Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak – Easy & Juicy Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of juicy, seared steak and rich, garlicky butter melting over the top. In fact, it reminds me of those special weekend dinners with my family, where everyone gathers around the table, plates full, and smiles even fuller. If you’re looking for a simple yet impressive dish, then this Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak is just the thing! Plus, it’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

Why Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Works for Everyone

  • Beginner-friendly: No fancy techniques, just good steak and bold flavors.
  • Quick & easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Packed with flavor: Featuring Brazilian steakhouse-style seasoning, along with a garlic butter finish.
  • Great for families: Not only do kids love it, but adults also enjoy the juicy, tender bites.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak

For the Steak:

  • 1 lb skirt steak
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • 1 tbsp oil (for searing)

For the Garlic Butter:

  • 6 tsp minced garlic (reduce for a milder garlic taste)
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • 5 tbsp unsalted butter
  • Salt to taste

Step-by-Step How to Make Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak

1. Prep the Steak

  1. First, cut the skirt steak into 3 or 4 parts.
  2. Next, pat the steak dry (this helps with searing) and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
Raw skirt steak cut and seasoned with salt and pepper, ready for cooking.

2. Sear the Steak

  1. Meanwhile, heat 1 tbsp oil in a heavy-duty skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
  2. Then, place the steak in the pan and sear for 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare (or adjust to your preferred doneness).
  3. After that, transfer to a plate, cover with foil, and let it rest for 5 minutes.
Skirt steak sizzling in a cast-iron skillet, seared to golden-brown perfection with garlic butter.

3. Make the Garlic Butter

  1. In the same skillet, melt 5 tbsp butter over low heat.
  2. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook until lightly golden (avoid burning!).
  3. Finally, remove from heat, season with salt to taste, and stir in fresh parsley.
Melted butter infused with minced garlic and fresh parsley, ready to drizzle over steak.

4. Serve and Enjoy!

  1. To finish, slice the steak against the grain for tenderness.
  2. After slicing, drizzle the garlic butter over the top.
  3. Lastly, serve immediately with your favorite sides!
Juicy, garlic butter-drizzled Brazilian skirt steak, sliced and served on a wooden cutting board with fresh parsley.

Best Side Dishes for Brazilian Steak

Pair this Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak with these easy and flavorful sides:

  • Brazilian rice and beans – A classic choice.
  • Fried plantains – Sweet and crispy contrast.
  • Pão de queijo (cheese bread) – Chewy, cheesy perfection.
  • Grilled veggies – A light and smoky addition.
  • Chimichurri sauce – Adds a bright, herby kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

  • Let the steak rest before slicing—this keeps it juicy.
  • Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
  • Don’t overcook the garlic—it turns bitter if burned.
  • Experiment with seasonings—add smoked paprika or a dash of cumin for extra depth.

FAQs about Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak

What makes Brazilian steak different?

Brazilian steak is known for its simplicity and bold flavors. Typically, it’s seasoned with just salt and cooked over an open flame in a churrasco style. Additionally, the cooking technique enhances the meat’s natural juiciness, making it incredibly flavorful. The high heat of an open flame locks in the juices while creating a deliciously charred crust, which adds even more depth to the flavor profile.

Picanha is the star! It’s a tender, juicy sirloin cap that’s a staple in Brazilian steakhouses. Moreover, this cut is prized for its perfect balance of fat and meat, which results in a rich, succulent texture. Because of its thick fat cap, it remains moist and flavorful when cooked properly, making it a top choice among steak lovers.

Can I cook this on the grill?

Absolutely! Just grill over high heat for 2-3 minutes per side. Furthermore, using a charcoal grill can add an extra smoky depth to the steak, making it even more authentic. For the best results, consider flipping the steak only once to ensure an even sear and using a meat thermometer to achieve the perfect doneness.

Do you eat the fat on picanha?

Yes! The fat cap on picanha is what makes it so special. It renders down during cooking, infusing the meat with rich, beefy flavor. Many steak lovers consider it one of the best parts of the cut. Not only does it enhance the meat’s taste, but it also helps keep the steak juicy and tender during cooking. Furthermore, the fat creates a deliciously crispy outer layer that contrasts beautifully with the tender meat inside. For the best experience, cook it with the fat side down first to allow it to crisp up before slicing and enjoying every bite. Additionally, some people like to trim and render the fat separately, using it as a flavorful addition to side dishes.

What is the green card at a Brazilian steakhouse?

At Brazilian steakhouses, diners use a green-and-red card system. A green card signals to servers that you’re ready for more meat, while a red card means you need a break or are finished eating. This system ensures you can enjoy your meal at your own pace without interruptions. Typically, servers will come around with a variety of meats on skewers, slicing them directly onto your plate when you indicate you’re ready. Moreover, this allows guests to sample different cuts of meat without feeling rushed, creating a unique and immersive dining experience. Some restaurants may also offer additional side dishes and sauces that complement the meats being served.

Why do chefs put butter on steak?

Chefs use butter on steak to enhance its richness and add a silky texture. The butter also helps in basting, creating a flavorful crust and keeping the meat juicy. Additionally, butter can be infused with herbs, garlic, or spices to add even more depth of flavor to the steak. This technique ensures the meat stays moist while absorbing delicious aromatics. Furthermore, as the butter melts, it helps to caramelize the outer layer of the steak, locking in natural juices and enhancing the overall mouthfeel. Many chefs prefer to use clarified butter, which has a higher smoke point, preventing it from burning too quickly.

What oil does Gordon Ramsay use for steak?

Gordon Ramsay typically uses grapeseed oil for cooking steak. It has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it ideal for achieving a perfect sear. Unlike olive oil, which can burn at high temperatures, grapeseed oil allows the steak to develop a beautiful crust without imparting any overpowering flavors. Moreover, grapeseed oil has a mild taste, allowing the natural flavor of the steak to shine through without interference. Some chefs also use avocado oil or clarified butter as alternatives, depending on the desired outcome and cooking method.

What is it called when you spoon butter on a steak?

This technique is called basting. It involves spooning hot butter over the steak while it cooks, ensuring even cooking and infusing the meat with extra flavor. Basting also helps to keep the steak moist, especially when combined with aromatics like garlic, rosemary, and thyme. This method is commonly used by professional chefs to enhance the steak’s overall taste and texture. Additionally, continuous basting creates a golden-brown crust that adds depth to the dish’s presentation. For best results, use a spoon to continuously ladle the melted butter over the steak, tilting the pan slightly to collect the juices.

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Sliced Brazilian steak with garlic butter, served with chimichurri sauce and grilled vegetables.

Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak – Easy & Juicy Recipe


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  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 23 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Juicy, tender, and packed with bold flavors, this Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak is a quick and easy meal that tastes like it came straight from a steakhouse!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Steak:

  • 1 lb skirt steak
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • 1 tbsp oil (for searing)

For the Garlic Butter:

  • 6 tsp minced garlic (reduce for a milder garlic taste)
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • 5 tbsp unsalted butter
  • Salt to taste


Instructions

1. Prep the Steak

  • Cut the skirt steak into 3 or 4 parts.
  • Pat dry and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.

2. Sear the Steak

  • Heat oil in a heavy-duty skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
  • Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare (adjust to preference).
  • Transfer to a plate, cover with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes.

3. Make the Garlic Butter

  • Melt butter in the same skillet over low heat.
  • Stir in minced garlic and cook until lightly golden (avoid burning).
  • Remove from heat, season with salt, and stir in fresh parsley.

4. Serve & Enjoy!

  • Slice steak against the grain for tenderness.
  • Drizzle with garlic butter and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Let the steak rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
  • Fresh garlic gives the best flavor.
  • Try adding smoked paprika or cumin for extra depth.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Pan-Searing
  • Cuisine: Brazilian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2–3
  • Calories: ~350
  • Sodium: Varies based on seasoning
  • Fat: ~25g
  • Saturated Fat: ~12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: ~2g
  • Fiber: ~0.5g
  • Protein: ~30g
  • Cholesterol: ~90mg

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