Are you craving a restaurant-quality steak dinner but short on time and intimidated by the idea of perfectly searing a rib eye? Then this slow cooker rib eye steak recipe is your answer! This surprisingly easy method yields an incredibly tender, juicy, and flavorful steak, perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Forget about the stress of high-heat cooking; this recipe transforms a tough cut into a melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece. Prepare to impress yourself and your loved ones with this delicious and simple homemade cooking solution!
Ingredients:
- 2-3 lb bone-in rib eye steak
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
Instructions:
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Prepare the steak: Pat the rib eye steak dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps achieve a better sear later on, even with slow cooking. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
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Sear the steak (optional but recommended): For enhanced flavor, heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, until a nice brown crust forms. This step is optional, but it adds a delicious depth of flavor.
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Slow cook the magic: Transfer the seared steak (or unseared if skipping the searing step) to your slow cooker. In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, rosemary, and thyme. Pour this mixture over the steak in the slow cooker.
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Cook low and slow: Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the steak is fork-tender. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your steak and your slow cooker. For a thicker steak, you may need to add an extra hour or two.
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Rest and serve: Once cooked, remove the steak from the slow cooker and let it rest for at least 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.
Tips for the Best Slow Cooked Rib Eye:
- Don't overcrowd the slow cooker: Ensure there's enough space around the steak for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: For perfect results, check the internal temperature of the steak. It should reach an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of your steak. A pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder adds a wonderful dimension.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve your slow-cooked rib eye with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad, for a satisfying and healthy meal.
Variations:
- Spicy Rib Eye: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Garlic Lover's Rib Eye: Increase the amount of minced garlic to 4-6 cloves for a more intense garlic flavor.
- Herb-Infused Rib Eye: Experiment with different herbs, such as oregano, parsley, or marjoram.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the size of your steak and the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate for a 6-ounce serving would be:
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
This slow-cooked rib eye steak recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy this delicious and surprisingly simple recipe! It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion.