Cooking a perfect ribeye steak can be tricky, and if you’re not careful, you can easily overcook or undercook the meat. One of the best ways to ensure a juicy, tender, and flavorful ribeye steak is by using the oven. Alton Brown, the famous American television personality and food critic, has shared his method for cooking a ribeye steak in the oven.
In this article, we will take a closer look at Alton Brown’s technique for cooking a ribeye steak in the oven and explore some tips and tricks to make it even better. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, following Alton Brown’s method is sure to result in a delicious and perfectly cooked ribeye steak that will impress your family and friends. So, let’s get started!
Preparing Your Ribeye Steak: Seasoning and Marinating Tips
Before cooking your ribeye steak in the oven, it’s important to prepare it properly. The first step is to season it generously with salt and black pepper – this helps to enhance the natural flavor of the meat. You can also add other herbs and spices to the seasoning mix, like garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika, depending on your tastes.
If you have the time, marinating your steak can add even more flavor and tenderness. A simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs like rosemary and thyme works well with ribeye steak. But be careful not to marinate the steak for too long, as the acid in the marinade can break down the meat and make it mushy. Thirty minutes to one hour is plenty of time for a marinade to work its magic, after which you should pat the steak dry before cooking it.
Choosing The Perfect Cut of Ribeye Steak: A Guide
Choosing the perfect cut of ribeye steak is essential to ensure a mouth-watering, delicious meal. A ribeye steak is one of the juiciest and most flavorful cuts of beef, but there are various factors to keep in mind when selecting the right cut. Alton Brown suggests choosing a steak that has good marbling, which refers to the tiny streaks of fat running through the meat. The higher the marbling, the more flavorful and tender the steak will be.
Another essential factor to consider is the thickness of the steak. A ribeye that is too thin can easily become overcooked while one that is too thick may not cook evenly. Ideally, aim for steaks that are between 1 and 1 1/2 inches thick. Remember, the best cuts will have a bright red color and will feel firm to the touch. Choosing the right cut can make all the difference, so take your time when selecting your ribeye steak to ensure a perfectly cooked meal.
Cooking Temperatures and Times for Ribeye Steaks
The cooking temperature and time for ribeye steaks in the oven are crucial factors in determining the final outcome. Ribeye steaks should be cooked at 450°F for a medium-rare doneness level. For medium, the temperature should be around 500°F and for well-done steaks, the temperature should be around 550°F.
The cooking time for ribeye steaks depends on the thickness of the steak. For a 1-inch-thick steak, the cooking time should be around 9-12 minutes for medium-rare, 12-15 minutes for medium, and 15-18 minutes for well-done. For a 2-inch-thick steak, the cooking time should be around 15-20 minutes for medium-rare, 20-25 minutes for medium, and over 30 minutes for well done. These times are just a rough guideline, and it is best to use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak has reached the desired internal temperature.
Mastering The Perfect Sear: Tips for Achieving a Crispy Crust
The perfect sear is essential for achieving a crispy crust on your ribeye steak. Here are a few tips to help you master this technique:
1. Start with a hot oven: Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit and let it heat up for at least 10-15 minutes before cooking. This will ensure that the steak gets a nice sear on the outside without overcooking the inside.
2. Use a cast-iron skillet: A cast-iron skillet is perfect for achieving a crispy crust because it retains heat well and can go from stovetop to oven seamlessly.
3. Sear the steak first: Heat up the skillet on high heat until it’s smoking hot, then add your seasoned steak and sear it for about 3-4 minutes on each side until a golden brown crust forms.
4. Baste with butter and herbs: To add even more flavor, baste the steak with butter and fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or garlic.
With these tips, you’ll be able to achieve a perfect sear and a delicious crispy crust on your Alton Brown-inspired ribeye steak.
Creating a Delicious Pan Sauce: Recipe and Tips
Creating a delicious pan sauce is the perfect finishing touch to your perfectly cooked ribeye steak. This simple recipe can be whipped up in no time with a few basic ingredients. Start by melting some butter in the pan over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and starts to sizzle, add minced garlic to the pan.
Next, pour in some beef broth and scrape the pan to loosen any bits that may have stuck to the bottom. If you like, you can also add some red wine to the pan for added flavor. Let the sauce simmer until it has reduced by half, then season with salt and pepper to taste. If you want a thicker sauce, you can add a little bit of cornstarch to thicken it up. Spoon the sauce over your perfectly cooked ribeye steak and enjoy!
Resting and Serving Your Ribeye Steak: Presentation Tips
Once your ribeye steak is cooked to perfection, it’s important to give it time to rest before slicing into it. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. Typically, you’ll want to let your ribeye rest for at least 5-10 minutes before cutting into it. To keep it warm, loosely tent it with aluminum foil.
When it’s time to serve, there are a few presentation tips that can really make your ribeye steak shine. Consider slicing it against the grain for maximum tenderness and a clean presentation. You can also add a pat of butter or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for an extra pop of flavor and a beautiful finishing touch. Serve alongside your favorite sides and enjoy!
Pairing Wines and Sides with Your Oven-Baked Ribeye Steak
Pairing Wines with Your Oven-Baked Ribeye Steak
Pairing wine with your steak is one of the finer pleasures of life and, when done right, it can take your meal to a completely different level. Ribeye steak pairs incredibly well with full-bodied red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. A Cabernet Sauvignon’s rich, bold and fruity taste compliments the juicy, flavorful ribeye. A Merlot’s softer tannic structure and fruity notes complement the steak’s natural flavors, making for a memorable meal. Experiment with different types of wines to see which one suits your taste buds best!
Pairing Sides with Your Oven-Baked Ribeye Steak
A steak dinner calls for the perfect side dishes to make the meal complete. You can choose from various options that complement the flavors of your ribeye steak. Creamy mashed potatoes, loaded baked potatoes, roasted vegetables, and garlic green beans are great choices. Creamed spinach, seasoned mac and cheese, and Caesar salad also go well with a hearty ribeye. Choose sides that add an extra depth of flavor to your meal and enhance your dining experience. Don’t forget to pair your sides with the perfect glass of wine!
The Bottom Line
Cooking a ribeye steak in the oven can seem intimidating, but with Alton Brown’s method, it’s both easy and delicious. By using a two-step cooking process and allowing the steak to rest before slicing, you can ensure a perfectly cooked and juicy steak every time.
While it may take a little practice to master the timing and temperature, once you do, cooking ribeye steak in the oven will become a staple in your meal repertoire. As with any cooking method, the key is to be patient, attentive, and to trust the process. So grab some ribeye steaks, preheat your oven, and get ready to impress your guests with this flavorful and elegant dish.