Ribeye Steak Recipe (Juicy Pan-Seared Ribeye Steak with Garlic Butter)
This Ribeye Steak Recipe delivers everything steak lovers crave: a beautifully seared crust, tender juicy center, and rich buttery flavor. Ribeye is widely considered one of the best cuts of beef because of its incredible marbling, which creates a steak that's flavorful, tender, and nearly impossible to resist.
Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a steakhouse dinner at home, this easy ribeye steak recipe delivers restaurant-quality results every time.
Why You'll Love This Ribeye Steak Recipe
Rich beefy flavor
Incredible marbling
Perfect steakhouse crust
Easy to make at home
Ready in under 20 minutes
Garlic butter takes it to the next level
What Is Ribeye Steak?
Ribeye steak comes from the rib section of the cow and is prized for its marbling.
The streaks of fat throughout the meat melt during cooking, creating an incredibly juicy and flavorful steak.
Many chefs consider ribeye the king of steaks because it offers the perfect balance of tenderness and flavor.
Ingredients
For the Ribeye Steak
2 ribeye steaks (1 to 1½ inches thick)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Garlic Butter
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 garlic cloves, smashed
2 sprigs fresh rosemary
2 sprigs fresh thyme
Equipment Needed
Cast iron skillet
Instant-read thermometer
Tongs
Cutting board
How to Make Ribeye Steak
Step 1: Bring Steak to Room Temperature
Remove the ribeye steaks from the refrigerator 30 to 45 minutes before cooking.
Pat dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Season the Steaks
Brush lightly with olive oil.
Season generously with kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 3: Heat the Skillet
Place a cast iron skillet over high heat.
Allow the skillet to become extremely hot.
Step 4: Sear the Ribeye
Place the steaks into the hot skillet.
Cook for:
Rare: 2–3 minutes per side
Medium Rare: 3–4 minutes per side
Medium: 4–5 minutes per side
Medium Well: 5–6 minutes per side
Step 5: Add Garlic Butter
During the final minute of cooking, add butter, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
Tilt the skillet slightly and continuously spoon the melted butter over the steaks.
Step 6: Check Temperature
Use an instant-read thermometer.
Steak Temperatures
Rare: 120°F–125°F
Medium Rare: 130°F–135°F
Medium: 140°F–145°F
Medium Well: 150°F–155°F
Well Done: 160°F+
Step 7: Rest
Transfer the steaks to a cutting board.
Allow them to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing.
What Does Ribeye Steak Taste Like?
Ribeye steak is rich, buttery, juicy, and intensely beefy.
The marbling melts during cooking, creating a tender texture and deep flavor that many steak lovers prefer over leaner cuts like filet mignon.
Why Ribeye Is the Best Steak
Many steak enthusiasts consider ribeye the ultimate steak because:
Superior marbling
Incredible flavor
Tender texture
Excellent for grilling
Perfect for pan-searing
If flavor is your priority, ribeye is often the top choice.
Expert Tips
Use thick-cut ribeye steaks.
Always let the steak rest.
Cook in a cast iron skillet for the best crust.
Use a thermometer for accuracy.
Season generously with salt.
Common Mistakes
Not Drying the Steak
Moisture prevents proper browning.
Overcooking
Ribeye is best enjoyed between medium rare and medium.
Skipping the Rest
Resting keeps the juices inside the steak.
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature should ribeye be cooked to?
Medium rare (130°F–135°F) is the most popular temperature for ribeye.
Is ribeye better than filet mignon?
Many people prefer ribeye because it offers significantly more flavor due to its marbling.
Can I grill ribeye?
Absolutely. Ribeye performs exceptionally well on both gas and charcoal grills.
Why is ribeye so expensive?
Ribeye is highly prized because of its tenderness, flavor, and marbling.
Perfect Side Dishes
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Loaded Baked Potato
Creamed Spinach
Grilled Asparagus
Caesar Salad
Mac and Cheese
More Steak Recipes You'll Love
How to Grill a Steak
Steak Temperatures Guide
How to Cook a Medium Rare Steak
Best Steak Marinades
Chimichurri Steak
Skirt Steak Recipe
Final Thoughts
This Ribeye Steak Recipe delivers steakhouse-quality flavor with minimal effort. Juicy, tender, and topped with garlic herb butter, it's one of the easiest and most satisfying steak dinners you can make at home.