Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak

Introduction

Few dishes capture the essence of comfort and indulgence quite like garlic butter Brazilian steak. Juicy, tender, and dripping with golden butter infused with garlic, this recipe is a celebration of both tradition and modern flavor. Whether you’re recreating a Brazilian churrasco experience at home or simply looking for a quick weeknight meal, this dish never fails to impress.

In this guide, you’ll discover the history of Brazilian steak, the secret to making garlic butter sauce irresistible, the best steak cuts to use, and step-by-step methods to get that perfect sear. You’ll also learn tips, variations, and FAQs so you can confidently serve this steak at any occasion.

What is Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak?

At its core, garlic butter Brazilian steak is a dish that highlights two things Brazilians love most: flavorful beef and bold seasoning. Unlike standard American-style garlic steak, this version is inspired by churrasco, the traditional Brazilian method of cooking meat over open flames. The result is a steak that’s:

Juicy and tender on the inside
Seared with a caramelized crust

Basted with golden garlic butter sauce

This dish brings the flavors of a Brazilian steakhouse right to your kitchen. For those curious about the origins of churrasco, the history of Brazilian churrasco shows how fire-roasted beef became a cultural staple long before it reached global popularity.

History of Brazilian Steak & Garlic Butter Influence

The tradition of Brazilian steak comes from southern Brazil, where gauchos (cowboys) prepared beef skewered over open flames. Over time, this became the foundation of churrascarias — restaurants that serve endless skewers of grilled meat carved tableside.

Garlic, meanwhile, has always played a central role in Brazilian cooking, appearing in marinades, seasonings, and sauces. Combining garlic with butter was a natural progression, bringing richness and depth to already flavorful cuts of meat.

Today, garlic butter Brazilian steak represents a perfect fusion: the rustic authenticity of churrasco and the elegance of butter-basted steak. From a health perspective, beef remains a powerful source of protein and nutrients. According to nutritional information for beef cuts, lean cuts provide protein, iron, zinc, and B vitamins — making steak not just delicious, but nourishing.

Choosing the Right Cut of Steak

The cut of steak you choose has a huge impact on flavor and tenderness. For the best garlic butter Brazilian steak, consider these options:

Picanha (top sirloin cap): The most iconic Brazilian cut, known for its fat cap and bold beefy flavor.
Tenderloin (filet mignon): Lean, buttery-soft, and perfect for luxurious steak nights.

Ribeye: Rich marbling that pairs beautifully with garlic butter.
Skirt or flank steak: Budget-friendly and quick to cook, with a satisfying chew.

💡 Tip: Look for steaks with good marbling (white streaks of fat). These melt during cooking, keeping the meat juicy.

Ingredients Breakdown For Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak

Every great recipe starts with the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Steak: Choose from ribeye, picanha, tenderloin, or skirt steak.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic cloves deliver the best aroma. Roasted garlic offers a sweeter profile.

Butter: Use unsalted butter so you can control seasoning. Clarified butter (ghee) works for higher heat.
Seasonings: Classic salt and black pepper are essential. Optional add-ins include smoked paprika, chili flakes, or a dash of cumin.
Herbs: Fresh parsley, rosemary, or cilantro add freshness and contrast to the richness of butter.

Optional sides like lemon wedges or coarse sea salt can elevate presentation.

Cooking Methods

There’s more than one way to prepare garlic butter Brazilian steak. Choose the method that best fits your kitchen:

🔥 Pan-Seared Garlic Butter Steak

Heat a cast-iron skillet until smoking hot.

Sear the steak 2–3 minutes per side.
Add butter and garlic, then tilt the pan to baste.

🍳 Cast-Iron vs Nonstick Skillet

Cast-iron retains heat and creates a perfect crust.

Nonstick is easier but doesn’t sear as well.

🔥 Reverse Sear Technique

Start the steak in the oven at low heat.
Finish with a hot skillet sear and garlic butter basting.

Produces consistent doneness and a golden crust.

🍖 Grilling for Authentic Churrasco Flavor

Cook directly over charcoal or wood fire.
Add garlic butter after removing from heat to avoid burning.

Mistakes to avoid:

Adding garlic too early (it burns easily).
Overcrowding the pan, which prevents browning.

Using cold steak straight from the fridge.

Step-by-Step Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe

Ingredients (for 2 servings):

2 ribeye steaks (8 oz each)

4 cloves garlic, minced
4 tbsp unsalted butter
Salt & black pepper to taste

Fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions:

Pat steaks dry and season generously with salt and pepper.

Heat skillet on high until very hot.
Sear steaks 3–4 minutes per side (medium-rare).
Reduce heat, add butter and garlic.

Tilt pan and spoon golden garlic butter over the steak repeatedly.
Rest steak for 5 minutes before slicing.
Garnish with parsley and serve.

Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or pão de queijo for a Brazilian touch.

Enjoy comfort food at its finest with these Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce — soft, savory, and smothered in cheesy goodness.

Side Dishes to Serve with Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak

Pairing your steak with the right sides enhances the meal:

Brazilian classics:
- Farofa (toasted cassava flour)
- Pão de queijo (cheese bread)
- Black beans with rice
Western favorites:
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Creamed spinach
- Grilled asparagus
Light options:
- Fresh green salad
- Roasted zucchini
- Tomato and onion salad

Variations & Modern Twists

One of the best things about garlic butter Brazilian steak is its versatility. While the classic recipe calls for juicy steak cuts seared in a hot skillet and basted with golden garlic butter, there are countless creative variations you can try at home.

🥩 Chimichurri Garlic Butter Steak

For a true South American flair, combine the richness of garlic butter with the zesty freshness of chimichurri. After basting your steak with butter, drizzle homemade chimichurri sauce (parsley, garlic, vinegar, olive oil, and chili flakes) over the meat. This variation adds brightness and acidity that balances the richness of butter.

🍷 Garlic Butter with Red Wine Reduction

Want a restaurant-style upgrade? Deglaze your skillet with a splash of red wine after cooking the steak. Reduce the liquid until it thickens slightly, then whisk in your garlic butter. The result is a glossy, flavorful sauce that clings to the steak with a subtle fruity depth.

🧈 Herb Compound Butter

Instead of plain butter, prepare a compound butter by mixing softened butter with fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, parsley, or oregano. Roll it into a log, chill, and slice rounds over the hot steak. As it melts, the butter releases layered herbal flavors that elevate the dish.

🥑 Keto & Low-Carb Twist

For those following keto or low-carb diets, swap regular butter for clarified butter (ghee) or even avocado oil butter. These alternatives handle higher heat, reduce lactose, and keep the dish friendly to restrictive diets while maintaining the luxurious garlic flavor.

🌶 Spicy Garlic Butter Steak

If you enjoy heat, stir in chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or a spoonful of chipotle paste into your garlic butter. The spice adds a smoky, fiery kick that pairs wonderfully with rich beef.

With these variations, you can transform the traditional garlic butter Brazilian steak into a versatile dish suitable for any palate, occasion, or dietary preference.

Health & Nutrition Profile

Per 6 oz serving (ribeye with butter):

Calories: ~420

Protein: 38g
Fat: 28g
Carbs: 1–2g

Health tip: Swap ribeye for tenderloin to cut fat while keeping high protein. Garlic itself provides numerous health benefits, from improved heart health to immune support. See more in this breakdown on the health benefits of garlic.

Storing & Reheating Leftovers

Refrigeration: Store in airtight container, up to 3 days.
Freezing: Wrap tightly in foil, freeze up to 2 months.

Reheating: Warm in oven at 250°F until heated through, then quickly sear in skillet with butter.

Common Mistakes & Expert Tips

Even the most seasoned home cooks can run into pitfalls when making garlic butter Brazilian steak. To help you achieve restaurant-quality results every time, here are the most common mistakes and expert tips to avoid them.

❌ Common Mistakes

Cooking steak straight from the fridge: Cold meat seizes in the pan, cooking unevenly.

Skipping the pat-dry step: Moisture on the steak prevents browning and creates steam instead of a crust.
Overcrowding the pan: Too many steaks at once lower the heat, leading to gray, soggy meat.
Adding garlic too early: Garlic burns quickly, turning bitter instead of golden.

Skipping the resting period: Cutting into steak right away releases juices, leaving it dry.

✅ Expert Tips

Bring steak to room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking. This ensures even doneness.
Season generously with coarse salt — it enhances flavor and helps form a better crust.

Use a cast-iron skillet for maximum heat retention and a deep sear.
Add garlic after the butter melts and baste frequently, tilting the pan to spoon butter over the steak.
Invest in a meat thermometer: Aim for 130–135°F for medium-rare, the ideal temperature for tenderness.

Let steak rest 5–10 minutes before slicing, and always cut against the grain to maintain juiciness.

Mastering these small details makes the difference between an average steak and an unforgettable garlic butter Brazilian steak.

FAQs About Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak

What cut of steak do Brazilian steakhouses use?
Mostly picanha, a sirloin cap cut known for its rich fat cap.

How do Brazilians cook steak differently?
They grill meat over open flames in churrascarias and season simply with coarse salt.

Can I make garlic butter steak in an air fryer?
Yes — air fry at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, then add garlic butter afterwards.

How do you keep garlic butter steak tender?
Avoid overcooking and let it rest before slicing.

What wine pairs best with garlic butter Brazilian steak?
Red wines with bold structure — Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Syrah.

Conclusion

Garlic butter Brazilian steak is more than a recipe — it’s a fusion of tradition and indulgence. The balance of smoky seared beef and golden garlic butter makes it a standout dish for family dinners, date nights, or special celebrations.

From choosing the right cut to mastering cooking techniques, this guide has shown you how to recreate the authentic steakhouse experience at home. So fire up your skillet, grab some fresh garlic, and bring a taste of Brazil into your kitchen tonight.