Cowboy Butter Steak is the ultimate indulgence for meat lovers, combining a perfectly seared steak with a rich, flavorful compound butter that takes the dish to the next level. Named for its bold, hearty flavors, this steak is perfect for weekend dinners, special occasions, or any time you want a meal that feels both rustic and luxurious. With its garlicky, herb-infused butter melting over a juicy cut of beef, every bite is packed with mouthwatering richness.
The star of the dish is, of course, the steak. Whether you choose ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon, a good quality, well-marbled cut ensures maximum flavor and tenderness. The steak is seasoned simply with salt and pepper before searing, allowing the natural beefy taste to shine. Cooking it to your preferred doneness creates a perfect base for the cowboy butter, which is where the magic truly happens.
Cowboy butter is a compound butter made by mixing softened butter with fresh herbs, garlic, lemon juice, and a touch of seasoning. Some variations include a hint of chili flakes, smoked paprika, or homemade Worcestershire sauce for extra depth and boldness. Once prepared, the butter is generously slathered over the hot, cooked steak, where it melts slowly, infusing the meat with rich, aromatic flavor. The result is a luscious, savory coating that enhances the natural juiciness of the steak and creates a restaurant-quality experience at home.
This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides that let the steak shine. Grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a crisp salad complement the richness of the butter without overpowering it. A robust red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec, enhances the flavors further, making each bite even more satisfying.
Cowboy Butter Steak is not just a meal, it’s an experience. Its combination of perfectly cooked steak and decadent, herb-infused butter delivers a hearty, flavorful dish that satisfies any craving for comfort food with sophistication. Whether served for a special dinner or a weekend treat, this steak proves that a few high-quality ingredients, prepared thoughtfully, can create a dish that’s both simple and unforgettable.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ribeye steak at room temperature
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley fresh
Instructions
- Season the ribeye steak on both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Heat a grill or pan over medium-high heat. Cook the steak for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or to your desired doneness.
- In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, cayenne pepper, and chopped parsley to make the cowboy butter sauce.
- Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the grill or pan and let it rest for a couple of minutes.
- Pour the cowboy butter sauce over the steak before serving.
Nutrition
Why do they call it cowboy butter? Seems kinda silly to me, but I’ll give it a try.
Not too spicy for my kids, which is great. But I think it could use MORE cayenne!
So easy to make! I had all the ingredients at home. Definitely making this again!
Yum! But isn’t unsalted butter the same as salted? Why do you need unsalted?
Unsalted butter is better because you can control the salt in your dish! Salted butter can throw off the whole flavor. Trust me on this!
5 stars! Straightforward and satisfying! Loved the freshness from the lemon juice.
I agree! The lemon juice really makes a difference in flavor. Have you tried it with other meats?
5 stars? Really? The recipe ain’t that special. Just steak with some butter… What’s the big deal?
This steak recipe is AMAZING! The cowboy butter takes it to a whole new level. My family loved it!
I agree! Cowboy butter really makes everything better. What’s not to love about steak and butter? 🥩❤️
Could you use a different cut of steak? I only have sirloin. Will it taste the same?
My steak turned out completely burnt! What did I do wrong?
Burnt?? Just cut off the burnt part and enjoy the rest! Not a big deal.
Sounds like you might have cooked it too long! 3-4 mins each side for medium-rare. Did you use high heat?
Just made this for my husband, he said it felt like a restaurant meal. Thanks for the recipe!