When it comes to preparing a delicious and nutritious meal that combines savory flavors and seasonal ingredients, Garlic Butter Steak with Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash is a winning combination. This dish brings together tender steak, crispy Brussels sprouts, and the sweet richness of roasted butternut squash, creating a meal that is both indulgent and healthy. Whether you’re planning a cozy fall dinner for family or hosting a gathering with friends, this meal is sure to impress.
The Perfect Fall Feast
As the days grow shorter and cooler, our cravings shift toward heartier, warming meals. Fall is the perfect time to indulge in Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash, two vegetables that not only thrive in this season but also complement each other wonderfully in both taste and texture. Roasting the Brussels sprouts to crispy perfection and the butternut squash to a soft, caramelized finish brings out their natural sweetness, making them the ideal pairing for the rich, savory steak.
But it’s not just about the vegetables — this recipe also features a juicy, tender steak, seared to perfection and finished off with a flavorful garlic butter steak sauce. The garlic butter steak glaze brings a luscious richness that complements the vegetables and adds a touch of elegance to the dish.
Let’s take a closer look at how to prepare this healthy gourmet meal that is both comforting and refined.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before diving into the preparation steps, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to create this flavorful dinner.
For the Garlic Butter Steak:
- 2 boneless ribeye steaks (or your preferred cut)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 small butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar for drizzling over the Brussels sprouts
The Health Benefits of Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash
Both Brussels sprouts and butternut squash are packed with nutrients, making them an excellent addition to any meal. Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash are not only delicious but also provide numerous health benefits.
- Brussels Sprouts are rich in fiber, vitamins C and K, and folate. These little green vegetables have potent antioxidant properties and can help support digestion, reduce inflammation, and strengthen the immune system.
- Butternut Squash is a great source of vitamin A, which is important for eye health, as well as vitamins C and E. This sweet squash is also packed with potassium, which helps maintain proper heart function, and it’s a good source of beta-carotene, which can promote healthy skin.
With both vegetables, you’re getting a serving of healthy fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making this meal not only flavorful but nourishing too.
Preparing the Steak: The Key to a Tender Garlic Butter Steak
The star of this dish is the steak, and achieving the perfect tender steak requires a little attention to detail. Here’s how you can get a juicy, flavorful steak with a garlic butter steak finish.
- Season the Steak: Start by generously seasoning the steak with salt and pepper on both sides. The seasoning enhances the natural flavor of the meat, creating a savory base for the garlic butter sauce.
- Sear the Steak: Heat a heavy skillet (preferably cast-iron) over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. When the pan is hot, place the steak in the pan and let it sear without moving it. For a medium-rare steak, cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, adjusting the cooking time based on your desired level of doneness.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: While the steak is cooking, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a separate pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and rosemary, letting them sauté in the butter for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. This garlic butter sauce will be poured over the steak later to create a rich, savory coating.
- Rest the Steak: Once the steak is cooked to your desired doneness, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for at least 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a tender, juicy steak.
Once the steak is rested, pour the warm garlic butter steak sauce over the top for that perfect finishing touch.
Roasting Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash to Crispy Perfection
While the steak is resting, you can focus on preparing the Brussels sprouts and butternut squash. Roasting these vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and allows them to become perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining tender on the inside.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Start by trimming the Brussels sprouts, removing any outer leaves, and slicing them in half. For the butternut squash, peel it, scoop out the seeds, and cut it into small cubes.
- Season and Roast: Place the Brussels sprouts and butternut squash on a baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and paprika. Toss to coat evenly. Roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time to ensure even roasting. The Brussels sprouts should become crispy on the edges, and the butternut squash will caramelize and turn golden brown.
- Optional Balsamic Drizzle: For added flavor, you can drizzle a little balsamic vinegar over the Brussels sprouts during the last few minutes of roasting. This will add a tangy contrast to their sweetness and give them a rich depth of flavor.
Putting It All Together: A Flavorful Dinner
Once everything is ready, it’s time to plate and enjoy. Start by arranging the roasted Brussels sprouts and butternut squash on a large platter. Place the garlic butter steak on top, and drizzle the remaining garlic butter sauce over the steak. The warm, crispy vegetables will complement the tender steak perfectly, creating a balanced and satisfying dish.
This Garlic Butter Steak with Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash is not only a visually stunning meal but also a feast for the senses. The richness of the steak and garlic butter pairs harmoniously with the earthy, slightly bitter Brussels sprouts and the sweet, creamy butternut squash. It’s the ideal fall feast that combines comfort food with a touch of gourmet elegance.
Tips for Customization and Variations
While this recipe is delicious as is, there are several ways you can customize it to suit your preferences:
- Different Cuts of Steak: If you prefer a different cut of steak, feel free to swap out the ribeye for a sirloin, filet mignon, or New York strip. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness and cut of the meat.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce or seasoning the Brussels sprouts with chili powder or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Option: If you’re looking for a vegetarian version of this dish, simply replace the steak with a hearty plant-based protein, such as a thick slice of grilled portobello mushroom or a vegetarian patty.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme, sage, or parsley can be added to the garlic butter sauce for an extra layer of fragrance and flavor.
Conclusion
The combination of crispy Brussels sprouts, sweet butternut squash, and a tender steak glazed with garlic butter creates a truly flavorful dinner that is both satisfying and wholesome. Perfect for a fall feast, this dish provides all the comforting flavors of the season while maintaining a balance of nutrition and indulgence. Whether you’re hosting a special gathering or simply want to treat yourself to a gourmet dinner, this healthy gourmet meal is sure to please the palate and warm the soul.
So, the next time you’re craving a delicious, seasonal meal, give this Garlic Butter Steak with Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash a try. It’s a dish that beautifully blends rich flavors and seasonal ingredients, making it an unforgettable addition to your culinary repertoire.
