Juicy, well-marbled ribeye steaks seared to perfection deliver bold, beefy flavor in every bite. Finished with a simple seasoning and a sizzling crust, they’re a timeless favorite for steak lovers.
If you’ve been searching for how to cook ribeye steak, perfect pan-seared ribeye, or juicy ribeye steak recipe, you’re in the right place.
This easy ribeye steak recipe delivers a restaurant-quality steak at home with a golden crust, buttery flavor, and tender center—no grill required.
Whether you’re cooking for date night or a quick high-protein dinner, this ribeye steak recipe is simple, fast, and foolproof.
Why Ribeye Steak Is the Best Cut
Ribeye is known for its rich marbling, which melts during cooking and creates an incredibly juicy, flavorful steak.
Compared to sirloin or filet mignon, ribeye delivers the best balance of tenderness and beefy flavor—making it ideal for pan-searing.
Ingredients for Ribeye Steak
- 1 ribeye steak (1–1½ inches thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic (crushed)
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme
- Salt (kosher or sea salt)
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper
Step-by-Step: How to Cook Ribeye Steak
Step 1: Bring Steak to Room Temperature
Remove the ribeye steak from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking.
This ensures even cooking and a tender result—one of the most important ribeye steak tips.
Step 2: Season Generously
Pat the steak dry with paper towels. Season both sides liberally with salt and black pepper.
A dry surface helps create the perfect steak crust.
Step 3: Heat the Pan
Place a heavy skillet (cast iron is best) over high heat. Add olive oil and heat until it just begins to smoke.
This is key for pan-searing ribeye steak.
Step 4: Sear the Ribeye Steak
Carefully place the steak in the hot pan.
- Sear for 3–4 minutes per side without moving it
- This creates a deep, golden-brown crust
Step 5: Butter Baste for Flavor
Lower heat to medium.
Add butter, garlic, and herbs.
Tilt the pan and continuously spoon the melted butter over the steak for 1–2 minutes. This step adds rich flavor and moisture.
Step 6: Check Steak Doneness
Use a meat thermometer for accuracy:
- Rare: 120–125°F
- Medium-Rare: 130–135°F
- Medium: 140–145°F
Step 7: Rest Before Serving
Remove steak from pan and let it rest for 5–10 minutes.
Resting allows the juices to redistribute, giving you a juicy ribeye steak every time.
Best Side Dishes for Ribeye Steak
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Roasted vegetables
- Creamy mac and cheese
- Fresh garden salad
Pro Tips for the Best Ribeye Steak
- Always use a thick-cut ribeye for best results
- Don’t overcrowd the pan
- Let the steak rest—never skip this step
- Use cast iron for maximum sear
Final Thoughts
This easy ribeye steak recipe proves you don’t need a grill or fancy tools to make a perfect ribeye steak at home.
With simple ingredients and the right technique, you’ll get a steak that’s tender, juicy, and packed with flavor every single time.
