If you’re looking for a show-stopping dish that delivers restaurant-quality flavor in the comfort of your own kitchen, the Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak is a must-try. This sizzling steak is infused with the bold flavors of garlic, butter, and fresh herbs, and seared to perfection in a hot pan. It’s tender, juicy, and bursting with umami-rich goodness that pairs beautifully with simple sides or even a fresh chimichurri.
Inspired by the rich culinary traditions of Brazilian steakhouses, this recipe gives you all the flavor with just a fraction of the effort. The key lies in the garlic butter bath that bastes each bite in mouthwatering richness, delivering a steakhouse experience without leaving home.
What Cut of Steak Works Best for Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak?
For the best flavor and texture, opt for sirloin cap (also known as picanha), ribeye, or New York strip. These cuts are known for their marbling and tenderness, making them ideal for high-heat searing and buttery finishing. Picanha, especially, is prized in Brazilian barbecue for its juicy bite and bold beefy flavor.
Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe
- 2 lbs sirloin cap (picanha), ribeye, or New York strip, sliced into thick strips
- 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon

How To Make the Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Steak
Pat the steak strips dry with paper towels. This helps them sear properly. Season generously with kosher salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if using. Let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes while you prep the other ingredients.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
Heat a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over high heat. Add olive oil, and once it’s shimmering hot, carefully place the steak pieces in a single layer. Sear without moving them for 2-3 minutes to build a golden-brown crust, then flip and sear the other side for another 2 minutes. Work in batches if needed.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter
Lower the heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic to the same skillet, stirring constantly to prevent the garlic from burning. Once fragrant (about 30-60 seconds), return all the seared steak back to the skillet. Baste the meat in the garlic butter for 1-2 more minutes.
Step 4: Finish with Fresh Herbs and Citrus
Remove from heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Squeeze lemon juice over the steak for a pop of brightness.
How to Serve and Store Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak
This steak is best served immediately after cooking while it’s hot and juicy. Arrange it on a warm platter and spoon any remaining garlic butter from the pan over the top. Pair with classic Brazilian sides like farofa, black beans, or a crisp green salad. It also goes well with mashed potatoes, rice, or grilled veggies.
To store leftovers, let the steak cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a touch of butter to preserve tenderness. Avoid microwaving to prevent the steak from drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes! While picanha is traditional, ribeye, New York strip, or even flank steak can work beautifully. Just adjust cook time based on thickness.
How do I avoid overcooking the steak?
High heat and a short sear time are key. Also, let the steak rest after cooking to allow juices to redistribute.
Can I grill the steak instead?
Absolutely. Sear the steak on a hot grill, then baste with garlic butter in a small pan on the side or after slicing.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley?
You can use dried parsley in a pinch, or try fresh cilantro for a twist.
Is the lemon juice necessary?
It adds brightness and balance to the richness of the butter. If you’re out, a splash of vinegar can work too.
Want More Steak Dinner Ideas?
If you’re a fan of bold, buttery flavors like this Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak, you’ll love exploring these savory recipes too:
- Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts for an ultra-comforting skillet dish.
- Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo if you’re craving steak with a spicy, creamy pasta combo.
- Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni for those who want tender bites with cheesy goodness.
- Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Tortellini for a restaurant-style meal that’s weeknight easy.
- One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta for a cozy one-pan dinner packed with flavor.
Save This Pin + Share Your Results
📌 Save this steak recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can revisit it anytime.
I’d love to hear how your Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak turned out. Did you go for picanha or try a ribeye? Add any smoky twists or spicy sauces?
Drop a comment below to share your version—and check out more daily recipe inspiration over on my Pinterest: Nina Dishes!


Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak is a sizzling, flavor-packed dish that brings steakhouse magic straight to your kitchen. Featuring juicy cuts of sirloin cap or ribeye basted in rich garlic butter and finished with lemon and herbs, it’s quick, elegant, and unforgettable.
Ingredients
2 lbs sirloin cap (picanha), ribeye, or New York strip, sliced into thick strips
1 1/2 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
4 tbsp unsalted butter
5 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
Juice of 1/2 lemon
Instructions
1. Pat the steak strips dry with paper towels. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Let sit at room temp for 15–20 minutes.
2. Heat a skillet with olive oil over high heat. Sear the steak in a single layer for 2–3 minutes per side.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add butter and garlic to the skillet. Stir constantly for 30–60 seconds.
4. Return all steak to the skillet. Baste with garlic butter for another 1–2 minutes.
5. Remove from heat, sprinkle with parsley, and squeeze lemon juice over top.
Notes
Let steak rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
Use a cast-iron skillet for best searing results.
Don’t overcrowd the pan—sear in batches if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: Brazilian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 810 mg
- Fat: 35 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 140 mg
Keywords: garlic butter steak, Brazilian steak, picanha steak, quick steak recipe
