This mouthwatering sirloin steak is seared to golden brown perfection and then crowned with a luscious garlic and herb butter. It’s a simple yet incredibly satisfying dish that can elevate your everyday meal or impress your guests on special occasions.
Sirloin steak holds a special place in my heart. It’s not only budget-friendly but also packed with flavor, tenderness, and widely available at most grocery stores. My go-to method for cooking this cut of meat is a simple pan sear, followed by a dollop of garlic butter for an extra touch of decadence.
Unveiling the Sirloin Cut
Sirloin steak comes from the rear back portion of the cow and is divided into two parts: the top sirloin and the bottom sirloin. The top sirloin, labeled as such, is more tender, while the bottom sirloin, simply referred to as “sirloin” or “sirloin steak,” is slightly less tender. Both types, however, boast a delightful combination of tenderness and flavor and require minimal cooking time.
Mastering the Art of Cooking Sirloin Steak
To ensure a delicious outcome, start by patting your steaks dry with a paper towel. This step removes any excess moisture, allowing a beautiful brown crust to form. Generously season the steaks with salt and pepper before cooking them over medium-high heat in a heavy skillet. Achieve your desired level of doneness, then let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes. Finally, top it off with a scoop of garlic and herb butter, slice, and serve.
Pro Tips for Steak Perfection
Here are some expert tips to take your sirloin steak to the next level:
- You can sear your steak in a pan on the stove, or use an outdoor or indoor grill. If grilling, remember to add the butter after removing the steak from the grill to prevent any drips.
- Prepare the garlic butter up to 2 days in advance, storing it in the fridge. Allow it to soften at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before use.
- For the most tender results, slice the meat against the grain.
- Enhance the flavor by marinating the steak for up to 24 hours before cooking and adding the butter on top.
- Serve your steak alongside delectable sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables such as asparagus or green beans.
Sirloin Steak Flavor Explorations
While this recipe is already divine, you can further customize it with these flavorful variations:
- Mushrooms: Sauté 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms in 3 tablespoons of melted butter. Season with salt and pepper, then serve over your steak.
- BBQ Sauce: Replace the garlic butter with your favorite homemade or store-bought BBQ sauce. Brush it over your cooked steak for a tangy twist.
- Cajun: Mix 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic, and 2 teaspoons chopped parsley into the softened butter for a spicy kick.
- Mexican: Combine 1 1/2 teaspoons of chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon of lime zest, and 2 teaspoons of chopped cilantro leaves with the butter for a burst of Mexican flavors.
Achieving the Perfect Steak Temperature
To determine the doneness of your sirloin steak, rely on a digital thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat and refer to the following temperatures:
- Rare: 130°F
- Medium Rare: 135°F
- Medium: 145°F
- Medium Well: 150°F
- Well Done: 160°F
Remember, let your steak rest for at least 5 minutes before cutting into it. Remove the steak a few degrees lower than your target temperature, as it will continue to cook during the resting period.
Once you experience the incredible flavor of this sirloin steak, it will become a regular feature on your menu!
More Steak Delights to Explore
If you’re a steak enthusiast, these recipes are bound to tantalize your taste buds:
- Avocado Steak Tacos
- The Best Steak Marinade
- Marinated Flank Steak
- Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
- Steak Kabobs
For a step-by-step visual guide, check out the video below:
