Ultimate Rib Eye Steak Recipe Cast Iron: Perfectly Seared and Juicy Every Time
Guide or Summary：IngredientsPreparationCooking the SteakResting and ServingTips for SuccessIf you're a steak lover, there's nothing quite like a perfectly s……
Guide or Summary：
If you're a steak lover, there's nothing quite like a perfectly seared and juicy rib eye steak. Achieving restaurant-quality results at home is easier than you might think, especially when you use a cast iron skillet. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the steps to create the ultimate rib eye steak recipe cast iron. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe will help you master the art of cooking the perfect steak.
Ingredients
To start, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1 rib eye steak (about 1.5 inches thick)
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil (or another high smoke point oil)
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 2 cloves of garlic, smashed
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary)
Preparation
1. **Choosing the Right Steak:** The first step in making the ultimate rib eye steak recipe cast iron is selecting a high-quality steak. Look for a rib eye with good marbling, as the fat within the meat will render out during cooking and add flavor and juiciness to the steak.
2. **Seasoning:** About 30 minutes before cooking, take the rib eye steak out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature. This ensures even cooking. Generously season both sides of the steak with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. The salt will help to create a beautiful crust on the steak.
3. **Preheating the Cast Iron Skillet:** Place your cast iron skillet on the stove over high heat. Allow it to heat up for at least 5 minutes. A properly preheated skillet is crucial for achieving a perfect sear. You can test if the skillet is hot enough by flicking a few drops of water onto the surface; if they sizzle and evaporate immediately, the skillet is ready.
Cooking the Steak
4. **Searing:** Add the vegetable oil to the skillet and swirl to coat the bottom. Carefully place the rib eye steak in the skillet. It should sizzle loudly when it hits the pan. Let it sear undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes. This will create a beautiful crust on the steak. Flip the steak and sear the other side for another 2-3 minutes.
5. **Basting with Butter:** Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the unsalted butter, smashed garlic cloves, and fresh herbs to the skillet. As the butter melts, tilt the skillet slightly and use a spoon to baste the steak with the melted butter and herb mixture. This adds incredible flavor and helps to keep the steak moist.
6. **Checking for Doneness:** Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For a medium-rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C). If the steak hasn't reached the desired temperature, continue cooking and basting, flipping the steak occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Resting and Serving
7. **Resting:** Once the steak reaches your desired doneness, transfer it to a cutting board and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a juicy and flavorful steak.
8. **Slicing and Serving:** After resting, slice the rib eye steak against the grain. This makes the meat more tender and easier to chew. Serve the steak with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Success
- **Patience is Key:** Don't rush the cooking process. Allow the skillet to heat up properly and let the steak sear undisturbed to develop a flavorful crust.
- **Use a Meat Thermometer:** To ensure your steak is cooked to perfection, invest in a good meat thermometer. This takes the guesswork out of cooking and helps you achieve your desired doneness every time.
- **Experiment with Flavors:** While this rib eye steak recipe cast iron is delicious as is, feel free to experiment with different herbs and seasonings to suit your taste.
By following these steps, you'll be able to create the ultimate rib eye steak recipe cast iron. The combination of a well-seasoned steak, a hot cast iron skillet, and the basting technique will result in a perfectly seared, juicy, and flavorful steak that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy!