Grilling a ribeye steak can be an exciting experience for any steak-lover. With its juicy and tender meat, the ribeye steak is one of the most popular cuts of steak to grill. However, knowing how long to grill the steak can be a challenge for many grillers, especially for those who are new to the world of grilling.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of grilling the perfect ribeye steak, including how long to grill each side based on the thickness of the steak, how to season the steak, and how to properly cook it to your desired level of doneness. Whether you prefer a rare, medium, or well-done steak, we’ve got you covered with expert tips and techniques to ensure your ribeye steak is grilled to perfection every time.
Preparing the Steak for Grilling: Tips and Tricks
Preparing a ribeye steak for the grill is a labor of love; it enhances the rich flavors and tender texture. Before grilling the steak, trim any excess fat or silver skin from the edges. This will prevent flare-ups and uneven cooking. Season the steak with spices or herbs to taste, and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling. This helps it cook evenly, and the flavors have a chance to meld.
Another tip is to oil the grates before placing the steak on them. Use a brush or a piece of paper towel to apply oil evenly to the grates. This will prevent the steak from sticking and tearing, making it easier to flip and maintain its shape. Additionally, place the steak on a hot grill to sear it, which helps lock in the flavors. Overall, taking the time to prepare a ribeye steak properly will ensure a delicious and satisfying meal!
Understanding Steak Thickness and Cooking Time
The thickness of your ribeye steak is critical in determining how long it should be grilled. A thicker steak requires more time for the heat to penetrate through to the center, ensuring a perfectly cooked medium-rare steak. For a 1-inch steak, a good rule of thumb is to grill it for about 5-6 minutes on each side. However, for a thicker steak, it’s better to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the center has reached the desired temperature.
When grilling a thicker steak, it’s essential to use the indirect grilling method. This means placing the steak on a cooler part of the grill to allow it to cook slowly and evenly. Turning the steak every few minutes will also help to prevent it from becoming charred and dry. Remember, it’s always better to allow the steak to rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to distribute evenly. With the right thickness and cooking time, your ribeye steak will be juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor.
Achieving the Perfect Doneness: Rare, Medium Rare, and Well Done
Achieving the perfect doneness for your ribeye steak is the key to a mouth-watering meal. The perfect degree of doneness is a personal choice that can range from rare to well-done, depending on your preference.
If you want your ribeye steak rare, cook it for about 3-4 minutes on each side at high heat. If you prefer your steak medium rare, cook it for about 4-5 minutes on each side. For a well-done steak, cook it for about 6-7 minutes on each side. The best way to check the doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Rare meat should have a temperature of 120°F, medium-rare steak should be around 130°F, and well-done meat should reach 160°F. With practice, you will soon learn to judge the perfect level of doneness through visual cues, like color and moisture content.
Temperature Control: Using a Meat Thermometer for Accuracy
Temperature control is a crucial factor in cooking a perfect ribeye steak. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure that the internal temperature of the steak is accurate. A digital meat thermometer is better than a dial thermometer as it gives a more precise reading.
Before grilling, insert the meat thermometer through the side of the steak, making sure it reaches the center of the thickest part. When the thermometer reads the desired temperature, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to settle. Following this step is important as it ensures that the steak is cooked to your liking and is juicy and tender. With a little bit of practice, using a meat thermometer will become second-nature in your steak grilling process, and you’ll never have to settle for an overcooked or undercooked steak again.
The Best Way to Grill Ribeye Steaks: Direct and Indirect Heat
The best way to grill ribeye steaks is by using a combination of direct and indirect heat. First, preheat your grill to a high temperature, around 400-450°F. This will allow you to get a nice sear on the outside of the steak. Place the steaks directly over the flames and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, flipping only once. This will give you those beautiful grill marks and a nice crust on the outside of the steak.
Next, move the steaks over to the cooler, indirect heat side of the grill. Cover the grill and let the steaks cook for an additional 5-10 minutes depending on how well done you prefer your steak. This will allow the inside of the steak to cook more evenly without burning the outside. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak, removing it from the grill when it reaches your desired level of doneness. By using this method, you can ensure that your ribeye steaks are cooked to perfection every time.
Resting and Slicing the Steak: Serving Tips
Resting and Slicing the Steak: Serving Tips
Once you have grilled your ribeye to perfection, it is important to let the meat rest for a few minutes before slicing into it. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, leading to a more flavorful and tender piece of meat. A general rule of thumb is to let the steak rest for about 5 minutes per inch of thickness. Before slicing the steak, make sure you have a sharp knife and cut against the grain to ensure a tender bite.
When it comes to serving the steak, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, always serve the steak hot off the grill. To add additional flavor, consider brushing the steak with melted butter or topping with a compound butter. For a complete meal, serve with grilled vegetables or a baked potato. Remember, the key to a perfect steak is to make sure it is cooked to your desired level of doneness and given enough time to rest before slicing and serving.
Pairing Your Grilled Ribeye with Wine or Beer: Expert Suggestions.
When it comes to pairing your grilled ribeye with wine or beer, there are several expert suggestions to consider. Firstly, if you are a wine lover, red wine is undoubtedly the way to go. The bold, rich flavors of a medium to full-bodied red wine pair perfectly with the intense flavors of a grilled ribeye. Some popular options include Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and Zinfandel.
However, if you prefer beer over wine, you are still in luck. The hoppy, bitter notes of an American IPA or a Belgian Dubbel can perfectly complement the charred, smoky flavors of a grilled ribeye. Alternatively, if you enjoy a lighter beer, a crisp lager or pilsner also pairs well with a juicy steak. Ultimately, the key is to find a drink that you enjoy personally, as the pairing experience is all about personal preferences and enjoyment.
The Bottom Line
Grilling a ribeye steak requires the right temperature, timing, and technique for achieving the perfect doneness. Based on the thickness of the steak, it is recommended to grill it for 6-9 minutes for a medium-rare doneness, and 9-12 minutes for medium doneness.
However, personal preference and the type of grill used can also affect grilling time. To ensure a juicy and flavorful ribeye steak, it is crucial to rest the meat for a few minutes before serving, allowing the juices to distribute evenly. Grilling a ribeye steak can be a fun and flavorful experience, especially when done correctly with the right tools, ingredients, and methods.