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Perfect Cast Iron Reverse-Sear Ribeye Recipe with Easy Compound Butter

reverse-sear ribeye recipe - featured image

A simple and reliable reverse-sear ribeye steak recipe cooked in a cast iron skillet, topped with a silky herbaceous compound butter for a juicy, tender, and flavorful steakhouse-quality meal at home.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 thick-cut ribeye steak, about 1.5 to 2 inches thick (1216 oz / 340450 g)
  • Kosher salt, for seasoning
  • Freshly ground black pepper, for seasoning
  • 4 tablespoons (about 57 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh thyme
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil for higher smoke point)
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes for compound butter

Instructions

  1. Bring the ribeye steak to room temperature (15-20 minutes). Pat dry and season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.
  2. Preheat the oven to 275ยฐF (135ยฐC). Place a wire rack on a baking sheet.
  3. Place the ribeye on the wire rack and cook in the oven for 20-30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 115ยฐF (46ยฐC) for medium-rare, or adjust to your preferred doneness.
  4. While the steak cooks, prepare the compound butter by mixing softened unsalted butter with chopped rosemary, thyme, minced garlic, and smoked paprika if using. Set aside.
  5. Heat the cast iron skillet on high until very hot. Add olive oil and let it smoke.
  6. Sear the steak in the skillet for 1-2 minutes per side until a deep brown crust forms. Sear the edges for about 30 seconds each if desired.
  7. Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5-10 minutes to redistribute juices.
  8. Spoon a generous dollop of the compound butter over the warm steak and let it melt.
  9. Slice the steak against the grain and serve immediately.

Notes

Use a thermometer to monitor internal temperature for perfect doneness. Rest steak after searing to keep it juicy. Butter can be prepared ahead and refrigerated. For dairy-free, substitute butter with vegan margarine and olive oil with coconut oil. Adjust seasoning and herbs to taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: ribeye, reverse sear, cast iron skillet, steak recipe, compound butter, easy steak, dinner, comfort food