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Easy Smoky Garlic Butter Steak Zucchini Bowl

smoky garlic butter steak zucchini bowl - featured image

A quick and flavorful low-carb steak and zucchini bowl with smoky garlic butter sauce, ready in 25 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb flank steak or sirloin steak (about 450g)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 medium zucchini (about 300g total)
  • ½ teaspoon salt (for zucchini)
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (for zucchini)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (42g)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh lemon wedges (for serving)
  • Flaky sea salt (for finishing)

Instructions

  1. Pat the steak dry with paper towels. Let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes.
  2. In a small bowl, mix 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Rub the mixture all over both sides of the steak.
  3. Trim the ends off the zucchini and slice into half-moons about ¼-inch thick. Toss with ½ teaspoon salt and let sit for 5 minutes. Pat dry with paper towels.
  4. Preheat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and swirl to coat.
  5. Sear the steak for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare (internal temp 130-135°F / 54-57°C). Adjust time for desired doneness.
  6. Transfer the steak to a cutting board and tent loosely with foil. Let rest for 5-7 minutes.
  7. Reduce heat to medium. Add 3 tablespoons butter to the same pan. Once melted and foamy, add minced garlic and ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  8. Add the zucchini slices in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and tender.
  9. Slice the rested steak against the grain into thin strips.
  10. Divide zucchini between two bowls. Top with sliced steak. Drizzle remaining garlic butter from the pan over everything. Sprinkle with parsley, red pepper flakes (if using), and flaky sea salt. Serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

Pat the steak dry for a good sear. Let the pan get properly hot before adding the steak. Watch the garlic closely to avoid burning. Use a meat thermometer for best results. Salt the zucchini ahead of time to draw out moisture. For dairy-free, use ghee or vegan butter. For a different protein, try chicken thighs or shrimp.

Nutrition

Keywords: steak zucchini bowl, smoky garlic butter steak, low-carb steak bowl, quick steak dinner, one-pan steak and zucchini