Perfect Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe

Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak transforms any dinner into a restaurant-quality experience right in your own kitchen. This authentic churrasco-style recipe delivers bold, smoky flavors that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

I still remember the first time I tasted authentic Brazilian steak at a local churrascaria – the way that garlic butter melted over the perfectly seared meat was absolutely unforgettable. That experience inspired me to recreate those incredible flavors at home, and after years of perfecting this recipe, I can confidently say it rivals any steakhouse. The secret lies in using the right cut of meat, proper seasoning, and that magical garlic butter sauce that brings everything together. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a weekend barbecue or cooking on the stovetop for a special weeknight dinner, this steak pairs well with a side like my Grilled Flank Steak with Chimichurri Sauce. This Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak delivers consistently delicious results every single time.

Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak

In my years of cooking for family gatherings and dinner parties, I’ve learned that the best recipes are the ones that combine authentic flavors with practical preparation. This Brazilian-inspired steak recipe captures the essence of traditional churrasco cooking while being completely achievable in any home kitchen.

• Authentic churrasco flavors – Experience the bold, smoky taste of Brazilian steakhouses without leaving your home
• Quick 30-minute preparation – Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something special but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen
• Incredibly juicy and tender results – The garlic butter basting technique ensures every bite is moist and flavorful
• Versatile cooking methods – Works beautifully on the grill or in a cast-iron skillet, giving you options year-round
• Restaurant-quality presentation – Impressive enough for entertaining guests but simple enough for family dinners
• Pairs perfectly with Brazilian sides – Complements traditional accompaniments like farofa and grilled vegetables

This recipe has become my go-to choice whenever I want to create something truly memorable – it’s more than just a meal, it’s an experience that brings people together around the table.

Ingredient Note List

Picanha Steaks: I always recommend using picanha when possible because this Brazilian cut delivers the most authentic flavor and tender texture, though sirloin or ribeye work wonderfully as substitutes.

Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil helps create that perfect sear while adding a subtle fruity note that complements the beef’s natural richness.

Coarse Sea Salt: In my kitchen, I prefer using coarse sea salt because it creates a beautiful crust and enhances the meat’s natural flavors without overpowering them.

Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds the perfect amount of heat and aromatic spice that balances beautifully with the garlic butter.

Smoked Paprika: This optional ingredient brings a subtle smokiness that mimics the flavors you’d get from traditional churrasco grilling.

Unsalted Butter: Make sure to pick high-quality unsalted butter for the sauce since it melts smoothly and allows you to control the salt content perfectly.

Fresh Garlic: I always recommend using fresh garlic cloves rather than pre-minced because they release more aromatic oils and create a more vibrant flavor in the butter sauce.

Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the rich butter sauce and helps cut through the meat’s richness for a perfectly balanced bite. You might also enjoy this zesty Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing over a fresh salad.

Fresh Parsley: The bright green color and fresh herb flavor of parsley adds visual appeal and a clean finish to this Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak.

Red Pepper Flakes: These optional flakes provide a gentle heat that enhances the overall flavor profile without overwhelming the dish.

How to Cook Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak

Step 1. I usually start by removing the steaks from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking to ensure they reach room temperature for even cooking throughout.

Step 2. My grandmother always taught me to pat meat completely dry with paper towels, and she was absolutely right – this step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden crust.

Step 3. I’ve found that rubbing the olive oil and seasonings evenly over both sides creates the most flavorful exterior, so take your time with this step.

Step 4. For grilling, I recommend preheating to high heat (around 450-500°F) because that intense heat creates the signature sear that makes Brazilian steak so special.

Step 5. When using a cast-iron skillet, I always heat it until it’s smoking hot before adding the oil – this prevents sticking and creates that restaurant-quality crust.

Step 6. My husband prefers when I sear each side for exactly 4 minutes without moving the steak, which allows that beautiful caramelization to develop properly.

Step 7. For the garlic butter sauce, I usually melt the butter over medium heat and add the garlic just until fragrant – overcooking garlic makes it bitter.

Step 8. I’ve learned that letting the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before serving keeps all those delicious juices locked inside where they belong.

How to Store & Reheat

I usually store any leftover Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it stays fresh and flavorful for up to 4 days. Make sure the steak cools completely before sealing it to prevent condensation from affecting the texture.

In my experience, freezing works well if you wrap individual portions tightly in aluminum foil and place them in freezer-safe bags. The cooked steak maintains its quality for up to 3 months, and this method makes reheating much easier later on.

For best results, I recommend reheating leftover steak gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of beef broth or water to prevent drying out. You can also use the microwave for convenience, but cover it with a damp paper towel and use 50% power to maintain tenderness.

What to Serve with Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak

Brazilian Rice and Black Beans: The creamy texture of seasoned rice and beans provides the perfect base that soaks up all that delicious garlic butter sauce beautifully, just like my Healthy Quinoa and Black Bean Bowl.

Grilled Vegetables:I often serve this steak with colorful bell peppers, zucchini, and onions because their slight char and crisp texture create a wonderful contrast to the tender meat. Try something similar with these Grilled Vegetable Skewers with Lemon Vinaigrette.

Farofa: This traditional Brazilian toasted cassava flour mixture adds an authentic crunch and nutty flavor that my family absolutely loves with this dish. For a hearty twist, you might enjoy my Creamed Potatoes and Peas as a rustic alternative.

Pão de Queijo: These warm, cheesy Brazilian bread rolls are always a hit at our table and perfect for soaking up every drop of that garlic butter. You could also serve Cheddar Sausage Balls for a similarly savory bite-sized treat.

Fried Plantains: The natural sweetness of caramelized plantains balances the savory richness of the steak while adding beautiful color to the plate. If you’re out of plantains, try Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Cinnamon and Honey for that sweet-savory balance.

Simple Green Salad: A light salad with lime vinaigrette provides a fresh, acidic element that cuts through the richness and cleanses the palate between bites. My Fresh Garden Salad with homemade vinaigrette is perfect for this.

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