How to cook a ribeye in cast iron skillet?

How to Cook a Ribeye in Cast Iron Skillet: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking a ribeye in a cast iron skillet is a great way to achieve a crispy crust and a juicy interior. This method is perfect for those who love a good sear and a tender steak. With a few simple steps, you can cook a delicious ribeye in your cast iron skillet. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Choosing the Right Cut of Meat

Before you start cooking, you’ll need to choose the right cut of meat. Look for a ribeye that is at least 1.5 inches thick, as this will ensure a nice sear and a juicy interior. You can also consider buying a thicker cut of meat and cooking it to your desired level of doneness.

Preheating the Skillet

To cook a ribeye in a cast iron skillet, you’ll need to preheat it to high heat. Yes, you read that right – high heat! Preheating the skillet to high heat is essential for achieving a crispy crust on the steak.

Here’s how to do it:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Place the cast iron skillet in the oven for at least 30 minutes to preheat.
• While the skillet is preheating, season the ribeye with your favorite seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Creating the Perfect Sear

Once the skillet is preheated, it’s time to add the ribeye. Here’s how to create the perfect sear:

• Remove the skillet from the oven and place it on the stovetop over high heat.
• Add 1-2 tablespoons of oil to the skillet, such as canola or vegetable oil.
• Sear the ribeye for 1-2 minutes per side, or until a crust forms.
• Use tongs or a spatula to flip the steak. You may need to adjust the heat to prevent the skillet from getting too hot.

Finishing the Steak

After searing the ribeye, it’s time to finish cooking it to your desired level of doneness. Here’s how:

• Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 8-12 minutes, or until the steak reaches your desired level of doneness.
• Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be around 130-135°F (54-57°C).

Letting the Steak Rest

Once the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, it’s time to let it rest. Here’s why:

• Remove the skillet from the oven and place it on the stovetop.
• Use tongs or a spatula to transfer the steak to a plate.
• Cover the plate with aluminum foil to trap the heat and let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes.
• During this time, the juices will redistribute and the steak will retain its moisture.

Slicing and Serving

Finally, it’s time to slice and serve your delicious ribeye! Here’s how:

• Use a sharp knife to slice the steak against the grain.
• Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

• Use a cast iron skillet with a thermometer to monitor the temperature and ensure a perfect sear.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet – cook the steak one at a time if necessary.
• Experiment with different seasonings and sauces to add flavor to the steak.
• Try cooking the steak to different levels of doneness, such as medium or well-done.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the skillet
• Not preheating the skillet to high heat
• Not letting the steak rest
• Cooking the steak to too low of a heat

Conclusion

Cooking a ribeye in a cast iron skillet is a great way to achieve a crispy crust and a juicy interior. By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to cook a delicious ribeye that is sure to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, cooking a ribeye in a cast iron skillet is a great way to add a new skill to your cooking repertoire.

Cast Iron Skillet Ribeye Recipe

Here is a sample recipe for cooking a ribeye in a cast iron skillet:

Ingredients:

• 1.5 inches thick ribeye steak
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika

Instructions:

1. Preheat the skillet to high heat.
2. Season the ribeye with salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Add 1 tablespoon of oil to the skillet and sear the ribeye for 1-2 minutes per side.
4. Remove the skillet from the oven and add the butter to the skillet.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 8-12 minutes, or until the steak reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Remove the skillet from the oven and use tongs or a spatula to transfer the steak to a plate.
7. Cover the plate with aluminum foil and let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes.
8. Slice the steak and serve immediately.

Tips for Cooking Ribeye Steak

Here are some tips for cooking ribeye steak:

• Use high-quality meat: Look for a ribeye that is at least 1.5 inches thick and is from a reputable butcher.
• Season the meat: Season the ribeye with salt, pepper, and your favorite seasonings before cooking.
• Use the right oil: Use a high-heat oil such as canola or vegetable oil to cook the steak.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Cook the steak one at a time to ensure a perfect sear.
• Let the steak rest: Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Cast Iron Skillet Temperature Guide

Here is a temperature guide for cooking ribeye steak in a cast iron skillet:

Cast Iron Skillet Cleaning Guide

Here is a cleaning guide for your cast iron skillet:

• Avoid using soap or detergent: Instead, use hot water and a stiff brush to scrub away any food residue.
• Dry the skillet thoroughly: Use a towel to dry the skillet, paying extra attention to any crevices or handle.
• Apply a thin layer of oil: Use a paper towel to apply a thin layer of oil to the skillet.

By following these steps, tips, and guides, you’ll be able to cook a delicious ribeye in a cast iron skillet that is sure to impress. Happy cooking!