🥩 Juicy Ribeye Steak with Butter
Description
A perfectly seared ribeye steak is the holy grail of carnivorous cooking — juicy, tender, and bursting with rich, beefy flavor. This recipe uses a hot cast-iron skillet for a gorgeous crust, butter for richness, and simple seasonings to let the meat shine. Perfect for special occasions or a decadent weeknight treat.
Imagine the sizzle as the steak hits the pan, the butter melting and mingling with garlic and herbs, creating a sauce you’ll want to mop up with every bite.
Ingredients (For 2 servings)
- 2 ribeye steaks (about 1-inch thick, 300–350g / 10–12 oz each)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or high smoke-point oil like avocado oil)
- 2 garlic cloves, smashed
- 2–3 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary
- Salt (preferably kosher or flaky) – to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper – to taste
Instructions
- Bring steak to room temperature
Remove from the fridge 30–45 minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking. - Season generously
Pat dry with paper towels. Season both sides liberally with salt and pepper. - Heat your skillet
Place a heavy cast-iron skillet over high heat. Add the olive oil and heat until shimmering, just before smoking. - Sear the steak
Carefully place the ribeye in the pan. Sear for 2–3 minutes per side without moving it for a deep brown crust. - Add butter & aromatics
Reduce heat to medium-low. Add 2 tbsp butter, garlic, and herbs. Tilt the pan slightly and spoon the melted butter over the steak repeatedly for 1–2 minutes (basting). - Check doneness
- Rare: 120°F (49°C)
- Medium-rare: 130°F (54°C)
- Medium: 140°F (60°C)
Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Rest the steak
Transfer to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This locks in juices. - Serve
Drizzle over any leftover butter from the pan. Pair with mashed potatoes, grilled veggies, or a fresh salad.
Notes
- Ribeye has a high fat marbling — that’s where the juiciness comes from.
- A cast-iron pan is key for achieving that restaurant-quality crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan — cook steaks one at a time if needed.
Tips
- Dry the steak well before cooking — moisture prevents browning.
- Baste often — it enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Avoid constant flipping — let the crust form before turning.
- If your steak is thicker than 1.5 inches, you may need to finish in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes.
Servings
Yield: 2 servings
Serving Size: 1 steak (~300g cooked weight)
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 720 kcal
- Protein: 55g
- Fat: 55g
- Saturated Fat: 24g
- Carbs: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sodium: 620mg
Benefits
- High protein for muscle maintenance & repair
- Rich in iron for healthy red blood cells
- B vitamins for energy metabolism
- Creatine & amino acids for strength and performance
- Healthy fats (in moderation) support hormone production
Q & A
Q: Can I use salted butter?
A: Yes, but reduce added salt slightly to avoid over-seasoning.
Q: What if I don’t have a cast-iron skillet?
A: Use a heavy stainless steel pan — just make sure it can handle high heat.
Q: Can I cook it entirely in the oven?
A: Yes, but you’ll miss that deep crust. For best results, sear first, then finish in the oven.
Q: How do I make it more tender?
A: Choose well-marbled steaks and don’t overcook. Letting it rest is also crucial.
Q: Can I make this on the grill?
A: Absolutely. Grill over high direct heat, then move to indirect heat to finish.