Elevate your steak night with this irresistible Sugared Steak recipe, a perfect balance of savory, smoky, and subtly sweet flavors. Tender ribeye or sirloin steaks are coated in a bold brown sugar and spice rub featuring smoked paprika and an optional kick of cayenne, then seared to perfection in a hot cast-iron skillet. The finishing touch? A fragrant butter baste infused with smashed garlic and fresh rosemary, ensuring every bite is bursting with indulgent flavor. Ready in just 25 minutes, this recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Pair with roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad for a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. This ensures a good sear.
In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to create the sugared rub.
Generously coat both sides of each steak with the sugar-spice mixture, pressing it into the meat.
Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until very hot, about 3-4 minutes.
Add olive oil to the skillet. Once the oil shimmers, carefully place the steaks in the pan without overcrowding. Cook in batches if necessary.
Sear the steaks for 3-4 minutes on the first side until a golden-brown crust forms. Flip the steaks and add butter, smashed garlic, and rosemary sprigs to the pan.
Using a spoon, baste the steaks with the melted butter and pan drippings for 2-3 minutes. Cook to your desired doneness: 125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, or 145°F for medium.
Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest on a cutting board for 5-7 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
Serve immediately, garnished with a sprig of rosemary if desired. Pair with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Calories |
2420 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 197.5 g | 253% | |
| Saturated Fat | 78.4 g | 392% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 610 mg | 203% | |
| Sodium | 1712 mg | 74% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 29.4 g | 11% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.7 g | 2% | |
| Total Sugars | 26.4 g | ||
| Protein | 175.0 g | 350% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.3 mcg | 7% | |
| Calcium | 117 mg | 9% | |
| Iron | 18.5 mg | 103% | |
| Potassium | 2252 mg | 48% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.