If you’re craving a steak that’s big on flavor, juicy, and downright impressive, the cowboy ribeye steak is your go-to cut. Known for its thick cut, rich marbling, and a hefty bone that adds extra flavor, this steak is a showstopper for any meal. But how do you cook a cowboy ribeye steak to perfection? Let’s dive into the step-by-step process that will have you serving up steakhouse-quality meals right at home.
What Is a Cowboy Ribeye Steak?
The cowboy ribeye is essentially a bone-in ribeye steak with a short, frenched bone left attached. It’s thicker than your average ribeye, usually about 2.5 to 3 inches thick, and the bone adds a depth of flavor as the marrow seeps into the meat during cooking. This cut is sometimes called a “cowboy steak” because it’s said that cowboys would hold the bone like a handle while eating.
Preparing Your Cowboy Ribeye Steak
1. Bring to Room Temperature
Take the steak out of the fridge about 30 to 40 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly and retain its juices.
2. Season Generously
Pat the steak dry with paper towels. Then season all sides liberally with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. For an extra flavor kick, you can add a spice rub with chili powder, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper.
Cooking Methods for Cowboy Ribeye Steak
Grilling (Charcoal or Gas)
– Set up a two-zone fire: One side of the grill should be hot (direct heat), and the other side cooler (indirect heat).
– Sear the steak: Place the steak over direct heat and cook for 3 to 5 minutes per side until you get a nice crust.
– Finish over indirect heat: Move the steak to the cooler side of the grill, cover, and cook until the internal temperature reaches about 130°F for medium-rare (usually 8 to 16 minutes).
– Rest: Let the steak rest covered with foil for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing.
Cast-Iron Skillet and Oven
– Preheat your oven: Set it to 250°F to 375°F depending on your recipe.
– Sear the steak: Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat with some oil until smoking hot. Sear the steak for 4 to 5 minutes on each side to develop a golden crust.
– Roast in the oven: Transfer the skillet to the oven and cook until the internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare, about 8 to 20 minutes depending on thickness.
– Rest: Remove from oven, tent with foil, and let rest for 5 to 10 minutes.
Tips for Perfect Cowboy Ribeye Steak
– Use a meat thermometer: To achieve your preferred doneness, check the internal temperature. Medium-rare is around 130°F to 135°F.
– Don’t skip resting: Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making the steak juicy and tender.
– Add butter and herbs: For extra richness, baste the steak with butter, garlic, and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme during the last minutes of searing.
– Keep it simple: High-quality steak needs just salt, pepper, and a good sear to shine.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Pan-Seared Cowboy Ribeye Steak
- Make the spice rub: Mix chili powder, cumin, coriander, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
- Season: Rub the steak generously with the spice mix and let it sit for 10 minutes at room temperature.
- Heat skillet: Preheat a 12-inch cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and butter until just smoking.
- Sear: Cook the steak for 4 to 5 minutes per side until a crust forms.
- Check temperature: Use a thermometer to ensure it reaches 125-130°F for medium-rare.
- Rest: Remove steak from pan, cover loosely with foil, and rest for 5-6 minutes.
- Serve: Slice against the grain and enjoy.
Serving Suggestions
Cowboy ribeye pairs beautifully with:
– Grilled vegetables or a fresh green salad
– Creamy mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes
– A dollop of compound butter (herb or garlic butter)
– Red wine or a smoky bourbon cocktail
Cooking a cowboy ribeye steak is about respecting the cut’s natural flavor and texture. Whether you grill it over two zones or sear it in a cast iron skillet and finish in the oven, the key is to get a perfect crust, monitor the internal temperature, and let it rest before slicing. With these tips, you’ll enjoy a steak that’s juicy, tender, and packed with that legendary cowboy flavor.
Enjoy your steak adventure!