There’s something undeniably alluring about a perfectly cooked steak, especially when it’s topped with a luxurious Parmesan butter and drizzled with a rich balsamic glaze. This Steak with Parmesan Butter and Balsamic Glaze recipe takes a classic dish to the next level, marrying the savory flavors of rib-eye steak with the creamy, nutty notes of Parmesan and the sweet tang of balsamic vinegar. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a special meal, this dish is sure to impress.
What Makes This Recipe Special

What sets this recipe apart is the combination of flavors and textures. The rib-eye steak, known for its marbling and tenderness, is elevated by the addition of a homemade Parmesan butter that melts beautifully over the hot steak, creating a rich and indulgent sauce. The balsamic glaze, infused with shallots and a hint of brown sugar, adds a luscious sweetness that perfectly balances the savory elements of the dish. Served over a bed of fresh arugula or mixed greens, this dish is not only delicious but also visually stunning.
Ingredient List
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Parmesan cheese shavings, for garnish
- 1 1/2 tablespoons butter, room temperature
- 1 12-ounce rib-eye steak
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup finely chopped shallots
- 1/2 teaspoon (packed) dark brown sugar
- 4 cups (lightly packed) arugula or mixed greens
- 2 large lemon wedges
Tools of the Trade
- Cast-iron skillet: Perfect for achieving a beautiful sear on the steak.
- Meat thermometer: Ensures your steak is cooked to your desired doneness.
- Whisk: Ideal for combining the balsamic glaze ingredients.
- Sharp knife: Necessary for slicing the steak and garnishing with cheese.
- Cutting board: A must-have for resting the steak after cooking.
From Start to Finish: Steak with Parmesan Butter and Balsamic Glaze

Step 1: Prepare the Parmesan Butter
Start by mixing the room temperature butter with the grated Parmesan cheese in a small bowl. Stir until well combined, and set aside. This will be the luscious topping for your steak.
Step 2: Season the Steak
Pat the rib-eye steak dry with paper towels, which helps achieve a great sear. Rub the steak with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Step 3: Sear the Steak
Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat until it’s very hot. Place the steak in the skillet and sear for about 4-5 minutes on one side, without moving it. Flip the steak and cook for another 3-4 minutes for medium-rare, or until it reaches your desired doneness.
Step 4: Make the Balsamic Glaze
While the steak is cooking, prepare the balsamic glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar, chopped shallots, and brown sugar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture has reduced and thickened slightly.
Step 5: Rest the Steak
Once the steak is cooked, transfer it to a cutting board and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and juicy steak.
Step 6: Plate and Serve
To serve, place a generous handful of arugula or mixed greens on each plate. Slice the steak against the grain and arrange it on top of the greens. Spoon the balsamic glaze over the steak and finish with dollops of the Parmesan butter. Add a few shavings of Parmesan cheese for an extra touch. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a burst of freshness.
Customize for Your Needs

- Steak Cut: Feel free to substitute the rib-eye with another cut of steak, like sirloin or filet mignon.
- Greens: Swap arugula for spinach or mixed greens based on your preference.
- Flavor Variations: Add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the butter for an herbal twist.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always double-check your ingredients.
Troubles You Can Avoid
Cooking the perfect steak can be intimidating, but here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Do not overcrowd the pan: Cook the steak one at a time for an even sear.
- Skip the thermometer at your own risk: Using a meat thermometer ensures you achieve your desired doneness without guessing.
- Don’t skip the resting step: Allowing the steak to rest is crucial for juiciness.
- Be cautious with the balsamic glaze: Watch it closely as it reduces to prevent burning.
Storing, Freezing & Reheating
Leftover Steak with Parmesan Butter and Balsamic Glaze can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the steak in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Be careful not to overcook it. If you have extra balsamic glaze, store it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week. It makes a delicious addition to salads or roasted vegetables.
Common Qs About Steak with Parmesan Butter and Balsamic Glaze
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan?
While Parmesan adds a unique flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different twist.
How do I know when my steak is done?
The best way to ensure your steak is cooked to perfection is to use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C).
Can I make the balsamic glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the balsamic glaze in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before serving.
What sides pair well with this dish?
This steak pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta
- Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad
- Herb-Crusted Salmon
- Chicken Tikka Masala
Bring It Home
Elevate your dinner game with this Steak with Parmesan Butter and Balsamic Glaze that’s not just a meal, but an experience. The balance of flavors, the tenderness of the steak, and the delightful freshness of the greens come together to create a dish that is both satisfying and elegant. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a special occasion, this recipe promises to bring joy to your table and create lasting memories. So, fire up that skillet and get ready to savor every bite!

Steak with Parmesan Butter and Balsamic Glaze
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- to taste Parmesan cheese shavings for garnish
- 1 1/2 tablespoons butter room temperature
- 1 12-ounce rib-eye steak
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup finely chopped shallots
- 1/2 teaspoon dark brown sugar (packed)
- 4 cups arugula or mixed greens (lightly packed)
- 2 large lemon wedges
Instructions
- Mix the room temperature butter with the grated Parmesan cheese in a small bowl. Stir until well combined and set aside.
- Pat the rib-eye steak dry with paper towels. Rub the steak with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat. Place the steak in the skillet and sear for about 4-5 minutes on one side. Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes for medium-rare.
- In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar, chopped shallots, and brown sugar. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5-7 minutes until it reduces and thickens slightly.
- Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for about 5 minutes.
- Place a handful of arugula or mixed greens on each plate. Slice the steak against the grain, arrange it on the greens, and spoon the balsamic glaze over. Finish with dollops of Parmesan butter and serve with lemon wedges.
Equipment
- Cast-Iron Skillet
- Meat thermometer
- Whisk
- Sharp Knife
- Cutting Board
Notes
- Substitute rib-eye with sirloin or filet mignon as desired.
- Swap arugula for spinach or mixed greens based on preference.
- Add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the butter for an herbal twist.
