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Savory Coffee-Rubbed Ribeye Steak Recipe with Easy Garlic Herb Butter

coffee-rubbed ribeye steak - featured image

A bold and balanced ribeye steak rubbed with a smoky coffee spice blend and topped with a melting garlic herb butter, perfect for a quick yet special dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons finely ground coffee (medium roast)
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or sea salt)
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 2 ribeye steaks, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • Pinch of salt and pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Coffee Rub: In a small bowl, combine ground coffee, smoked paprika, brown sugar, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix thoroughly.
  2. Season the Steaks: Pat ribeye steaks dry with paper towels. Rub each steak generously on all sides with the coffee spice blend. Let sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes.
  3. Make the Garlic Herb Butter: Mix softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, lemon zest, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until creamy. Set aside or refrigerate.
  4. Heat the Pan: Place a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Heat until oil shimmers but does not smoke, about 2 minutes.
  5. Sear the Steaks: Place steaks in the pan and cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until a dark crust forms. Flip and cook another 3-4 minutes for medium-rare (internal temp ~130°F).
  6. Rest and Serve: Transfer steaks to a plate, top with garlic herb butter, tent loosely with foil, and let rest for 5-7 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use finely ground coffee, not instant or coarse grounds, to avoid bitterness and gritty texture. Let steak rest after cooking to keep it juicy. Prepare garlic herb butter ahead for best flavor. If butter softens too much, chill before topping steak. For grilling, cook over hot coals for smoky char.

Nutrition

Keywords: coffee rub, ribeye steak, garlic herb butter, steak recipe, easy dinner, smoky steak, grilled steak