Cowboy steak is a thick, bone-in ribeye that delivers exceptional flavor and tenderness. Known for its marbling and bold presentation, this steak is perfect for grilling or pan-searing to perfection. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or craving a restaurant-quality steak dinner at home, this recipe will walk you through achieving the perfect cowboy steak.
How to Make Cowboy Steak
Cowboy steak is all about proper preparation, seasoning, and cooking techniques. This recipe ensures a perfectly seared crust and juicy interior that will impress your family or guests.
Ingredients
1 Cowboy Steak (2–3 inches thick, approximately 2 pounds)
- Purpose: The star of the recipe, a thick-cut, bone-in ribeye steak delivers bold flavor, tenderness, and a stunning presentation. The bone adds richness during cooking, enhancing the overall taste.
2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
- Purpose: Helps the seasoning adhere to the steak while creating a golden, flavorful crust when seared. Olive oil also adds a hint of fruitiness to the dish.
2 Teaspoons Kosher Salt
- Purpose: Enhances the natural flavors of the steak and helps form a delicious crust during cooking. Kosher salt’s larger crystals ensure even distribution.
1 Teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper
- Purpose: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the steak’s flavor profile, complementing the rich, beefy taste.
1 Teaspoon Garlic Powder
- Infuses the steak with a subtle, savory garlic flavor without overpowering the natural taste of the beef.
1 Teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- Adds a smoky, earthy flavor that enhances the steak’s overall taste while giving it a slight reddish hue for visual appeal.
2 Sprigs Fresh Rosemary (Optional)
- Aromatic and herbaceous, rosemary adds an earthy flavor to the steak, especially when seared with the meat in the skillet.
4 Cloves Garlic, Smashed (Optional)
- Infuses the oil and butter with a mild, sweet garlic aroma, enhancing the overall flavor of the steak.
2 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter
- Used for basting, butter adds richness and a silky texture to the steak’s exterior while enhancing its flavor with nutty notes. Unsalted butter allows better control over the seasoning.
This combination of ingredients ensures a perfectly seasoned, flavorful, and tender Cowboy Steak. Each element is chosen to highlight the meat’s natural qualities while adding complementary flavors and textures.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
- Bring the cowboy steak to room temperature by leaving it on the counter for 30–45 minutes before cooking.
- Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Step 2: Season the Steak
- Rub olive oil over both sides of the steak.
- In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Generously season the steak on all sides with the spice blend.
Step 3: Sear the Steak
- Preheat a cast-iron skillet or grill over high heat until very hot.
- Add the steak and sear for 3–4 minutes per side to create a golden-brown crust. For extra flavor, add rosemary and smashed garlic to the skillet.
Step 4: Finish Cooking
- Lower the heat to medium and add butter to the skillet. Spoon the melted butter over the steak continuously to baste it.
- Cook the steak to your desired doneness:
- Rare: 125°F (about 6–7 minutes total)
- Medium-rare: 135°F (about 8–9 minutes total)
- Medium: 145°F (about 10–12 minutes total)
Step 5: Rest and Serve
- Remove the steak from the skillet and tent it with foil. Let it rest for 10 minutes to retain its juices.
- Slice against the grain and serve with your favorite sides.
Variations
- Herb-Crusted Cowboy Steak: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the seasoning mix for a fragrant twist.
- Spicy Cowboy Steak: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for extra heat.
- Garlic Butter Cowboy Steak: Finish the steak with garlic-infused butter for added richness.
- Smoked Cowboy Steak: Cook the steak on a smoker for a unique, smoky flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Cowboy steak pairs well with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Grilled asparagus
- Garlic butter mushrooms
- A fresh arugula salad
Cowboy Steak
4
servings30
minutes40
minutesIngredients
- 1 cowboy steak (2–3 inches thick, approximately 2 pounds)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 sprigs fresh rosemary (optional)
4 cloves garlic, smashed (optional)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Directions
- Remove the cowboy steak from the refrigerator 30-45 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature. Pat it dry with paper towels to ensure a perfect sear.
- Rub the steak with olive oil, then season both sides liberally with salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and garlic powder. Let the steak rest while you preheat your cooking surface.
- Rub the steak with olive oil, then season both sides liberally with salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and garlic powder. Let the steak rest while you preheat your cooking surface.
For a grill: Preheat the grill to high heat (about 450°F). Ensure the grates are clean and oiled to prevent sticking. - Place the steak on the skillet or grill. Sear for 3-5 minutes on one side until a golden-brown crust forms. Flip the steak and sear the other side for another 3-5 minutes.
- For a skillet: Add butter, crushed garlic cloves, and fresh rosemary or thyme to the pan. Tilt the skillet and use a spoon to baste the steak with the melted butter for added flavor.
For a grill: Move the steak to a cooler part of the grill and close the lid. Cook until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness (see doneness chart below). - Remove the steak from the heat and let it rest for 5-10 minutes on a cutting board. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the steak tender and flavorful.
- Slice the steak against the grain for maximum tenderness. Serve with your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
