How do you bake a rib eye?

Baking a Rib Eye: A Step-by-Step Guide

Baking a rib eye is a fantastic way to achieve juicy, flavorful results without the need for a grill. Here's a detailed guide to help you master this technique:

Ingredients:

* 1-2 bone-in rib eye steaks (1.5-2 inches thick)

* Salt and freshly ground black pepper

* Olive oil

* Garlic cloves (optional)

* Rosemary sprigs (optional)

* Butter (optional)

Equipment:

* Baking sheet or roasting pan

* Meat thermometer

* Aluminum foil

Instructions:

1. Prepare the steak:

* Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

* Season the rib eye generously with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also rub in your favorite spice blend.

* If desired, rub the steak with garlic cloves or add rosemary sprigs to the pan.

* Drizzle the steak with olive oil.

2. Bake the steak:

* Place the rib eye on a baking sheet or in a roasting pan.

* Bake for 15-20 minutes for medium-rare, or longer for a more well-done steak.

* Check the steak's internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The recommended internal temperature for medium-rare is 130-135°F (54-57°C).

3. Rest and serve:

* Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute.

* If you want a juicy steak, wrap the steak tightly in aluminum foil during the resting period.

* For a more flavorful finish, you can add a pat of butter to the steak while it rests.

Tips for Baking a Perfect Rib Eye:

* Don't overcook: Baking can dry out a steak easily, so keep an eye on the temperature and don't overcook it.

* Reverse sear: For an extra juicy and flavorful steak, consider using the reverse sear method. This involves baking the steak at a lower temperature (around 250°F/120°C) for a longer time until it reaches your desired internal temperature, and then searing it in a hot pan for a crispy crust.

* Use a meat thermometer: A meat thermometer is essential for ensuring that your steak is cooked to your liking.

* Don't overcrowd the pan: Give the steaks enough space to cook evenly.

* Experiment with flavors: Add herbs, spices, or even a marinade to your rib eye for additional flavor.

Enjoy your perfectly baked rib eye steak!