Make a Classic Pan-Seared Ribeye Steak Recipe

Make a Classic Pan-Seared Ribeye Steak Recipe is a medium American recipe that serves 2. 1470 calories per serving. Recipe by Certified Angus Beef ® on YouTube.

Prep: 15 min | Cook: 12 min | Total: 37 min

Cost: $12.85 total, $6.43 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1 piece Ribeye Steak (16 oz (1 lb), well‑marbled Certified Angus Beef ribeye)
  • 1 tablespoon Canola Oil (high smoke‑point oil for brushing the steak)
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (coarse, for seasoning both sides)
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly cracked)
  • 2 sprigs Fresh Thyme (adds aromatic flavor during oven finish)
  • 2 cloves Garlic (smashed to release flavor)
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (for basting and finishing sauce)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Skillet

    Place the cast‑iron skillet in a cold oven and set to 450°F. Let it heat for about 10 minutes until the pan is scorching hot.

    Time: PT10M

    Temperature: 450°F

  2. Season the Steak

    Pat the ribeye dry with paper towels. Brush both sides with a thin layer of canola oil, then sprinkle generously with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper on each side.

    Time: PT5M

  3. Sear First Side

    Remove the hot skillet with oven mitts, place it on a stovetop burner set to medium heat. Lay the steak in the pan away from you and let it sear undisturbed for 2–3 minutes until a deep brown crust forms.

    Time: PT3M

    Temperature: Medium (≈350°F surface)

  4. Flip and Add Aromatics

    Using tongs, flip the steak. Add the thyme sprigs and smashed garlic cloves to the pan and sear the second side for another 2–3 minutes.

    Time: PT3M

    Temperature: Medium

  5. Finish in the Oven

    Transfer the skillet back to the oven and roast for 6–7 minutes for medium‑rare (internal temp ~130°F). Adjust time for desired doneness.

    Time: PT7M

    Temperature: 450°F

  6. Butter Baste

    Remove the skillet from the oven, reduce the stovetop heat to low, add the butter and let it melt. Tilt the pan and spoon the foaming butter over the steak for about 30 seconds.

    Time: PT1M

    Temperature: Low

  7. Rest the Steak

    Transfer the steak to a plate, tent loosely with foil and let rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.

    Time: PT5M

  8. Slice and Serve

    Slice the ribeye against the grain, arrange on the plate, and drizzle any remaining butter and aromatics from the pan over the top. Serve immediately.

    Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
1470
Protein
100 g
Carbohydrates
0 g
Fat
115 g
Fiber
0 g

Dietary info: High‑protein, Gluten‑free, Keto‑friendly

Allergens: Dairy (butter)

Last updated: April 20, 2026

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Make a Classic Pan-Seared Ribeye Steak Recipe

Recipe by Certified Angus Beef ®

A restaurant‑quality ribeye steak cooked entirely on the stovetop and finished in a hot oven for a perfect crust and buttery, herb‑infused interior. This step‑by‑step method from Certified Angus Beef® uses a cast‑iron skillet, simple seasoning, and a quick butter basting to achieve a medium‑rare steak (or any doneness) that’s ideal for a special dinner.

MediumAmericanServes 2

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Source Video
29m
Prep
7m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
46m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$12.85
Total cost
$6.43
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Preheating the cast‑iron skillet to a very high temperature
  • Achieving a deep brown crust during the initial sear
  • Finishing the steak in a hot oven to reach desired internal temperature
  • Basting with butter and aromatics for flavor
  • Allowing the steak to rest before slicing

Safety Warnings

  • The cast‑iron skillet will be extremely hot; always use oven mitts when handling.
  • A lot of smoke can be produced; ensure proper ventilation or open a window.
  • Butter can splatter; keep face away from the pan while basting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of a classic pan‑seared ribeye in American steakhouse cuisine?

A

The pan‑seared ribeye reflects the American tradition of showcasing high‑quality, heavily marbled beef in a simple yet dramatic way. By searing in a cast‑iron skillet and finishing in the oven, home cooks replicate the restaurant‑style crust and buttery interior that have become hallmarks of classic American steakhouse dishes.

cultural
Q

What regional variations exist for ribeye steak preparation within United States cuisine?

A

In the Southwest, ribeye is often rubbed with chili powder and cumin; in the Midwest, it may be cooked with a simple salt‑pepper crust and served with a mushroom gravy; on the West Coast, chefs frequently add soy‑based marinades or serve it with avocado salsa. The classic pan‑seared method remains a staple across all regions for its pure beef flavor.

cultural
Q

How is a classic pan‑seared ribeye traditionally served in American fine‑dining settings?

A

It is typically presented whole on a warm plate, topped with a spoonful of herb‑infused brown butter, and accompanied by simple sides such as roasted potatoes, grilled asparagus, or a fresh green salad. The steak is sliced at the table to showcase the uniform crust and pink interior.

cultural
Q

During which celebrations or occasions is a classic pan‑seared ribeye most commonly enjoyed in American culture?

A

Ribeye steaks are popular for romantic dinners like Valentine’s Day, holiday gatherings such as Thanksgiving or Christmas, and celebratory meals like birthdays or promotions where a premium cut signifies a special treat.

cultural
Q

What makes the classic pan‑seared ribeye unique compared to other American steak cuts?

A

The ribeye’s abundant intramuscular fat (marbling) creates a rich, juicy texture and a pronounced beefy flavor. The high‑heat sear locks in juices while the oven finish ensures even doneness without over‑cooking the exterior—a balance that’s harder to achieve with leaner cuts.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making the classic pan‑seared ribeye from Certified Angus Beef®?

A

Common errors include using a cold pan (no crust), overcrowding the skillet, moving the steak during the sear, and not resting the meat after cooking. Each mistake leads to a loss of flavor, texture, or juiciness.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe add butter and aromatics after the oven step instead of at the beginning?

A

Adding butter and herbs at the end prevents the butter from burning during the high‑heat sear and oven phase, while still allowing the flavors to meld and coat the steak with a glossy, nutty brown butter sauce.

technical
Q

Can I make the classic pan‑seared ribeye ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, you can season the steak up to an hour before cooking and keep it uncovered in the refrigerator to dry the surface. After cooking, let it rest, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently in a skillet before serving.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the classic pan‑seared ribeye is done?

A

You should see a deep, caramelized crust covering the entire surface, a slightly pink interior (130‑135°F for medium‑rare), and a glossy butter‑herb glaze on top. The meat should feel firm yet spring back gently when pressed.

technical
Q

How do I know when the classic pan‑seared ribeye is finished cooking?

A

Insert an instant‑read thermometer into the thickest part; pull the steak at 125°F for medium‑rare, 135°F for medium, and let it rest—temperature will rise 5‑10°F during resting.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Certified Angus Beef® specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Certified Angus Beef® focuses on showcasing premium beef cuts, cooking techniques, and recipe ideas that highlight the flavor and quality of Certified Angus Beef, often emphasizing simple, classic preparations for home cooks.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Certified Angus Beef®'s approach to steak cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

Certified Angus Beef® emphasizes the natural flavor of the beef itself, using minimal seasoning and high‑heat techniques like cast‑iron searing and oven finishing, whereas many other channels incorporate heavy marinades, sauces, or complex flavor profiles.

channel

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