Are you craving a juicy, flavorful rib eye steak but short on time? Forget the hours spent grilling! This slow cooker rib eye steak recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. It's the perfect solution for a delicious, healthy meal that's surprisingly easy to make, ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners. This recipe is your gateway to effortless homemade cooking and fantastic quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 2 (1-inch thick) rib eye steaks (about 1 pound each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Pat the rib eye steaks dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps achieve a beautiful sear and enhances the overall flavor.
- Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Don't be shy with the seasoning – it's the key to a delicious steak!
Slow Cooker Magic:
- Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steaks for about 1-2 minutes per side, until nicely browned. This step adds incredible depth of flavor.
- Carefully transfer the seared steaks to your slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter. Whisk in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Pour the mixture over the steaks in the slow cooker.
Cooking Time:
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness (see tips below).
Finishing Touches:
- Once cooked, carefully remove the steaks from the slow cooker and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
- Slice against the grain and serve immediately.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Rib Eye:
- Doneness: Use a meat thermometer for accurate results. Here's a guide:
- Rare: 125-130°F
- Medium-Rare: 130-135°F
- Medium: 135-140°F
- Medium-Well: 140-145°F
- Well-Done: 145°F and above
- Sear it Right: A good sear is essential for flavor and texture. Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the steaks.
- Resting is Key: Allowing the steaks to rest is crucial for retaining moisture and tenderness. Don't skip this step!
Variations:
- Garlic Herb Rib Eye: Add a sprig of rosemary and thyme to the slow cooker for an herby twist.
- Spicy Rib Eye: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce.
- Mushroom Rib Eye: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions and add them to the slow cooker.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the size of your steak and the ingredients used. For a 6-ounce rib eye steak cooked as directed, you can expect roughly:
- Calories: 400-500
- Protein: 40-50g
- Fat: 25-35g
This slow cooker rib eye steak recipe is a delicious and effortless way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. It’s a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. The combination of juicy, flavorful steak and a rich, savory sauce is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!