Quick & Easy Authentic Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak – Juicy & Flavorful

A Taste of Brazil at Home

Imagine the irresistible sound of a juicy steak hitting a sizzling skillet—the aroma of garlic melting into butter and wafting through your kitchen. That first sear creates not only a crust but also anticipation: dinner is about to be extraordinary.

Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak is more than just a meal; it’s a sensory experience. Each bite delivers bold, rich flavors—juicy beef with a smoky char, kissed by garlic and finished with silky butter. Unlike complicated restaurant recipes, this one is approachable and fast, bringing steakhouse indulgence to your table in under 30 minutes.

What makes this dish truly special is its balance. The seared steak stays tender and flavorful, while the garlic butter adds depth and a luxurious finishing touch. Pair it with chimichurri or roasted vegetables, and suddenly, you have a complete Brazilian-inspired feast at home.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything: from choosing the perfect cut of beef to mastering the garlic butter technique that transforms ordinary steak into a restaurant-worthy dish. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a date-night centerpiece, this Brazilian-inspired recipe ensures you’ll savor every juicy, buttery bite.

What is Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak?

Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak is a popular variation on churrasco-style beef, the kind often served in traditional Brazilian steakhouses, or churrascarias. Unlike American steak, which is often heavily seasoned with rubs or marinades, the Brazilian style focuses on simplicity. Salt, garlic, and butter take center stage, highlighting the natural flavor of the beef rather than overpowering it.

The hallmark of this dish is its juiciness and richness. Steak is typically cooked to medium-rare, ensuring it stays tender and full of flavor. The garlic butter, added toward the end, soaks into the meat, creating a silky finish.

This version captures the essence of Brazilian cooking—straightforward ingredients with bold results. It’s not about fancy sauces or complicated steps; it’s about letting good beef shine, enhanced by one of the most beloved pairings in the world: garlic and butter.

Brazilian Steakhouse Inspiration

Brazil’s steakhouse tradition dates back to the gauchos—South American cowboys—who grilled beef over open flames in the Pampas region. This rustic method eventually evolved into the modern churrascaria, a Brazilian steakhouse where skewers of beef, lamb, and chicken are carved tableside.

The flavors are bold yet simple. Sea salt, garlic, and open-fire searing form the foundation, with optional sauces like chimichurri or farofa on the side. But one thing remains constant: the beef is always the star.

Garlic butter plays a crucial role in enhancing these flavors. The sizzling butter carries garlic’s rich aroma into the steak while adding an indulgent, silky finish. It’s a combination that feels luxurious but is rooted in everyday Brazilian cooking.

When you prepare Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak at home, you’re not just cooking a meal—you’re recreating the essence of a churrascaria experience. Every bite recalls that festive atmosphere: the sizzling platters, the smoky aroma, the feeling of abundance. With a hot skillet, quality beef, and a handful of pantry staples, you can bring those same steakhouse flavors into your own kitchen without the price tag—or the endless skewers!

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, and here’s why:

• Quick cooking = tenderness. Searing the steak at high heat locks in juices and keeps the inside perfectly pink.

• Garlic butter = richness. Adding butter after searing ensures it doesn’t burn, while garlic infuses the meat with irresistible flavor.

• Simple seasoning = bold results. Salt, pepper, garlic, and butter are all you need for a dish that feels indulgent yet authentic.

Unlike marinades or rubs that require hours of prep, this recipe comes together in minutes. By focusing on technique—choosing the right cut, searing at the right temperature, and finishing with butter—you’ll get steakhouse-quality results every time.

It’s straightforward, reliable, and adaptable: whether you’re cooking for two or hosting a dinner party, this Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak is proof that you don’t need a churrascaria to enjoy unforgettable flavor.

Choosing the Right Cut of Beef

In Brazil, the undisputed king of steak is picanha, also known as top sirloin cap. It’s prized for its fat cap, which bastes the meat as it cooks, creating unmatched tenderness and flavor. If you can find it, picanha is the cut to choose for an authentic experience.

But don’t worry if it’s unavailable—other cuts work beautifully:

• Ribeye: Well-marbled, juicy, and rich. Perfect for garlic butter.

• Flank steak: Leaner but flavorful, best when sliced thin against the grain.

• Top sirloin or strip steak: Budget-friendly and tender with proper cooking.

When selecting beef, look for marbling—those thin white streaks of fat that melt during cooking, keeping the steak juicy. Aim for steaks at least 1 to 1.5 inches thick. Thinner cuts can overcook too quickly, while thicker ones are harder to sear properly at home.

Pro tip: Allow steak to rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking and a juicier final bite. With the right cut and a little prep, you’ll elevate simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dish.

Ingredient Deep Dive

Great recipes begin with great ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

• Steak: The star of the dish. Ribeye is juicy and rich, flank steak is lean with bold flavor, and picanha (if available) is the Brazilian favorite. Choose based on budget and preference.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential for authentic flavor. Pre-minced versions save time but can lack intensity. For the best results, mince or crush fresh garlic.

• Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control seasoning, while salted adds convenience. Butter creates the silky richness that defines this recipe.

• Olive oil: High heat can burn butter, so olive oil helps stabilize it during searing while adding a subtle depth of flavor.

• Salt & Pepper: Coarse salt (like sea salt or kosher salt) enhances beef’s natural flavor. Freshly cracked black pepper adds gentle heat.

• Optional seasonings: Smoked paprika adds a subtle smokiness, parsley brightens the final dish, and chimichurri offers a classic Brazilian pairing.

• Finishing touch: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt just before serving elevates the dish, adding crunch and flavor contrast.

These simple ingredients come together to create layers of flavor. The olive oil protects the butter, the butter carries the garlic, and the garlic infuses the steak—all while salt and pepper highlight the meat’s natural richness. Minimal pantry staples, maximum impact.

Tools & Equipment You’ll Need

The right tools make all the difference when cooking steak:

• Cast Iron Skillet or Grill Pan: Retains heat for the perfect sear.

• Sharp Chef’s Knife: For trimming fat and slicing cooked steak.

• Tongs: Essential for flipping without piercing and losing juices.

• Meat Thermometer: Guarantees perfect doneness every time.

• Cutting Board (with juice groove): Keeps counters clean during slicing.

With these essentials, you’ll recreate steakhouse-style results at home. Durable tools, high heat, and proper technique equal steak perfection.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking a Brazilian Garlic Butter Steak is less intimidating than it looks. With just a few thoughtful steps, you can achieve steakhouse perfection in your own kitchen.

1. Prep the steak: Remove your steak from the fridge about 20–30 minutes before cooking so it reaches room temperature. Pat it dry with paper towels—this ensures a crisp sear. Season generously with coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper.

2. Heat the skillet: Place a heavy-bottomed cast-iron skillet or grill pan on high heat. Allow it to get very hot—this is key for a perfect sear.

3. Sear the steak: Add a small drizzle of neutral oil (like canola or avocado). Lay the steak in the pan away from you to prevent splatter. Cook without moving for 2–3 minutes until a golden crust forms. Flip and repeat.

   • Rare: ~3 minutes per side.

   • Medium-rare: ~4 minutes per side.

   • Medium: ~5 minutes per side.

   • Well-done: 6+ minutes per side (though less traditional in Brazilian cooking).

4. Add garlic butter: In the last minute of cooking, add 2–3 tablespoons of garlic butter to the pan. Tilt the skillet and spoon the melted butter over the steak to infuse it with flavor.

5. Rest the steak: Transfer to a cutting board and let rest for 5–7 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute.

6. Finishing touches: Slice against the grain. Garnish with fresh parsley, cilantro, or even a squeeze of lime for brightness.

Variations & Flavor Twists

One of the beauties of this dish is its versatility. Here are some creative ways to change it up:

• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or sliced fresh chili to the garlic butter for a fiery twist.

• Herb-forward: Infuse the butter with rosemary, thyme, or oregano for an aromatic finish.

• Chimichurri-style: Top the sliced steak with Brazilian or Argentine chimichurri sauce—a blend of parsley, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar—for freshness.

• Keto/low-carb: Skip rice or beans and pair with roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad.

Serving Ideas

To capture the spirit of Brazil, serve your garlic butter steak with traditional accompaniments:

• Brazilian rice & black beans: A staple side that balances the richness of the steak.

• Farofa (toasted cassava flour): Adds a nutty crunch.

• Roasted vegetables: Carrots, peppers, and zucchini complement the buttery steak.

• Pão de queijo (cheese bread): Soft, chewy, and naturally gluten-free, these little rolls make the meal festive.

For drinks, a Malbec or Cabernet Sauvignon pairs beautifully with the bold flavors, while a refreshing Caipirinha (Brazil’s national cocktail) adds a citrusy contrast.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Leftovers? Lucky you! Store cooled steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. For reheating, the best method is a skillet over low heat with a touch of butter—this keeps the meat tender while reviving flavor. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to dry the steak and make it tough. If reheating slices, a quick flash in a hot skillet is all you need.

Nutrition Breakdown

Each serving of Brazilian Garlic Butter Steak (based on 6 oz steak with garlic butter) is approximately:

• Calories: 480–550

• Protein: 40–45g

• Fat: 32–36g

• Carbohydrates: 1–2g

This dish is protein-rich and low in carbs, making it naturally keto-friendly. The garlic butter adds richness, but balanced with vegetables or a fresh salad, it can fit into a wholesome, satisfying meal.

Expert Tips for Success

• Let it rest: Always let the steak rest before slicing. Cutting too soon releases juices and dries out the meat.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if needed. Overcrowding traps steam and prevents browning.

• High heat is non-negotiable: For a golden crust, start with a very hot skillet.

• Balance garlic flavor: Add garlic butter near the end—garlic burns quickly, so avoid adding it too soon.

FAQs

Q1: What’s the best steak cut for Brazilian garlic butter steak?
A: Picanha is the traditional choice, but ribeye, sirloin, or strip steak work beautifully.

Q2: Can I make this on the grill instead of stovetop?
A: Absolutely! Just grill over high heat, then finish with garlic butter on the side.

Q3: How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
A: Add garlic to melted butter only at the end of cooking and baste quickly.

Q4: What sides make it feel more authentic?
A: Brazilian rice, black beans, farofa, and pão de queijo.

Q5: Can I use margarine instead of butter?
A: Butter is best for flavor and authenticity, but margarine can be substituted if needed.

Final Thoughts & Invitation

Brazilian Garlic Butter Steak proves that restaurant-worthy meals don’t have to be complicated. With a hot skillet, quality steak, and a simple garlic butter, you can capture the magic of a Brazilian steakhouse at home. Even if you’re new to cooking steak, these steps make it approachable and foolproof. Feel free to experiment with different cuts, flavor twists, or traditional sides. Most importantly, enjoy the process—because food is about sharing joy. Bring the sizzling aroma and rich flavors of Brazil straight to your kitchen tonight!