Rib Eye Steak

Guys, I honestly thought I didn’t like steak that much. BUT OH WAS I WRONG. This Rib Eye Steak recipe is unreal! You will not believe how tender and juicy it is! Salting well ahead of time is the secret. Oh, and tons of garlic butter. This dish is perfect for special occasions or a simple weeknight dinner, and it’s sure to impress anyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tender and Juicy: The salting technique makes the steak incredibly tender and flavorful.
• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of cooking time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: You can grill or cook it on the stovetop, making it suitable for any season.
• Flavor Explosion: The garlic butter sauce elevates the taste, adding rich flavors that everyone will love.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve this steak with fresh herbs and you’ll have a dish that looks just as good as it tastes.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the ingredients, make sure you have all the necessary tools ready for cooking your Rib Eye Steak.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast Iron Skillet or Grill
• Meat Thermometer
• Tongs
• Cutting Board

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast Iron Skillet or Grill: Provides high heat for a perfect sear on your steak, locking in flavors.
• Meat Thermometer: Ensures your steak is cooked to the desired doneness without guessing.
• Tongs: Allows you to flip the steak easily without piercing it and losing juices.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy surface for resting and slicing your steak post-cooking.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ribeye steak (well marbled)
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt (use less salt if you don’t have kosher, see note)
• 1-2 teaspoons vegetable or canola oil
• 3-4 tablespoons salted butter (melted)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary (or 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary)
• 2 cloves garlic (smashed and sliced into strips)
• 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2-3 sprigs fresh rosemary
• additional salt (as needed)

How to Make Rib Eye Steak

Step 1: Choose Your Ribeye Steak

Select either bone-in or boneless ribeye steak. Look for high-quality meat labeled USDA Prime or Choice. The well-marbled fat is crucial as it contributes to flavor.

Step 2: Prepare Your Ribeye Steak

At least 4 hours before cooking, rub the steak generously with kosher salt—about 2 teaspoons total. Place it uncovered in the fridge. This technique draws moisture out before reabsorbing it back, enhancing tenderness.

Step 3: Bring to Room Temperature

30 minutes before cooking, take your salted ribeye out of the fridge. Allowing it to come to room temperature ensures even cooking. Drizzle with vegetable oil and rub it evenly over the surface.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a small bowl, melt butter in the microwave. Mix in garlic powder, black pepper, fresh thyme leaves, and chopped rosemary. Smash two cloves of garlic and add them to the melted butter mixture for extra flavor.

With these steps complete, you’ll have everything ready to cook your delicious Rib Eye Steak! Enjoy every juicy bite!

How to Serve Rib Eye Steak

Rib eye steak is a delicious and versatile dish that can be paired with various sides and garnishes to enhance its flavor. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Classic Garlic Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that complements the richness of rib eye steak.

Grilled Asparagus

• Lightly seasoned and grilled asparagus adds a fresh, smoky flavor that balances the savory notes of the steak.

Sautéed Mushrooms

• Earthy sautéed mushrooms enhance the umami flavor of the steak, making for an irresistible pairing.

Fresh Garden Salad

• A vibrant garden salad with crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty rib eye.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

• Caramelized Brussels sprouts offer a nutty flavor and crunchy texture, which pairs beautifully with tender steak.

Baked Sweet Potatoes

• Sweet baked potatoes provide a hint of sweetness and a healthy alternative to traditional sides, rounding out your meal perfectly.

How to Perfect Rib Eye Steak

Cooking rib eye steak perfectly requires attention to detail and some helpful techniques. Follow these tips to ensure a juicy, flavorful result every time.

• Choose High-Quality Meat: Opt for well-marbled ribeye steak, ideally labeled USDA Prime or Choice for the best flavor and tenderness.

• Salt in Advance: Salting your steak several hours before cooking helps draw moisture out and then reabsorbs it, enhancing flavor and tenderness.

• Bring to Room Temperature: Allow your salted ribeye to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before cooking for even doneness.

• Use High Heat: Whether grilling or pan-searing, cooking at high heat creates a perfect sear that locks in juices.

• Let It Rest: After cooking, let your rib eye rest for about 5 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy.

• Experiment with Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary can add aromatic flavors when cooked alongside or used in sauces for your rib eye.

Best Side Dishes for Rib Eye Steak

Pairing your rib eye steak with complementary sides can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great side dishes to consider:

1. Creamed Spinach: A rich and creamy dish that brings a delightful creaminess to your plate while balancing the meat’s richness.
2. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread serves as an excellent accompaniment for soaking up juices from the steak.
3. Cauliflower Gratin: This cheesy dish adds indulgence without overpowering the flavors of the rib eye.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn enhances the overall meal with its natural sweetness, especially when grilled or roasted.
5. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast, balancing out the hearty flavors of the steak.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with fresh vegetables offers a nutritious option that complements the richness of the meat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Rib Eye Steak, small errors can lead to disappointing results. Here are common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not Salting in Advance: Failing to salt your steak ahead of time can result in a less flavorful piece of meat. Always salt your ribeye at least 4 hours before cooking for optimal taste.
• Cooking Cold Steak: Starting with a cold steak leads to uneven cooking. Ensure your ribeye is at room temperature by letting it sit on the counter for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Choosing the Wrong Cut: Selecting a low-quality or lean cut can ruin the dish. Always opt for well-marbled ribeye steaks labeled USDA Prime or Choice.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Cooking multiple steaks at once can lower the pan’s temperature and prevent a good sear. Cook one steak at a time or use a grill to maintain high heat.
• Ignoring Rest Time: Cutting into your steak immediately after cooking will cause juices to run out. Let it rest for about 5-10 minutes to keep it juicy and tender.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked ribeye steak in an airtight container.
• It should be consumed within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Rib Eye Steak

• Wrap the steak tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag.
• Properly stored, it can last up to 6 months in the freezer.

Reheating Rib Eye Steak

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 250°F. Place the steak on a baking sheet and heat until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Use low power settings to avoid overcooking. Heat in short intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat and add a little oil. Warm the steak slowly, flipping occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Rib Eye Steak preparation and cooking:

How do I choose the right Rib Eye Steak?

Look for well-marbled cuts labeled USDA Prime or Choice. This ensures better flavor and tenderness during cooking.

Can I cook Rib Eye Steak on the grill?

Yes! Grilling is an excellent method for cooking rib eye steak, giving it that smoky flavor while achieving great sear marks.

What is the best way to season Rib Eye Steak?

Salt is essential! Use kosher salt generously before cooking, along with garlic powder and herbs like thyme and rosemary for added flavor.

How long should I let my Rib Eye Steak rest?

Letting your rib eye rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking helps retain its juices, making every bite tender and flavorful.

Final Thoughts

This Rib Eye Steak recipe is not only incredibly delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. With simple ingredients and straightforward techniques, you can impress family and friends alike. Feel free to customize with different spices or marinades according to your taste preferences!