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Savory Cast Iron Skillet Cowboy Steak Recipe with Herb Butter

cast iron skillet cowboy steak - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for a thick, bone-in ribeye cowboy steak cooked in a cast iron skillet and topped with flavorful herb butter. Perfect for a hearty, restaurant-quality meal at home.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cowboy steak (bone-in ribeye), about 1.5 to 2 inches thick (2.22.6 lbs / 11.2 kg)
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • 3 tablespoons (42 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or neutral oil (such as avocado oil)
  • Optional: ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Bring the steak to room temperature about 30 minutes before cooking.
  2. In a small bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, minced garlic, chopped thyme, and parsley. Mix well and set aside or chill until ready to use.
  3. Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides liberally with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Add smoked paprika if using.
  4. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add the oil. Wait until the oil just starts to shimmer and smoke lightly.
  5. Place the steak into the skillet and sear without moving for 4–5 minutes for medium-rare on a 2-inch thick steak.
  6. Flip the steak using tongs and sear the other side for another 4–5 minutes.
  7. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add dollops of the herb butter on top of the steak. Tilt the pan and baste the steak repeatedly with the melted butter.
  8. Check doneness with a meat thermometer: 125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium. Remember the steak will continue to cook while resting.
  9. Transfer the steak to a plate and tent loosely with foil. Let it rest for 10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
  10. Slice against the grain and spoon any remaining herb butter from the skillet over the top. Serve immediately.

Notes

Bring steak to room temperature before cooking for even doneness. Pat steak dry to ensure a good sear. Rest steak after cooking to keep it juicy. Use a meat thermometer for best results. Substitute plant-based butter for dairy-free option. Can use dried herbs in smaller amounts if fresh are unavailable.

Nutrition

Keywords: cowboy steak, cast iron skillet steak, ribeye steak, herb butter, easy steak recipe, pan-seared steak, steakhouse recipe