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Flavorful Coffee-Rubbed Ribeye Steaks with Herb Butter

coffee-rubbed ribeye steaks - featured image

A bold and juicy ribeye steak recipe featuring a unique coffee-spice rub and a creamy herb butter topping, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 ribeye steaks, about 12 oz each, 1 to 1.5 inches thick
  • 1 tablespoon ground coffee, finely ground (medium roast)
  • 1 tablespoon paprika (smoked paprika preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar, packed
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
  • 1½ teaspoons kosher salt, or to taste
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 4 tablespoons (¼ cup) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Pinch of lemon zest (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, mix together ground coffee, paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder (if using), kosher salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  2. Pat the ribeye steaks dry with paper towels to help the rub stick and promote a good sear.
  3. Generously coat both sides of each steak with the coffee rub, pressing lightly into the meat. Let the steaks rest at room temperature for 20-30 minutes.
  4. While the steaks rest, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme or rosemary, lemon zest (if using), salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Mix until smooth, shape into a log using plastic wrap, and chill until firm.
  5. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until very hot, about 5 minutes.
  6. Add the steaks to the dry skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare (internal temperature around 130°F). Flip only once to develop a crust.
  7. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness; cook longer for medium (140°F) if desired. Avoid pressing down on the steaks.
  8. Transfer steaks to a plate and let rest for 5-10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
  9. Slice rounds of chilled herb butter and place on top of each steak while resting to melt into a flavorful sauce.
  10. Slice against the grain if desired and serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer for best results. Let the skillet get very hot before searing to develop a good crust. Rest steaks after cooking to keep them juicy. Herb butter can be made ahead and chilled. For dairy-free, substitute butter with plant-based spread. The rub works well on the grill but watch for flare-ups due to sugar content.

Nutrition

Keywords: coffee rub, ribeye steak, herb butter, steak recipe, quick steak, juicy steak, cast iron skillet, smoky steak, easy dinner