How I reverse sear a steak

How I reverse sear a steak is a easy American recipe that serves 2. 600 calories per serving. Recipe by Lisa Nguyen on YouTube.

Prep: 20 min | Cook: 37 min | Total: 1 hr 9 min

Cost: $39.10 total, $19.55 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lb Ribeye Steak (thick cut, about 1.5 inches)
  • 1 tbsp Kosher Salt (for dry brine)
  • 2 tbsp Avocado Oil (high smoke point for searing)
  • 2 sheet Paper Towels (to pat steak dry)
  • 1 piece Chef's Press (to ensure even contact while searing)
  • 2 tbsp Chili Garlic Fish Sauce (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Dry Brine the Steak

    Season the ribeye steak generously on all sides with kosher salt, then place it on a rack over a tray and refrigerate uncovered for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours) to dry brine.

    Time: PT30M

  2. Preheat Oven

    Set the oven to 225°F (or 275°F for faster cooking) and allow it to fully preheat.

    Time: PT10M

    Temperature: 225°F

  3. Insert Thermometer

    Insert a probe thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding fat, and set a target internal temperature about 10‑15°F below your desired doneness (e.g., 115°F for medium‑rare).

    Time: PT2M

  4. Cook Steak in Oven

    Place the steak on a wire rack over a baking sheet and put it in the oven. Cook until the internal temperature reaches the target (approximately 115°F), usually about 30‑35 minutes.

    Time: PT35M

    Temperature: 225°F

  5. Heat Pan and Pat Steak Dry

    While the steak is in the oven, pat it dry with paper towels. Heat a stainless steel pan over medium‑high heat and add 2 tbsp avocado oil.

    Time: PT5M

  6. Reverse‑Sear the Steak

    When the steak reaches the target temperature, remove it from the oven. Place it in the hot pan, using a chef’s press or another heavy object to press the meat for full contact. Sear for about 1 minute per side until a deep brown crust forms; render any side fat as desired.

    Time: PT2M

  7. Rest the Steak

    Transfer the steak to a cutting board, loosely cover with foil, and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

    Time: PT5M

  8. Serve with Chili Garlic Fish Sauce

    Slice the steak against the grain and drizzle or dip with 2 tbsp chili garlic fish sauce. Enjoy immediately.

    Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
600
Protein
45 g
Carbohydrates
0 g
Fat
45 g
Fiber
0 g

Dietary info: Gluten-Free, Keto-Friendly, Paleo

Allergens: Fish

Last updated: April 7, 2026

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How I reverse sear a steak

Recipe by Lisa Nguyen

A simple reverse‑sear method for a thick‑cut ribeye that yields a perfectly even pink interior and a deep, caramelized crust. The steak is dry‑brined, gently cooked in a low oven, then finished in a hot stainless‑steel pan with avocado oil and a chef’s press. Served with a spicy chili‑garlic fish sauce for an Asian‑inspired twist.

EasyAmericanServes 2

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Source Video
46m
Prep
45m
Cook
11m
Cleanup
1h 42m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$39.10
Total cost
$19.55
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Dry brine the steak
  • Insert thermometer and monitor internal temperature
  • Cook to target temperature in oven
  • Pat steak dry and preheat pan
  • Press and sear steak for crust
  • Rest steak before slicing

Safety Warnings

  • Handle the hot pan and oil carefully to avoid burns.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches a safe internal temperature.
  • Be cautious of oil splatter when searing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Reverse-Seared Thick-Cut Ribeye Steak in American cuisine?

A

The reverse‑sear technique has become popular in modern American steakhouse cooking because it delivers a uniform doneness from edge to center, a hallmark of high‑quality beef preparation. It reflects the American love for both precise cooking science and a bold, caramelized crust.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of thick‑cut steak in the United States?

A

In Texas and the Southwest, thick steaks are often seasoned simply with salt and pepper and served with barbecue sauces. In the Midwest, they may be paired with mushroom gravy, while the West Coast favors lighter sauces like chimichurri or Asian‑inspired fish sauces, as in this recipe.

cultural
Q

How is Reverse‑Seared Thick‑Cut Ribeye Steak traditionally served in American dining culture?

A

Traditionally, a thick‑cut ribeye is sliced against the grain and served hot, often accompanied by classic sides such as baked potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a simple salad. Dipping sauces like steak sauce, herb butter, or, as shown here, chili garlic fish sauce add a modern twist.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is Reverse‑Seared Thick‑Cut Ribeye Steak traditionally associated with in American culture?

A

A perfectly cooked ribeye is a centerpiece for holidays such as Thanksgiving, Fourth of July barbecues, birthdays, and steak‑night gatherings. Its impressive presentation makes it a favorite for special family meals and dinner parties.

cultural
Q

How does Reverse‑Seared Thick‑Cut Ribeye Steak fit into the broader American cuisine tradition?

A

Steak is a staple of American comfort food, representing abundance and grilling heritage. The reverse‑sear method blends classic grilling roots with contemporary sous‑vide‑style precision, showcasing the evolution of American home cooking.

cultural
Q

What are the authentic traditional ingredients for Reverse‑Seared Thick‑Cut Ribeye Steak versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Authentic ingredients include a high‑quality ribeye, kosher salt, and a high smoke‑point oil such as avocado or grapeseed oil. Substitutes can be strip steak or sirloin, sea salt instead of kosher, and canola oil if avocado oil is unavailable.

cultural
Q

What other American dishes pair well with Reverse‑Seared Thick‑Cut Ribeye Steak?

A

Classic pairings include creamy mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, corn on the cob, a fresh arugula salad with vinaigrette, or a rich mushroom sauce. The spicy chili garlic fish sauce adds an Asian‑American fusion element that works well with crisp coleslaw.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Reverse‑Seared Thick‑Cut Ribeye Steak at home?

A

Common errors include not dry‑brining long enough, cooking the steak at too high an oven temperature, moving the steak too early during the sear, and skipping the rest period. Each mistake can lead to uneven doneness or a soggy crust.

technical
Q

How do I know when Reverse‑Seared Thick‑Cut Ribeye Steak is done cooking?

A

Use a probe thermometer: pull the steak from the oven when it reaches about 10‑15°F below your target (e.g., 115°F for medium‑rare). After the quick sear, the internal temperature will rise to the desired doneness (around 130°F for medium‑rare).

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Lisa Nguyen specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Lisa Nguyen focuses on approachable, step‑by‑step home cooking tutorials that blend classic techniques with modern twists, often featuring quick meals, outdoor cooking tips, and flavorful Asian‑inspired sauces.

channel

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