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Perfect Butter-Basted Ribeye Steak Recipe Easy No-Fail Guide

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A straightforward, foolproof butter-basted ribeye steak recipe that delivers a juicy, flavorful steakhouse-quality result with simple ingredients and quick preparation.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 thick-cut ribeye steak, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick (1216 oz / 340450 g)
  • Kosher salt or sea salt, for seasoning
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, smashed but left whole
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary (can swap for thyme or oregano)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Bring the ribeye steak to room temperature for 15-20 minutes and pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.
  3. Heat a cast iron or heavy skillet over medium-high heat for 3-5 minutes until smoking hot. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and swirl to coat.
  4. Place the steak in the pan away from you and sear undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms.
  5. Flip the steak using tongs. Add butter, smashed garlic cloves, and rosemary to the pan.
  6. Tilt the pan slightly and spoon the hot butter over the steak repeatedly for 2-3 minutes to baste.
  7. Check doneness with a meat thermometer aiming for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare or 140°F (60°C) for medium. If needed, flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes while continuing to baste.
  8. Transfer the steak to a cutting board, tent loosely with foil, and rest for 5-10 minutes.
  9. Slice against the grain in thick slices and pour any leftover buttery pan juices over the top before serving.

Notes

If you want a dairy-free option, swap butter with ghee or a plant-based butter alternative. For thicker steaks (2 inches or more), finish in a 400°F oven for 4-6 minutes after searing. Avoid overcrowding the pan and do not press down on the steak while cooking. Resting the steak is crucial to retain juices. Use fresh herbs and garlic for best flavor. If kitchen smoke occurs, open a window or turn on a fan.

Nutrition

Keywords: ribeye steak, butter-basted steak, steak recipe, easy steak, no-fail steak, cast iron steak, garlic butter steak, rosemary steak