this is the MOST IMPORTANT part of a reverse sear...

this is the MOST IMPORTANT part of a reverse sear... is a medium American recipe that serves 2. 620 calories per serving. Recipe by HowToBBQRight Podcast on YouTube.

Prep: 10 min | Cook: 44 min | Total: 1 hr 9 min

Cost: $18.38 total, $9.19 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 pieces Ribeye Steak (1.5‑inch thick, about 12 oz each, room‑temperature)
  • 1 tablespoon Kosher Salt (coarse, for seasoning)
  • 1 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (high smoke‑point oil for searing)
  • 1 tablespoon Unsalted Butter (optional, added to pan for extra flavor during sear)
  • 1 sheet Aluminum Foil (lightly tent steak while resting)

Instructions

  1. Set Up Two‑Zone Grill

    Arrange your grill for indirect heat on one side and direct high heat on the other. For a charcoal grill, push coals to one side; for gas, turn one burner to low and the opposite burner to high.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Season the Steaks

    Pat the ribeyes dry with paper towels, then rub each side with vegetable oil, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper.

    Time: PT5M

  3. Cook Low and Slow to 115°F

    Place the steaks on the indirect side of the grill. Insert the probe thermometer into the thickest part and cook until the internal temperature reaches 115°F.

    Time: PT30M

    Temperature: 225°F

  4. Rest for Carry‑Over Cooking

    Remove the steaks from the grill and place them on a cutting board. Loosely tent with aluminum foil and let rest for 10 minutes. During this time the temperature will rise to about 124°F.

    Time: PT10M

  5. Preheat Direct‑Heat Zone

    Increase the direct‑heat side to high, aiming for 450‑500°F. This will be the searing zone.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: 450°F

  6. Sear the Steaks

    Place the rested steaks directly over the high‑heat zone. Sear for about 2 minutes per side, or until a deep brown crust forms.

    Time: PT4M

    Temperature: 450°F

  7. Final Rest and Slice

    Transfer the seared steaks back to the cutting board, tent loosely, and let rest 5 minutes. Then slice against the grain and serve.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
620
Protein
52 g
Carbohydrates
0 g
Fat
44 g
Fiber
0 g

Dietary info: Paleo, Keto, Gluten-Free

Last updated: April 11, 2026

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this is the MOST IMPORTANT part of a reverse sear...

Recipe by HowToBBQRight Podcast

A step‑by‑step guide to the reverse‑sear method popularized by the HowToBBQRight Podcast. Cook your steak low and slow to an internal temperature of about 115°F, let it rest so the temperature carries over to 124°F, then finish with a high‑heat sear for a perfect crust and juicy interior.

MediumAmericanServes 2

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
19m
Prep
45m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 14m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$18.38
Total cost
$9.19
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Cook steak to an internal temperature of 115°F on indirect heat.
  • Rest the steak so the temperature carries over to about 124°F before searing.
  • Sear the steak on high heat (450‑500°F) for a short time to develop a crust without overcooking the interior.

Safety Warnings

  • Use long‑handled tongs; the grill grates become extremely hot.
  • Handle the meat probe thermometer carefully to avoid burns.
  • Keep a fire extinguisher or a bucket of sand nearby when working with high‑heat charcoal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of the reverse sear method in American BBQ cuisine?

A

The reverse sear technique grew out of modern American barbecue culture, where low‑and‑slow cooking preserves juiciness and high‑heat searing creates a classic grill crust. It became popular among pitmasters in the early 2000s as a way to achieve restaurant‑quality steaks at home.

cultural
Q

How does the reverse sear steak differ from a traditional direct‑grill steak in American barbecue tradition?

A

Traditional direct grilling cooks the steak from the outside in, which can lead to an overcooked interior. Reverse searing cooks the meat gently from the inside first, then finishes with a quick high‑heat sear, giving a more even doneness and a superior crust.

cultural
Q

What regional variations of reverse‑sear steak exist within the United States BBQ scene?

A

In Texas, pitmasters often use oak wood and finish with a heavy salt rub. In the Carolinas, a mustard‑based BBQ sauce may be brushed on during the final sear. West Coast chefs sometimes incorporate coffee or espresso rubs for a smoky‑sweet twist.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is reverse sear steak traditionally associated with in American culture?

A

Reverse sear steak is a popular centerpiece for holidays such as Memorial Day, Fourth of July barbecues, and family reunions because it delivers a restaurant‑grade steak without a professional kitchen.

cultural
Q

What other American BBQ dishes pair well with reverse sear steak?

A

Classic sides like smoked mac and cheese, grilled corn on the cob, baked beans, and a crisp coleslaw complement the rich, juicy steak and balance the meal.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making reverse sear steak?

A

Common errors include cooking at too high an indirect temperature, not allowing the steak to rest for carry‑over, and searing for too long which burns the crust. Follow the temperature and timing guidelines to avoid these pitfalls.

technical
Q

Why does this reverse sear steak recipe use a target internal temperature of 115°F before the final sear instead of cooking straight to 130°F?

A

Cooking to 115°F leaves a margin for the 10‑minute rest, during which the steak’s temperature naturally rises (carry‑over) to the ideal medium‑rare range of 124‑130°F. This prevents overcooking during the high‑heat sear.

technical
Q

Can I make reverse sear steak ahead of time and how should I store it before serving?

A

Yes. Season the steaks up to 24 hours ahead and keep them uncovered in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, bring them to room temperature for about 20 minutes before starting the low‑and‑slow phase.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the reverse sear steak is done?

A

The interior should be uniformly pink‑red with a warm glow, indicating medium‑rare. The exterior should have a deep, caramelized crust with visible grill marks but no black char.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel HowToBBQRight Podcast specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel HowToBBQRight Podcast specializes in detailed barbecue techniques, equipment reviews, and step‑by‑step recipes aimed at helping home grillers achieve professional‑grade results.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel HowToBBQRight Podcast's approach to American BBQ cooking differ from other BBQ channels?

A

HowToBBQRight Podcast focuses on scientific temperature control, the physics of carry‑over cooking, and practical troubleshooting, whereas many other channels emphasize flavor profiles without deep technical explanation.

channel

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