Wagyu Steak with Garlic Butter
Wagyu Steak with Garlic Butter is a mouthwatering treat that shines with its rich, tender beef and the creamy, flavorful touch of garlic butter melting on top. This dish is…
Tip: save now, cook later.Wagyu Steak with Garlic Butter is a mouthwatering treat that shines with its rich, tender beef and the creamy, flavorful touch of garlic butter melting on top. This dish is all about enjoying the amazing taste and buttery texture of wagyu, which is famously marbled and juicy. The garlic butter adds just the right amount of punch without overpowering the steak’s natural goodness.
I love making this when I want a special dinner that feels fancy but is actually pretty simple to prepare. The key for me is letting the garlic butter sizzle with fresh herbs and a pinch of salt before spooning it over the steak. It’s like adding a little magic that makes each bite super satisfying. Plus, watching that butter melt right on the warm steak never gets old.
My favorite way to serve this is alongside some roasted veggies or a fresh green salad—something light to balance the richness of the meat and butter. It’s the perfect dish for sharing around the table with close friends or family on a cozy night in. Honestly, whenever I cook wagyu this way, it feels like a celebration right at home.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Wagyu steak: Wagyu is prized for its marbling and tenderness. If you can’t find Wagyu, try using ribeye or New York strip steaks for a similar richness. Dry-aged beef can also be a good alternative.
Unsalted butter: Butter adds richness and helps build flavor, especially in the garlic butter. If you want a lighter option, try olive oil, but butter’s creaminess is hard to beat here.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the butter a punch. If fresh is unavailable, garlic powder can work in a pinch, but fresh will always give the best aroma and taste.
Fresh herbs (parsley and rosemary): These brighten the garlic butter. You can swap with thyme or basil if you prefer. Dried herbs can be used, but fresh herbs really stand out.
Sea salt flakes: A sprinkle at the end adds a nice crunch and salty finish. Regular salt works fine if you don’t have flakes.
How Do You Cook Wagyu Steak to Keep It Tender and Juicy?
Cooking Wagyu steak right is about controlling heat and timing so you keep its juiciness and flavor.
- Bring the steak to room temperature before cooking. This helps it cook evenly.
- Use a very hot pan for searing. This creates a tasty crust without overcooking inside.
- Sear for just a few minutes on each side for medium-rare. Wagyu cooks quickly due to fat content.
- Use butter to baste the steak in the final minute to lock in flavor and moisture.
- Rest the steak 5 minutes after cooking to let juices settle. This keeps the meat tender when slicing.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Cast-iron skillet – holds and distributes heat evenly, perfect for a great sear on your steak.
- Tongs – help you flip the steak gently without piercing the meat, keeping juices inside.
- Small saucepan – to melt and infuse your garlic butter without burning the garlic.
- Sharp knife – slicing against the grain is easier and keeps the steak tender.
- Cutting board – gives you a safe place to rest and slice the steak.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try finishing with blue cheese crumbles instead of garlic butter for a tangy twist that pairs well with beef.
- Add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the garlic butter for a hint of sweetness and acidity.
- Mix chopped thyme or tarragon into the garlic butter for a different herb flavor when you want variety.
- Sear the steak with a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme in the pan for extra aromatic flavor during cooking.
Wagyu Steak with Garlic Butter
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak:
- 1 Wagyu steak (8-10 ounces)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for cooking steak)
For the Garlic Butter:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (plus a sprig for garnish)
- Optional: pinch of sea salt flakes for finishing
How Much Time Will You Need?
About 40 minutes total — 30 minutes to let the steak come to room temperature, 10 minutes for cooking and resting. This keeps the steak juicy and tender!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak:
Take your Wagyu steak out of the fridge and let it sit for 30 minutes to reach room temperature. This helps the steak cook evenly. Then, season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Make the Garlic Butter:
While the steak rests, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in minced garlic, chopped parsley, and rosemary. Cook gently for 2-3 minutes until the garlic smells lovely, but don’t let it brown. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Cook the Steak:
Heat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until very hot. Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Place the Wagyu steak in the pan and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Adjust time depending on how thick your steak is and how done you like it.
4. Add Garlic Butter and Rest the Steak:
During the last minute of cooking, spoon some of the garlic butter over the steak repeatedly to add flavor. Take the steak out and put it on a cutting board. Let it rest for 5 minutes so the juices settle inside, keeping your steak juicy.
5. Serve:
Slice the steak against the grain into strips. Plate it and top with a generous spoonful or pat of the remaining garlic butter. Garnish with a fresh rosemary sprig and sprinkle a pinch of sea salt flakes if you like a bit of extra crunch and saltiness. Serve right away, ideally with roasted veggies or a fresh salad for balance.
Can I Use a Different Type of Steak Instead of Wagyu?
Absolutely! While Wagyu is known for its marbling and tenderness, ribeye or New York strip steaks work great as substitutes. Just adjust cooking times based on the thickness and cut.
How Should I Store Leftover Wagyu Steak?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat or in the microwave, adding a little butter to keep it moist.
Can I Prepare the Garlic Butter Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the garlic butter a day ahead and refrigerate it. Warm it slightly before serving to melt and enhance the flavors when topping the steak.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Wagyu Steak Without Overcooking?
Reheat slowly on low heat in a skillet with a small pat of butter to keep it tender. Avoid microwaving or high heat as it can dry out the steak quickly.
