over medium-high heat. Cast iron works best because it holds heat well, giving you that nice, crispy crust. Once the pan is hot, add the tablespoon of olive oil. When the oil starts shimmering, it’s ready for the steak.

Place the steaks in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them (cook in batches if necessary). You want the steaks to sizzle as soon as they hit the pan. Leave them alone for 3-4 minutes to develop that perfect golden-brown crust. Flip the steaks and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side. If your steaks are thicker, you might need a little extra time on each side.

For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C). Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure. Once the steak reaches your desired doneness, remove it from the pan and let it rest. Resting the meat helps redistribute the juices and keeps it from drying out.

4. Making the Garlic Butter

While your steaks are resting, it’s time to make that magical garlic butter. Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet you cooked the steaks in. As the butter melts, toss in the minced garlic and fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs. Stir constantly, so the garlic doesn’t burn—it should be fragrant and golden, not brown and bitter.

Once the butter is infused with garlic, turn off the heat. Stir in the chopped parsley for a fresh, herby flavor. If you like, add a small squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the rich flavors, but this is totally optional.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Drizzle the garlic butter all over the resting steaks, making sure they’re covered generously. Slice into the steak and enjoy that perfectly cooked, buttery goodness.

Tips to Perfect Your Keto Garlic Butter Steak

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:
When you crowd the pan, the steaks will steam instead of sear. That’s why it’s important to give them plenty of space.

2. Use a Meat Thermometer:
Cooking steak can be tricky, and no one wants an overcooked ribeye. Using a meat thermometer takes all the guesswork out. Remember, the steak’s internal temperature will continue to rise slightly after it’s removed from the heat, so aim for a little below your final target temperature.

3. Let the Steak Rest:
It’s tempting to cut into the steak right away, but giving it a few minutes to rest locks in the juices. This is a crucial step!

4. Play With Herbs and Spices:
Garlic and parsley are a classic combination, but don’t be afraid to play around. You can swap in other herbs like rosemary or sage, or even add a bit of smoked paprika for an extra kick.

5. Keep It Keto:
For an extra keto boost, use grass-fed butter. It’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fits perfectly into the keto lifestyle. You can also add a tablespoon of MCT oil to the garlic butter sauce for even more healthy fats.

Keto Garlic Butter Steak Variations

While this garlic butter steak recipe is simple, there are plenty of ways to mix it up. If you’re feeling adventurous, here are a few tweaks you can try:

1. Add Mushrooms:
Sauté mushrooms in the same skillet after removing the steak. Let them cook in the garlic butter until tender. It’s a fantastic, keto-friendly way to add some earthy flavor.

2. Blue Cheese Butter:
If you love bold flavors, try mixing blue cheese crumbles into the butter for a rich and tangy twist. It’s decadent but still low-carb.

3. Peppercorn Crust:
For a little more bite, crush whole peppercorns and press them into the steak before cooking. The result is a steak with a crunchy, spicy crust that pairs beautifully with the garlic butter.

4. Keto Steak Tacos:
Miss tacos? Thinly slice your steak and wrap it in a low-carb tortilla. Add a bit of cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and some sour cream for a keto-friendly steak taco that’ll blow your mind.

5. Reverse Sear:
If you have a thick cut of steak (like a tomahawk or a thick ribeye), you can try the reverse-sear method. This involves slowly cooking the steak in the oven first and finishing it with a quick sear on the stove. It’s a great way to achieve even cooking without overcooking the outside.

What to Serve with Keto Garlic Butter Steak

Steak is definitely the star of the show here, but a good side dish can make this meal even better. Since you’re keeping it low-carb, you want sides that fit into your keto diet without sacrificing flavor.

1. Cauliflower Mash:
Cauliflower is a fantastic low-carb substitute for mashed potatoes. With a bit of cream, butter, and seasoning, you won’t even miss the real thing.

2. Garlic Roasted Asparagus:
Toss some asparagus in olive oil, garlic, and parmesan, and roast it in the oven for a simple but flavorful side dish.

3. Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles):
If you’re craving a pasta-like side, go for zoodles. Lightly sauté them in some garlic butter for a quick and tasty side dish that complements the steak perfectly.

4. Spinach with Cream Cheese:
This one’s a keto classic. Sauté spinach with a generous amount of cream cheese and butter for a rich, creamy side that’s totally guilt-free on keto.

5. Grilled Veggies:
If you have a grill going for the steaks, why not throw on some veggies? Bell peppers, zucchini, and onions all grill up nicely and add a bit of crunch and freshness to the meal.

Conclusion

There’s no denying the magic of a good steak, but when you add garlic butter to the equation, it’s on another level. Whether you’re making this recipe for a special occasion or just to switch things up during your keto meal prep, Keto Garlic Butter Steak is a guaranteed hit. It’s got the perfect balance of fat and protein, with flavors that will have you licking the plate clean.

You don’t need fancy ingredients or techniques to pull this off—just a good steak, some butter, and a love for keto-friendly deliciousness. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use ghee instead of butter?

Absolutely. Ghee is a clarified butter that's a bit more stable for high-heat cooking, and it has a slightly nuttier flavor. Plus, it’s dairy-free, which is great if you’re avoiding lactose.

What’s the best steak cut for keto?

Ribeye is the best option for keto because of its fat content. But really, any cut will work as long as you add enough healthy fats like butter or oil.

Is steak good for weight loss on keto?

Yes! Steak is an excellent choice for weight loss on keto. It’s packed with protein and healthy fats, which keep you full longer, helping to curb snacking and overeating.

How long should I cook steak for rare or well-done?

For rare, aim for 120°F (49°C). For medium-rare, 130°F (54°C). If you prefer well-done, cook the steak until it reaches 160°F (71°C).

Print

Easy Keto Garlic Butter Steak – Dinner Recipe

This Keto Garlic Butter Steak is juicy, tender, and packed with flavor. Perfect for the keto diet, this quick and easy recipe combines perfectly seared steak with a rich garlic butter sauce. Ready in minutes, it’s a low-carb meal that’s both delicious and satisfying.

  • Author: Jane Summerfield
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Pan-Searing
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 ribeye steaks (or preferred cut like sirloin or New York strip)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs (optional)
  • Lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Steak: Take the steaks out of the fridge and let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. Season generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Sear the Steak: Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and wait until shimmering. Place the steaks in the pan, cook for 3-4 minutes per side for a golden-brown crust.
  3. Rest the Steak: Remove the steak from the pan and let it rest while you prepare the butter sauce.
  4. Make the Garlic Butter: In the same pan, lower the heat to medium, add butter, and stir in the minced garlic and fresh thyme or rosemary (if using). Let the garlic soften, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in chopped parsley.
  5. Serve: Drizzle the garlic butter over the resting steaks. Slice and enjoy!

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 steak
  • Calories: 500
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Fat: 42g
  • Saturated Fat: 20g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg

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