The Ultimate Guide to Cooking a Perfect Ribeye Steak on the BBQ
Nothing beats the rich, juicy, and mouthwatering experience of a perfectly cooked ribeye steak. This cut, known for its intense marbling, delivers a tender and flavorful bite when prepared correctly. Whether you prefer your steak rare, medium-rare, or well-done, following the right techniques can make all the difference.
In this guide, we'll take you through step-by-step instructions on selecting, seasoning, and cooking your ribeye steak on the BBQ like a pro.
What Makes Ribeye Steak Special?
Ribeye steak is one of the most prized cuts of beef due to its high-fat content and marbling. The fat renders down during cooking, creating an incredibly juicy and flavorful steak. For the best results, always choose a grass-fed, halal-certified, and well-aged ribeye steak.
Ingredients:
For the Steak:
- 1-2 Ribeye Steaks (at least 1-inch thick, preferably Prime or Grass-Fed Angus)
- 1 tbsp Sea Salt (preferably kosher salt for deep seasoning)
- 1 tbsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper
- 1 tbsp Garlic Powder (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tbsp Butter (optional, for finishing)
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil (for searing)
- 1 sprig of Fresh Rosemary or Thyme (optional, for aroma)
For the BBQ Baste (Optional but Highly Recommended):
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 2 cloves Garlic (crushed or minced)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon Mustard
- 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley (chopped)
- 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
How to Master the Perfect BBQ Ribeye Steak
Step 1: Preparing the Steak
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Bring to Room Temperature:
- Remove the ribeye from the fridge 30-40 minutes before cooking.
- This ensures even cooking and prevents the steak from being cold in the center.
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Pat Dry:
- Use paper towels to dry the steak.
- Removing moisture helps create a perfect sear.
-
Season Generously:
- Sprinkle both sides with sea salt and black pepper.
- If desired, add garlic powder for extra depth.
- Let the steak sit for at least 10 minutes after seasoning.
Step 2: Preparing the BBQ
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Preheat Your BBQ:
- Set up your BBQ for two-zone cooking:
- One side on high heat (direct heat zone)
- One side on medium-low heat (indirect heat zone)
- Close the lid and let the BBQ heat up to around 230-260°C (450-500°F).
- Set up your BBQ for two-zone cooking:
-
Oil the Grill:
- Use tongs and a paper towel dipped in oil to grease the grates.
- This prevents sticking and enhances grill marks.
Step 3: Cooking the Ribeye Steak on the BBQ
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Sear Over High Heat:
- Place the ribeye directly over the high heat section of the BBQ.
- Cook for 1.5 - 2 minutes per side (lid closed) to develop a rich crust.
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Flip & Rotate for Grill Marks:
- Turn the steak 45 degrees halfway through each side for perfect grill marks.
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Move to Indirect Heat:
- Transfer the steak to the medium-low heat side.
- Close the lid and let it cook to your desired doneness (see temperature guide below).
Step 4: Using the Baste (For Extra Flavor)
- Melt the Butter in a Small Pan on the side burner or grill.
- Add Garlic, Worcestershire Sauce, Dijon Mustard, Paprika & Parsley.
- Baste the Steak in the Last Few Minutes using a brush or spoon.
Step 5: Checking Doneness & Resting
Steak Internal Temperature Guide:
Doneness | Temperature | Cooking Time After Searing |
---|---|---|
Rare | 50-52°C (120-125°F) | 2-3 minutes |
Medium-Rare | 55-57°C (130-135°F) | 3-5 minutes |
Medium | 60-63°C (140-145°F) | 5-7 minutes |
Medium-Well | 65-69°C (150-155°F) | 7-10 minutes |
Well Done | 70°C+ (160°F+) | 10+ minutes |
- Use a Meat Thermometer for accuracy.
- Remove the steak 3-5°C before target temperature, as it continues cooking while resting.
Step 6: Resting & Serving
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Let the Steak Rest for 5-10 Minutes
- This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy bite.
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Finish with Butter & Herbs
- Place a small knob of butter and a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme on top for extra flavor.
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Slice & Serve
- Slice against the grain to maximize tenderness.
- Serve with grilled vegetables, garlic butter mashed potatoes, or chimichurri sauce.
Bonus Tips for the Best Ribeye Steak
1. Choose the Right Steak:
- Look for Prime or Grass-Fed Angus Ribeye for maximum flavor.
- Thickness should be 1-1.5 inches for best results.
2. Avoid Over-Flipping:
- Flip only once for the best crust.
3. Don’t Press Down on the Steak:
- This releases juices, making it dry.
4. Use a Thermometer:
- The most reliable way to cook steak perfectly every time.
5. Let it Rest!
- Skipping this step ruins all your effort—resting makes it juicier.
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