How to Cook the Perfect 1-Inch Ribeye Steak

Whether you're a steak aficionado or a beginner in the kitchen, learning how to cook the perfect 1-inch ribeye steak is a must. This cut is tender, juicy, and flavorful, making it a favorite among steak lovers. Follow these detailed steps to ensure you cook your ribeye to perfection every time.

The Essential Tools and Ingredients

Before you start, you'll need a few essential items:

A cast iron skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan (for searing) A meat thermometer (essential for achieving the desired doneness) Olive oil or your preferred cooking oil Your choice of steak seasoning (e.g., Montreal Steak Spice) A pat of butter (for an extra layer of flavor)

Preparation: Bringing the Steak to Room Temperature

Your first step is to bring the ribeye steak to room temperature. Removing the steak from the refrigerator and letting it sit at room temperature for about an hour is crucial. Cold meat tends to cook unevenly, leading to dry, tough results. As a general rule, an hour is recommended, but for thicker cuts, you may need to let it sit for up to 90 minutes.

Cooking Techniques: The Art of Searing

1. Searing the Steak in a Cast Iron Skillet

Begin by preheating your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. You want the pan to be hot, which can be achieved by letting it heat up in the oven for a few minutes before you start. You should see the pan start to smoke slightly even without oil. Once it's hot, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Let the oil heat for about 15 seconds to ensure it's evenly spread across the pan.

2. Seasoning the Steak

While the pan is heating, season the ribeye steak to taste. A popular choice is Montreal Steak Spice, but you can use any seasoning you prefer. You can also add salt and pepper to taste, depending on your preference.

3. Searing the Steak

Place the steak in the hot pan and sear it for 2 minutes and 20 seconds on each side. By the end of this time, you should have a nicely caramelized crust with a satisfying sear. The level of crust will depend on how hot the pan is and how long you let it cook.

Resting and Achieving the Desired Doneness

Once you've seared the steak, remove it from the pan and let it rest for 8 minutes. This resting period is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, making the steak more tender and flavorful. During this time, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you plan to finish the steak in the oven.

Final Touches

Before serving, check the temperature of the steak with a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be around 135°F (57°C). Once you have achieved the desired temperature, let the steak rest for a few more minutes.

Serve the steak hot, garnished with a pat of butter for an extra layer of flavor. Enjoy your perfectly cooked 1-inch ribeye steak!

Keywords: ribeye steak, cooking techniques, meat thermometer