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Savory Coffee-Rubbed Ribeye Steak Recipe with Easy Garlic Herb Butter

coffee-rubbed ribeye steak - featured image

A bold and flavorful ribeye steak rubbed with a savory coffee spice mix and topped with a creamy garlic herb butter. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for special occasions or a quick, indulgent dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons finely ground dark roast coffee
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 thick-cut ribeye steak, about 1 to 1¼ inches thick (roughly 12 ounces / 340 grams)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Coffee Rub: In a small bowl, mix the ground coffee, smoked paprika, brown sugar, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper if using. Stir until well combined.
  2. Season the Ribeye: Pat your ribeye dry with paper towels. Rub the coffee spice mix evenly over both sides of the steak, pressing gently. Let it rest at room temperature for 20 minutes.
  3. Make the Garlic Herb Butter: Combine softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well with a fork until smooth.
  4. Heat the Pan: Place a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Heat until shimmering but not smoking (about 2-3 minutes).
  5. Sear the Steak: Lay the ribeye in the hot pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on the first side without moving it. Flip and cook another 3-4 minutes for medium-rare.
  6. Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer if available (130°F for medium-rare). If not, press the steak to check firmness.
  7. Rest the Steak: Remove from pan, place on a plate, tent loosely with foil, and rest for 5-7 minutes.
  8. Serve with Garlic Herb Butter: Slice against the grain and top each portion with a dollop of garlic herb butter.

Notes

If pan gets too smoky, lower heat. If rub starts to burn, flip sooner or add a splash of butter. Rest steak before slicing to retain juices. Freshly ground coffee is preferred for best flavor. Can finish thicker cuts in oven at 400°F for 5-7 minutes after searing.

Nutrition

Keywords: coffee rub, ribeye steak, garlic herb butter, steak recipe, easy steak, bold flavors, quick dinner