Garlic Herb Butter Steak with Roasted Potatoes: The Perfect Pairing with Natural Wines

When it comes to indulgent, soul-satisfying dinners, nothing beats a perfectly cooked steak. Add a side of crispy roasted potatoes and a glass of exceptional natural wine, and you have yourself the ultimate Steak Night. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to make the juiciest garlic herb butter steak, perfectly roasted potatoes, and how to pair this decadent meal with the best natural wines. Whether you’re planning a dinner for two or a gathering with friends, this guide will elevate your night.

Why Natural Wine?

Natural wines are made with minimal intervention, often using organic or biodynamic grapes, native yeasts, and little to no added sulfites. They are vibrant, expressive, and pair beautifully with rich dishes like steak. Unlike conventional wines, natural wines can offer unique flavors and a cleaner finish that enhances the meat’s savory richness.

Ingredients for Garlic Herb Butter Steak:

For the Steak:

• 2 ribeye steaks (or cut of your choice: sirloin, filet mignon, NY strip)
• Kosher salt
• Freshly cracked black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Garlic Herb Butter:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced or crushed
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for brightness)

For the Roasted Potatoes:

• 4-5 small Yukon gold potatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prep the Steak: Take the steaks out of the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature for at least 20-30 minutes. This helps them cook more evenly. Pat them dry with a paper towel and season generously on both sides with salt and black pepper.

2. Make the Garlic Herb Butter: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with garlic, rosemary, thyme, and lemon zest. Set aside. You can also make this ahead and keep it in the fridge.

3. Roast the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the halved potatoes in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet cut-side down. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until golden and crispy. Flip halfway through for even browning.

4. Cook the Steak: Heat a cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over high heat. Add olive oil. Once hot and shimmering, place the steaks in the pan. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side, depending on thickness and desired doneness.

After flipping the steak, add the herb butter to the pan. Tilt the pan and use a spoon to baste the steak with the melted butter mixture. This step adds incredible flavor and moisture.

5. Rest and Serve: Transfer the steaks to a plate and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat even more tender and flavorful.

Serve the steak with the roasted potatoes and a dollop of remaining herb butter on top.

Wine Pairing: The Best Natural Wines for Steak Night

Here are our top picks for natural wines that will elevate your steak experience:

1. Syrah (Shiraz)

A bold and spicy red with flavors of black pepper, blackberry, and smoke. Syrah pairs perfectly with garlic herb butter steak due to its robust structure and savory undertones.

Try: A natural Syrah from the Northern Rhône Valley in France or a biodynamic Shiraz from Australia.

2. Cabernet Sauvignon

The king of steak wines. Rich, tannic, and full-bodied, Cabernet Sauvignon complements the meaty flavors of ribeye or sirloin.

Try: A low-intervention Cabernet from Napa Valley or a natural producer in Chile.

3. Malbec

A juicy, fruit-forward wine with soft tannins and flavors of plum and dark cherry. Malbec enhances the herbaceous notes of the butter and stands up to the richness of the steak.

Try: A natural Malbec from Argentina, especially from the Mendoza region.

4. Zinfandel

Natural Zinfandels can be bold and jammy, with spicy notes that pair well with roasted potatoes and caramelized crusts.

Try: A dry-farmed Zinfandel from Sonoma County made with native yeasts.

5. Pet-Nat Red

A fun and fizzy option for casual steak nights. Pet-Nat (Pétillant Naturel) reds are lightly sparkling and often feature wild berry notes, a hint of funk, and a touch of earthiness.

Try: A chilled red Pet-Nat from a natural wine bar or local wine shop — perfect if you want something refreshing and unexpected.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Steak Night

• Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfect doneness. 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium.
• Let the Steak Rest: Always rest your meat before slicing to keep it juicy.
• Chill the Wine Slightly: Even red natural wines benefit from a slight chill (around 60°F).
• Serve with a Simple Salad: Something like arugula with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness.
• Use Good Quality Butter and Herbs: Fresh ingredients make all the difference.

Final Thoughts

Steak Night doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few high-quality ingredients, simple techniques, and a thoughtful natural wine pairing, you can create an unforgettable meal at home. Natural wines not only enhance the flavor of the steak but also make the entire experience feel more special and conscious.

So next time you’re craving a hearty, satisfying dinner, pick up some juicy ribeye steaks, whip up a garlic herb butter, roast some crispy potatoes, and pour yourself a glass of natural Syrah or Malbec. Cheers to good food, great wine, and memorable nights.

Don’t forget to check out more recipes and wine pairings at www.dailymeatrecipe.com

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use other cuts of steak for this recipe? A1: Absolutely! While ribeye is rich and flavorful, sirloin, NY strip, or filet mignon all work wonderfully with garlic herb butter.

Q2: What makes a wine “natural”? A2: Natural wine is made with minimal intervention, often without added sulfites, and using native yeasts and organically grown grapes.

Q3: Do I need a cast iron skillet to cook the steak? A3: It’s preferred for a great sear, but any heavy-bottomed skillet will do. Just make sure it gets hot enough.

Q4: Can I make the herb butter ahead of time? A4: Yes! The garlic herb butter can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week.

Q5: Are natural wines available at regular wine shops? A5: More and more stores are carrying natural wines. Look for shops with organic or biodynamic sections, or ask a wine expert for help.

Q6: What are good side dishes besides roasted potatoes? A6: Consider grilled asparagus, sautéed mushrooms, or a fresh green salad to complement the richness of the steak.

Q7: Can I grill the steak instead of pan-searing it? A7: Definitely. Grilling adds a smoky flavor that also pairs beautifully with bold natural wines like Syrah and Zinfandel.