A perfectly seared ribeye cooked in a cast iron skillet is one of the best ways to achieve a flavorful, juicy steak with a crisp, golden-brown crust. This simple method locks in moisture and enhances the natural richness of the meat.
If you’re looking for keto-friendly recipes that deliver big on flavor without any unnecessary carbs, this cast iron ribeye is a must-try.
Why Cast Iron Cooking Is Ideal for Steak
Cooking steak in a cast iron skillet offers several advantages. The thick, heavy material retains heat exceptionally well, allowing for even cooking and a beautifully seared crust.
Unlike nonstick pans, cast iron can withstand high temperatures, which is essential for getting that signature steakhouse-quality char.
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Additionally, cast iron cooking helps develop layers of flavor. When you add butter, garlic, and thyme, the pan allows the ingredients to infuse the meat with an aromatic richness that enhances every bite.
The Perfect Ribeye for a Keto Diet
A ribeye steak is one of the best protein choices for anyone following a keto lifestyle. This cut is naturally high in healthy fats, which provide sustained energy and enhance the steak’s juiciness.
Unlike leaner cuts, ribeye remains tender and flavorful without requiring marinades or heavy sauces.
When cooked in butter and oil, the steak gets an extra boost of richness that aligns perfectly with keto-friendly recipes. There are zero carbs in this dish, making it an excellent choice for anyone sticking to low-carb eating habits.
Tips for Cooking the Best Cast Iron Ribeye
Achieving the perfect ribeye requires a few key steps. Here’s what you need to know to make sure your steak turns out delicious every time:
- Let the Steak Rest at Room Temperature: Before cooking, allow the ribeye to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes. This helps it cook more evenly.
- Use High Heat: Preheat your cast iron skillet until it’s smoking hot. A well-heated pan ensures a deep, flavorful crust.
- Flip Frequently for Even Cooking: Some believe in flipping only once, but frequent flipping—every minute or so—ensures an even cook and helps prevent over-charring.
- Baste with Butter and Herbs: Adding butter, garlic, and thyme during the final minutes of cooking enhances the steak’s flavor and creates a delicious, glossy finish.
- Rest Before Slicing: Always let the steak rest for at least 10 minutes before cutting. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.
Customizing Your Ribeye for Different Preferences
While this cast iron ribeye is perfect as is, there are several ways to adjust it based on personal preferences:
- For a More Herbaceous Flavor: Add rosemary or oregano in addition to thyme. These herbs complement the rich, buttery flavor of the steak.
- For a Spicier Kick: Sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or a touch of cayenne while basting the steak with butter.
- For an Extra Crispy Crust: Pat the steak dry before seasoning it to remove excess moisture. This helps develop an even better crust when searing.
Pairing Your Steak with Keto Sides
A cast iron ribeye pairs perfectly with a variety of keto-friendly sides. If you’re looking to create a full meal, consider these options:
- Garlic Butter Asparagus: Lightly sautéed asparagus in butter and garlic is an easy and delicious side dish.
- Loaded Cauliflower Mash: This creamy, cheesy alternative to mashed potatoes is packed with flavor without the extra carbs.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts roasted in olive oil and parmesan cheese make a fantastic low-carb pairing.
Cooking a cast iron ribeye is a simple yet impressive way to enjoy a restaurant-quality steak at home.
With the right technique, a few quality ingredients, and a well-seasoned cast iron pan, you can create a steak that rivals any high-end steakhouse.
Keto Cast Iron Ribeye Recipe
Ingredients
- 12 oz ribeye steak
- 2 tbsp oil
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 garlic cloves
- ¼ cup fresh thyme optional
- Salt & pepper
Instructions
- Generously season the ribeye with salt and pepper, then allow it to rest at room temperature for 20 minutes.
- Heat a cast iron pan over high heat and add the oil. Once hot, place the steak in the pan, flipping it every minute to ensure an even sear.
- After a few minutes, add the garlic cloves to the pan and continue flipping the steak every minute to build a crust.
- Introduce the butter and thyme, then continuously baste the steak with the melted butter for extra flavor.
- Remove from heat and let the steak rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a medium doneness, flip every 2 minutes.
- For medium-well, flip every 3 minutes.
Nutrition
Nancy has been a plant person from an early age. That interest blossomed into a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Nancy worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.