Ready to elevate your dinner game? This Garlic Butter Ribeye Steak is a treat for your taste buds. With rich flavors and a simple cooking method, you’ll impress your family or friends without breaking a sweat. I'll guide you through each step, from selecting the best ingredients to achieving the perfect sear. Let’s get cooking and create a savory dish that everyone will love!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor Profile: This ribeye steak is infused with a delicious garlic butter and rosemary combination that elevates the natural flavors of the meat.
- Perfectly Cooked: The resting time allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy, cooked to your desired doneness.
- Quick and Simple: This recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve with lemon wedges for a refreshing contrast, or pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Garlic Butter Ribeye Steak
- 2 ribeye steaks (approximately 1 inch thick)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- Lemon wedges (for garnish and serving)
The ribeye steaks are the star of this dish. A good cut gives you rich flavor and tenderness. I use unsalted butter for the garlic butter mix. Fresh garlic is a must for that pungent flavor. Rosemary adds a nice herbal note that pairs well with the beef. Salt and pepper enhance the taste, while olive oil helps achieve a good sear. Lemon wedges are perfect for a zesty finish.
Recommended Seasonings
- Sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
I recommend using sea salt for its texture and flavor. Freshly ground black pepper adds a sharp bite that balances the richness of the steak.
Suggested Garnishes
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh rosemary sprigs
Lemon wedges add a bright note when you serve the steak. Fresh rosemary sprigs not only look nice but also enhance the aroma and flavor of the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Steaks
To start, take your ribeye steaks out of the fridge. Let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps them cook evenly. Next, season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Use enough to make the flavor pop.
Cooking the Steaks
Now, grab a large skillet. A cast iron skillet is great for this. Heat it over medium-high heat and add the extra virgin olive oil. Wait until the oil shimmers but does not smoke. Carefully place the seasoned steaks in the skillet. Let them cook undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes. This time helps form a nice crust. After that, flip the steaks using tongs. Cook for another 4 minutes for medium-rare. Adjust the time based on how well-done you want your steak.
Adding Garlic Butter and Finishing Touches
In the last 1-2 minutes of cooking, add the unsalted butter, minced garlic, and fresh rosemary to the skillet. As the butter melts, use a spoon to baste the steaks with the garlic butter. This step adds flavor and keeps the meat moist. Once cooked to your liking, take the steaks out and let them rest on a cutting board. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices settle. Finally, slice the steaks against the grain and drizzle any leftover garlic butter on top. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a bright touch.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Sear
To get a great sear on your ribeye steak, use a heavy skillet. Cast iron is best. Heat the skillet until it shimmers but does not smoke. Place the seasoned steaks in the pan and leave them alone for 4-5 minutes. This helps to form a crust. Resist the urge to flip too soon. A good sear locks in flavor.
Understanding Steak Doneness
Steak doneness matters for taste and texture. For medium-rare, cook the steak for about 4 minutes on each side. If you prefer it more done, add a minute or two. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Aim for 130°F for medium-rare and 140°F for medium. Remember to let your steak rest after cooking. This step keeps it juicy.
Enhancing Flavor with Variations
You can add more flavors to your garlic butter ribeye. Try adding herbs like thyme or parsley. A splash of Worcestershire sauce can also boost the taste. For a spicy touch, add red pepper flakes to the butter. Want a smoky flavor? Use smoked paprika. These simple tweaks can make your steak even more delicious.
Pro Tips
- Rest the Steaks: Allowing the steaks to rest at room temperature before cooking ensures a more even cook and juiciness.
- Use a Cast Iron Skillet: This type of skillet retains heat exceptionally well, leading to a perfect sear on the steak.
- Don’t Rush the Sear: Let the steaks cook undisturbed for the recommended time to develop a rich, flavorful crust.
- Baste for Flavor: Continuously basting the steaks with the garlic-butter mixture enhances flavor and keeps the meat moist.
Variations
Garlic Butter Ribeye with Herbs
You can add fresh herbs for a new taste. Use thyme, parsley, or oregano. Chop them finely and mix them into the garlic butter. This mix will add a fresh, vibrant flavor. When you baste the steaks, you’ll notice how the herbs boost the taste. They create a tasty twist that makes each bite special.
Grilled Garlic Butter Ribeye Steak
Grilling gives the ribeye a smoky flavor. Start by seasoning the steaks as usual. Preheat your grill to high heat. Place the steaks on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side. Just like before, add garlic butter in the last minutes. The grill marks will add nice visuals and flavor. Serve it with grilled veggies for a complete meal.
Garlic Butter Ribeye Steak Tacos
Transform your ribeye into delicious tacos. After cooking, slice the steak thinly. Warm corn or flour tortillas. Fill each tortilla with the sliced steak. Top with diced onions, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. Drizzle some of the garlic butter over the top for extra flavor. This variation turns a classic dish into a fun and casual meal.
Storage Info
Storing Leftover Steaks
After cooking, you may have leftover ribeye steak. Store it well to keep it tasty. First, let the steak cool to room temperature. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. You can also place it in an airtight container. This keeps the steak fresh for up to three days in the fridge.
Reheating Techniques
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftover steak, reheating is key. The best method is to use a skillet. Heat a little olive oil over low heat. Place the steak in the skillet and cover it. Heat for about 5 minutes per side. This helps keep the meat juicy. You can also use the microwave, but be careful not to overheat. Place the steak on a microwave-safe plate, cover it, and warm it for 30 seconds at a time.
Freezing Options
If you want to keep steak for a longer time, freezing is a great option. Wrap the steak in plastic wrap, then in foil. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw the steak in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat it as mentioned above. Enjoy your delicious garlic butter ribeye steak!
FAQs
How do I know when ribeye steak is done?
You can tell when ribeye steak is done by using a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for 130°F (54°C). For medium, go for 140°F (60°C). Another way is to check the firmness. Press the steak with your finger. A soft feel means it's rare, while a firmer feel indicates it’s medium or well done. Always let your steak rest after cooking. This helps keep it juicy.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Yes, you can use garlic powder if you don't have fresh garlic. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove of fresh garlic. However, fresh garlic gives a stronger flavor and aroma. If you want a more intense taste, stick with fresh garlic. It adds a nice touch to the butter sauce.
What sides pair well with Garlic Butter Ribeye Steak?
Many sides go well with Garlic Butter Ribeye Steak. Here are a few favorites:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
- A fresh garden salad
- Grilled asparagus
These sides complement the rich flavor of the steak and add balance to your meal.
How can I make a low-sodium version of this recipe?
To make a low-sodium version, reduce the salt used on the steak. You can also use low-sodium butter or a butter substitute. Fresh herbs can boost flavor without adding salt. Consider using lemon juice or zest for brightness. This keeps your dish tasty while lowering sodium intake.
In this post, we covered how to make a tasty garlic butter ribeye steak. We explored ingredients, cooking steps, and useful tips. You learned about variations like tacos and grilling methods. Storing and reheating steak can also be simple.
Cooking steak at home doesn't have to be hard. With the right steps, you can impress anyone. Try out these tips and share your results! Enjoy your delicious steak adventures!