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Perfectly pan-seared 12 oz steak with golden crust, sliced to reveal a juicy pink center, garnished with rosemary and garlic butter.

Enjoy a Juicy 12 oz Steak for Your Next Meal

This Perfect Pan-Seared 12 oz Steak is a mouthwatering classic that delivers a restaurant-quality experience right from your kitchen. With a crisp, caramelized crust and a juicy, tender center, this steak is seasoned simply with salt, pepper, garlic, and butter to let the natural flavors shine. Ideal for steak lovers, it pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh green salad.

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 1 steak (12 oz)

Ingredients

  • 1 (12 oz) ribeye or strip steak, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tsp kosher salt

  • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

  • 2 cloves garlic, smashed

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter

  • 1 sprig fresh rosemary (optional)

  • 1 sprig fresh thyme (optional)

Instructions

  • Bring the steak to room temperature: Remove the steak from the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking. Pat it dry with paper towels.

  • Season generously: Rub both sides of the steak with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

  • Preheat the skillet: Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron preferred) over high heat until very hot, about 5 minutes.

  • Sear the steak: Place the steak in the hot skillet and sear for 3–4 minutes without moving it. Flip and sear the other side for another 3–4 minutes for medium-rare.

  • Add aromatics: In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add butter, smashed garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Tilt the pan and baste the steak with the melted butter.

  • Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer (130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium).

  • Rest the steak: Transfer to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

 

  • Serve and enjoy: Slice against the grain and serve with your favorite sides.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, marinate the steak in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for 1–2 hours before cooking.

  • Letting the steak rest is crucial to lock in juices—don’t skip it!

 

  • Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or chimichurri for a complete meal.

  • Author: Amanda
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Pan-Seared
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 steak (12 oz)
  • Calories: 720
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 50g
  • Saturated Fat: 20g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 28g
  • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 1g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 60g
  • Cholesterol: 180mg

Keywords: steak recipe, 12 oz steak, pan seared steak, easy steak dinner, keto steak, cast iron steak