Steak Medallions with Garlic Herb Butter

Steak Medallions are the epitome of elegance and simplicity, delivering melt-in-your-mouth tenderness paired with a rich, savory flavor. These small, round cuts of beef are typically taken from the tenderloin, offering a succulent, juicy texture perfect for special occasions or indulgent dinners at home. When paired with a luscious garlic herb butter, Steak Medallions transform into a restaurant-quality dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating an anniversary, or simply treating yourself, Steak Medallions are a versatile and sophisticated choice. Cooked to perfection in a hot skillet or on the grill, these medallions require minimal ingredients but yield maximum flavor, making them ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.

This recipe ensures you’ll achieve the perfect sear, a tender interior, and an irresistible butter sauce infused with fresh herbs and garlic. From presentation tips to creative variations, you’ll find everything you need to make Steak Medallions the star of your dining table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Restaurant-Quality Results: Impress guests or loved ones with a dish that looks and tastes gourmet.
• Quick to Prepare: Steak Medallions cook quickly, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute special occasions.
• Versatile: Customize the flavor with different seasonings, sauces, or accompaniments.
• Minimal Ingredients: High-quality steak, butter, garlic, and herbs are all you need for a spectacular meal.
• Elegant Presentation: Their small, uniform size makes medallions perfect for plating and serving.

Preparation Time and Yield

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8-12 minutes
• Rest Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 2-3 medallions per person

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 350
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0g

Ingredients

For the Steak Medallions

• 1 1/2 pounds beef tenderloin, cut into 2-inch thick medallions
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For the Garlic Herb Butter

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for brightness)

Optional Garnishes

• Fresh rosemary sprigs
• Cracked black pepper
• Flaky sea salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Steak Medallions

1. Use a sharp knife to cut the beef tenderloin into evenly sized medallions, approximately 2 inches thick. Pat the medallions dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
2. Rub each medallion with olive oil and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Herb Butter

1. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, and lemon zest. Mix until well incorporated.
2. Transfer the butter mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Roll into a log and refrigerate until firm.

Step 3: Sear the Medallions

1. Heat a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. When the skillet is hot, add a small drizzle of olive oil.
2. Place the steak medallions in the skillet, leaving space between each piece. Sear for 3-4 minutes on the first side without moving, until a deep golden crust forms.
3. Flip the medallions and sear for another 3-4 minutes for medium-rare (internal temperature of 130°F). Adjust the cooking time based on your preferred doneness.

Step 4: Finish with Garlic Herb Butter

1. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add a slice of garlic herb butter to each medallion. Let the butter melt and baste the steak with a spoon, spooning the melted butter over the top for added flavor.
2. Remove the medallions from the skillet and transfer them to a plate. Tent loosely with foil and let rest for 5 minutes.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Plate the medallions and drizzle any remaining butter from the skillet over the top. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs, cracked black pepper, and flaky sea salt if desired. Serve immediately.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

1. Plated with Sides: Serve the medallions on individual plates with a drizzle of garlic herb butter, paired with mashed potatoes and steamed asparagus for a classic steak dinner.
2. Family-Style Platter: Arrange the medallions on a large platter with roasted vegetables and a bowl of garlic herb butter on the side for sharing.
3. Surf and Turf: Pair the medallions with grilled shrimp or seared scallops for an indulgent surf and turf experience.
4. On a Bed of Greens: Serve the steak medallions on a bed of arugula or spinach, drizzled with balsamic glaze for a lighter option.
5. Steak Bites: Slice the medallions into smaller pieces and serve them as steak bites with toothpicks, perfect for appetizers or casual gatherings.

Additional Tips for Success

1. Use High-Quality Beef
   Tenderloin is ideal for medallions due to its tenderness and mild flavor. Look for well-marbled cuts for the best results.
2. Preheat the Skillet
   A hot skillet is essential for achieving a good sear. Preheat the pan for a few minutes before adding the steak.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
   Cook the medallions in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan can cause the steak to steam instead of sear.
4. Rest the Meat
   Allow the steak to rest after cooking. This redistributes the juices and ensures a juicy, flavorful result.
5. Customize the Butter
   Experiment with different herbs, spices, or citrus zest in the garlic herb butter to tailor the flavor to your liking.

Recipe Variations

1. Peppercorn Crusted Medallions
   Coat the medallions in cracked black pepper before searing for a bold, spicy crust. Serve with a creamy peppercorn sauce.
2. Red Wine Reduction
   Deglaze the skillet with red wine after cooking the medallions. Simmer until reduced, then drizzle over the steak for added richness.
3. Herb-Crusted Medallions
   Press a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and herbs onto one side of the medallions before searing for a crispy, flavorful crust.
4. Blue Cheese Butter
   Swap the garlic herb butter for a blue cheese compound butter for a tangy, indulgent topping.
5. Grilled Medallions
   Cook the medallions on a hot grill instead of a skillet for a smoky, charred flavor.

Freezing and Storing

Refrigeration

Store leftover steak medallions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to preserve the texture and flavor.

Freezing

Wrap uncooked or cooked medallions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking or reheating.

Reheating Tips

To avoid overcooking, reheat medallions in a skillet with a splash of beef broth or butter. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 275°F (135°C) until warmed through.

Healthier Twist Ideas

1. Leaner Cut Options
   Use sirloin medallions for a leaner alternative to tenderloin. Adjust the cooking time to ensure tenderness.
2. Lighten the Butter
   Use a smaller amount of garlic herb butter or substitute with olive oil for a lighter dish.
3. Vegetable Sides
   Pair the medallions with nutrient-rich sides like roasted Brussels sprouts, quinoa, or a fresh garden salad.
4. Whole Grain Mustard Sauce
   Replace the garlic herb butter with a tangy mustard sauce made from whole-grain mustard, Greek yogurt, and lemon juice.
5. Grill Instead of Pan-Sear
   Grilling the medallions reduces the need for added fats while imparting a smoky flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Events

1. Elegant Dinner Parties
   Serve the medallions with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, and a bottle of red wine for a sophisticated main course.
2. Casual Family Dinner
   Pair the medallions with garlic bread and a side of sautéed green beans for a hearty and satisfying family meal.
3. Romantic Date Night
   Plate the medallions with risotto or truffle mashed potatoes, and garnish with edible flowers for a romantic touch.
4. Holiday Celebrations
   Use the medallions as the centerpiece of a holiday meal, surrounded by festive sides like glazed carrots and cranberry sauce.
5. Appetizer Spread
   Slice the medallions into bite-sized pieces and serve with dipping sauces like chimichurri or horseradish cream for an appetizer platter.

Special Equipment

1. Cast-Iron Skillet
   Essential for achieving a perfect sear and even cooking.
2. Meat Thermometer
   Ensures accurate cooking to your preferred doneness.
3. Tongs
   Makes flipping the medallions easier without piercing the meat and losing juices.
4. Garlic Press
   Speeds up the process of mincing garlic for the herb butter.
5. Plastic Wrap
   Helps shape and store the garlic herb butter for easy slicing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What’s the best doneness for steak medallions?
   Medium-rare (130°F) is recommended for tenderloin medallions, but you can adjust to your preference.
2. Can I use a different cut of beef?
   Yes, sirloin or ribeye can be used, though tenderloin is preferred for its tenderness.
3. Do I need to marinate the steak?
   No, tenderloin is naturally tender and flavorful, but you can marinate it if desired.
4. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
   Yes, substitute the garlic herb butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative.
5. How do I prevent the steak from drying out?
   Avoid overcooking and let the steak rest after cooking to retain its juices.
6. Can I cook the medallions in the oven?
   Yes, sear the medallions in a skillet first, then finish in a 400°F oven for 5-7 minutes.
7. What sides pair best with this dish?
   Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad are excellent choices.
8. How long should I let the steak rest?
   Rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.

Conclusion

Steak Medallions with Garlic Herb Butter are the perfect combination of elegance, flavor, and simplicity. This versatile dish works equally well for intimate dinners and grand celebrations, offering tender, juicy steak complemented by the richness of herb-infused butter.

With minimal preparation and a quick cook time, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in the comfort of your own kitchen. Customize the flavors, experiment with sides, and enjoy a meal that’s as impressive as it is satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or treating yourself, Steak Medallions are a surefire way to elevate any occasion.

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