Grilled Steak with Cowboy Butter

How to Make Grilled Steak with Cowboy Butter

If you’re searching for a show-stopping steak recipe, look no further than this flavorful Steak with Cowboy Butter.

With its perfect sear, juicy interior, and a rich, zesty compound butter, this dish will impress anyone lucky enough to share your table.

Read on to master the cowboy butter recipe and how to cook the perfect steak, including tips on achieving that juicy steak finish and serving it with a decadent dipping sauce.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Grilled Steak with Cowboy Butter

For the Steak:

• 2-3 pound tomahawk steak or ribeye steaks
• 2 tbsp Bachan’s Original Japanese BBQ Sauce (binder)
• 1 tbsp SPG Blend
• 1 tbsp Korean BBQ rub

For the Cowboy Butter:

• 1 stick unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
• 2 tbsp Bachan’s Original
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 3 cloves finely minced garlic
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp sriracha or hot sauce
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh chives or green onions
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• 1 tsp Korean chili flakes or red pepper flakes
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp fresh thyme (optional)

How to Make Grilled Steak with Cowboy Butter

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

Start by preparing your tomahawk or ribeye steak. Apply a thin layer of Bachan’s Original as a binder, ensuring the steak seasoning sticks beautifully.

Generously sprinkle your favorite steak seasoning over the meat, covering all sides.

Let the steak rest at room temperature for about an hour. This allows the steak to cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the seasoning for the perfect steak.

Step 2: Make the Cowboy Butter

While your steak is resting, it’s time to assemble the star of this dish: cowboy butter.

In a small bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, sriracha, smoked paprika, fresh parsley, fresh chives, sesame seeds, Korean chili flakes, kosher salt, black pepper, and fresh thyme.

Mix the ingredients thoroughly to create a flavorful butter mixture. Let the compound butter sit at room temperature for the flavors to meld together.

Pro tip: Reserve some cowboy butter for dipping sauce after the steak is cooked. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Step 3: Smoke the Steak

Preheat your smoker to 250°F. Place the seasoned tomahawk steak on the grill using indirect heat. Let the steak smoke for approximately 45 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 115°F.

Use a meat thermometer to monitor the steak’s progress, as maintaining the correct internal temperature is key to a juicy steak.

Step 4: Sear the Steak

Once the steak reaches 115°F, remove it from the smoker and increase your grill temperature to high heat (around medium-high heat).

Brush the steak lightly with the melted butter from your cowboy butter mix. Place the steak over direct heat and sear it for 2-3 minutes per side.

Be cautious not to let the butter cause too much charring, as its high fat content can ignite quickly over open flames.

For best results, use avocado oil along with the butter mixture during the searing process. Avocado oil’s high smoke point makes it ideal for achieving that perfect sear without burning.

When the steak reaches your desired doneness—we recommend pulling it off the grill at an internal temperature of 127°F for a perfect medium-rare—transfer it to a cutting board.

Add another dollop of cowboy butter on top of the steak and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Slice the steak against the grain to maximize tenderness. Serve with the reserved cowboy butter as a dipping sauce.

The buttery, herbaceous, and slightly spicy cowboy butter complements the rich, beefy flavor of the steak perfectly. Pair it with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete steak dinner.

Tips for the Perfect Steak

1. Choose the Right Cut: While this recipe highlights a tomahawk steak, ribeye steaks or even a skirt steak work wonderfully. Their rich marbling ensures a juicy steak packed with flavor.
2. Room Temperature Matters: Allowing the steak to sit out at room temperature before cooking ensures even cooking, preventing cold spots in the center.
3. Monitor the Internal Temperature: Use a reliable meat thermometer to achieve your desired doneness. Pulling the steak at 130°F will give you a perfectly cooked medium-rare steak.
4. Use Indirect and Direct Heat: Smoking the steak at a lower temperature first locks in flavor, while searing over high heat creates a beautiful crust.
5. Let It Rest: Always let your steak rest after cooking to lock in those delicious juices. Cutting into it too early can lead to dryness.

Why Grilled Steak with Cowboy Butter Is a Must-Try

Cowboy butter is the ultimate compound butter. Packed with fresh herbs like parsley and chives, along with the zesty punch of lemon juice and lemon zest, it’s a flavor bomb that elevates any steak.

The addition of Dijon mustard, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and Worcestershire sauce balances the richness of the butter with a spicy, tangy kick.

Whether used as a butter mix for basting or a dipping sauce, it’s a versatile addition to your cooking arsenal.

Storing Cowboy Butter

If you have leftover cowboy butter, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It’s perfect for spreading on crusty bread, melting over vegetables, or enhancing other grilled meats.

For longer storage, roll the butter into a log using parchment paper, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to three months.

Pairing Suggestions for Grilled Steak with Cowboy Butter

A steak as luxurious as this deserves equally impressive sides. Here are some pairing ideas:

• Grilled asparagus: Toss with olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper for a smoky complement to the steak.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: The creamy texture balances the bold flavors of the cowboy butter.
• Fresh green salad: Use a light lemon vinaigrette to echo the citrusy notes in the butter.
• Grilled Corn: Brush with leftover cowboy butter for an irresistible side dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of steak? Absolutely! While the tomahawk steak is impressive, you can use a grilled ribeye steak, skirt steak, or even filet mignon for equally delicious results.

What’s the best way to mince garlic cloves for the butter? Using a garlic press ensures evenly minced garlic, but finely chopping with a knife works as well. The key is to ensure the garlic is evenly distributed in the butter mixture.

How hot should I be searing? For a more controlled sear, you can use medium heat, but it might take slightly longer to develop the crust. A medium high heat is effective and gives a nice sear.

How do I make the steak extra tender? Using indirect heat during the smoking phase and letting the steak rest are key steps for a tender steak. Additionally, always slice against the grain to make the meat easier to chew.

In Conclusion

Steak with Cowboy Butter is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. From the juicy steak seared to perfection over medium-high heat to the rich, flavorful compound butter that doubles as a dipping sauce, every element of this dish is designed to impress.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself to a gourmet steak dinner at home, this cowboy butter recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Grab your tomahawk or ribeye steaks, fire up the grill, and enjoy the magic of steak night done right.

Other Delicious Steak Recipes to try!

Steak with Bone Marrow Butter: Elevate your steak night with the indulgent flavors of bone marrow butter. Rich and creamy bone marrow is blended with fresh herbs, garlic, and a hint of lemon zest, creating the perfect topping for a juicy, grilled steak. This luxurious addition will transform your steak into a restaurant-worthy dish.

Steak Tacos with Guacamole: Experience a burst of flavors with steak tacos loaded with tender, spiced beef, creamy guacamole, and fresh toppings.

Wrapped in warm tortillas, these tacos are perfect for taco night or any casual gathering. Quick, easy, and packed with flavor, they’re a hit with friends and family alike.

Garlic Butter Herb Steak and Potatoes: A classic one-pan meal that’s as delicious as it is convenient.

Juicy steak and golden, crispy potatoes are cooked together in a garlic butter herb sauce, delivering mouthwatering flavor in every bite. Perfect for a hearty, satisfying dinner that’s easy to prepare and cleanup.

Mushroom Swiss Steak Sandwich: Savor the perfect combination of juicy steak, melted Swiss cheese, and savory sautéed mushrooms, all tucked into a soft sandwich roll.

This steak sandwich is a comforting, flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for lunch or a quick dinner. Serve with chips or a salad for the ultimate experience.

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