Cast Iron Steak Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 boneless ribeye or New York strip steak (1 to 1.5 inches thick)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves, smashed
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the steak:
   Remove the steak from the fridge about 30-60 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature. This helps it cook more evenly. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which ensures a better sear.

2. Season the steak:
   Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. If you like, you can add a sprinkle of garlic powder or other seasonings, but the salt and pepper are the essentials for a flavorful crust.

3. Heat the cast iron skillet:
   Place your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Heat the skillet until it’s smoking hot. The high heat is key for getting that perfect sear.

4. Sear the steak:
   Carefully place the steak in the hot skillet. Let it sear for about 3-4 minutes without moving it, allowing it to develop a nice brown crust. Use tongs to flip the steak and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C).

5. Add butter and aromatics:
   Once the steak is flipped, add the butter, smashed garlic cloves, and fresh thyme (or rosemary) to the skillet. As the butter melts, tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to baste the steak with the melted butter and garlic, infusing the steak with rich flavor.

6. Rest the steak:
   After searing both sides, remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for 5-10 minutes on a cutting board. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the steak tender and juicy.

7. Serve:
   Slice the steak against the grain and serve immediately. Enjoy with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.

This simple cast iron steak recipe delivers a deliciously tender and juicy steak with a mouthwatering crust. Perfect for any steak lover, it’s a quick yet elegant meal that’s sure to impress!