Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the steak

• Remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to 1 hour before cooking.
• Pat all sides dry with paper towels.
• Sprinkle coarse salt evenly over both sides and let it rest while preparing the other ingredients.

Step 2: Sauté the mushrooms

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in the cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
• Add sliced mushrooms, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Sauté for about 3 minutes, until the mushrooms soften.
• Remove the mushrooms from the pan and set them aside, keeping the skillet for the steak.

Step 3: Sear the steak

• Increase the heat to high and let the skillet heat for about 3 minutes, until it starts to smoke lightly.
• Place the steak in the pan and sear each side for about 2 minutes, until a golden crust forms.
• Add butter, crushed garlic, and thyme to the skillet. Use a spoon to continuously baste the steak with the hot butter as it cooks.
• Check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer:
• • Rare: 57°C (135°F)
  • Medium rare: 63°C (145°F)
  • Medium: 66°C (150°F)
  • Well done: 71°C (160°F)

Step 4: Finish and serve

• Once the steak reaches your preferred doneness, add the sautéed mushrooms back into the skillet and toss them gently in the butter.
• Transfer the steak to a plate and serve with sides such as fresh greens, green beans, roasted asparagus, or mashed cauliflower.

Tips for the Perfect Pan-Seared Steak

• Always let the steak rest for 5 minutes after searing before slicing; this helps retain juices and tenderness.
• Use a cast-iron skillet for even searing and excellent heat retention.
• Avoid adding minced garlic directly while searing, as it burns easily and creates a bitter taste.
• Drizzle additional herb butter over the steak before serving for extra flavor and a glossy finish.

Conclusion

Pan-seared steak is the perfect harmony of the natural sweetness of premium meat, a golden crispy crust, and the rich fragrance of butter, garlic, and thyme. It’s an ideal dish to elevate any dinner - whether a cozy family meal or a fine dining experience. With the simple yet effective steps above, you can confidently create a perfectly cooked, restaurant-quality steak that’s sure to impress every guest.