If you are a fan of juicy and tender ribeye steak, you might be wondering how to cook it to perfection. While grilling is the go-to method for most steak lovers, cooking ribeye steak in the oven can also yield amazing results. In fact, using an oven can help you achieve an even and consistent cook, making it an excellent alternative to grilling.
So, how long do you cook ribeye steak in the oven? The answer depends on the desired level of doneness and the thickness of the steak. For a medium-rare steak, you can cook a 1-inch thick ribeye in the oven for about 12-14 minutes. However, if you prefer your steak medium or well-done, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Before cooking, it’s essential to bring the ribeye steak to room temperature. This allows for more even cooking and ensures that the steak cooks more evenly. Additionally, seasoning the steak with salt and pepper or your favorite dry rub before placing it in the oven can enhance the flavor.
Keep in mind that oven temperatures may vary, so it’s best to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, the thermometer should read around 135°F (57°C), while medium is around 145°F (63°C) and well-done is around 160°F (71°C).
Once the steak reaches your desired level of doneness, it’s crucial to let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a tender and juicy steak. Serve it with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!
How to Cook Ribeye Steak in the Oven: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Preparing the Ribeye Steak
Start by taking the ribeye steak out of the refrigerator and allowing it to come to room temperature. This will ensure that it cooks evenly.
Step 2: Seasoning the Ribeye Steak
Generously season both sides of the ribeye steak with salt and pepper. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor.
Step 3: Preheating the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and adjust the rack to the middle position. This will give you the perfect cooking temperature for a juicy ribeye steak.
Step 4: Searing the Ribeye Steak
Heat a cast iron skillet over high heat until it is smoking hot. Place the ribeye steak in the skillet and sear it for 2-3 minutes on each side. This will help create a delicious crust on the steak.
Step 5: Finishing in the Oven
Once the ribeye steak is seared, transfer it to a baking dish or sheet pan. Place the steak in the oven and cook it for about 5-7 minutes for medium-rare, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 130-135°F (55-57°C) for medium-rare.
Step 6: Resting the Ribeye Steak
Remove the ribeye steak from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing into it. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Step 7: Serving the Ribeye Steak
Slice the ribeye steak against the grain and serve it hot. You can serve it as is or with your favorite steak sauce or accompaniments.
Additional Tips:
- For a thicker ribeye steak, increase the cooking time in the oven.
- If you prefer a well-done steak, cook it for a longer time in the oven.
- Use an oven-safe meat thermometer to ensure the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Preparing the Ribeye Steak
To cook a ribeye steak in the oven, you need to prepare it properly. Follow these steps for delicious results:
1. Choose a High-Quality Ribeye Steak
Start by selecting a high-quality ribeye steak from a trusted source. Look for marbling – the streaks of fat throughout the meat – as this will enhance flavor and tenderness.
2. Bring the Steak to Room Temperature
Take the ribeye steak out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about an hour before cooking. This allows the meat to cook more evenly.
3. Season the Steak
Before cooking, generously season the ribeye steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. This will enhance the flavor of the meat.
4. Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the desired temperature when cooking the steak.
5. Prepare a Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet or oven-safe skillet with aluminum foil. This makes for easier cleanup later.
6. Sear the Steak
Heat a stovetop pan over high heat and sear the ribeye steak for about 2 minutes on each side. This will help form a flavorful crust and lock in the juices.
7. Transfer to the Oven
Transfer the seared ribeye steak to the prepared baking sheet or skillet and place it in the preheated oven.
8. Cook to Desired Doneness
Cook the ribeye steak in the oven for about 6-8 minutes for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer it more well-done. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches your desired level of doneness.
9. Let it Rest
Once cooked, remove the ribeye steak from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak.
Now that you have prepared the ribeye steak, it’s time to enjoy your delicious and perfectly cooked meal!
Seasoning the Ribeye Steak
Before cooking your ribeye steak in the oven, it’s essential to season it properly to enhance its flavor. Here are some tips on seasoning your ribeye steak:
1. Dry Rub:
You can create a dry rub by combining different herbs, spices, and seasonings of your choice. Some popular options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and herbs like rosemary or thyme. Apply the dry rub generously on both sides of the steak, pressing it gently to ensure it sticks.
2. Marinade:
An alternative to a dry rub is marinating the ribeye steak. You can prepare a marinade using ingredients like soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, and herbs. Place the steak and marinade in a resealable plastic bag and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.
3. Salt and Pepper:
If you prefer a simpler seasoning, you can season the ribeye steak with just salt and pepper. Liberally sprinkle both sides of the steak with salt and pepper before cooking.
4. Resting Time:
After seasoning the ribeye steak, it’s important to let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This allows the seasoning to penetrate the meat and helps to ensure even cooking.
Remember, seasoning is a matter of personal preference, so experiment with different flavors to find your perfect combination. Just be sure not to overpower the natural flavor of the ribeye steak!
Preheating the Oven
Before you start cooking your ribeye steak in the oven, it is important to preheat the oven. This step ensures that the oven is at the optimal temperature to cook the steak evenly and effectively.
To preheat the oven, set the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to heat up for about 10-15 minutes. This will give the oven enough time to reach the desired temperature.
While the oven is preheating, take this time to prepare the ribeye steak. Season the steak with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs or spices. Let the steak sit at room temperature so that it cooks more evenly.
Once the oven has reached the desired temperature, you are ready to begin cooking the ribeye steak.
Cooking the Ribeye Steak
When it comes to cooking ribeye steak, the oven is a great option. Here is a simple guide on how to cook it to perfection:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the ribeye steak with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder or dried herbs for extra flavor.
3. Heat a cast iron skillet or oven-safe pan over high heat. Add a small amount of oil and let it get hot.
4. Place the ribeye steak in the hot pan and sear it for about 2 minutes on each side, until a nice crust forms.
5. Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and let the ribeye steak cook for about 6-8 minutes for medium-rare doneness. If you prefer it medium, cook it for an additional couple of minutes.
6. Check the internal temperature of the steak with a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, it should be around 135°F (57°C) and for medium, it should be around 145°F (63°C).
7. Once cooked to your desired doneness, remove the ribeye steak from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier steak.
8. Slice the ribeye steak against the grain and serve immediately. It pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Enjoy your deliciously cooked ribeye steak straight from the oven!
Checking for Doneness
There are a few methods to determine the doneness of your ribeye steak. It is important to ensure that your steak reaches the desired internal temperature for the best results.
Using a Meat Thermometer
Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to check the internal temperature of your ribeye steak. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, making sure not to touch the bone. The following are the recommended internal temperatures for different levels of doneness:
- Rare: 120-125°F (49-52°C)
- Medium Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
- Medium Well: 150-155°F (66-69°C)
- Well Done: 160°F (71°C) and above
Once the steak reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Checking the Firmness
Another way to determine the doneness of your ribeye steak is by checking its firmness. Gently press the center of the steak with a pair of tongs or your finger. The steak should feel:
- Rare: Soft and squishy
- Medium Rare: Soft with a little resistance
- Medium: Firm but still yielding
- Medium Well: Firm with slight resistance
- Well Done: Very firm
Keep in mind that this method is not as accurate as using a meat thermometer, so it is recommended to use a thermometer for best results.
Q&A
How long should I cook a ribeye steak in the oven for medium-rare?
If you want your ribeye steak to be cooked to medium-rare, you should cook it in the oven for about 6-8 minutes on each side.
What temperature should I set the oven to when cooking a ribeye steak?
The oven should be preheated to a temperature of 450°F (232°C) when cooking a ribeye steak.
How long do I need to cook a ribeye steak in the oven if I want it to be well done?
If you prefer your ribeye steak to be well done, you should cook it in the oven for about 10-12 minutes on each side.
Can I marinate the ribeye steak before cooking it in the oven?
Yes, marinating the ribeye steak before cooking it in the oven can add extra flavor. You can marinate it for 30 minutes to overnight, depending on your preference.
What is the recommended internal temperature for a cooked ribeye steak?
The recommended internal temperature for a cooked ribeye steak is 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, 145°F (63°C) for medium, and 160°F (71°C) for well done.
How long should I cook a ribeye steak in the oven?
The cooking time for a ribeye steak in the oven depends on the desired level of doneness and the thickness of the steak. As a general guideline, you can cook a 1-inch thick ribeye steak in the oven for about 12-15 minutes for medium-rare, 14-17 minutes for medium, and 16-19 minutes for medium-well. It’s recommended to use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches the desired internal temperature.
What temperature should I set the oven to when cooking ribeye steak?
When cooking ribeye steak in the oven, it’s best to preheat the oven to a high temperature of around 450°F (232°C). This high heat helps to sear the steak and create a flavorful crust. Once the oven is preheated, you can place the seasoned ribeye steak on a baking sheet or in a preheated skillet and cook it for the recommended time based on the desired level of doneness and the thickness of the steak.