Bellabbs

Thin rib eye steaks can be a challenge to cook just right. Their reduced thickness makes them prone to overcooking, resulting in a tough, dry steak. However, with the right techniques, you can achieve a perfectly cooked thin rib eye that’s tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. This guide will walk you through the process, offering expert tips and tricks to ensure your thin rib eye steak turns out delicious every time.

Choosing the Right Thin Rib Eye

While any rib eye can be cut thin, selecting a well-marbled steak is crucial for a tender and flavorful result. The marbling, those streaks of fat throughout the meat, will melt during cooking, basting the steak from within and keeping it moist. Don’t be afraid to ask your butcher for a thinly cut rib eye with good marbling. For more advice on cooking different types of ribeye, see our guide on how to cook wagyu ribeye steak.

Preparing Your Thin Rib Eye Steak

Pat the steak dry with paper towels. Excess moisture will hinder browning. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder, onion powder, or your favorite steak seasoning. Allow the steak to sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before cooking. This helps ensure even cooking.

Cooking Methods for Thin Rib Eye Steaks

Several methods work well for cooking thin rib eye steaks, each offering unique advantages.

Pan-Searing

Pan-searing is a quick and effective method for cooking thin rib eye steaks. Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over high heat with a small amount of oil that can withstand high temperatures. Once the pan is smoking hot, add the steak and sear for 1-2 minutes per side for medium-rare, adjusting the time based on your desired doneness. Remember, thin steaks cook quickly. For those who prefer grilling, check out our guide on how to cook a ribeye steak on gas grill.

Grilling

Grilling imparts a smoky flavor to your thin rib eye. Preheat your grill to high heat. Grill the steak for 1-2 minutes per side for medium-rare, being careful not to overcook. You can also try reverse searing, which involves cooking the steak over low heat until it reaches your desired internal temperature, then searing it over high heat for a beautiful crust.

Broiling

Broiling is a convenient method for cooking thin rib eye steaks indoors. Place the steak on a broiler pan and broil for 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare. Keep a close eye on the steak as broiling can quickly overcook thin cuts. If you’re working with other cuts of beef, consider our guide on how to cook grass fed beef steaks.

Checking for Doneness

Use a meat thermometer to ensure your thin rib eye steak is cooked to your liking. 125°F (52°C) for rare, 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare, 140-145°F (60-63°C) for medium, and 150-155°F (66-68°C) for medium-well.

Resting and Serving

Once cooked, let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing against the grain. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. Serve your perfectly cooked thin rib eye steak with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. This principle applies to various types of meat, as discussed in our article on can you cook bison medium rare. Similar to How to Cook Thinly Sliced Beef: Mastering Tenderness and Flavor, allowing the meat to rest is crucial for maximizing tenderness.

Conclusion

Cooking a thin rib eye steak perfectly requires attention to detail and the right techniques. By following these steps, you can achieve a tender, juicy, and flavorful steak every time. Enjoy!

FAQ

1. How long should I cook a thin rib eye steak? Cooking time depends on the thickness of the steak and your desired doneness, but generally, 1-3 minutes per side is sufficient.

2. What’s the best way to season a thin rib eye? Salt and pepper are essential, but you can also add garlic powder, onion powder, or your favorite steak seasoning.

3. How do I know when my thin rib eye is cooked? Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.

4. Why is my thin rib eye steak tough? Overcooking is the most common reason for a tough thin rib eye.

5. What sides go well with thin rib eye steak? Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and salads are all excellent choices.

6. Can I cook a thin rib eye steak in the oven? Yes, broiling is a convenient method for cooking thin rib eye steaks in the oven.

7. Should I let my thin rib eye rest after cooking? Yes, resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender steak.