How Long to Grill Ribeye: The Ultimate Guide – Tips and Tricks Included

Grilling a ribeye steak to perfection is an art that can take some time to master. Ribeye is known for its rich flavor and tender texture, making it a favorite among steak lovers everywhere. However, getting the timing and temperature just right can be a daunting task, especially if you’re new to grilling. In this ultimate guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how long to grill ribeye, including choosing the right cut, preparing your steak, grilling techniques, checking for doneness, and more. Whether you prefer rare, medium, or well-done, with these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to cook the perfect grilled ribeye every time.

Introduction

Introduction

Grilling a ribeye steak is one of the most classic and delicious ways to cook this popular cut of beef. However, getting the perfect flavor, texture, and doneness can be tricky, especially for inexperienced cooks. That’s why we’ve created this ultimate guide to help you grill the perfect ribeye every time.

In this comprehensive cooking guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about grilling ribeye steaks. From choosing the right cut of meat to seasoning, grilling techniques, and checking for doneness, we’ll provide in-depth information and valuable insights to help you elevate your grilling game.

Whether you’re a seasoned griller or a novice cook, our guide will give you the confidence and knowledge to cook mouth-watering ribeye steaks that will impress your family and friends. So, get ready to fire up your grill and let’s dive into the world of grilling ribeye steaks!

Choosing the Right Ribeye

Ribeye Cut

Ribeye Cut

When it comes to grilling ribeye, choosing the right cut is crucial to achieving a delicious and juicy steak. There are three main types of ribeye cuts: bone-in ribeye, boneless ribeye, and tomahawk ribeye. Each cut has its own unique characteristics that can influence the taste and texture of your steak.

Bone-In Ribeye

The bone-in ribeye, also known as the cowboy steak or prime rib, is a popular choice for grilling enthusiasts who want a steak with a rich, beefy flavor. This cut is taken from the rib section of the cow and includes a bone that adds extra moisture and flavor to the meat. The bone also helps to distribute heat evenly throughout the steak, allowing it to cook more evenly.

Boneless Ribeye

Boneless ribeye, sometimes called a Delmonico steak, is the same cut as the bone-in ribeye but without the bone. This type of ribeye is perfect for those who prefer a leaner cut of meat since it has less fat than the bone-in variety. It’s also easier to handle when cooking as there is no bone to navigate around. However, since there is no bone to help distribute heat, it can be a bit trickier to cook evenly.

Tomahawk Ribeye

The tomahawk ribeye is a bone-in ribeye that’s cut with a long, curved bone that resembles a tomahawk axe. This cut is often thicker than other ribeyes and can weigh up to 2 pounds. Due to its thickness, it’s recommended to cook the tomahawk ribeye using indirect heat on the grill to ensure it cooks evenly. This cut is perfect for impressing your guests with its impressive size and presentation.

In summary, when selecting the right ribeye cut for grilling, consider your preferences for flavor, fat content, and presentation. Bone-in ribeyes are great for adding extra flavor and moisture, boneless ribeyes are ideal for those who prefer a leaner cut, while tomahawk ribeyes are perfect for making a statement at your next BBQ.

Marbling and Quality

Marbling and Quality

When it comes to grilling a perfect ribeye steak, the quality of the meat is essential. The marbling, or small streaks of fat within the muscle, plays a crucial role in the flavor, juiciness, and tenderness of the steak.

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has established grading standards for beef based on marbling and maturity. The three most common grades available in supermarkets and butcher shops are prime, choice, and select.

Prime: This is the highest quality grade of beef, and it represents only about 2% of all beef produced in the US. Prime beef has abundant marbling, which makes it flavorful, juicy, and tender. It’s often found in high-end restaurants and specialty butcher shops, and it commands a premium price.

Choice: This is the second-highest quality grade of beef and represents about 55% of all beef sold in the US. Choice beef has less marbling than prime but is still considered a high-quality cut. It’s often the go-to choice for home cooks who want a balance between flavor and cost.

Select: This is the lowest quality grade of beef that you’ll find in supermarkets. It represents roughly 30% of all beef sold in the US. Select beef has minimal marbling and is leaner than prime or choice. While it’s a more affordable option, it may not have the same flavor and tenderness as higher-grade cuts.

It’s worth noting that the grading system is voluntary, and not all beef producers choose to participate. Some restaurants and butcher shops may also use their own grading systems, so it’s essential to know what you’re buying and where it comes from.

In conclusion, when it comes to selecting the best ribeye steak for grilling, it’s crucial to pay attention to the marbling and quality of the meat. While prime beef is the gold standard, choice cuts can also be delicious and more affordable. Whatever grade you choose, look for meat that has even marbling throughout the cut for optimal flavor and tenderness.

Thickness

Thickness

The thickness of your ribeye steak is an important factor when it comes to grilling. A thicker cut will take longer to cook than a thinner one, and the internal temperature will affect how well-done the steak gets.

1 Inch

A 1-inch ribeye is a good choice for those looking for a quick and easy meal. It cooks relatively quickly and is great for those who prefer their steak cooked medium or medium-rare. However, if you like your steak more on the rare side, keep in mind that a 1-inch thick steak may cook faster than you expect.

1 1/2 Inch

A 1 1/2-inch ribeye is the most common thickness for a good reason. This cut provides the perfect balance between thickness and cooking time, making it ideal for beginners. With a little practice, you can get it cooked to perfection every time.

2 Inch

A 2-inch ribeye is the thickest cut available and requires a little patience and skill to grill properly. It takes longer to cook, and you’ll need to monitor the internal temperature carefully to ensure it’s cooked evenly throughout. However, if you get it right, you’ll be rewarded with a juicy, flavorful steak that’s sure to impress.

Remember that the thickness of your ribeye affects its cooking time and internal temperature. Choosing the right thickness for your tastes and skill level is key to grilling the perfect steak.

Preparing Your Ribeye

Seasoning

Seasoning

When it comes to seasoning a ribeye steak, less is often more. The goal should be to enhance the natural flavor of the meat without overpowering it. That being said, there are a few key ingredients that can take your ribeye from good to great: salt, pepper, garlic, and herbs.

Salt

Salt is essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the meat. It also helps to tenderize the steak by breaking down some of the proteins. When seasoning a ribeye, be sure to use coarse kosher salt or sea salt instead of table salt, as it will provide a better texture and flavor.

Pepper

Pepper is another staple seasoning for steak. For a classic ribeye, freshly cracked black pepper is the way to go. It adds a subtle heat and complexity to the dish without overwhelming the meat’s taste.

Garlic

Garlic is a versatile seasoning that adds a depth of flavor to any dish. When using garlic on a ribeye, keep in mind that a little goes a long way. A chopped clove or two mixed with a bit of olive oil can create a flavorful marinade for the steak. Alternatively, you can rub minced garlic directly onto the meat before grilling.

Herbs

Herbs are an excellent way to add complexity and freshness to a ribeye. Popular herbs for beef include rosemary, thyme, and oregano. These herbs not only add flavor but also have health benefits. Rosemary, for example, is high in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Overall, when seasoning a ribeye, simplicity is key. Stick to a few high-quality ingredients, such as salt, pepper, garlic, and herbs, and let the natural flavor of the meat shine through.

Temperature

Temperature

The temperature of the ribeye before grilling is a crucial factor that affects the overall cooking process and the final result. In this section, we will discuss two ways to bring your ribeye to the appropriate temperature: at room temperature and in the refrigerator.

Room Temperature

Bringing your ribeye to room temperature before grilling is a common practice that helps ensure even cooking and prevents overcooking. When you take a cold steak out of the fridge and place it directly on the grill, the outside of the meat can become charred while the inside remains raw. To avoid this, remove your ribeye from the fridge at least 30 minutes before cooking and let it sit at room temperature.

This method allows the meat to cook more evenly, resulting in a juicy and tender steak. However, it is important to note that leaving your steak at room temperature for too long can also lead to bacteria growth, especially if the temperature rises above 40°F (4°C). Therefore, it is recommended to use a thermometer to check the internal temperature regularly and make sure it stays below 40°F (4°C).

Refrigerator

Another way to bring your ribeye to the right temperature is to refrigerate it before grilling. This method is particularly useful if you want to prepare your steak ahead of time or if you live in a hot and humid environment where leaving food at room temperature for too long is not safe.

To use this method, simply take your ribeye out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before grilling. The meat will still be cold but closer to room temperature than when it was taken straight from the fridge. This ensures that the steak will cook more evenly and delivers better results than grilling a completely cold steak.

In conclusion, whether you choose to bring your ribeye to room temperature or refrigerate it before grilling, make sure to use a thermometer to check the internal temperature regularly. Keeping your steak at the right temperature during the cooking process is essential for achieving perfectly cooked and juicy results.

Resting Time

Resting Time

Resting time is a crucial step in the cooking process of any grilled ribeye. It is during this time that the juices inside the meat redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak. While it may be tempting to immediately slice into your perfectly grilled ribeye, allowing it to rest for 5-10 minutes can make a world of difference.

During the grilling process, the heat causes the juices to move towards the center of the steak. If you were to cut into the ribeye right after removing it from the grill, those juices would escape onto the cutting board, leaving you with a dry and tough piece of meat. However, by giving it a few minutes to rest, the juices are redistributed throughout the steak, leading to a more evenly cooked and juicy result.

It’s important to note that the resting time should be done off the heat source, such as on a warm plate or a cutting board covered with foil. This allows the steak to continue cooking without becoming overcooked or burnt. Additionally, covering the steak with foil can help to trap in some of the heat, further aiding in the redistribution of the juices.

While 5-10 minutes may seem like a long time to wait when you’re hungry, trust us when we say it’s worth it. Your patience will be rewarded with a perfectly cooked and delicious grilled ribeye.

Oil

Oil

When it comes to grilling ribeye, choosing the right oil can make a big difference. Oils serve different purposes when it comes to grilling – they help prevent sticking, add flavor, and provide a medium for heat transfer. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at three popular oils for grilling ribeye: olive oil, vegetable oil, and grapeseed oil.

Olive Oil

Olive oil is a popular choice for grilling ribeye because of its rich flavor and health benefits. It’s high in monounsaturated fats, which are good for heart health. When using olive oil for grilling, it’s important to use extra-virgin olive oil because it has a low smoke point. Heat the oil gently to avoid burning it and apply it sparingly to the meat to prevent flare-ups.

Vegetable Oil

Vegetable oil is a neutral-flavored oil that has a high smoke point, making it a good choice for high-heat grilling. While it lacks the distinctive flavor of olive oil, it’s an affordable and versatile option for grilling. To use vegetable oil for grilling ribeye, brush it on the meat before placing it on the grill.

Grapeseed Oil

Grapeseed oil is a healthy oil that has a light and nutty flavor. It has a high smoke point, meaning it won’t burn easily, making it ideal for grilling. Grapeseed oil is also high in vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. To use grapeseed oil for grilling ribeye, lightly brush it onto the meat before placing it on the grill.

In conclusion, while all three oils have their benefits, olive oil is best for flavor, vegetable oil is the most affordable, and grapeseed oil is the healthiest. Ultimately, the choice of oil will depend on personal preference and dietary needs.

Grilling Your Ribeye

Direct Heat

Direct Heat

Direct heat is a grilling technique that involves cooking your ribeye over high heat. Direct heat is perfect for searing the outside of your ribeye and creating those coveted grill marks. It’s also great for achieving a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender.

To use direct heat, preheat your grill to high heat (around 450-550°F). Place your seasoned ribeye directly on the grill grates and cook for around 4-5 minutes per side, flipping only once. This will give you a medium-rare steak with a nice crust on the outside.

While direct heat is a popular method for grilling ribeye, it’s important to note that it can be easy to overcook your steak if you’re not careful. Keep a close eye on your ribeye as it cooks, and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

Direct heat is also great for other types of meat, such as chicken breasts or pork chops. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the thickness of the cut.

In addition to creating delicious meals, direct heat grilling has some benefits over other cooking methods. For one, it’s a quick and easy way to get dinner on the table in no time. It also gives food a unique flavor that can’t be achieved through other cooking techniques.

Overall, direct heat is a useful grilling technique to have in your repertoire. With a little practice and attention to detail, you’ll be able to create perfectly cooked and flavorful ribeyes every time.

Indirect Heat

Indirect Heat

When it comes to grilling the perfect ribeye, some people swear by direct heat, while others prefer indirect heat. In this section, we will take a closer look at what indirect heat is, how to set up a two-zone fire, and why it might be the best option for cooking your ribeye.

What is Indirect Heat?

Indirect heat is a grilling technique that involves cooking your food away from the heat source. This is achieved by setting up a two-zone fire, where one side of the grill is hot and the other side is cooler. The goal is to sear the meat on the hot side of the grill and then move it to the cooler side to finish cooking.

Setting Up a Two-Zone Fire

To set up a two-zone fire, start by lighting your charcoal or turning on the burners on one side of the grill. Once the flames die down and the coals are glowing red, use tongs to push them to one side of the grill. The other side of the grill should remain empty.

For gas grills, turn on one burner to high heat and leave the other burner off. This will create a hot zone and a cool zone.

Why Use Indirect Heat?

There are several benefits to using indirect heat when grilling a ribeye. First, it allows you to cook the steak evenly without burning it. By starting on the hot side of the grill and finishing on the cooler side, you can get a nice sear on the outside of the steak while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

Second, using indirect heat also allows you to control the temperature more easily. If the heat is too high, you can simply move the steak to the cooler side of the grill to prevent it from overcooking. This is especially helpful if you are grilling a thicker cut of steak, which requires a longer cooking time.

Overall, using indirect heat is a great option for grilling the perfect ribeye. By setting up a two-zone fire and cooking your steak away from the heat source, you can achieve a beautiful sear and cook it to perfection without burning it.

Grill Marks

Grill Marks

Grill marks not only look aesthetically pleasing but also indicate that your ribeye is cooked to perfection. To achieve those coveted diamond patterns, you’ll need to follow a few simple guidelines.

The Diamond Pattern

The diamond pattern of grill marks is created by placing the ribeye on the grates at a 45-degree angle and letting it cook for a few minutes until it develops sear marks. Then, using tongs, rotate the steak 90 degrees and let it cook for another couple of minutes before flipping it over. Repeat the process on the other side to create the diamond pattern.

Tips for Perfect Grill Marks

Here are some tips to help you achieve perfect grill marks every time:

• Preheat your grill to high heat before cooking your ribeye. A hot grill will ensure that your steak sears properly and forms grill marks.
• Dry the surface of your ribeye before placing it on the grill. Any excess moisture can create steam, which prevents grill marks from forming.
• Avoid moving your ribeye around too much while it’s cooking. Let it sit on the grill for a few minutes to develop the sear marks before rotating it.
• Use tongs instead of a fork to handle the ribeye. Puncturing the meat with a fork can cause juices to escape, leading to a dry steak.
• Don’t flip the ribeye too often. Flipping it once or twice during the cooking process is enough to achieve the diamond pattern.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to create the perfect diamond pattern grill marks on your ribeye, you’ll be able to impress your family and friends with your grilling skills. Remember to follow these tips, and you’ll have a deliciously seared and aesthetically pleasing steak every time.

Internal Temperature

Internal Temperature

The internal temperature of your ribeye steak is one of the most important factors in determining its doneness. You want to make sure that your steak is cooked to your liking without overcooking it and losing its juiciness.

Here are the five levels of doneness, along with their corresponding internal temperatures:

• Rare: An internal temperature of 120-130°F (49-54°C). The center should be bright red with a cool, almost raw texture.
• Medium-rare: An internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C). The center should be pink and warm with a slightly firm texture.
• Medium: An internal temperature of 135-145°F (57-63°C). The center should be light pink and warm with a firm texture.
• Medium-well: An internal temperature of 145-155°F (63-68°C). The center should be slightly pink with a firm texture.
• Well-done: An internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) or higher. The center should be brown with a very firm texture.

It’s important to note that the USDA recommends cooking beef to an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C) to ensure that any harmful bacteria are destroyed. However, if you prefer your steak less cooked than medium, you can safely do so as long as you handle and prepare the meat correctly.

To check the internal temperature of your ribeye, you can use an instant-read thermometer. Insert the probe into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding contact with bone or fat, and wait for the reading to stabilize. For the most accurate results, check the temperature near the end of the cooking time.

Alternatively, you can use the touch test to check the doneness of your steak. Touch the center of the steak with your index finger and compare the feeling to different parts of your hand:

• Rare: The center feels like the fleshy pad at the base of your thumb when you touch your thumb to your index finger.
• Medium-rare: The center feels like the fleshy pad at the base of your thumb when you touch your thumb to your middle finger.
• Medium: The center feels like the fleshy pad at the base of your thumb when you touch your thumb to your ring finger.
• Well-done: The center feels like the fleshy pad at the base of your thumb when you touch your thumb to your pinky finger.

By following these guidelines for internal temperature, you can ensure that your ribeye steak is cooked to perfection.

Checking for Doneness

Thermometer

Thermometer

One of the best ways to ensure that your ribeye is grilled to perfection is by using an instant-read thermometer. This type of thermometer is designed to give you an accurate temperature reading in just a few seconds, so you can quickly check the internal temperature of your steak without having to cut into it. Here’s everything you need to know about using an instant-read thermometer to grill your ribeye:

What is an Instant-Read Thermometer?

An instant-read thermometer is a type of thermometer that gives you a quick and accurate temperature reading in just a few seconds. Unlike traditional meat thermometers, which need to be inserted into the meat and left in place for several minutes to get an accurate reading, an instant-read thermometer can be inserted into the thickest part of the meat for a few seconds to get an accurate temperature reading.

How to Use an Instant-Read Thermometer

To use an instant-read thermometer to grill your ribeye, simply insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, making sure not to touch the bone or the grilling surface. Wait for the temperature reading to stabilize, and then remove the thermometer from the steak. The USDA recommends cooking beef to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare, 160°F (71°C) for medium, and 170°F (77°C) for well-done.

Benefits of Using an Instant-Read Thermometer

Using an instant-read thermometer has several benefits when grilling your ribeye. First and foremost, it ensures that your steak is cooked to the desired level of doneness, which is essential for achieving the perfect flavor and texture. It also helps to prevent overcooking, which can result in dry and tough meat. By checking the internal temperature of your steak with an instant-read thermometer, you can be confident that your ribeye will turn out perfectly every time.

In conclusion, using an instant-read thermometer is a simple yet effective way to ensure that your ribeye is grilled to perfection. By following these tips and guidelines, you can be confident in your grilling skills and enjoy a delicious and juicy steak every time.

Hand Test

Hand Test

One of the most common ways to check if your ribeye is cooked to your liking is by using the hand test. This method involves using your sense of touch to determine the level of doneness of your steak.

To perform the touch test, use your index finger and press on the fleshy area at the base of your thumb. This is what a rare steak feels like. Now, touch your thumb and index finger together and press that same fleshy area again. This is what a medium-rare steak feels like. Repeat this process with your middle finger for a medium steak, ring finger for a medium-well steak, and pinky finger for a well-done steak.

Another way to check for doneness using the hand test is by using the firmness of your steak. Rare steaks are soft when touched, while medium-rare steaks have a slight bounce. Medium steaks are firmer to the touch, while medium-well steaks are even firmer. Well-done steaks are very firm to the touch and have almost no give.

While the hand test can be useful for determining the level of doneness of your steak, it is not always the most accurate method. Factors such as the thickness of your steak and the amount of pressure you apply can affect your results. Therefore, it’s important to use a meat thermometer in conjunction with the hand test for more precise results.

In conclusion, the hand test is a quick and easy way to check if your ribeye is cooked to your liking. However, it should not be relied upon solely and should be used in combination with other methods such as a meat thermometer to ensure your steak is properly cooked.

Conclusion

Conclusion

Grilled ribeye is the perfect steak for any occasion, whether it’s a fancy dinner party or a simple weeknight meal. With the tips and tricks outlined in this guide, you can create a mouthwatering masterpiece that will make your taste buds sing.

One of the most important aspects of grilling a ribeye is choosing the right cut. Whether you prefer bone-in or boneless, marbled or lean, selecting a high-quality ribeye is essential for achieving the best flavor and texture. Remember to consider thickness as well – a thicker cut will take longer to cook than a thinner one.

Once you’ve chosen your ribeye, it’s time to prepare it for the grill. Seasoning is key – don’t be afraid to use plenty of salt, pepper, and other herbs and spices to bring out the meat’s natural flavors. And don’t forget to let the steak come to room temperature before grilling, as this will help it cook more evenly.

When it comes to grilling, there are several techniques you can use to achieve the perfect char and sear. Direct heat is great for creating those classic grill marks, while indirect heat is perfect for cooking thicker cuts all the way through. And always remember to let your steak rest for a few minutes before slicing into it, as this allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

With these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to grilling the perfect ribeye every time. So fire up the grill, grab your tongs, and get ready to impress your friends and family with your newfound grilling skills!
As you can see, grilling the perfect ribeye takes time, patience, and practice. Remember to choose the right cut, season it well, let it rest, and grill it to the appropriate temperature. With these tips and tricks in mind, you’ll be able to impress your friends and family with a delicious, perfectly cooked grilled ribeye every time. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a beginner, we hope this ultimate guide has given you the confidence to take your grilling skills to the next level. So fire up that grill and start cooking!