How Do You Pan Sear a Ribeye Steak?
Pan searing a ribeye steak is a popular and delicious way to cook this flavorful cut of meat. The process involves using high heat to create a crispy crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. In this tutorial, we will guide you through the steps of pan searing a ribeye steak to perfection.
What You’ll Need
- A ribeye steak
- Salt and pepper for seasoning
- A cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan
- Olive oil or another high smoke point cooking oil
- Tongs for flipping the steak
- A meat thermometer (optional but recommended)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Ribeye Steak
Before you start cooking, remove the ribeye steak from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will ensure even cooking throughout the steak.
2. Seasoning the Steak
Generously season both sides of the ribeye steak with salt and pepper. The seasoning will enhance the flavor of the meat and add a delicious crust when seared.
3. Preheating the Pan
Place your cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over high heat. Allow it to heat up for a few minutes until it becomes smoking hot. Heating the pan properly is crucial for achieving that beautiful sear on your steak.
4. Adding Oil to the Pan
Add a drizzle of olive oil or another high smoke point cooking oil to the hot pan. Swirl the oil around to evenly coat the surface. The oil will prevent the steak from sticking to the pan and help in achieving a crispy crust.
5. Searing the Steak
Carefully place the seasoned ribeye steak in the hot pan. It should sizzle immediately upon contact. Allow it to cook without moving for about 2-3 minutes, or until a golden brown crust forms.
6. Flipping and Cooking
Use tongs to flip the ribeye steak to the other side. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until desired doneness is achieved. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of around 130°F (54°C).
7. Resting and Serving
Remove the ribeye steak from the pan and transfer it to a cutting board or plate. Allow it to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing into it. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Tips and Tricks
- Use a meat thermometer: For precise cooking, use a meat thermometer to check for your preferred level of doneness.
- Basting with butter: Enhance the flavor by basting your ribeye steak with butter during cooking.
- Add aromatics: Consider adding minced garlic cloves or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to infuse extra flavor into your steak while searing.
Now that you know how to pan sear a ribeye steak, you can impress your friends and family with a mouthwatering steakhouse-quality meal at home. Enjoy!