Mastering the Perfect Cast Iron Ribeye Steak: A Delicious Recipe Inspired by a Colorado Food Blogger Retreat

Embark on a culinary adventure with me as I share my absolute favorite method for crafting an incredibly flavorful Ribeye Steak. This isn’t just any recipe; it’s a testament to good food and great company, inspired by an unforgettable trip to the breathtaking landscapes of Colorado, spent with some truly amazing bloggers!

An Inspiring Escape: The Fresh Air Retreat in Breckenridge, Colorado

A few weeks ago, I had the incredible privilege of flying to Breckenridge, Colorado, for an experience that truly invigorated my spirit and business. This picturesque mountain town, known for its stunning vistas and crisp, clean air, served as the perfect backdrop for what was aptly named the #FreshAirRetreat. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have a career I’m passionate about, one that continuously offers unique opportunities to learn, grow, and connect with like-minded individuals outside the traditional office setting.

This particular retreat was expertly organized by two remarkable women in the food blogging world: Liz of The Lemon Bowl and Lauren of The Curious Plate. Their vision created an environment where a small, intimate group of food bloggers could come together, share insights, and truly inspire one another. For me, these gatherings are invaluable. They provide a rare chance to engage in deep, meaningful conversations, ask pressing questions about our work, and openly discuss strategies that are propelling our businesses forward, as well as identify areas where we might be struggling.

Beyond the camaraderie among fellow bloggers, the retreat also provided a unique platform to connect with several prominent brands and business owners. We had the distinct opportunity to participate in intimate panel discussions with representatives from USA Pears and, most notably for today’s recipe, Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. These sessions were incredibly informative, offering invaluable insider knowledge into how brands operate, what they look for in collaborations, and how they perceive the evolving digital landscape. Gaining these perspectives directly from industry leaders is a huge advantage for any blogger looking to refine their business strategies.

Of course, no food blogger event would be complete without some truly exceptional eating! We were wonderfully hydrated throughout our stay, thanks to La Croix, who kept us supplied with their delicious sparkling waters. The culinary highlight, however, was undoubtedly the amazing beef dinner prepared by the talented Rasheed Phillips from Phillips Barbecue Co. His mastery of smoked meats left an indelible impression and directly inspired the Ribeye recipe I’m sharing with you today. While Rasheed uses a smoker—a piece of equipment I don’t possess (and would likely take me years to master, haha!)—I was determined to capture that rich, beefy flavor in a way accessible to every home cook. That’s why I decided to perfect and share my favorite cast iron skillet method for cooking a magnificent Ribeye. But before we dive into the steps, let’s take a moment to appreciate the star of the show, beef, and specifically, the luxurious Ribeye Steak!

Why the Ribeye Reigns Supreme: A Cut Above the Rest

As a proud partner with Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner, I can confidently say that few cuts of meat compare to the Ribeye Steak. It’s my ultimate favorite, and for good reason! This particular cut is celebrated for its incredible richness, unparalleled juiciness, and a depth of flavor that is simply sensational. What sets the Ribeye apart is its generous marbling – those beautiful streaks of fat woven throughout the meat. This marbling slowly renders during cooking, basting the steak from the inside out, resulting in a tender texture and a robust, buttery flavor that makes every bite an absolute delight. It’s the kind of steak that delivers a true steakhouse experience right in your own kitchen.

How to Make an Amazing Cast Iron Ribeye Steak: Your Ultimate Guide

Achieving a restaurant-quality Ribeye at home is easier than you might think, especially when utilizing the power of a cast iron skillet. This method ensures a perfect crust, a tender interior, and maximum flavor. Here’s my step-by-step guide to cooking a truly unforgettable Ribeye.

Step 1: Proper Seasoning is Key

The foundation of any great steak lies in its seasoning. For a Ribeye, you really don’t need a complex array of spices to unlock its incredible flavor. High-quality salt and freshly ground black pepper are your best friends here. Don’t be shy – season generously on both sides of your steak. Ensure the steak is also at room temperature before you begin; this allows for more even cooking. Simply take it out of the refrigerator about 30-60 minutes before you plan to cook it.

Step 2: Preparing Your Cast Iron Skillet for the Ultimate Sear

A cast iron skillet is truly the secret weapon for a perfectly seared Ribeye. Its ability to get intensely hot and retain that heat consistently is unparalleled. To start, place your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Allow it to preheat for several minutes until it’s smoking slightly. This is crucial for developing that coveted golden-brown crust. Once hot, add in your oil of choice. I highly recommend avocado oil due to its incredibly high smoke point, which prevents burning and ensures a clean sear. Olive oil can also work, but be mindful of its lower smoke point. When the oil shimmers and just begins to smoke, it’s time to add your seasoned Ribeye!

Step 3: Searing to Perfection and Aromatic Basting

Carefully place your Ribeye steaks into the screaming hot skillet. You’ll hear that satisfying sizzle immediately. Allow the steak to sear undisturbed for about 1 to 2 minutes, or until a beautiful, deep golden-brown crust forms and the steak can be easily moved with tongs. Resist the urge to move it sooner, as this is how the Maillard reaction works its magic! Carefully flip the steaks, ideally to a different section of the skillet to maintain consistent heat. Once the second side begins to develop its crust, this is where the magic truly happens: add sliced garlic, a generous amount of unsalted butter, and fresh sprigs of rosemary and thyme to the pan. Allow the butter to melt and the herbs and garlic to infuse, then begin to baste the steaks repeatedly with the aromatic butter using a spoon. This basting technique imparts incredible flavor and helps create an even, succulent cook.

Step 4: Cooking to Desired Doneness and Essential Resting

After basting, reduce the heat to medium. Continue cooking the steaks, flipping every minute or so, and basting with the butter until they reach your desired internal temperature. A good meat thermometer is indispensable here for accuracy. Remember, the steak will continue to cook a bit after it’s removed from the pan (this is called carryover cooking), so aim for a few degrees shy of your target temperature. Once done, remove the steaks from the skillet and place them on a cutting board. Crucially, allow the steak to rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every slice is incredibly juicy and tender. Slicing too soon will cause all those precious juices to run out, leaving you with a drier steak.

How Long Does It Take to Cook Steak on a Cast-Iron Skillet?

The total cook time for a Ribeye steak in a cast iron skillet can vary depending on its thickness, your desired doneness, and the initial temperature of the steak. However, once the pan is properly preheated and you’ve begun the searing process, the actual cooking time in the pan is surprisingly short – typically around 5 to 8 minutes for a standard 1.5-inch thick steak cooked to medium-rare. The high, even heat of the cast iron allows for rapid cooking and an efficient sear, making it one of the quickest and most effective methods for achieving steakhouse-quality results at home. While prepping the meat and pan takes a little effort, the quick cook time is a huge advantage, delivering delicious results without much waiting.

How Do You Cook a Medium-Rare Steak in a Cast-Iron Skillet?

A medium-rare steak is often considered the gold standard for many steak enthusiasts, and for good reason. It boasts a beautiful warm red center, a melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, and a juicy, rich flavor that is incredibly delicious! To achieve a perfect medium-rare Ribeye in your cast iron skillet, you’ll want to aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C) when you remove it from the heat. As mentioned, the steak will continue to cook for a few more degrees as it rests, so pulling it slightly before your target will ensure it doesn’t overcook. Use a reliable meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the steak to monitor its temperature. Follow the searing and basting steps outlined above, reducing the heat after the initial sear, and then cook until it reaches that sweet spot of 130-135°F. The resting period is particularly crucial for medium-rare, allowing those flavorful juices to settle, giving you a supremely tender and succulent steak.

I truly hope you enjoy this method for cooking Ribeye Steak as much as I do. It’s a simple yet incredibly effective way to bring that steakhouse experience into your home. Give it a try, and let me know in the comments if it becomes your new favorite way to prepare steak!

This post is a collaboration with Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner, on behalf of the Beef Checkoff. I received compensation, but all opinions are my own. #BeefFarmersandRanchers

For even more great ideas follow me on:

Facebook – Pinterest – Instagram – Twitter