Updated on December 26th, 2023
You must’ve wondered how those gourmet restaurants turn out a juicy plate of ribeye steak every time. Well, the technique is pretty simple. And because the steak’s natural condition allows lots of moisture in the meat, you end up with a tasty result.
The classic pan-fried ribeye steak recipe is one you should learn when you get the chance. And luckily, you’ll find the methods of preparing this sumptuous delicacy with ease as you read on.
Ribeye Steak Nutrition Facts
Why Should You Pan-Fry a Ribeye Steak?
While many methods to cook ribeye steak exist, you may want to give the stovetop technique a second thought. And here’s why;
It’s Quicker-The marbling in the steak and heat level of the frying pan lets you cook the meat faster than you imagined. And when done right, this recipe can be done in 15 minutes.
It’s More Flexible-You get a better chance of controlling the heat level when the ribeye steak is cooked in a frying pan.
The Doneness Time is Straightforward- Ribeye steak is best cooked to at least medium-rare because of its fatty content and thick size. So you don’t have to panic about overcooking it. The steaks want to be fried for as long as possible.
View this post on Instagram
Cooking Ribeye Steak in a Frying Pan
When cooking ribeye steak in a frying pan, you’ll need to follow some vital steps. Here’s a brief of what to do;
Selecting the Steak
When selecting ribeye steaks, you need to note that the meat may be cut from the 6th to 12th rib area. And the center cut has the most balanced fat to beef ratio, making it the most commonly sold. Still, you may want less fat, and if you do, consider the short loin cut. And for more flavor and juiciness in the meat, the chuck end cut is your best bet. Whichever cut you pick, make sure it’s between 2.5 to 3cm thick, with a deep red shade and a rich amount of marbling. Also, note that cuts from organic, free-range beef offer the best quality.
Preparing the Steak
Place the steak down to come to room temperature- this should take about 30 minutes. This waiting is essential as cooking the steak straight from the fridge won’t allow even doneness in the meat.
Season Generously
Once the meat is ready, sprinkle it on all sides with enough pepper and salt. Ribeye excels with lots of seasoning, and you can use your favorite dry rub combination if you wish.
View this post on Instagram
Prepare the Pan
Set the pan on medium-high heat and let it grow smoking hot. Make sure it’s large enough such that you can sear both sides on different areas of the pan.
Cook the Steak
Place the ribeye steaks on the pan and let them cook for three minutes without touching. Then, flip to another part of the pan and cook it for the same amount of time. And if you’re not sure whether the meat is ready, check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Use these parameters below as a guide;
- Rare= 50C
- Medium-rare= 60C
- Well-done= 70C
If you want the fat and marbling to melt fully into the meat, it’s recommended you cook it to at least medium-rare.
View this post on Instagram
Rest the Steak
Once the ribeye steak has reached the desired doneness, set it down and leave it to rest for five minutes. This way, the juice flows back between the tissues, so you end up with most slices when you cut it.
More Tips
You can also infuse more moisture and deliciousness to the ribeye steak by basting it with melted butter. When you flip the meat, add some butter to the pan and let it melt. Then tilt the pan, scoop the melted butter and baste the steak repeatedly with it as it cooks.
Serving Ribeye Steak
Ribeye steak should be served sliced across the grain. You can also offer this recipe along with lots of tasty options, some of which include;
- Chips, tomatoes, and mushrooms
- Salads
- Salsa Verde
- Mashed potatoes
- Watercress and onion rings
- A side of your favorite veggies
- Sauces and gravy
Pan-Fried Ribeye Steak (2 Servings)
Ingredients
- Two ribeye steaks, eight ounces each
- Three tablespoons lemon and pepper seasoning
- One tablespoon seasoning salt
- One tablespoon butter, unsalted
- One tablespoon of olive oil
- One teaspoon kosher salt
- Black pepper, freshly ground
Instructions
- Bring the steaks to room temperature and let them sit for 30 minutes. While you wait, mix the seasoning salt and spices in a bowl. Rub the mix generously on the steaks, massaging it in with your fingers.
- Heat a large frying pan till it’s smoking hot, then add the butter and oil. Once the butter fully melts, add the steaks and cook for about two minutes. Then, flip them, reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for three minutes. Baste the meat with the butter in the pan as you cook them.
- Once the steaks are done, take them down and leave to sit for five minutes. Then serve as desired.
Another helpful way to cook ribeye steak in a frying pan can be checked in this video.