Why Make This Recipe
Making Cowboy Butter Steak is an excellent choice for anyone craving a flavorful and juicy meal. This recipe combines the rich taste of ribeye steaks with a deliciously seasoned butter that elevates the dish to another level. With its simple ingredients, anyone can create a restaurant-quality steak at home. Whether it’s a special occasion, weekend dinner, or just because you want to treat yourself, Cowboy Butter Steak is sure to impress.
The ribeye steak is known for its marbling, which adds to its tenderness and flavor. When cooked properly, it melts in your mouth and provides a hearty meal. The cowboy butter, made from softened butter with herbs and spices, adds richness and depth to the steak. This combination of juicy meat and savory butter sauce makes every bite delightful.
Furthermore, this recipe is straightforward and does not require complex techniques. Even novice cooks can follow it with ease. Plus, the butter can be made in advance and stored, making this meal a great option for busy weeknights. With a few simple steps, you can impress family and friends with a delicious steak dinner that looks and tastes gourmet.
How to Make Cowboy Butter Steak
To prepare Cowboy Butter Steak, you’ll need a handful of ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Don’t worry about the complexities of gourmet cooking; this recipe is designed to be simple and fun!
Ingredients
- 2 ribeye steaks: The star of the dish. Look for steaks that are well-marbled for the best flavor and juiciness.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Softened butter is essential for mixing in the flavorful herbs and spices easily.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds a fragrant and savory flavor to the butter.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: This herb adds a fresh and vibrant taste.
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped: Chives bring a mild onion flavor that enhances the butter.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: This sauce adds a unique depth of flavor to the butter.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: The smokiness of paprika gives warmth to the butter.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning both the steaks and the butter.
- Olive oil for cooking: A small amount of olive oil helps to prevent the steaks from sticking to the skillet.
Directions
Make the Cowboy Butter: In a bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped chives, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Use a fork to mix everything until well combined. Once mixed, set the butter aside to allow the flavors to meld together.
Heat the Skillet: Take a skillet and place it over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil to the skillet. This will help create a nice sear on the ribs, locking in all the delicious juices.
Season the Steaks: While the skillet heats up, take your ribeye steaks and season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This seasoning will enhance the natural flavor of the meat.
Cook the Steaks: Once the skillet is hot, place the seasoned steaks in the skillet. Cook the steaks for about 4-5 minutes on one side, then flip them over. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes on the other side for medium-rare doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check if the internal temperature has reached around 130°F for medium-rare.
Rest the Steaks: After cooking, remove the steaks from the skillet. Transfer them to a plate and let them rest for a few minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
Serve with Cowboy Butter: To finish, top each ribeye steak with a generous amount of the cowboy butter. The heat from the steak will melt the butter, creating a rich sauce to enjoy.
How to Serve Cowboy Butter Steak
Cowboy Butter Steak is best served hot alongside some delicious sides. Here are a few ideas to serve with the steak:
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts complement the richness of the steak.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing with steak, making each bite indulgent.
- Salads: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can add balance to the meal. Consider adding some cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for color and crunch.
- Grilled Corn: Grilling corn on the cob and brushing it with more cowboy butter can round out your meal perfectly.
Serve the steak on a warm plate with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. For drinks, consider pairing your meal with a glass of red wine or a cold beer.
How to Store Cowboy Butter Steak
If you have leftovers, storing them properly is essential to maintain freshness. Follow these steps:
Cool the Steak: Let the cooked ribeye steaks cool to room temperature. This prevents condensation inside the storage container.
Wrap or Contain: Place the steak in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. If you have leftover cowboy butter, store it in a separate container.
Refrigerate: Store the wrapped steak and butter in the refrigerator. They should be consumed within 3 to 4 days to ensure the best flavor and quality.
If you want to store the steak longer, you can freeze it. Wrap the steak tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. It can keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Tips to Make Cowboy Butter Steak
Here are a few helpful tips to help you create the perfect Cowboy Butter Steak every time:
- Let the Steak Come to Room Temperature: Take the ribeye steaks out of the fridge about 30-60 minutes before cooking. Letting them reach room temperature helps them cook evenly.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the steak to rest after cooking is essential. It keeps your meat tender and juicy.
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality ribeye steaks and fresh herbs. This enhances the final dish’s flavor significantly.
- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to modify the seasoning in the cowboy butter to suit your taste. You can add chili flakes for heat or lemon zest for brightness.
Variation
While the original Cowboy Butter Steak recipe is delightful on its own, there are a few variations you can try:
- Herbed Butter Variations: Swap out the parsley and chives for other fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to give a different flavor profile to the butter.
- Add Cheese: For a cheesy twist, sprinkle crumbled blue cheese or feta over the finished steak before serving.
- Spicy Cowboy Butter: If you like heat, add some diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the cowboy butter for a spicy kick.
FAQs
1. Can I use other cuts of steak for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other cuts of steak such as sirloin, filet mignon, or strip steak. Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of the cut and desired doneness.
2. How can I tell if the steak is cooked to my liking?
The best way to check for doneness is by using a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 130°F for medium-rare or adjust as per your preference.
3. Can I make the cowboy butter ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cowboy butter a day or two before you cook the steaks. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before using.
With this detailed guide to making Cowboy Butter Steak, you’re all set to create a delicious meal that’s sure to impress. Enjoy the flavors and enjoy the experience of cooking this delightful dish!
Cowboy Butter Steak
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped chives, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and set aside.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle with olive oil.
- Generously season the ribeye steaks with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Place the seasoned steaks in the hot skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes for medium-rare.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 130°F for medium-rare.
- Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest on a plate for a few minutes.
- Top each ribeye steak with the cowboy butter, allowing it to melt and create a rich sauce.