If you are craving a steak that boasts a perfect balance of tender texture, robust flavor, and buttery richness, then get ready to fall in love with the Perfectly Juicy Ribeye Steak with Cowboy Butter Recipe. This dish is an absolute showstopper that transforms a simple ribeye steak into a mouthwatering experience with just a few essential ingredients and a little bit of technique. The cowboy butter brings that extra layer of creamy, herby decadence that will have you savoring every bite. Whether it’s a special occasion or a weekend treat, this recipe guarantees a juicy, flavorful steak that will impress anyone lucky enough to taste it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the first step toward success, and with the Perfectly Juicy Ribeye Steak with Cowboy Butter Recipe, simplicity is key. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, from seasoning the meat perfectly to adding that dreamy, creamy touch with cowboy butter.
- Ribeye steaks (1.25″ thick): Choose well-marbled steaks for that juicy, tender bite every time.
- Salt & pepper: Simple but essential seasoning that enhances the natural beef flavor without overpowering it.
- Olive oil: Used to sear the steaks, it helps create a beautiful crust and prevents sticking.
- Butter (4 tablespoons divided): Adds richness and helps baste the steaks for maximum flavor and moisture.
- Cowboy butter (optional): This flavorful butter blend elevates the steak with savory herbs and spices, adding a bold kick that pairs perfectly with the ribeye.
How to Make Perfectly Juicy Ribeye Steak with Cowboy Butter Recipe
Step 1: Bring Steaks to Room Temperature
Letting your ribeye steaks sit out for 30 to 60 minutes before cooking ensures even cooking and helps the meat relax so it stays juicy and tender. This step is a simple trick that makes a huge difference in the final texture of your steak.
Step 2: Season Generously
Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, then season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This straightforward seasoning unlocks flavor and helps create that irresistible crust during cooking.
Step 3: Heat Your Skillet Until Smoking Hot
Using a heavy cast iron skillet, heat it over medium-high to high heat until it’s very hot—this can take several minutes. Add olive oil and swirl to coat. A simple water drop test should produce an immediate sizzle, signaling your pan is ready for the steaks.
Step 4: Sear and Butter Your Steaks
Place the steaks carefully in the skillet and cook undisturbed for 4 minutes, allowing a beautiful crust to form. Flip the steaks using tongs, then add pats of butter on top. Cook another 4 minutes for medium-rare. Remember, cooking time can vary based on desired doneness and steak thickness, so an instant read thermometer is the best ally here!
Step 5: Rest Your Steaks
Transfer your seared steaks to a plate or cutting board and let them rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This crucial resting period lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat, locking in that signature moistness you’re aiming for in this Perfectly Juicy Ribeye Steak with Cowboy Butter Recipe.
Step 6: Serve with Cowboy Butter
You can serve the steaks whole or slice them against the grain before plating. Pour over or serve alongside a generous helping of cowboy butter to take this dish from delicious to unforgettable. The buttery heat mingling with the steak juices is pure magic.
How to Serve Perfectly Juicy Ribeye Steak with Cowboy Butter Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives sprinkled over the steak add a burst of color and a fresh note that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the cowboy butter. A sprinkle of smoked paprika or a dash of coarse sea salt on top can also enhance both texture and flavor.
Side Dishes
This Perfectly Juicy Ribeye Steak with Cowboy Butter Recipe pairs wonderfully with classic sides like roasted garlic mashed potatoes, grilled asparagus, or a crisp arugula salad. These accompaniments balance the rich steak and creamy butter with brightness and earthiness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, serve the steak sliced thinly on a wooden board with small bowls of cowboy butter for dipping. Adding a side of charred lemon wedges invites your guests to add a splash of citrus brightness, complementing the buttery flavors beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep cowboy butter separate, as it’s best added fresh just before serving to maintain its vibrant flavors and texture.
Freezing
If you want to save your cooked ribeye for longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. It should keep well for about 2 months. Thaw slowly in the refrigerator to maintain quality.
Reheating
To warm leftover steak without drying it out, gently heat in a skillet over low heat with a bit of butter or olive oil. Alternatively, warming in a low oven (around 250°F) wrapped in foil works well. Add a spoonful of leftover or fresh cowboy butter on top once reheated for extra flavor and moisture.
FAQs
What makes this the Perfectly Juicy Ribeye Steak with Cowboy Butter Recipe?
The combination of proper seasoning, high-heat searing, butter basting, and resting results in a steak that is tender and flavorful. Adding cowboy butter as a finishing touch elevates the dish with its rich and savory flavors.
Can I use a different cut of steak?
While ribeye is ideal for its marbling and flavor, you can try this method with other steaks like strip or sirloin. Just remember, cooking times and doneness may vary due to differences in thickness and fat content.
What is cowboy butter made of?
Cowboy butter is a compound butter typically made with butter blended with garlic, herbs, lemon juice, and spices. It adds a zesty, creamy kick to hearty meats like ribeye steaks.
How do I know when my steak is medium-rare?
An instant-read thermometer is the best tool for accuracy. For medium-rare, look for an internal temperature between 125°F and 130°F when you take it off the heat; it will rise slightly during resting.
Is it necessary to let the steak rest?
Absolutely! Resting allows the juices to redistribute so that each bite is juicy rather than dry. Skipping this step could mean losing precious flavorful juices.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like sinking your teeth into the Perfectly Juicy Ribeye Steak with Cowboy Butter Recipe, where every bite delivers an explosion of flavor and buttery goodness. This recipe is straightforward but delivers steakhouse-level results right in your own kitchen. I highly encourage you to try it out, whether for an everyday dinner or a special occasion — your taste buds will thank you.
Print
Perfectly Juicy Ribeye Steak with Cowboy Butter Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 steaks
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Ribeye Steak recipe delivers a perfectly seared, juicy medium-rare steak using a cast iron skillet. The steaks are seasoned generously, seared in olive oil and butter, and rested to lock in flavor and tenderness. Optional cowboy butter adds a rich, flavorful finish, making this a classic steakhouse favorite ideal for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Steak
- 2 ribeye steaks, 1.25 inches thick
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided into 4 pats
Optional Sauce
- Cowboy butter, for serving
Instructions
- Bring Steaks to Room Temperature: Take the ribeye steaks out of the refrigerator 30 to 60 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook more evenly and promotes better searing.
- Season the Steaks: Pat the steaks dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper to enhance flavor.
- Preheat the Skillet: Heat a heavy cast iron skillet over medium-high to high heat until very hot. This can take a few minutes. Add the olive oil and swirl to coat the pan. To test if the pan is hot enough, sprinkle a drop of water; it should sizzle immediately.
- Sear the Steaks: Carefully place steaks into the hot skillet and cook without moving them for 4 minutes, allowing a crust to form. Flip the steaks using tongs, place butter pats on top, and continue cooking for another 4 minutes for medium-rare doneness (internal temperature 125°F to 130°F). Adjust cooking times if you prefer different doneness or have varying steak thickness.
- Rest the Steaks: Remove the steaks from the skillet and transfer them to a plate or cutting board. Let them rest for 5 to 10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, keeping the steak tender and juicy.
- Serve: Serve the steaks whole or slice them against the grain for tenderness. Add cowboy butter as a dipping sauce or spoon over the top for extra flavor.
Notes
- Resting the steak is crucial to retain its juices and tenderness.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check doneness for the most accurate results.
- Adjust cooking times if your ribeye steaks are thicker or thinner than 1.25 inches.
- Cowboy butter adds a rich, flavorful complement but is optional.
- Ensure your skillet is very hot before searing to get a perfect crust.
