A ribeye steak is a flavorful and tender cut of beef known for its marbling and rich, beefy taste. It’s a popular choice for steak enthusiasts due to its combination of tenderness and a well-developed beefy flavor. Here’s a basic recipe for cooking a ribeye steak using a stovetop and oven method:
Ingredients:
- 1 ribeye steak (1 to 1.5 inches thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil or clarified butter (ghee)
- Optional: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, and garlic cloves
Instructions:
- Preparation:
- Remove the ribeye steak from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature. This helps ensure even cooking.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the Steak:
- Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Moisture on the surface can prevent proper browning.
- Season both sides of the steak generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. You can add other seasonings if you like, such as garlic powder or smoked paprika.
- Heat the Skillet:
- Place a heavy, oven-safe skillet (preferably cast iron) over high heat. Add the vegetable oil or clarified butter and heat until it’s shimmering but not smoking.
- Sear the Steak:
- Carefully place the seasoned ribeye steak into the hot skillet. You should hear a sizzling sound when it hits the pan.
- Sear the steak for about 2-3 minutes on each side to achieve a nice crust. If desired, you can add a few garlic cloves and fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme) to the skillet for additional flavor during this stage.
- Transfer to the Oven:
- Once both sides are seared, transfer the skillet with the steak to the preheated oven.
- Cook in the oven for 4-6 minutes for medium-rare, 6-8 minutes for medium, or longer if you prefer your steak more well-done. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature – it should read 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, 145°F (63°C) for medium.
- Rest the Steak:
- Remove the skillet from the oven and transfer the steak to a cutting board.
- Allow the steak to rest for 5-10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier steak.
- Slice and Serve:
- Slice the ribeye steak against the grain, which helps make it more tender. Serve it hot with your favorite side dishes.
Remember that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your steak and your preferred level of doneness. It’s always a good idea to use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak reaches the desired internal temperature. Enjoy your delicious ribeye steak!
