How To Cook Ribeye Steak On Grill

Introduction

The ribeye steak, renowned for its rich marbling and robust flavor, is a favorite cut among steak enthusiasts. Grilling brings out the best in a ribeye, imparting a smoky char and searing the exterior to perfection while maintaining a juicy, tender interior. Its popularity stems from the cut’s inherent flavor and the relatively straightforward grilling process, making it a popular choice for backyard barbecues and special occasions alike. Mastering how to cook ribeye steak on grill is a skill worth acquiring for any home cook.

Ingredients

The beauty of a ribeye lies in its simplicity. Quality ingredients are key.

Ribeye Steak: Choose a steak at least 1-inch thick, preferably prime or choice grade, with good marbling.
Salt: Coarse sea salt or kosher salt is recommended for seasoning.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a robust flavor.
Optional: Garlic powder, onion powder, or other favorite steak seasonings can be used sparingly. A drizzle of olive oil can help the seasoning adhere.

Preparation Steps

Proper preparation is crucial for a perfectly grilled ribeye.

Thaw: If frozen, thaw the steak completely in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours.
Bring to Room Temperature: Remove the steak from the refrigerator at least 30-60 minutes before grilling. This allows for more even cooking.
Pat Dry: Use paper towels to thoroughly pat the steak dry. This promotes a better sear.
Season Generously: Liberally season both sides of the steak with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy! The salt helps create a flavorful crust. If using additional seasonings, apply them now.

Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to cook ribeye steak on grill to achieve steakhouse-quality results.

Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to high heat (450-500F or 232-260C). Ensure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
Sear the Steak: Place the steak on the hottest part of the grill and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, creating a beautiful crust.
Move to Indirect Heat: Move the steak to a cooler part of the grill (indirect heat) or reduce the grill temperature to medium (350-400F or 177-204C).
Cook to Desired Doneness: Continue cooking the steak until it reaches your desired internal temperature, using a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Rare: 125-130F (52-54C)
- Medium-Rare: 130-135F (54-57C)
- Medium: 135-145F (57-63C)
- Medium-Well: 145-155F (63-68C)
- Well-Done: 155F+ (68C+) – Not recommended for ribeye as it can become tough.
Rest the Steak: Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. Tent the steak loosely with foil while resting.

Cooking Time Estimates (These are approximate and can vary depending on the thickness of the steak and the grill’s temperature):

1-inch thick steak: Approximately 8-12 minutes total (2-3 minutes searing per side, then 4-6 minutes on indirect heat).
1.5-inch thick steak: Approximately 12-16 minutes total (2-3 minutes searing per side, then 8-10 minutes on indirect heat).

Serving Suggestions

A perfectly grilled ribeye deserves elegant accompaniments.

Classic Sides: Creamy mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, grilled corn on the cob, or a fresh garden salad.
Sauces: A simple pan sauce made with butter, garlic, and herbs, or a vibrant chimichurri sauce.
Garnishes: Fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary, a pat of compound butter (garlic herb, blue cheese), or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
Plating: Slice the steak against the grain and fan it out on a plate, allowing the juices to pool and enhance the presentation.

Tips and Common Mistakes

Enhance your grilling skills and avoid common pitfalls.

Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: If grilling multiple steaks, ensure they have enough space for proper air circulation.
Avoid Flipping Excessively: Resist the urge to flip the steak constantly. Let it sear properly on each side before moving it.
Use a Meat Thermometer: This is the most reliable way to ensure the steak is cooked to your desired doneness.
Don’t Skip the Resting Period: Resting is crucial for a juicy and tender steak.
Preheating is Key: Make sure the grill is sufficiently hot before placing the steak on the grates.

Explore More Cooking Guides

Learning how to cook ribeye steak on grill unlocks a world of culinary possibilities, offering a deeply satisfying flavor experience and a chance to impress. Its simplicity makes it a reliable dish for any occasion, easily adaptable to your personal taste preferences. Why not fire up the grill and try it for yourself? For more culinary adventures and delicious recipes, be sure to explore other cooking guides at foodrecipestory.com.