Olivia Carter
There’s a reason why ribeye steak is considered one of the most flavorful cuts of beef. Its marbling and tenderness make it a favorite among meat lovers. And when it comes to cooking a thick ribeye steak, nothing compares to the cast iron skillet. The high heat retention and even distribution of heat make it the perfect tool for achieving that perfectly seared crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
To cook a thick ribeye steak in a cast iron skillet, start by choosing a well-marbled piece of meat. The marbling not only adds flavor but also helps to keep the steak moist during cooking. Take the steak out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature while you preheat the skillet. This will ensure more even cooking.
Preheat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. You want the skillet to be hot, but not smoking. While the skillet is heating, season the steak generously with salt and pepper. The salt will help to enhance the flavors and create a delicious crust. Once the skillet is hot, add a small amount of oil to the pan. You want just enough to coat the bottom of the skillet.
Carefully place the ribeye steak in the hot skillet. Let it cook undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness. For a medium-rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of around 130°F (54°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. Flip the steak and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes on the other side.
Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a juicier steak. You can serve the steak as is, or add a pat of butter on top for some extra richness and flavor.
So, if you’re craving a perfectly cooked thick ribeye steak, grab your cast iron skillet and follow these steps. In no time, you’ll be savoring a juicy, flavorful steak that’s sure to impress.
Choosing the right ribeye steak
When it comes to cooking a thick ribeye steak in a cast iron skillet, choosing the right cut of meat is crucial. Here are some factors to consider when selecting your ribeye steak:
- Thickness: Look for a ribeye steak that is at least 1 inch thick. This allows for a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
- Marbling: Marbling refers to the white flecks of fat throughout the meat. The more marbling, the more flavor and juiciness the steak will have. Look for ribeye steaks with abundant marbling.
- Grade: Ribeye steaks are typically graded by the USDA based on quality. The top grades are Prime, Choice, and Select. Prime cuts have the most marbling and tenderness, while Select cuts have less marbling and tend to be leaner.
- Color: Look for a ribeye steak with a bright, cherry-red color. Avoid steaks that have a dull or brownish color, as this could indicate old or improperly stored meat.
- Freshness: Check the sell-by date on the package to ensure the steak is fresh. Avoid steaks that have been sitting in the meat counter for too long.
By considering these factors, you can choose a high-quality ribeye steak that will result in a delicious and satisfying meal.
Preparing the ribeye steak
Before you start cooking your thick ribeye steak, it’s important to properly prepare it to ensure a delicious and tender result.
1. Bring the steak to room temperature
Take the ribeye steak out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows the steak to cook more evenly and tenderize properly.
2. Pat the steak dry
Use paper towels to pat the steak dry. Removing any excess moisture from the surface of the steak will help promote browning and prevent steaming.
3. Season the steak
Generously season both sides of the ribeye steak with salt and pepper. You can also add your favorite spices or a steak rub to enhance the flavor.
4. Let the seasoning meld
After seasoning, let the steak sit for about 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and gives it a chance to absorb the seasoning.
5. Prepare the skillet
Place a cast iron skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Preheat the skillet for a few minutes until it is hot. Heating the skillet properly helps in achieving a nice sear on the steak.
6. Optional: Tenderize the steak
If you prefer a more tender steak, you can use a meat tenderizer or a fork to tenderize the steak before cooking it. This helps to break down the muscle fibers and make the steak more tender.
By following these steps, you will ensure that your ribeye steak is properly prepared and ready to cook in the cast iron skillet. This will result in a tasty and succulent steak that is sure to impress!
Seasoning the ribeye steak
Before cooking your thick ribeye steak in a cast iron skillet, it’s important to season it properly to enhance its flavor. Follow these steps to season your steak:
- Remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help the steak cook more evenly.
- Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
- Season both sides of the steak generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This will bring out the natural flavors of the meat.
- If desired, you can also add additional seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, or your favorite steak seasoning blend.
- Gently press the seasonings into the surface of the steak to ensure they adhere well.
- Once your steak is seasoned, let it rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
By properly seasoning your ribeye steak before cooking, you’ll be able to enjoy a delicious and flavorful result.
Preheating the cast iron skillet
Before cooking your thick ribeye steak, it’s important to preheat your cast iron skillet properly. Preheating the skillet ensures that it reaches the right temperature to sear the steak properly and develop a flavorful crust.
Step 1: Choose the right skillet
Start by choosing a heavy-duty cast iron skillet that is large enough to comfortably fit your ribeye steak. A skillet that is too small may cause overcrowding and prevent the steak from searing properly.
Step 2: Place the skillet on the stove
Place the cast iron skillet on the stove over medium-high heat. Allow the skillet to heat up for about 5-7 minutes. It’s important to give the skillet enough time to evenly distribute the heat.
Step 3: Add a high smoke point oil
Once the skillet is hot, add a high smoke point oil, such as vegetable oil or canola oil, to the pan. Coat the bottom of the skillet evenly with the oil.
Step 4: Heat the oil
Allow the oil to heat up for about 1-2 minutes, or until it shimmers. Heating the oil helps to prevent the steak from sticking to the skillet during the cooking process.
Once you’ve preheated the cast iron skillet properly, you’re ready to cook your thick ribeye steak to perfection!
Cooking the ribeye steak
Before cooking the ribeye steak, make sure to bring it to room temperature by leaving it out on the counter for about 30 minutes. This will ensure that the steak cooks evenly.
Preheat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. You want the skillet to get hot so that you can achieve a nice sear on the steak.
While the skillet is heating up, season your ribeye steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. Use your hands to press the seasonings into the steak, ensuring that they adhere well.
Once the skillet is hot, add a little bit of oil or butter to the pan. Place the ribeye steak in the skillet and let it cook undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes, or until a golden crust forms on the bottom.
Flip the steak using tongs or a spatula and cook for another 4-5 minutes on the other side. For a medium-rare steak, you can remove it from the skillet at this point. If you prefer a more well-done steak, you can cook it for an additional 2-3 minutes per side.
Once the steak is cooked to your desired doneness, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak.
Slice the ribeye steak against the grain and serve immediately. Enjoy your perfectly cooked, juicy ribeye steak!
Resting the ribeye steak
Once the ribeye steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, it is crucial to let it rest before slicing and serving. Resting allows the juices in the steak to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender bite.
Here are the steps to properly rest your ribeye steak:
1. Remove from heat
Using a pair of tongs, carefully transfer the cooked ribeye steak from the hot cast iron skillet onto a clean plate or cutting board.
2. Tent with foil
To keep the steak warm while it rests, loosely cover it with a piece of aluminum foil. This will also help to retain its moisture.
3. Resting time
Allow the ribeye steak to rest for about 5-10 minutes. The exact resting time will depend on the thickness of the steak. Thicker cuts may require a longer resting time.
Note: Do not skip the resting step as it is crucial for the overall taste and texture of the steak.
During this time, the internal temperature of the steak will continue to rise, and the juices will evenly distribute throughout the meat. This helps to ensure a juicy and tender ribeye every time you slice into it.
Additionally, resting the steak allows the muscle fibers to relax, making it easier to slice without the juices gushing out.
Remember to resist the temptation to cut into the steak immediately after cooking. Patience is key to achieving the perfect ribeye steak!
Serving the ribeye steak
Once your thick ribeye steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, it’s time to serve it up and enjoy all its deliciousness. Here are a few tips to ensure that your steak is perfectly presented:
1. Let it rest: Before slicing into the steak, allow it to rest for about 5 minutes. This will help to retain the juices and ensure a more tender and flavorful eating experience.
2. Slice against the grain: To ensure maximum tenderness, it’s important to slice the steak against the grain. This means cutting perpendicular to the long muscle fibers. This will result in a more tender bite.
3. Plate it up: Place the sliced steak on a serving plate, making sure to spread the slices out to showcase its beautiful marbling. You can also garnish it with some fresh herbs or a drizzle of your favorite sauce.
4. Serve with sides: A ribeye steak pairs perfectly with a variety of tasty sides. Some popular options include roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. Choose sides that complement the richness of the steak and enhance its flavors.
| Side dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Roasted vegetables | Seasonal vegetables tossed in olive oil and roasted in the oven until tender and caramelized. |
| Creamy mashed potatoes | Smooth and creamy mashed potatoes made with butter and cream, perfect for soaking up the juices from the steak. |
| Simple green salad | A refreshing salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette. |
5. Enjoy it hot: Ribeye steak is best enjoyed hot off the skillet. The heat will ensure that the fat is rendered and the flavors are at their peak. So, serve it up as soon as it’s ready, and savor every delicious bite!
FAQ
What is the best way to cook a thick ribeye steak in a cast iron skillet?
The best way to cook a thick ribeye steak in a cast iron skillet is to start by bringing the steak to room temperature and seasoning it with salt and pepper. Preheat the cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Place the steak in the skillet and cook for a few minutes on each side to get a nice sear. Then, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven and continue cooking until the desired level of doneness is reached.
Can I cook a thick ribeye steak in a cast iron skillet without preheating it?
While it is possible to cook a thick ribeye steak in a cast iron skillet without preheating it, preheating the skillet is recommended. Preheating allows the skillet to get hot evenly, which helps in achieving a nice sear on the steak. It also helps in controlling the cooking process more effectively.
How long should I cook a thick ribeye steak in a cast iron skillet?
The cooking time for a thick ribeye steak in a cast iron skillet will vary depending on the desired level of doneness and the thickness of the steak. As a general rule, you can cook a 1-inch thick ribeye steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. For medium, cook it for about 5-6 minutes on each side. However, it is always best to use a meat thermometer to check for the desired level of doneness.
Should I cover the ribeye steak while cooking it in a cast iron skillet?
It is not necessary to cover the ribeye steak while cooking it in a cast iron skillet. However, if you prefer a more well-done steak or if the steak is very thick, you can cover it with a lid or aluminum foil for a few minutes towards the end of the cooking process to ensure it cooks evenly.
What should I do after cooking a thick ribeye steak in a cast iron skillet?
After cooking a thick ribeye steak in a cast iron skillet, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak. You can then slice the steak and serve it with your favorite sides or sauces.
