If you are craving a truly indulgent, juicy steak experience, this Ribeye Steak with Garlic Herb Butter Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine the perfect crust on a tender ribeye, bursting with rich flavor, and then topped with a silky, aromatic garlic herb butter that melts into every bite. It’s a dish that elevates a simple steak dinner into a memorable, steakhouse-quality feast right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just dipping your toes into steak mastery, this recipe is your ticket to an effortlessly impressive meal that never disappoints.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, creating layers of flavor and texture that bring the dish to life. These simple essentials ensure the steak remains the star while the garlic herb butter adds a burst of freshness and richness to every slice.
- Ribeye steaks (12–14 oz each, about 1½ inches thick): Choose well-marbled cuts for maximum juiciness and flavor.
- Olive oil: Helps achieve that perfect sear and adds a subtle fruitiness.
- Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and drawing out the steak’s natural flavors.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and depth.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons, softened): The base for the garlic herb butter, bringing creaminess without overpowering.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Infuses the butter with a warm, aromatic punch.
- Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, finely chopped): Adds a bright, herbaceous note and color contrast.
- Lemon juice (½ teaspoon): A subtle touch of acidity that balances the richness.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors in the herb butter.
How to Make Ribeye Steak with Garlic Herb Butter Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Steak
Start by removing your ribeye steaks from the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before cooking. This brings them up to room temperature, ensuring even cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels—this is key to getting a proper crust. Then season generously on both sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to infuse flavor deep into the meat.
Step 2: Heating the Skillet
Place a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and let it get scorching hot. The hot pan is pivotal because it creates that signature crust on your ribeye, sealing in all those luscious juices. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and let it shimmer but not smoke.
Step 3: Searing the Steak
Lay the steaks away from you into the pan and avoid moving them—this undisturbed time allows the crust to form beautifully. Sear for about 4 to 5 minutes on the first side until you see a deep, caramelized crust. Flip and repeat on the other side. Don’t forget to keep an eye on the heat and adjust slightly to avoid burning while still keeping the pan hot.
Step 4: Cooking to Desired Doneness
After the initial searing, reduce the heat a little and continue cooking to your preferred doneness. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy: 125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, and 145°F for medium. This step ensures your Ribeye Steak with Garlic Herb Butter Recipe comes out perfectly cooked and juicy.
Step 5: Resting the Steak
Transfer your steaks to a plate and let them rest for at least 5 to 10 minutes. This crucial resting period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping every bite moist and flavorful rather than running dry on your cutting board.
Step 6: Making the Garlic Herb Butter
While the steak is resting, combine softened unsalted butter with minced garlic, freshly chopped parsley, a splash of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything until smooth, letting those vibrant flavors meld together into a luscious butter perfect for melting over hot steak.
Step 7: Serving with Garlic Herb Butter
Right before serving, spoon a generous dollop of your garlic herb butter over the warm ribeye steaks. Watch as it melts into glistening pools of herby, buttery goodness that enhance every savory bite. This step transforms your simple steak into a decadent masterpiece and defines this Ribeye Steak with Garlic Herb Butter Recipe.
How to Serve Ribeye Steak with Garlic Herb Butter Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme sprinkled on top add a burst of color and an inviting freshness. A few lemon wedges on the side can provide an optional bright zest for anyone wanting a citrusy kick to balance the richness of the butter.
Side Dishes
This steak pairs beautifully with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables. If you want something lighter and fresher, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a perfect contrast to the rich, buttery steak flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the ribeye against the grain and fanning the slices on a wooden board for a rustic, shareable presentation. For a gourmet touch, drizzle some of the leftover garlic herb butter over roasted asparagus or grilled mushrooms alongside your steak.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover steak, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. Enjoy within 3 days to maintain its juicy texture and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked ribeye steaks by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of foil or placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen steaks are best consumed within 2 months for optimal taste.
Reheating
To reheat without drying out, warm your steak gently in a low oven (around 250°F) until heated through, or use a skillet with a splash of water and a lid to steam it slightly. Avoid microwaving as it tends to toughen the meat.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While ribeye is ideal for its marbling and flavor, you can use strip steak or sirloin. Just adjust cooking times since these cuts vary in thickness and fat content.
How do I know when the steak is done?
The most reliable method is using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the steak: 125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, and 145°F for medium. This ensures perfect doneness every time.
Can I prepare the garlic herb butter in advance?
Yes, the garlic herb butter can be made a day ahead and refrigerated. Just bring it to room temperature before spreading it over your hot steak for maximum melt and flavor.
Is cast-iron pan essential for this recipe?
A cast-iron skillet is preferred as it retains heat well and helps form a great crust, but a heavy-bottomed stainless steel pan works too if you don’t have cast iron.
Can I grill the steak instead of pan-searing?
Definitely. Grill your ribeyes over high heat for 4 to 6 minutes per side to get that same beautiful sear and juicy inside. Finish with garlic herb butter just as you would on the stove.
Final Thoughts
This Ribeye Steak with Garlic Herb Butter Recipe is a surefire way to bring warmth, joy, and indulgence to your dinner table. It’s approachable enough for a weeknight treat but impressive enough for special occasions. Once you try this luxurious combination of perfectly cooked ribeye and creamy garlic herb butter, it’s bound to become a beloved favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
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Ribeye Steak with Garlic Herb Butter Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Ribeye Steak with Garlic Butter recipe delivers a rich, juicy, and flavorful steakhouse experience at home. Perfectly pan-seared 12–14 oz ribeye steaks are topped with a creamy garlic herb butter for an indulgent and satisfying meal that’s quick and simple to prepare.
Ingredients
For the Ribeye Steak
- 2 ribeye steaks (12–14 oz each, about 1½ inches thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For the Garlic Butter
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Steaks: Remove steaks from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking. Pat dry with paper towels and season both sides evenly with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavor and create a savory crust.
- Heat the Skillet: Place a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and allow it to become very hot. A properly heated pan ensures a good sear, which locks in juices.
- Add Olive Oil: Pour the olive oil into the hot skillet, distributing it evenly to prevent sticking and to assist with browning.
- Sear the Steaks: Lay the ribeye steaks in the skillet and sear each side for 4 to 5 minutes or until a deep, golden-brown crust forms. Adjust timing based on steak thickness.
- Finish Cooking: Reduce the heat slightly and continue cooking to your preferred doneness: rare (125°F/52°C), medium-rare (135°F/57°C), or medium (145°F/63°C). Use a meat thermometer to get accurate temperature readings.
- Rest the Steaks: Transfer the steaks to a plate and rest for 5 to 10 minutes. Resting allows juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist steak.
- Prepare Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon juice, and salt. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
- Serve: Spoon the garlic butter generously over the warm steaks just before serving to add rich, aromatic flavor.
Notes
- Ribeye steaks cook best when seared hot and fast to render the fat and create a flavorful crust.
- Always allow the steak to rest before slicing; this retains the juices for a tender bite.
- For added aroma, try mixing fresh rosemary or thyme into the garlic butter.
- This steak pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad.
- For a grilled version, cook the steaks over high heat for 4 to 6 minutes per side.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American Steakhouse
