Pan-Seared Garlic Ribeye Steak
This recipe creates a juicy and flavorful ribeye steak with a delicious garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
- 2 ribeye steaks (1-1.5 inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme (optional)
Cooking Guide:
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Prep the Steak: Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Let the steaks come to room temperature for 30 minutes for even cooking (optional).
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Sear the Steak: Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until shimmering hot. Carefully place the steaks in the pan and don’t move them for about 3-4 minutes, allowing a nice sear to develop.
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Flip and Add Flavor: Flip the steaks and cook for another 3-4 minutes for medium-rare, or until desired doneness. Add the butter, garlic, and thyme (if using) to the pan. Tilt the pan slightly and spoon the melted garlic butter over the steaks for 1-2 minutes, basting them for extra flavor.
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Rest and Serve: Transfer the steaks to a cutting board, tent them loosely with foil, and let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat for a more tender bite.
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Serve: Slice the steaks against the grain and spoon the garlic butter from the pan over the top. Enjoy with your favorite sides!
Tips:
- Use a high-quality, well-marbled ribeye steak for the best flavor.
- Make sure your pan is hot enough before searing the steaks. This will help create a nice crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook the steaks in batches if necessary.
- An internal meat thermometer is the best way to ensure your steak is cooked to your desired doneness. Here’s a guide:
- Rare: 120°F (49°C)
- Medium-rare: 130°F (54°C)
- Medium: 140°F (60°C)
- Medium-well: 150°F (66°C)
- Well-done: 160°F (71°C)
- For a thicker steak, you may need to finish cooking it in the oven after searing in the pan. Transfer the pan to a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until desired doneness is reached.
- Want a thicker sauce? Let the pan drippings and garlic butter simmer for a minute or two after removing the steak, then whisk in a tablespoon of heavy cream or melted beef broth for a pan sauce.
- Use fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme instead of, or in addition to, fresh thyme.