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Perfect Whiskey-Glazed Ribeye Steak Recipe with Garlic Herb Butter

whiskey-glazed ribeye steak - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for juicy ribeye steaks glazed with a sweet and smoky whiskey sauce, topped with rich garlic herb butter. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 ribeye steaks, about 1 inch thick (1012 oz or 280-340g each)
  • 1/4 cup whiskey (60 ml), preferably bourbon
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (about 60 grams), softened
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin recommended)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: squeeze of fresh lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the garlic herb butter: In a small mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter with minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme, and rosemary. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well and set aside or refrigerate until ready to use.
  2. Season the ribeye steaks: Pat steaks dry with paper towels. Generously season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes if possible.
  3. Heat the skillet: Place a cast iron or heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil and heat until shimmering but not smoking.
  4. Sear the steaks: Place ribeyes in the hot skillet and cook about 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare (internal temp 130°F/54°C). Avoid moving steaks too much to form a good crust.
  5. Make the whiskey glaze: Remove steaks to a plate and tent with foil. Pour off excess fat from pan, leaving about 1 tablespoon. Lower heat to medium, add 1/4 cup whiskey and 2 tablespoons brown sugar. Stir constantly as sugar dissolves and glaze thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
  6. Glaze the steaks: Return steaks to the pan, spoon glaze over them, and cook 1 minute per side, basting generously.
  7. Finish with garlic herb butter: Turn off heat and dollop a generous spoonful of garlic herb butter on each steak. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Rest the steak for 5-7 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain high heat for a good sear. Be cautious when adding whiskey to a gas stove to prevent flare-ups. Garlic herb butter can be made a day ahead to deepen flavors. For dairy-free, substitute butter with vegan butter or olive oil-based spread. For alcohol-free, replace whiskey with beef broth and a splash of apple cider vinegar.

Nutrition

Keywords: whiskey glazed ribeye, garlic herb butter, steak recipe, quick steak dinner, bourbon glaze, cast iron steak