When it comes to steaks, there’s nothing quite like the ribeye. Known for its marbling and rich, beefy flavor, it’s a favorite for steak lovers. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, this ribeye steak recipe will guide you through the steps to make a perfect steak every time. Whether you’re cooking it on the grill, stovetop, or in the oven, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right at home. Let’s get started!

Why Ribeye?

The ribeye steak is cut from the rib section of the cow, known for its abundant marbling—tiny streaks of fat within the meat. This marbling melts during cooking, keeping the steak juicy and tender. Ribeye is also highly versatile. It can be cooked to your preferred level of doneness, whether you like it rare, medium-rare, or well-done. Plus, it’s an easy steak to cook, even for beginners!

Ingredients

For a steak this flavorful, you don’t need much in terms of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 Ribeye steaks (1–1.5 inches thick)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or any cooking oil of choice)
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional but adds a nice touch)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, but highly recommended for an extra depth of flavor)

For the garlic butter (optional but recommended):

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ teaspoon lemon juice (to brighten the flavor)

How to Cook Ribeye Steak

There are a few different ways to cook your ribeye steak, depending on your preference and available equipment. Below, we’ll discuss the three most popular methods: grilling, stovetop, and oven.

Option 1: Grilling (For a Smoky, Charred Flavor)

Grilling adds a smoky flavor and an unbeatable sear to your ribeye steak. Here’s how to do it:

1. Preheat the Grill: Start by preheating your grill to high heat (around 450-500°F). Make sure the grates are clean to avoid any sticking.
2. Season the Steaks: While the grill heats up, rub the steaks with olive oil, then season generously with kosher salt, pepper, and any other spices you’re using (garlic powder, paprika, etc.).
3. Grill the Steaks: Place the steaks on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side for a medium-rare steak (internal temperature of 130-135°F). For medium steaks, cook for about 6-7 minutes per side (135-145°F), and for well-done steaks, cook for 8-9 minutes per side (145°F+).
4. Let the Steak Rest: After grilling, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, making it more flavorful and tender.

Option 2: Stovetop (For a Crispy, Caramelized Crust)

If you don’t have a grill, you can achieve an equally delicious ribeye steak by cooking it on the stovetop in a skillet.

1. Preheat the Pan: Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of oil to the pan and let it heat up. A cast iron skillet is ideal for getting a beautiful crust on the steak.
2. Sear the Steak: Once the skillet is hot, place the steak in the pan. Sear the steak for about 3-4 minutes per side for a medium-rare steak, and 4-5 minutes per side for medium.
3. Add Butter and Garlic (Optional but Highly Recommended): In the last minute of cooking, add butter, garlic, and fresh herbs to the pan. Baste the steak with the melted butter and garlic using a spoon to enhance the flavor.
4. Rest Before Serving: As with grilling, rest the steak for a few minutes to allow the juices to settle.

Option 3: Oven (For a Tender, Evenly Cooked Steak)

If you’re cooking a thicker ribeye steak or don’t have access to a grill or skillet, the oven method is an excellent choice. This method uses a two-step process: searing and baking.

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place a cast-iron skillet on the stove over high heat and let it heat up for a couple of minutes.
2. Sear the Steak: Add 1 tablespoon of oil to the hot skillet. Sear each side of the steak for 2-3 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms.
3. Bake in the Oven: Once both sides are seared, transfer the skillet to the oven. Roast the steak for about 5-10 minutes, depending on your desired doneness.
4. Rest Before Serving: As with the other methods, allow the steak to rest for at least 5 minutes before cutting to keep the juices inside.

Steak Doneness Guide

Here’s a quick guide to steak doneness and internal temperatures to help you cook your ribeye just the way you like it:

• Rare: 120-125°F – Cool, red center.
• Medium-Rare: 130-135°F – Warm, red center.
• Medium: 140-145°F – Warm, pink center.
• Medium-Well: 150-155°F – Slightly pink center.
• Well Done: 160°F and above – Fully cooked, brown center.

Garlic Butter Topping (Optional but Irresistible)

While your steak is resting, you can prepare an optional garlic butter topping to elevate the flavor:

1. Mix the Butter: In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, fresh parsley, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
2. Top the Steak: Once your steak has rested and is ready to serve, place a dollop of garlic butter on top of the steak. It will melt into the steak, adding richness and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Ribeye steaks are perfect on their own, but if you want to complete the meal, consider pairing them with:

• Classic Mashed Potatoes or Garlic Butter Roasted Potatoes
• Grilled Vegetables or Steamed Asparagus
• A side salad with a tangy vinaigrette dressing
• Garlic bread to soak up the juices

Final Thoughts

Cooking the perfect ribeye steak is all about technique and attention to detail. Whether you’re grilling, pan-searing, or roasting in the oven, you’ll achieve a juicy, tender steak that’s full of flavor. This recipe gives you the flexibility to cook your steak exactly the way you want, and with the addition of garlic butter, you’ll feel like you’re dining in a five-star restaurant. Don’t forget to rest your steak before serving to ensure it’s at its juiciest, most flavorful best.

Enjoy your perfectly grilled ribeye steak with your favorite sides and savor the ultimate steak experience