This pan-seared ribeye steak is a classic dish that highlights the rich flavor and tenderness of this cut of meat. Using a cast iron skillet, you can achieve a perfect crust while keeping the inside juicy and medium-rare.
The combination of salt, pepper, and garlic-herb butter elevates the steak to a restaurant-quality meal.
The recipe is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for any home cook. With a few simple steps, you can create a delicious ribeye steak that is sure to impress.
Understanding Ribeye Steak
The ribeye steak is a prized cut known for its rich marbling and tenderness. This boneless cut is perfect for those who appreciate a juicy, flavorful piece of meat.
When cooked correctly, ribeye steaks develop a beautiful crust while remaining tender and medium-rare inside. The marbling in the meat contributes to its flavor, making it a favorite among steak lovers.
To achieve the perfect ribeye, it’s essential to start with steaks at room temperature. This allows for even cooking, ensuring that every bite is as delicious as the last.
Preparing for the Perfect Sear
Before cooking, take the ribeye steaks out of the refrigerator and let them sit for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect sear.
Season the steaks generously with kosher salt and ground black pepper. The seasoning enhances the natural flavors of the meat, creating a delightful contrast with the crust that develops during cooking.
Next, preheat a cast iron skillet over high heat. The skillet should be very hot before adding oil, which will help create that coveted golden crust.
The Searing Process
Once the skillet is ready, add a tablespoon of vegetable oil and let it shimmer. Carefully place the seasoned ribeye steaks in the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
Sear the steaks for about 4-5 minutes without moving them. This allows a crust to form, locking in the juices and flavor.
After the initial sear, use tongs to flip the steaks. At this point, add butter, crushed garlic, and fresh herbs to the skillet. Basting the steaks with the melted butter infuses them with additional flavor, enhancing the overall taste.
Finishing Touches in the Oven
If your ribeye steaks are thick, transferring the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) is a great way to finish cooking them to your desired doneness.
For medium-rare, aim for an additional 5-7 minutes in the oven. This method ensures even cooking throughout the steak, resulting in a juicy and tender bite.
Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the steaks rest for 5-10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is full of flavor.
Serving Your Ribeye Steak
After resting, slice the ribeye against the grain. This technique helps maintain tenderness in each bite.
Plate the slices and drizzle with the garlic-herb butter from the skillet. Garnishing with fresh herbs adds a touch of color and freshness to the dish.
Pair your beautifully cooked ribeye steak with sides of your choice for a hearty meal. The combination of flavors and textures will surely impress anyone at the table.
Cooking Tips for Success
To achieve the best results, consider the following tips. Always use a high-quality ribeye steak for optimal flavor and tenderness.
Monitor the cooking time closely, as it can vary based on the thickness of the steak and the heat of your skillet.
Experiment with different herbs and seasonings to customize the flavor profile to your liking. Each variation can bring a new twist to this classic dish.
Perfectly Cooked Ribeye Steak
This ribeye steak is thick and boneless, marbled for flavor and tenderness. The cooking process involves searing the steak in a hot skillet with oil and butter, then finishing it in the oven for even doneness. The total cook time is about 15-20 minutes, depending on your desired doneness. Let the steak rest before slicing to ensure maximum juiciness.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless ribeye steaks, at room temperature
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, crushed
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary) for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Steaks: Take the ribeye steaks out of the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps them cook evenly.
- Season: Generously season both sides of the steaks with kosher salt and ground black pepper.
- Heat the Skillet: Preheat a cast iron skillet over high heat until it’s very hot. Add the vegetable oil and let it heat until shimmering.
- Sear the Steaks: Carefully place the steaks in the skillet. Sear for about 4-5 minutes without moving them to develop a nice crust.
- Flip and Add Flavor: Use tongs to flip the steaks. Add butter, crushed garlic, and fresh herbs to the skillet. Baste the steaks with the melted butter for added flavor.
- Finish Cooking: If the steaks are thick, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) to finish cooking to your desired doneness (about 5-7 minutes for medium-rare).
- Rest: Remove the steaks from the oven and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute.
- Serve: Slice the steaks against the grain and plate them. Drizzle with the garlic-herb butter from the skillet and garnish with fresh herbs.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 2 servings
- Calories: 650kcal
- Fat: 50g
- Protein: 50g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
This recipe is part of my 39 Simple Valentine’s Day Recipes. Just click that link to see all the amazing options!
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