The Perfect Pan-Seared Ribeye: Master This Easy Technique

can you pan sear a ribeye

Pan-searing a ribeye steak is a simple way to achieve a gourmet steakhouse-style dinner at home. The process is straightforward and can be completed in under 30 minutes. The key to success is using a cast-iron pan or a heavy-duty skillet that can withstand high heat, as well as bringing the steak to room temperature before cooking. The steak should be seasoned with salt and pepper and seared on both sides using an oil with a high smoke point, such as avocado oil, ghee, or peanut oil, canola oil, or olive oil. The cooking time will depend on the desired doneness, with a medium-rare steak requiring around 3 to 6 minutes on each side. To finish, the steak can be topped with garlic herb butter for extra flavour and allowed to rest before serving.

Characteristics Values
Pan Type Cast iron or stainless steel
Pan Temperature Very hot
Steak Type Boneless ribeye
Steak Thickness 1 inch
Steak Temperature Room temperature
Seasoning Salt, pepper, garlic, butter, herbs
Oil Type High smoke point
Oil Examples Avocado, ghee, peanut, canola, olive
Sides Mashed potatoes, baked potatoes, salad, green beans, onions, broccoli
Calories 675kcal

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Pan-searing a ribeye at home

Pan-searing a ribeye steak is an easy way to achieve steakhouse status from the comfort of your own home. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you cook the perfect ribeye steak.

Ingredients

To pan-sear a ribeye, you will need the following ingredients:

  • A ribeye steak (boneless or bone-in)
  • Salt and pepper
  • Oil with a high smoke point (e.g. avocado oil, ghee, peanut oil, canola oil, olive oil)
  • Butter (unsalted)
  • Garlic cloves or garlic powder
  • Fresh herbs (e.g. rosemary, thyme, sage, oregano)

Method

  • Bring the steak to room temperature by removing it from the refrigerator 20-30 minutes before cooking.
  • Pat the steak dry with paper towels.
  • Season both sides of the steak generously with salt and pepper, gently pressing the seasoning into the meat.
  • Heat a cast-iron skillet or a heavy-duty stainless steel pan on the stove over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes.
  • When the pan is very hot, add the oil.
  • Place the steak in the pan and let it cook for 3-4 minutes to create the initial sear.
  • Flip the steak and cook on the other side for 2-3 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. For a medium-rare steak, cook for 3-4 minutes on the second side.
  • Top the steak with butter, garlic, and herbs. Baste the steak with the butter and herbs for about a minute.
  • Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips

  • For a more well-done steak, add several minutes to the searing time on each side.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check the doneness of your steak. For rare, the internal temperature should be 125°F, and for well-done, it should be 160°F.
  • Thicker steaks may need to be finished in the oven. Cook in a preheated oven at 400 degrees F for 5-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steak.
  • Serve with sides such as mashed potatoes, baked potatoes, green beans, onions, or a salad.

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Choosing the right pan

When preparing to cook your ribeye, it is crucial to preheat your chosen pan. For a stainless steel pan, preheating is essential to prevent your steak from sticking. You can test if your pan is hot enough by flicking a few drops of water onto it. If the water sizzles and evaporates quickly, your pan is ready.

Before adding your steak, you can preheat your pan in oil to prevent sticking. While searing, you can also spoon butter over the ribeye to keep the top hot and moist, adding a light buttery flavor. However, do not add oil to a cold pan, as this can affect the flavor. Instead, wait until the dry pan is very hot before adding oil.

The ideal cooking temperature for your ribeye steak is medium heat, which is crucial for even cooking and achieving a brown, caramelized exterior. To ensure your steak is cooked to your desired doneness, it is recommended to let it rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking. During this time, the steak continues to cook, reaching your ideal temperature, and the juices reabsorb to enhance flavor and texture.

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Selecting the best ribeye cut

Marbling and Fat Content:

Look for a ribeye cut with a generous amount of marbling, which is the flecks of fat distributed throughout the meat. Prime grade steaks have the most marbling but come with a higher price tag. Choice grade steaks offer impressive marbling at a more affordable price point. Avoid select grade steaks, as they have minimal marbling and may lack flavour and juiciness. The fat content contributes to the steak's tenderness, moisture, and overall taste, so ensure there is an adequate amount distributed evenly.

Thickness and Size:

Aim for a ribeye steak with a thickness of around 1 to 1.25 inches. This thickness allows for a good balance between the seared surface and the juicy, tender interior. A thicker steak will require a longer searing time to achieve the desired doneness. Additionally, consider the overall size of the steak. Ideally, each diner should have their own ribeye steak, so choose a size that will provide adequate portions.

The Cap:

The cap, also known as the lip, lifter, or deckle, is considered the best part of the ribeye by many steak enthusiasts. Look for a ribeye cut with a relatively large cap, indicating that the steak came from the chuck end of the rib. The cap should have a generous amount of marbling and a smooth texture, contributing to the steak's overall tenderness and flavour.

Colour and Freshness:

Choose a ribeye steak that has a vibrant red colour, indicating its freshness. Select a steak that is freshly cut and sourced from a reputable butcher or meat supplier. This ensures the meat is of good quality and has been properly handled and stored.

Bone-in or Boneless:

Ribeye steaks can be found with or without the bone. For pan-searing, a boneless ribeye is often more convenient and easier to cook evenly. However, some people prefer bone-in steaks for their added flavour and presentation. Ultimately, the decision between bone-in and boneless comes down to personal preference.

By considering these factors when selecting a ribeye cut, you'll be well on your way to creating a memorable dining experience with juicy, tender, and flavourful results.

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Timing and temperature

For a rare steak, pan-sear each side for a shorter duration, around 2 minutes on the first side and 1 minute on the second side, for a total pan time of about 4 minutes. Then, place the steak in a preheated oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit on convection for about 3.5 minutes, turning once.

If you prefer your steak medium-rare, sear it for a similar duration as you would for a rare steak, but increase the oven time to 5-6 minutes, depending on the thickness of your steak.

For a medium steak, increase the searing time to around 4-6 minutes on each side. You can then use an instant thermometer to check the internal temperature and ensure it has reached the desired level of doneness.

It is important to note that the pan should be very hot before adding the steak. This helps create a golden crust and prevents the steak from being undercooked. Additionally, it is recommended to bring the steak to room temperature before cooking, as cooking it straight from the fridge can result in an undercooked steak.

After removing the steak from the pan or oven, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a juicy and tender steak.

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Storing and reheating

Storing:

If you have any leftover steak, it is best to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to 4 days, although some sources suggest that it is best enjoyed within 2 days. If you want to keep your steak for longer, it is possible to freeze it, but this is not recommended as it may become tough. If you do decide to freeze your steak, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminium foil and place it in a freezer bag or container. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating:

When you are ready to eat your leftover steak, you can reheat it in a few different ways. You can use a skillet or pan over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 120°F. Alternatively, you can place the steak on a baking sheet and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through. You can also use a microwave, heating it on 50% power until warmed through.

Remember, the key to storing and reheating your pan-seared ribeye is to preserve the juicy texture and flavours that make this steak so enjoyable.

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Frequently asked questions

A cast-iron pan is best for cooking ribeye steak as it can withstand high heat. If you don't have a cast-iron pan, you can use a heavy-duty stainless steel pan that can withstand high heat.

Season the steak with salt and pepper, gently pressing the seasoning into the steak. You can also add minced garlic or garlic powder, and herbs like rosemary, thyme, sage, or oregano.

Use an oil with a high smoke point, such as olive oil, canola oil, avocado oil, ghee, or peanut oil.

The cooking time depends on the thickness and temperature of the steak, the heat of the stovetop, and the type of pan used. For a 1-inch-thick steak, sear each side for 3-4 minutes for a medium-rare steak. For a well-done steak, cook to an internal temperature of 160°F.

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