There’s nothing quite like a perfectly cooked ribeye steak. It’s a cut of meat known for its marbling and tenderness, making it a favorite among steak lovers. This recipe highlights the natural flavors of the ribeye, enhanced with a simple but effective seasoning blend. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving a hearty meal, this ribeye steak recipe is a must-try. Follow these steps to achieve a restaurant-quality steak right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 ribeye steaks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Steaks:
- Remove the ribeye steaks from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This ensures even cooking.
- Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
2. Season the Steaks:
- In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the olive oil all over the steaks, then sprinkle the seasoning blend evenly on both sides of the steaks. Press the seasoning into the meat to ensure it adheres well.
3. Preheat the Pan:
- Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over high heat until it’s very hot. You should see a bit of smoke just before adding the steaks.
4. Sear the Steaks:
- Place the steaks in the hot skillet without overcrowding (cook in batches if necessary).
- Sear the steaks for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or adjust the time to your preferred doneness. Use tongs to turn the steaks and avoid piercing the meat, which can cause juices to escape.
- If your steaks are thick, you can also sear the edges by holding them with tongs.
5. Rest the Steaks:
- Once the steaks are cooked to your liking, transfer them to a cutting board.
- Tent the steaks with aluminum foil and let them rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
6. Serve:
- Slice the steaks against the grain and serve immediately.
- Pair with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Cook’s Notes
- Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak if you’re unsure about doneness. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F (54-57°C); for medium, 140-145°F (60-63°C).
- Resting Time: Resting is crucial as it helps retain the steak’s juices, making it more succulent.
- Oil: Use a high smoke point oil like olive oil or avocado oil for searing.
Variations
- Herb Butter Ribeye:
- Mix softened butter with chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, and rosemary) and a bit of minced garlic. After cooking the steaks, top them with a dollop of herb butter.
- Garlic and Herb Marinade:
- Marinate the steaks in a mixture of olive oil, minced garlic, chopped herbs, and a splash of balsamic vinegar for at least 1 hour before cooking.
- Spicy Ribeye:
- Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
Keto Version
This ribeye steak recipe is naturally keto-friendly. Ensure you use a high-quality olive oil and avoid any sauces that contain sugar or carbohydrates. Serve with low-carb sides like cauliflower mash or a green salad.
Low-Carb Version
Similar to the keto version, this ribeye steak recipe fits well into a low-carb diet. Pair it with roasted vegetables, sautéed spinach, or zucchini noodles for a complete low-carb meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I cook ribeye steak on a grill?
- Yes, grilling is an excellent method for cooking ribeye steak. Preheat the grill to high heat and cook the steaks for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on your preferred doneness.
2. What’s the best way to store leftover steak?
- Store leftover steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, avoid overcooking by using gentle heat, such as in a low oven or microwave.
3. Can I use this seasoning blend for other cuts of steak?
- Absolutely! This seasoning blend works well with other cuts like New York strip, sirloin, or filet mignon.
4. How do I know when the steak is done without a thermometer?
- You can use the finger test method: gently press the steak with your finger. A rare steak feels soft and spongy, medium-rare feels slightly springy, medium feels firmer, and well-done feels very firm.
5. Can I cook ribeye steak in the oven?
- Yes, you can. Sear the steak in a hot skillet first, then transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) and cook for about 5-7 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steak and desired doneness.
A perfectly cooked ribeye steak is a culinary delight that’s surprisingly simple to achieve at home. With this straightforward recipe, you’ll be able to impress family and friends with a steak that rivals those from your favorite steakhouse. Whether you’re sticking to the classic preparation or trying out one of the delicious variations, this ribeye steak recipe is one you’ll want to keep handy. Enjoy the rich, savory flavors of a well-seasoned and expertly cooked ribeye steak, and don’t forget to share the love (and the recipe) with fellow steak enthusiasts!
