Juicy Ribeye Steak Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 Ribeye steak (1.5 – 2 inches thick, about 1 lb)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or beef tallow for even more flavor)
- Salt (preferably kosher or sea salt)
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, smashed
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme (optional)
- 1-2 tablespoons butter (for finishing)
- Optional: Fresh rosemary sprigs
Instructions:
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Prepare the Steak
- Take the ribeye steak out of the fridge and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This ensures even cooking.
- Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps get a nice sear on the steak.
- Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. You can also sprinkle a bit of garlic powder if you like, but the steak’s natural flavor will shine with just salt and pepper.
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Preheat the Skillet
- Heat a heavy skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high to high heat. You want it to be really hot to get a nice sear on the steak.
- Add the olive oil (or beef tallow) and let it heat up until it’s shimmering but not smoking.
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Sear the Steak
- Place the ribeye steak in the hot skillet. Let it sear without moving it for about 3-4 minutes on one side until a golden-brown crust forms.
- Flip the steak and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side. For medium-rare, you want an internal temperature of about 130°F (54°C). Adjust the time if you prefer it more rare or well done.
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Baste for Extra Flavor
- When the steak is almost done, add the smashed garlic cloves and thyme (and rosemary, if using) to the pan.
- Add butter to the skillet. As it melts, tilt the pan slightly and spoon the melted butter over the steak continuously for about 1-2 minutes. This adds richness and helps keep the steak juicy.
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Rest the Steak
- Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute inside the steak, making it even juicier.
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Serve
- Slice the steak against the grain for the best texture and tenderness. Serve it as is or with your favorite side dish (like crispy fries, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad).
Tips:
- For Perfect Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to get your desired doneness:
- Rare: 120°F (49°C)
- Medium-rare: 130°F (54°C)
- Medium: 140°F (60°C)
- Medium-well: 150°F (66°C)
- Well done: 160°F (71°C)
- Resting the Steak: Don’t skip this step! Resting allows the steak to retain its juices, keeping it juicy and tender.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked, juicy ribeye steak! 🍽️