How to Properly Cook a Ribeye Steak on the Stove

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Choosing the Right Ribeye Steak
3. Preparing the Ribeye Steak
4. Cooking Equipment
5. Cooking Ribeye Steak on the Stove
6. Serving the Ribeye Steak
7. Conclusion
8. FAQ

Introduction

Imagine walking into your kitchen, the tantalizing aroma of a perfectly seared ribeye steak wafting through the air. The allure of a juicy, flavorful steak is hard to resist, and ribeye is often regarded as one of the best cuts of beef for its marbling and tenderness. But how do you achieve the perfect sear and doneness that leaves you craving more?

Cooking a ribeye steak on the stove is not only convenient but can also rival the best steakhouses if done correctly. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to properly cook a ribeye steak on the stove, ensuring that every bite is a testament to your culinary skills. We'll cover the ingredients you need, preparation tips, cooking techniques, and best serving practices. By the end of this article, you'll feel empowered to create a mouthwatering steak dinner in the comfort of your home.

We'll also touch on the unique offerings from Land and Sea Delivery, a premier provider of fresh, locally sourced ribeye steaks, available for convenient home delivery.

Ready to transform your kitchen into a steakhouse? Let's dive in!

Choosing the Right Ribeye Steak

When it comes to cooking ribeye steak, the choice of meat plays a significant role in the outcome of your dish. Here are a few tips on selecting the perfect ribeye:

Look for Marbling

Marbling refers to the thin streaks of fat within the muscle that enhance flavor and juiciness. A ribeye steak with good marbling will keep the meat tender and flavorful during cooking. When shopping at your local butcher or supermarket, aim to select a ribeye with plenty of fat interspersed throughout the cut.

Thickness Matters

For stovetop cooking, a ribeye that is at least 1 inch thick is ideal. Thicker cuts allow for better control over the cooking process, helping you achieve the perfect crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.

Quality Grades

USDA grades for beef include Prime, Choice, and Select. If possible, opt for USDA Prime ribeye steaks, as they have superior marbling and tenderness compared to lower grades. USDA Choice is acceptable but can be less flavorful than Prime.

Sustainable Sourcing

At Land and Sea Delivery, you can find a variety of premium ribeye steaks sourced responsibly, ensuring quality and sustainability.

Explore the Land and Sea Delivery Shop for ribeye steaks.

Preparing the Ribeye Steak

Preparation is key to cooking a ribeye steak that rivals any steakhouse masterpiece. Here are some steps you can take to ensure your steak is ready for cooking:

Bring to Room Temperature

Before cooking, remove the ribeye steak from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This step helps ensure even cooking throughout the steak.

Seasoning Your Steak

The beauty of ribeye steak lies in its natural flavor, so you don’t need to go overboard with seasonings. A generous seasoning of kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper on both sides of the steak will suffice. Allow the seasoning to sit on the steak for about 15 minutes before cooking; this helps to enhance the flavor and allows it to penetrate the meat.

Optional Marinades

While typically not necessary for a cut like ribeye, marinating the steak can elevate its flavor. If desired, consider a simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, and herbs that you allow to infuse for a brief period before cooking.

Cooking Equipment

Using the correct cooking equipment can make or break your steak-cooking experience. Here are the essentials for that perfect ribeye:

Cast Iron Skillet

A heavy-bottomed skillet or a cast iron pan is your best bet for cooking ribeye steaks. These pans distribute heat evenly and retain high temperatures, allowing for that all-important sear.

Tongs and Instant-Read Thermometer

Having a pair of tongs is essential for safely flipping your steak without piercing the meat and losing precious juices. An instant-read thermometer will help you check the internal temperature accurately, ensuring you achieve your desired doneness without overcooking.

Cooking Ribeye Steak on the Stove

Now that you have your ingredients and equipment ready, let’s get started on cooking your ribeye steak:

Step 1: Preheat the Skillet

Place your cast iron skillet on the stovetop and heat it over medium-high heat until it’s hot enough to make a drop of water sizzle. You want your skillet hot, as this will help achieve a beautiful crust on the steak.

Step 2: Add Oil

Once the skillet is hot, add a tablespoon of oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or avocado oil. Swirl the oil around to evenly coat the bottom of the pan.

Step 3: Sear the Steak

Carefully place the seasoned ribeye steak in the skillet. Do not move it around; let it sear undisturbed for 3-4 minutes. This will form a beautifully browned crust.

Step 4: Flip the Steak

Using your tongs, gently flip the steak over. You should see a glorious brown crust formed. Repeat the searing process on this side for another 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Check for Doneness

To ensure the perfect doneness for your ribeye, use your instant-read thermometer. For a medium-rare steak, the internal temperature should be between 130°F - 135°F. Remember that the steak will continue to cook slightly after removing it from the heat, so it’s okay to take it off a couple of degrees before your target temperature.

Step 6: Add Flavor

In the last minute of cooking, consider adding a couple of tablespoons of unsalted butter and sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary to the skillet. As the butter melts, spoon the liquid over the steak to baste it, adding depth and richness to the flavor.

Step 7: Rest the Steak

Once your ribeye has reached your desired temperature, remove it from the skillet and place it on a cutting board. Loosely cover it with foil and allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes. Resting is crucial because it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is as juicy as possible.

Serving the Ribeye Steak

Now that your ribeye steak is perfectly cooked and rested, it's time to serve it up! Here are some tips for presenting it beautifully:

Slicing

Always slice your ribeye against the grain to make it more tender and easier to chew. The grain refers to the direction the muscle fibers are aligned, and cutting against it shortens those fibers.

Plating

You can serve your ribeye steak as-is, accompanied by your favorite sides. Consider classic steakhouse sides like creamy mashed potatoes, sautéed green beans, or a fresh salad. For an elegant touch, drizzle the steak with the butter and herbs from the pan.

Elevating the Experience

Adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a splash of balsamic vinegar can elevate the taste even further, offering a gourmet touch to your home-cooked meal.

Conclusion

Cooking a ribeye steak on the stove is an adventure that can deliver delicious and mouthwatering results when done with care and attention. From selecting quality meat to perfectly seasoning, flipping, and resting your steak, every step matters in creating that restaurant-quality experience right in your home.

By using a reliable provider like Land and Sea Delivery, you can ensure your ribeye steak is fresh, premium, and perfectly sourced. Take the plunge, invite friends or family over, and let your culinary expertise shine as you serve them a delightful ribeye steak dinner.

With the skills you’ve gained from this guide, you’re ready to turn your kitchen into a haven of creative cooking. Enjoy the flavors, enjoy the process, and most importantly, enjoy every delicious bite.

FAQ

1. What is the best way to season a ribeye steak?
Season your ribeye generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Optionally, add garlic powder or herbs for extra flavor.

2. Should I let the ribeye rest before cooking?
Yes, letting the ribeye sit at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes before cooking ensures even cooking.

3. What type of pan should I use for cooking ribeye on the stove?
Using a heavy-bottomed skillet or a cast-iron pan provides the best heat retention and distribution for searing the steak.

4. How do I achieve a perfect sear on my ribeye steak?
Heat the pan until it’s very hot, then add oil and place the ribeye in the pan, searing undisturbed for several minutes to build a crust.

5. What is the recommended cooking time for a ribeye steak on the stove?
For medium-rare, cook the ribeye for approximately 3-4 minutes per side, adjusting time based on thickness and desired doneness.

6. How do I know when my ribeye is cooked properly?
Using an instant-read thermometer, check for an internal temperature of around 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.

7. Can I use butter while cooking my ribeye steak?
Yes! Adding a small amount of butter towards the end of cooking enhances flavor and juiciness.

With these insights and techniques, you're well on your way to mastering the art of cooking a perfect ribeye steak on the stove. Enjoy the culinary journey!