How Long to Cook Ribeye Steak on Grill Medium

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Understanding Ribeye Steak
3. Preparing the Steak for Grilling
4. Cooking Times for Medium Ribeye Steak
5. Resting and Serving the Steak
6. Cooking Techniques to Try
7. Conclusion
8. FAQ

Introduction

Have you ever sunk your teeth into a perfectly seared ribeye steak, one with a crust so golden and a center so juicy that you felt it was one of life’s best culinary experiences? Ribeye steaks, revered for their rich marbling and tenderness, can easily elevate any dinner from ordinary to extraordinary. Yet, knowing how long to cook ribeye steak on the grill to achieve that coveted medium doneness can feel like a culinary puzzle.

Grilling a ribeye steak might seem straightforward, but several factors determine the perfect cooking process—from meat thickness to grill temperature and even the cut’s intrinsic qualities. This guide aims to equip both seasoned chefs and home cooks with the knowledge needed to transform their grilling results. We’ll delve into the ideal timings, preparation techniques, and tips specific to ribeye, ensuring your steaks come off the grill perfectly cooked every time.

By the end of this article, you will have a comprehensive understanding of how to cook ribeye steaks on the grill, focusing on the medium doneness level. We will cover everything from preparing the steaks before they hit the grill to the recommended cooking times and how to achieve the best flavor and tenderness. So, let’s fire up the grill and embark on this mouthwatering journey together!

Understanding Ribeye Steak

Ribeye steak, often considered the king of steaks, comes from the rib section of cattle, typically graded as Choice or Prime based on the amount of marbling and core flavor. The marbling—the white flecks of fat interspersed throughout the lean muscle—is crucial, as it melts during cooking, enhancing the steak’s moisture and flavor.

Choosing the Right Ribeye

When selecting ribeye steaks for grilling, consider the following:

• Thickness: Ribeye steaks typically range from 1-inch to 1.5 inches thick; a thicker cut will require longer cooking times.
• Marbling: Look for a steak with a good balance of lean meat and visible fat for superior flavor and tenderness.
• Bone-In vs. Boneless: Bone-in ribeyes (often referred to as ribeye chops) can enhance flavor but may take a bit longer to cook through than their boneless counterparts.

Importance of Temperature

Before grilling, it's essential to let your ribeye steaks come to room temperature for about 30 to 40 minutes. This process ensures more even cooking on the grill, allowing an optimal crust to form without significantly overcooking the inside.

Preparing the Steak for Grilling

Preparation is key to achieving delicious results. To set the stage for success, follow these steps:

1. Seasoning

A simple seasoning of kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper is usually all you need to enhance the ribeye’s rich flavor. However, feel free to explore variations like:

• Montreal Steak Seasoning: A bold mixture that includes garlic, pepper, and paprika can perfectly complement a ribeye.
• Dry Marinade: If you prefer, rub the steak with spices and let it rest at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before grilling for deeper flavor penetration.

2. Preheating the Grill

Heating your grill to a high temperature (about 450°F to 500°F) will help achieve a beautiful sear on the exterior while cooking the inside to your desired level of doneness. A clean grill grate is also necessary for preventing sticking.

3. Oil the Steak

Brushing a light coat of high smoke point oil (like canola or grapeseed) on the steak before seasoning not only enhances the crust but helps the seasoning adhere better during cooking.

Cooking Times for Medium Ribeye Steak

Once your grill is hot and your steak is prepped, it’s time to cook. The following guidelines will help you achieve medium doneness—a temperature of 140°F to 145°F.

Cooking Time Breakdown

For a standard 1-inch to 1.5-inch ribeye steak, here’s how long you should cook it depending on the cooking method:

• Direct Heat Method (Gas or Charcoal Grill):
  • 1-inch Steak: Grill for about 5 to 7 minutes per side, flipping halfway through.
  • 1.5-inch Steak: Grill for about 7 to 10 minutes per side, again flipping halfway.

Internal Temperature Guide

To ensure your ribeye steak reaches medium doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature:

• Medium-Rare: 130°F to 135°F (3 to 5 minutes per side)
• Medium: 140°F to 145°F (5 to 7 minutes per side)
• Medium-Well: 150°F (8 to 10 minutes per side)

Always remember the "carryover cooking" principle—remove the steak from the grill when it’s about 5°F below the desired doneness, since the temperature will continue to rise while it rests.

Resting and Serving the Steak

One critical step often overlooked is resting the steak after cooking. Allowing the ribeye to sit for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful final product.

Serving Suggestions

While the steak itself is a star, the accompanying dishes can elevate your meal. Consider classic steakhouse sides, such as:

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes
• Grilled Asparagus
• Caesar Salad
• Roasted Mushrooms

Pairing your ribeye with a bold red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec, can also enhance the dining experience.

Cooking Techniques to Try

In addition to grilling, there are multiple methods for cooking ribeye steaks. Here are some techniques you can experiment with for different flavors:

1. Reverse Searing

This technique involves slow-roasting the steak in an oven at low temperatures until it reaches the desired doneness, then finishing with a quick sear on a hot grill or skillet to achieve a delicious crust.

2. Pan-Seared Ribeye

Using a heavy-duty skillet, you can also achieve a golden-brown sear while controlling the cooking temperature more effectively. This method works particularly well for thicker steaks and allows you to baste the meat with butter for additional flavor.

3. Sous Vide Method

For the ultimate precision in cooking, using sous vide can align perfectly with achieving the desired doneness without the risk of overcooking. After sous vide, finishing with a quick sear helps lock in flavors while creating a crisp exterior.

Conclusion

Mastering the technique of grilling ribeye steaks to medium perfection requires understanding the beef cut, preparation, and cooking times. As you embrace these methods, you can create beautiful, flavorful meals that showcase the rich qualities of ribeye. Each steak is an opportunity to explore new flavors, refine your grilling skills, and enhance your culinary repertoire.

Whether you are entertaining guests or preparing a quiet dinner at home, remember that great ingredients, like the premium options available at Land and Sea Delivery, can make all the difference. For an unparalleled selection of fresh, premium meats, including fantastic ribeye steaks, check out our Beef Selection.

Ready to take your grilling game to the next level? All you need is a great piece of meat, a well-prepared grill, and a sense of adventure. Happy grilling!

FAQ

How do I know when my ribeye steak is done cooking?

Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable method to check the doneness of your steak. For medium, the internal temperature should be between 140°F to 145°F.

Should I cover the grill while cooking the ribeye?

Covering the grill can promote even cooking and help to maintain high temperatures, but you may want to check periodically to monitor the steak's progress.

Is it necessary to let the steak rest after grilling?

Yes! Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. If you slice into the steak too soon, you risk losing those delicious juices.

Can I cook ribeye steak beyond medium?

While many prefer ribeye at medium or medium-rare for the most flavor and tenderness, you can cook it to well done (160°F and above) if that’s your preference.

What are some good sides to serve with grilled ribeye?

Popular sides include baked potatoes, grilled vegetables, Caesar salads, or even a fresh chimichurri sauce for added flavor.