ender and delicious Ribeye Steak cooked to a juicy perfection! Seasoned with fresh herbs, then cooked in a cast-iron skillet and basted with garlic butter, everyone will love this easy steak recipe!
Cooking a ribeye steak at home is an experience that elevates a simple meal into a culinary delight, allowing you to enjoy one of the most flavorful cuts of beef in the comfort of your own kitchen. Known for its marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor, the ribeye is a favorite among steak enthusiasts. Here’s a detailed description of how to prepare an easy homemade ribeye that will impress your family or guests.
The journey to a delicious homemade ribeye begins with selecting the right cut of meat. Look for a ribeye steak with good marbling—tiny flecks of fat interspersed throughout the muscle. This marbling is essential, as it melts during cooking, infusing the steak with flavor and ensuring a juicy, tender bite. A well-aged ribeye, preferably USDA Prime or Choice, will have a rich, beefy flavor that truly stands out.
Before cooking, let the ribeye sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps the steak cook more evenly. Pat the steak dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear, then generously season both sides with coarse salt and freshly cracked black pepper. This simple seasoning enhances the natural flavors of the beef without overpowering it. You can also add a sprinkle of garlic powder or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch.
1. **Preheat the Pan:** Choose a heavy skillet, preferably cast iron or stainless steel, and preheat it over medium-high heat until it’s very hot. This step is crucial for achieving a perfect sear.
2. **Add Oil:** Once the pan is hot, add a high smoke point oil, such as canola or avocado oil. Swirl the oil to coat the bottom of the pan evenly.
3. **Sear the Steak:** Place the ribeye in the pan, laying it away from you to avoid splattering. Allow it to sear undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes. The goal is to develop a rich, caramelized crust.
4. **Flip and Add Flavor:** After the first side has developed a beautiful brown crust, flip the steak using tongs. Immediately add a couple of tablespoons of unsalted butter and a few sprigs of fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary) to the pan. As the butter melts, tilt the pan and use a spoon to baste the steak with the butter and herbs. This technique enhances flavor and adds moisture.
5. **Cooking to Desired Doneness:** Continue cooking the steak for another 4-5 minutes for medium-rare (130-135°F). Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. If you prefer medium (135-145°F), cook for an additional minute or two.
6. **Resting the Steak:** Once done, transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.
### Serving
After resting, slice the ribeye against the grain to maximize tenderness. The cross-section will reveal a beautifully cooked steak with a lovely pink center. Serve it alongside your favorite sides, such as creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad. A drizzle of balsamic reduction or a sprinkle of finishing salt can elevate the dish further.
### Final Thoughts
An easy homemade ribeye is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The aromas wafting through your kitchen as it cooks, the sound of the sear, and the anticipation of that first juicy bite all come together to create a memorable dining experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a night in, cooking a ribeye steak at home allows you to savor the true essence of beef in a way that’s both satisfying and indulgent. So fire up your skillet, and prepare to enjoy a steakhouse-quality ribeye right in your own home!
Ingredients:
- 1 (24-oz) 2-inch-thick rib-eye steak, at room temperature
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp canola oil
- 3 tbsp of unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, crushed
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
Directions:
-Pat dry the steak with paper towels.
-Rub the steak with 1/2 tsp of pepper and 1 1/4 tsp of salt.
-Place a cast-iron pan on the stove and turn the heat to medium-high.
-Add oil and allow it to become hot.
-Put the steak into the hot pan and cook each side for about 3 minutes in 12 minutes until dark brown.
-Turn the heat down to medium-low.
-Set aside the steak on one side of the pan, then add butter, thyme, rosemary, and garlic. Allow the butter to melt for a minute.
-Spoon the melted butter over the steak and cook for another 2 minutes. Make sure to flip the steak to glaze the other side with butter as well. Cook the steak to your preference.
-Remove from the pan and transfer the steak onto a clean cutting board. Allow it to rest for at least 16 minutes.
-Slice into bite-size pieces.
-Serve and enjoy!