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Coffee-Crusted Ribeye Steak Recipe Easy Garlic Butter Flavor Boost

coffee-crusted ribeye steak - featured image

A quick and easy coffee-crusted ribeye steak with a rich garlic butter topping that creates a flavorful, juicy, and slightly crunchy crust perfect for weeknight dinners or dinner parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ribeye steak (1 to 1.5 inches thick, about 12 oz / 340 g)
  • 2 tablespoons coarse ground dark roast coffee
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • A few sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of coarse ground dark roast coffee, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon brown sugar, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Mix well.
  2. Pat the ribeye dry thoroughly with paper towels.
  3. Generously coat all sides of the ribeye with the coffee rub, pressing it in gently but firmly. Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
  4. In a small bowl, mix softened unsalted butter (3 tablespoons) with 2 minced garlic cloves and a few sprigs of chopped fresh thyme or rosemary if using. Set aside.
  5. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking (about 2-3 minutes).
  6. Place the ribeye in the hot skillet and cook undisturbed for about 4 minutes for medium-rare (adjust time for thickness).
  7. Flip the steak and cook for another 3-4 minutes. In the last minute, add the garlic butter on top and spoon the melted butter over the steak repeatedly to baste.
  8. Check doneness with a meat thermometer: 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium.
  9. Transfer the steak to a plate and tent loosely with foil. Let rest for 5-7 minutes.
  10. Slice against the grain into thick slices, spoon any leftover garlic butter from the pan over the top, and serve.

Notes

Use freshly ground dark roast coffee for best flavor and crust texture. Avoid instant coffee as it can be too bitter. Dry the steak thoroughly before applying the rub to ensure a good crust. Rest the steak after cooking to keep it juicy. For thicker steaks (1.5 inches+), finish in a 400°F oven for 4-6 minutes after searing. Garlic butter can be prepared ahead and chilled. Adjust sugar in rub if coffee crust tastes too bitter.

Nutrition

Keywords: coffee crusted steak, ribeye steak, garlic butter, easy steak recipe, quick dinner, coffee rub, skillet steak