A perfectly cooked ribeye steak is a true indulgence for meat lovers. With its rich marbling, deep beefy flavor, and tender texture, ribeye is one of the best cuts of steak. Whether you prefer grilling, pan-searing, or oven-finishing, mastering the art of cooking ribeye steak ensures a restaurant-quality experience at home. In this guide, we will take you through everything you need to know to prepare the juiciest, most flavorful ribeye steak.
Ingredients
- 2 ribeye steaks (1 to 1.5 inches thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 2 teaspoons coarse sea salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme
- 2 cloves garlic, smashed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for basting)
Instructions
1. Choose the Right Cut
- Select high-quality, well-marbled ribeye steak.
- Opt for USDA Prime or Choice for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Bring the steak to room temperature for 30-45 minutes before cooking.
2. Season the Steak
- Pat the steak dry with paper towels to ensure a perfect sear.
- Drizzle olive oil or melted butter over both sides.
- Generously season with salt and black pepper.
- Add garlic powder and onion powder for extra flavor.
3. Preheat Your Cooking Surface
- If grilling, preheat the grill to high heat (450-500°F).
- If pan-searing, heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat until smoking hot.
4. Sear the Steak
- Place the steak on the hot grill or pan and let it sear for 3-4 minutes without moving it.
- Flip the steak and sear the other side for another 3-4 minutes.
5. Baste with Butter and Aromatics
- Reduce heat to medium-low.
- Add butter, smashed garlic, and fresh rosemary or thyme to the pan.
- Tilt the pan slightly and spoon the melted butter over the steak repeatedly.
6. Check for Doneness
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature:
- Rare: 120-125°F
- Medium-Rare: 130-135°F
- Medium: 140-145°F
- Medium-Well: 150-155°F
- Well-Done: 160°F+
7. Rest the Steak
- Transfer the steak to a plate and cover loosely with foil.
- Let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
8. Slice and Serve
- Slice against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Serve with your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips for the Best Ribeye Steak
- Use a cast-iron skillet for the best sear if cooking indoors.
- Avoid flipping too often; let each side develop a deep crust.
- Always rest the steak before cutting to keep it juicy.
- Experiment with different seasonings like smoked paprika or chili flakes for a unique flavor.
Mastering ribeye steak ensures a mouthwatering meal every time. Whether for a special occasion or a simple indulgence, this ribeye steak recipe guarantees the perfect balance of texture and flavor. Enjoy your juicy, tender, and perfectly cooked steak!