Grilled Ribeye Steaks with Herb Butter:
Grilled Ribeye Steaks with Herb Butter: A Step-by-Step Guide
A perfectly grilled ribeye steak, seared to a crispy golden brown on the outside while remaining tender, juicy, and flavorful on the inside, is the epitome of a satisfying meal. When topped with a rich and aromatic herb butter, this dish reaches new heights, offering a burst of flavor with every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion, a weekend dinner, or just because you crave something delicious, grilled ribeye steaks with herb butter are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
In this guide, we will explore how to prepare and grill the perfect ribeye steak and make a luscious herb butter that will elevate the flavors to a whole new level. We’ll break down the process step-by-step, discuss tips and tricks for achieving the best results, and provide some alternative ideas for variations to make this dish your own.
Choosing the Right Ribeye Steak
The key to a great grilled ribeye steak starts with choosing the right cut of meat. Ribeye steaks are known for their rich marbling, which adds flavor, juiciness, and tenderness. When selecting your ribeye, look for steaks that have a nice balance of marbling throughout the meat. This marbling is fat that melts during cooking, making the steak tender and juicy. Here are a few things to consider when picking your ribeye:
Thickness: Ribeye steaks come in various thicknesses. A 1.5-inch thick steak is ideal for grilling as it will sear nicely on the outside while retaining juiciness inside.
Bone-in vs. Boneless: You can opt for bone-in or boneless ribeye steaks. The bone-in variety often has more flavor and can provide a little more juiciness, but the boneless version is easier to cook and slice.
Grade of Meat: Look for steaks labeled USDA Prime, USDA Choice, or USDA Select. Prime ribeye steaks have the highest marbling, which results in the most tender and flavorful steak. Choice is a good middle ground, and Select can still be flavorful, but it may not be as tender.
After selecting your ribeye steak, bring it to room temperature before grilling to ensure even cooking.
Preparing the Herb Butter
Herb butter is the perfect accompaniment to grilled ribeye steak, providing an extra layer of rich flavor and a burst of freshness. The key to making an exceptional herb butter is choosing the right herbs and balancing the flavors.
Ingredients for Herb Butter:
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
1 teaspoon lemon zest
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional: A drizzle of olive oil for extra richness
Instructions:
Soften the Butter: Let your unsalted butter sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before making the herb butter. Softened butter is easier to mix and spread.
Chop Fresh Herbs: Finely chop your fresh rosemary, thyme, and parsley. Fresh herbs will provide vibrant flavors that dried herbs cannot replicate. Garlic should also be minced finely to avoid any chunks.
Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter with the chopped herbs, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture thoroughly, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed. If you want a richer flavor, you can add a drizzle of olive oil or even a small splash of red wine vinegar for acidity.
Chill the Butter: Once everything is mixed, transfer the herb butter to a sheet of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Shape it into a log or any shape you prefer. Refrigerate the herb butter for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together. It can also be stored in the freezer for longer shelf life.
Grilling the Ribeye Steaks
Grilling ribeye steaks requires a few basic techniques, but the most important factors are heat and timing. You want your steak to be perfectly seared on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside. Here’s how to do it:
Ingredients:
Ribeye steaks (1.5 inches thick)
Olive oil or vegetable oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Optional: A pinch of garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor
Instructions:
Preheat the Grill: Start by preheating your grill to high heat, around 450°F to 500°F. If you’re using a charcoal grill, wait until the coals are fully ashed over before you start cooking. For gas grills, preheat with the lid closed for about 10–15 minutes.
Prepare the Steaks: While the grill is heating up, brush both sides of your ribeye steaks lightly with olive oil. This helps with even searing and prevents the meat from sticking to the grill. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. If you like, you can also sprinkle on a little garlic powder or onion powder for additional flavor.
Grill the Steaks: Once the grill is preheated, place your ribeye steaks directly over the heat. For a medium-rare steak, cook for about 4-5 minutes per side. If you prefer your steak more well-done, add another minute or two per side. Use tongs to flip the steaks, and avoid using a fork, as piercing the meat will release juices and cause the steak to dry out.
Check for Doneness: The best way to check the doneness of your steak is with an instant-read thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of about 130°F. For medium, it should be around 140°F, and for well-done, it should be around 160°F.
Rest the Steaks: After removing the steaks from the grill, let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring your steak remains juicy and flavorful.
Serving the Grilled Ribeye Steaks with Herb Butter
Once your steaks have rested, it’s time to serve them up! Here’s how to add that irresistible herb butter and plate your steak:
Top the Steaks with Herb Butter: Take your chilled herb butter and slice off a pat of it. Place the herb butter on top of the hot steak right before serving. The butter will melt beautifully over the steak, creating a luscious, garlicky, and herbaceous sauce that complements the rich flavor of the ribeye.
Garnish and Serve: You can garnish your steak with additional fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon for a burst of freshness. Serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.
Side Dishes to Pair with Grilled Ribeye Steaks
To make your grilled ribeye steaks with herb butter a full meal, consider pairing them with these classic sides:
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic are the perfect companion to a flavorful steak.
Grilled Vegetables: Grilled asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers pair wonderfully with ribeye steaks, adding color and a fresh, smoky flavor.
Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad with tangy dressing can balance the richness of the steak.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts with crispy edges are a hearty side that complements the tender ribeye perfectly.
Conclusion
Grilled ribeye steaks with herb butter are the ultimate indulgence, offering the perfect balance of flavor, tenderness, and juiciness. With the right cut of steak, a flavorful herb butter, and the proper grilling technique, you can easily prepare a restaurant-quality meal right in your own backyard. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy anyone lucky enough to sit at your dinner table.
So fire up the grill, prepare your herb butter, and get ready to enjoy one of the most delicious and flavorful steaks you’ve ever tasted.