Ribeye Steak
Ribeye Steak – The Ultimate Juicy Steak You’ll Ever Make
There are some meals that simply stop the conversation at the table. This Ribeye Steak is exactly that kind of dish. The kind where everyone takes a bite… pauses… and then says, “OMG, we ate wayyyyy too much of this!” It’s rich, buttery, perfectly seasoned, and so tender you barely need a knife.
This Ribeye Steak recipe is simple, classic, and absolutely unforgettable. With just a handful of quality ingredients—sea salt, freshly ground pepper, butter, thyme, and garlic—you create steakhouse-level flavor right in your own kitchen. Even grandma said, “This recipe is a KEEPER!” And when grandma approves, you know it’s serious.
If you’ve ever been intimidated by cooking steak at home, this guide will walk you through every step. By the end, you’ll be confidently making Ribeye Steak like a pro.
Why This Ribeye Steak Recipe Works
The magic of this Ribeye Steak lies in its simplicity and technique. Ribeye is already one of the most flavorful cuts of beef thanks to its beautiful marbling. That intramuscular fat melts as it cooks, creating a naturally juicy, tender bite.
Here’s why this method guarantees success:
1. Room Temperature Steak
Taking your Ribeye Steak out of the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking ensures even cooking. A cold steak placed in a hot pan will cook unevenly—burned outside, undercooked inside. Letting it warm slightly helps it cook consistently.
2. Generous Seasoning
Salt and pepper are not just basic seasonings—they are flavor enhancers. A properly seasoned Ribeye Steak develops a beautiful crust and deep savory flavor.
3. High Heat for a Perfect Sear
Cooking over medium-high heat creates that golden, caramelized crust that locks in juices and adds texture.
4. Butter Basting
Adding butter, thyme, and garlic halfway through cooking elevates the flavor dramatically. Basting the Ribeye Steak repeatedly infuses it with rich, aromatic goodness.
5. Resting Time
This is non-negotiable. Letting the Ribeye Steak rest allows the juices to redistribute, keeping every slice juicy instead of dry.
This isn’t just cooking—it’s technique. And that’s why this recipe works every single time.
What You’ll Need For This Ribeye Steak Recipe
The beauty of this Ribeye Steak recipe is that it requires only a few high-quality ingredients.
Ingredients
1 ribeye steak (about 3cm thick)
Sea salt flakes
Freshly ground black pepper
50g butter
2 sprigs fresh thyme
1 clove garlic, crushed with skin on
Optional Equipment
Heavy frying pan (preferably cast iron)
Tongs
Meat thermometer (recommended but optional)
Spoon for basting
When making Ribeye Steak, quality matters. Choose a steak with visible marbling for maximum tenderness and flavor.
How To Make This Ribeye Steak
Making Ribeye Steak at home is easier than you think. Follow these steps carefully for perfect results.
Step 1: Bring to Room Temperature
Remove your Ribeye Steak from the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly.
Step 2: Season Generously
Pat the steak dry with paper towels. Sprinkle sea salt flakes and freshly ground black pepper generously on both sides. Don’t be shy—this is where flavor starts.
Step 3: Heat the Pan
Heat a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Make sure it’s hot before adding the Ribeye Steak. A hot pan ensures a proper sear.
Step 4: Sear the Steak
Place the steak into the pan. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side depending on thickness and desired doneness.
For a 3cm thick Ribeye Steak:
Rare: 50°C internal temperature
Medium: 60°C
Well Done: 70°C
Use a meat thermometer for accuracy if possible.
Step 5: Butter Baste
After flipping the steak, add butter, thyme, and crushed garlic. Tilt the pan slightly so the butter pools at the bottom. Using a spoon, continuously baste the Ribeye Steak with the melted butter for about one minute.
This step gives it that restaurant-quality flavor.
Step 6: Rest
Remove the Ribeye Steak from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes. This is essential. Cutting immediately will cause the juices to spill out. Resting keeps it juicy and tender.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Slice against the grain into strips. Sprinkle with a little extra salt if desired. Serve immediately.
Tips + Tricks & More For Ribeye Steak Success
Cooking the perfect Ribeye Steak is about small details. Here are pro tips to elevate your results:
Use Cast Iron
A cast iron pan retains heat better, creating a superior crust.
Don’t Move the Steak Too Much
Let it sit undisturbed while searing. Constant flipping prevents crust formation.
Dry the Steak First
Moisture prevents browning. Always pat your Ribeye Steak dry before seasoning.
Use High-Quality Butter
Since butter is a key flavor component, use good-quality butter for the best taste.
Slice Against the Grain
This shortens muscle fibers and makes your Ribeye Steak more tender.
Don’t Skip the Resting Step
It may be tempting—but it’s essential for juicy results.
How To Serving Ribeye Steak
Serving Ribeye Steak properly makes the experience even better. After resting, slice it into thick strips or serve whole for a dramatic presentation.
You can drizzle some of the remaining butter from the pan over the top for extra richness. A final sprinkle of flaky sea salt enhances the flavor beautifully.
Serve immediately while hot for the best texture and taste.
Serving Suggestions for Ribeye Steak
This Ribeye Steak pairs beautifully with many sides. Here are some classic options:
Creamy mashed potatoes
Roasted garlic potatoes
Grilled asparagus
Buttered green beans
Fresh garden salad
Crispy fries
Creamy mushroom sauce
Peppercorn sauce
For a lighter meal, pair your Ribeye Steak with a simple arugula salad dressed in olive oil and lemon.
If you want full steakhouse vibes, serve with mashed potatoes and a rich sauce on the side.
Time Required For Ribeye Steak
One of the best things about this Ribeye Steak recipe is how quick it is.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Resting (before cooking): 30 minutes
Cook Time: 5–6 minutes
Resting (after cooking): 5 minutes
Total Time: About 45 minutes
Most of that time is hands-off, making Ribeye Steak perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Final Thoughts on Ribeye Steak
This Ribeye Steak recipe proves that you don’t need complicated ingredients or techniques to create something unforgettable. Just quality meat, proper seasoning, high heat, butter basting, and patience.
It’s juicy. It’s rich. It’s deeply satisfying.
And yes… you might eat wayyyyy too much of it.
But honestly?
That’s the sign of a truly great Ribeye Steak. 🥩✨