Rib Eye Steaks for Cast Iron Cooking Fans

Cast iron cooking has become a go-to method for home chefs chasing that perfect sear and for good reason. Its ability to retain and distribute heat evenly makes it the ultimate tool for serious steak lovers. 

Among all the cuts, rib eye stands out as the top choice thanks to its rich marbling, deep flavour, and tender texture. When seared in a hot cast iron skillet, rib eye delivers a caramelised crust and juicy interior that’s hard to beat. 

For premium-quality rib eye steaks, Carnivore Society offers ethically sourced, marbled cuts ideal for cast iron cooking perfection.

What Makes Rib Eye Ideal for Cast Iron Cooking

Not all steaks are created equal, especially when cast iron enters the kitchen. Here’s why rib eye reigns supreme in the skillet:

• Exceptional marbling: Rib eye is packed with intramuscular fat that melts during cooking, keeping the steak juicy and flavourful.
  
• Thick and forgiving: Its thickness makes it ideal for high-heat searing without overcooking the centre.
  
• Perfect crust potential: The fat content helps form a rich, golden-brown crust that only cast iron can deliver.
  
• Bold, beefy flavour: Rib eye boasts a naturally robust taste that intensifies under high heat.
  
• Versatile for pan-to-oven: This cut transitions smoothly from stovetop to oven—perfect for cast iron finishing techniques.
  
• Bone-in or boneless options: Both styles cook beautifully, with bone-in adding extra flavour during the sear.

How to Choose the Perfect Rib Eye Steak

A great cast iron sear starts with the right cut. Here’s what to look for when picking the perfect rib eye:

• Look for visible marbling: Fine streaks of fat running through the meat indicate tenderness, juiciness, and flavour.
  
• Pick the right thickness: Aim for cuts between 1.25 and 1.5 inches thick, ideal for searing and finishing without overcooking.
  
• Choose between grass-fed and grain-fed: Grass-fed offers a leaner, earthier flavour, while grain-fed is richer and more buttery.
  
• Consider bone-in vs boneless: Bone-in adds flavour and helps retain moisture, while boneless offers easier handling and even searing.
  
• Check for firm texture: Fresh, high-quality rib eye should feel firm to the touch, not mushy or overly soft.
  
• Source from trusted suppliers: Go for ethically raised, hormone-free options like those from Carnivore Society for consistent, premium quality.

Step-by-Step Guide: Cooking Rib Eye in a Cast Iron Skillet

Cooking a rib eye steak in a cast iron skillet is the ultimate way to unlock its bold flavour and rich marbling. Here’s how to do it right.

Step 1: Prepare the Steak and Tools

Bring your rib eye to room temperature at least 30 minutes before cooking. Gather your essentials: a cast iron skillet, tongs, high-smoke point oil, a meat thermometer, and paper towels. Pat the steak dry to encourage a crisp sear.

Step 2: Sear at High Heat

Heat the skillet over medium-high until it’s smoking hot. Add oil and carefully place the steak in the pan. Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until a golden crust forms. Flip only once for best results.

Step 3: Season and Cook to Temperature

Season generously with sea salt and cracked pepper. Reduce heat slightly and cook to your preferred doneness, using a meat thermometer. For medium rare, aim for 54–57°C internal temperature.

Step 4: Baste with Butter and Aromatics

During the final minute, add butter, garlic, and rosemary to the pan. Tilt the skillet and spoon the melted butter over the steak. Rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.

Now you’ve got a sizzling, restaurant-quality rib eye, done the Carnivore Society way.

Pairings and Sides to Serve with Cast Iron Rib Eye

Level up your rib eye with sides and pairings that complement its richness without overpowering its bold, beefy flavour:

• Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and rich, mashed potatoes offer a smooth contrast to the crisp crust of the rib eye. Roasted garlic adds a sweet, earthy depth that complements the steak’s bold flavour.
• Grilled Asparagus or Broccolini: Lightly charred greens bring freshness and texture to the plate. A touch of lemon zest or shaved parmesan adds brightness to balance the richness of the meat.
• Herb Compound Butter: Top your steak with a slab of butter mixed with herbs like thyme, rosemary, and parsley. As it melts, it bastes the meat and adds aromatic complexity.
• Red Wine Reduction or Peppercorn Sauce: For a restaurant-style touch, drizzle your rib eye with a bold red wine reduction or creamy peppercorn sauce. Both amplify the steak’s natural umami.
• Shiraz or Cabernet Sauvignon: Bold red wines with good tannins pair perfectly with the fatty richness of rib eye. These wines cleanse the palate while enhancing every mouthful.
• Rocket and Parmesan Salad: A peppery rocket (arugula) salad with shaved parmesan and balsamic glaze offers a refreshing contrast. It cuts through the fat and resets your taste buds.
• Low-Carb Options: Cauliflower Mash or Zucchini Ribbons: If you’re eating low-carb or keto, swap out starchy sides for cauliflower mash or sautéed zucchini ribbons. They’re light, satisfying, and let the steak take centre stage.

Rib Eye Steaks from Carnivore Society: What Sets Us Apart

Not all rib eye steaks are equal. Here’s what sets Carnivore Society’s cuts apart from the pack.

• Exceptional marbling: Each rib eye is carefully selected for visible, even marbling that guarantees tenderness and flavour.
  
• Ethically raised beef: All cattle are sourced from Australian farms that prioritise animal welfare and sustainable practices.
  
• Grass-fed and grain-fed options: Whether you prefer clean, earthy flavour or buttery richness, there’s a rib eye to suit your taste.
  
• Hormone and antibiotic-free: You get pure, clean meat without unnecessary additives or synthetic growth enhancers.
  
• Vacuum-sealed for peak freshness: Each steak is professionally packed to preserve texture, taste, and shelf life during delivery.
  
• Perfect for cast iron cooking: The quality of Carnivore Society’s rib eyes makes them ideal for high-heat searing and skillet-to-oven finishes.
  
• Trusted by serious steak lovers: With consistently high reviews and repeat customers, Carnivore Society is a go-to for premium steak delivery in Australia.

Final Thoughts

Cast iron cooking and rib eye steaks are a match made in meat-lover heaven. With the right technique and a quality cut, you can achieve restaurant-style results from your own stovetop. 

Rib eye’s rich marbling and bold flavour shine in a sizzling hot skillet, delivering a steak that’s crusty, juicy, and full of character. Ready to level up your meals? Choose premium rib eye from Carnivore Society and turn every cast iron cook-up into a flavour-packed feast.