How to Cook a Perfect Ribeye Steak on Cast Iron Skillet

How to Cook a Ribeye on Cast Iron

Cast iron is a versatile cooking surface that can be used for a variety of dishes, from simple grilled steaks to more complex dishes like seared scallops. Ribeye steaks are a popular choice for grilling, and they’re also delicious when cooked on cast iron. This guide will show you how to cook a ribeye steak on cast iron so that it’s juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked.

We’ll cover everything from choosing the right steak to searing, basting, and resting your steak. By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to cook a ribeye steak that’s sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

  • 1 ribeye steak (1.5-2 lbs)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Step Instructions Image
1 Preheat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes.
2 Pat the ribeye dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper on all sides.
3 Once the skillet is hot, add the ribeye and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until a dark crust forms.
4 Transfer the ribeye to a baking sheet and place in a preheated 400F oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 125F for medium-rare.
5 Let the ribeye rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

How to Cook a Ribeye on Cast Iron

Cast iron is a great way to cook a ribeye steak. The high heat of the skillet sears the steak, creating a delicious crust, while the cast iron retains heat evenly, ensuring that the steak is cooked evenly throughout.

To cook a ribeye on cast iron, you will need:

  • A ribeye steak
  • A cast iron skillet
  • Oil
  • Salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat the cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Rub the steak with oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Place the steak in the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until desired doneness.
4. Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips

  • To make sure the steak is cooked evenly, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The ideal temperature for a ribeye steak is 135 degrees Fahrenheit for medium-rare.
  • If you want to add a smoky flavor to your steak, you can sear it over a wood fire or grill.
  • Serve your ribeye steak with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a salad.

Variations

There are many different ways to cook a ribeye steak on cast iron. Here are a few variations to try:

  • For a more flavorful steak, marinate the steak in your favorite marinade before cooking.
  • To make a juicy steak, cook it sous vide before searing it in the cast iron skillet.
  • For a crispy steak, coat the steak in breadcrumbs or panko before searing it.

Cooking a ribeye steak on cast iron is a great way to enjoy a delicious and flavorful steak. With a little practice, you can cook a perfect ribeye steak every time.

Choosing the Right Ribeye

The first step to cooking a great ribeye steak is choosing the right cut of meat. Ribeye steaks are cut from the rib primal, which is located between the chuck and the loin. Ribeye steaks are known for their rich flavor and marbling, which makes them a popular choice for grilling or searing.

When choosing a ribeye steak, look for a steak that is:

  • Marbled. The marbling in a ribeye steak is what gives it its flavor and tenderness. Look for a steak that has a good amount of marbling throughout.
  • Firm. The steak should be firm to the touch and not mushy.
  • About 1-1.5 inches thick. A ribeye steak that is 1-1.5 inches thick will cook evenly and produce a juicy steak.

Ribeye Grade

Ribeye steaks are graded based on their quality. The highest grade of ribeye steak is Prime, followed by Choice and Select. Prime ribeye steaks are the most flavorful and tender, but they are also the most expensive. Choice ribeye steaks are a good option for those who want a high-quality steak without breaking the bank. Select ribeye steaks are the least expensive option, but they are still a good choice for a delicious steak.

Ribeye Size

Ribeye steaks come in a variety of sizes. The most common sizes are 8 ounces, 10 ounces, and 12 ounces. The size of the steak you choose will depend on your appetite and how many people you are feeding.

Ribeye Thickness

The thickness of a ribeye steak is also important. A ribeye steak that is 1-1.5 inches thick will cook evenly and produce a juicy steak. A thinner steak will cook more quickly and may become dry if it is overcooked. A thicker steak will take longer to cook, but it will be more tender.

Choosing the right ribeye steak is important for cooking a delicious and flavorful steak. Look for a steak that is marbled, firm, and about 1-1.5 inches thick. You can choose between Prime, Choice, or Select grade ribeye steaks, depending on your budget and preference.

Preparing the Cast Iron Skillet

Before you can cook a ribeye steak on cast iron, you need to prepare the skillet. Cast iron skillets are known for their ability to retain heat evenly, which is important for cooking a perfect steak. However, cast iron skillets also need to be seasoned properly in order to prevent food from sticking.

To season a cast iron skillet, you will need:

  • A cast iron skillet
  • Vegetable oil
  • Paper towels

Cooking the Ribeye

To cook a ribeye on cast iron, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 1 ribeye steak, about 1-inch thick
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the steak with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Add the olive oil to the skillet and swirl to coat.
4. Place the steak in the skillet and sear for 5-7 minutes per side, or until browned.
5. Flip the steak and add the butter to the skillet. Baste the steak with the butter for 1-2 minutes, or until the butter is melted and browned.
6. Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

Sear the Ribeye

The first step to cooking a ribeye on cast iron is to sear the steak. This will help to create a flavorful crust on the outside of the steak and seal in the juices. To sear the steak, heat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add a tablespoon of olive oil and swirl to coat. Then, place the steak in the skillet and sear for 5-7 minutes per side, or until browned.

Baste the Ribeye

After you have seared the steak, you will need to baste it. Basting the steak will help to keep it moist and flavorful. To baste the steak, add a tablespoon of butter to the skillet and swirl to coat. Then, use a spoon to baste the steak with the butter for 1-2 minutes, or until the butter is melted and browned.

Rest the Ribeye

The final step to cooking a ribeye on cast iron is to let it rest. Resting the steak will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, making it more flavorful and tender. To rest the steak, place it on a cutting board and cover it with foil. Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

Serving the Ribeye

Once your ribeye is cooked, it is time to serve it. There are a few different ways to serve a ribeye steak. You can slice it and serve it with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a salad. You can also grill the steak and serve it with a sauce, such as a red wine sauce or a barnaise sauce.

Carving the Ribeye

To carve the ribeye, you will need a sharp knife. Start by cutting against the grain of the steak. Then, slice the steak into thin pieces.

Pairing the Ribeye with Sides

There are a few different sides that you can pair with a ribeye steak. Some popular choices include:

  • Mashed potatoes
  • Roasted vegetables
  • Salad
  • Grilled asparagus
  • Baked beans
  • Onion rings
  • French fries

You can also choose to make a sauce to serve with your ribeye steak. Some popular sauces include:

  • Red wine sauce
  • Barnaise sauce
  • Mushroom sauce
  • Peppercorn sauce
  • Worcestershire sauce

Cooking a ribeye on cast iron is a great way to enjoy a delicious and flavorful steak. By following these simple steps, you can cook a perfect ribeye steak every time.

How do I prepare a ribeye steak for cooking?

To prepare a ribeye steak for cooking, you will need:

  • 1 ribeye steak, about 1.5-2 inches thick
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1. Pat the steak dry with paper towels.
2. Season the steak generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Let the steak rest at room temperature for 30 minutes to 1 hour before cooking.

What is the best way to cook a ribeye steak on cast iron?

The best way to cook a ribeye steak on cast iron is to sear it over high heat for a few minutes per side, then finish it in the oven until it reaches your desired doneness.

To cook a ribeye steak on cast iron, you will need:

  • 1 ribeye steak, about 1.5-2 inches thick
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • A cast iron skillet
  • A meat thermometer

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Heat the cast iron skillet over high heat until it is smoking hot.
3. Add the steak to the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until a dark crust forms.
4. Transfer the steak to the oven and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the steak reaches your desired doneness.
5. Remove the steak from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

What temperature should I cook a ribeye steak to?

The ideal temperature for cooking a ribeye steak is 135 degrees Fahrenheit for medium-rare, 145 degrees Fahrenheit for medium, and 155 degrees Fahrenheit for medium-well.

How long does it take to cook a ribeye steak on cast iron?

The cooking time for a ribeye steak on cast iron will vary depending on the thickness of the steak and the desired doneness. For a 1.5-2 inch thick steak, it will take about 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, 5-7 minutes per side for medium, and 8-10 minutes per side for medium-well.

What are some tips for cooking a ribeye steak on cast iron?

Here are some tips for cooking a ribeye steak on cast iron:

  • Use a high-quality steak. A good ribeye steak will have a thick, juicy, and flavorful cut of meat.
  • Let the steak rest at room temperature for 30 minutes to 1 hour before cooking. This will help to ensure that the steak cooks evenly.
  • Preheat the cast iron skillet over high heat until it is smoking hot. This will create a good sear on the steak.
  • Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until a dark crust forms.
  • Transfer the steak to the oven and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the steak reaches your desired doneness.
  • Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

What are some common mistakes people make when cooking a ribeye steak on cast iron?

Here are some common mistakes people make when cooking a ribeye steak on cast iron:

  • Using a low-quality steak. A good ribeye steak will have a thick, juicy, and flavorful cut of meat.
  • Not letting the steak rest at room temperature before cooking. This will help to ensure that the steak cooks evenly.
  • Not preheating the cast iron skillet over high heat. This will create a poor sear on the steak.
  • Overcooking the steak. The ideal temperature for cooking a ribeye steak is 135 degrees Fahrenheit for medium-rare, 145 degrees Fahrenheit for medium, and 155 degrees Fahrenheit for medium-well.
  • Not letting the steak rest before slicing and serving. This will help to retain the juices in the steak.

What are some other ways to cook a ribeye steak?

In addition to cooking a ribeye steak on cast iron, you can also cook it on the grill, in the oven, or sous vide.

To cook a ribeye steak on the grill, you will need:

  • 1 ribeye steak, about 1.5-2 inches thick
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Olive oil
  • A grill

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2

cooking a ribeye on cast iron is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this cut of steak. By following the steps in this guide, you can create a perfectly cooked ribeye that is juicy and flavorful. Be sure to experiment with different seasonings and cooking methods to find your favorite way to enjoy this classic steak.

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Kelsey Hammons
Kelsey Hammons
I was born and raised in the fabulous state of Maryland but recently decided to pack up my stuff and move to the Midwest city they call Chicago.

I hope to capture all of my life’s adventures of living in the windy city. AKA the food I cook, my journey to the Chicago Marathon, the books I read and the trashy TV shows I watch. I’m a health-nut, book-worm and exercise fiend.

Join me, Kelsey, on this exciting journey as I embrace the challenges and joys of my new life in Chicago. From mastering the art of healthy cooking to hitting the pavement for marathon training, my blog is a window into my world of self-discovery and fun.

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