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Perfect Pan-Seared Tuna Steaks with Garlic Herb Butter

Close-up of a perfectly seared tuna steak, sliced to show the rare pink center and herb crust.
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Cook restaurant-quality tuna steaks at home in under 10 minutes. This recipe uses a simple pan-sear method and basting with garlic herb butter for a tender, flavorful result.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 (6-ounce) ahi tuna steaks, about 1 inch thick
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Pat the tuna steaks completely dry using paper towels. Season both sides evenly with salt and pepper.
  2. Place a heavy-bottomed skillet, like cast iron, over high heat. Add the olive oil. Wait until the oil shimmers slightly.
  3. Carefully place the tuna steaks in the hot skillet. Sear for 1.5 to 2 minutes without moving them to develop a crust.
  4. Flip the steaks. Immediately add the butter, minced garlic, and thyme to the skillet.
  5. As the butter melts, tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to continuously baste the melting garlic butter over the top of the tuna steaks for another 1.5 to 2 minutes.
  6. Remove the tuna from the pan immediately. The center should be rare to medium-rare.
  7. Let the steaks rest on a cutting board for 3 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before slicing against the grain.

Notes

  • For a medium sear, cook for 2.5 minutes per side, basting constantly.
  • If you prefer a spicy crust, lightly coat the tuna with Cajun seasoning before searing for a blackened tuna steak effect.
  • Use high-quality, sushi-grade tuna for the best texture and flavor.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://dishicious.com/tuna-steak-perfect-pan-seared-garlic-butter/