Butter Basted Rib Eye Steak with Sweet Potatoes: A Flavorful Feast

If you're craving a hearty, indulgent meal that will satisfy your taste buds and leave you feeling full and content, look no further than Butter Basted Rib Eye Steak with Sweet Potatoes. This dish combines the rich, savory flavors of a perfectly seared rib-eye steak with the sweetness and earthiness of roasted sweet potatoes.

The butter-basting technique ensures the steak stays juicy and tender, while the sweet potatoes add a delightful contrast with their caramelized edges and velvety texture. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion, a cozy dinner, or when you just want to treat yourself to something extraordinary.

Ingredients:

For the Rib Eye Steak:

2 rib-eye steaks (about 1-inch thick)
2 tbsp olive oil
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 garlic cloves, smashed
2 sprigs fresh thyme
1 sprig fresh rosemary
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Sweet Potatoes:

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground paprika
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large mixing bowl, toss the cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, ground cinnamon, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the sweet potatoes are golden brown and tender when pierced with a fork. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Rib Eye Steaks

Remove the rib-eye steaks from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to come to room temperature. This helps them cook more evenly.
Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help achieve a beautiful sear.
Season both sides of the steaks generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 3: Sear the Steaks

Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it heat until shimmering.
Place the steaks in the hot pan and sear for 4-5 minutes on the first side, without moving them, until a golden-brown crust forms.
Flip the steaks and add the butter, smashed garlic cloves, and fresh herbs (thyme and rosemary) to the pan.

Step 4: Butter Baste the Steaks

As the butter melts, use a spoon to baste the steaks with the butter, garlic, and herbs. Tilt the pan slightly to pool the butter on one side, and spoon it over the steaks repeatedly for 2-3 minutes. This will ensure the steaks are flavorful and moist.
Continue to cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, depending on the desired level of doneness (use a meat thermometer if necessary):
- Rare: 120-125°F (49-52°C)
- Medium Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
- Medium Well: 150-155°F (66-68°C)
- Well Done: 160°F+ (71°C+)

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Once the steaks are done, remove them from the pan and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. Resting the meat allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and tender steak.
While the steaks are resting, serve the roasted sweet potatoes on a platter. Place the steaks on top or beside the sweet potatoes and garnish with fresh herbs or additional butter if desired.
Slice the steaks against the grain and enjoy the perfect combination of savory steak and sweet, spiced potatoes!

Tips for the Perfect Butter Basted Rib Eye Steak with Sweet Potatoes:

Choose the Right Cut of Meat: Rib-eye steaks are ideal for this recipe due to their rich marbling of fat, which makes them tender and juicy. If you prefer a leaner cut, you can substitute with sirloin or filet mignon.
Don't Skip the Resting Period: Allowing your steak to rest after cooking is crucial for preserving juiciness and flavor. A hot steak right out of the pan may lose moisture, making it less tender.
Use Fresh Herbs for Extra Flavor: Fresh thyme and rosemary are classic herbs to pair with steak. If you don’t have them, feel free to use whatever herbs you prefer, such as sage or oregano.
Perfectly Roasted Sweet Potatoes: For the crispiest sweet potatoes, make sure they are spread out evenly on the baking sheet and not overcrowded. This ensures they cook evenly and caramelize beautifully.
Rest Sweet Potatoes Before Serving: Just like steak, letting the sweet potatoes rest for a few minutes after roasting can enhance their flavor and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe? Yes, you can substitute regular russet potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes if you prefer. However, sweet potatoes add a unique sweetness and texture that complements the rich steak. If using regular potatoes, you might want to adjust the seasonings accordingly.

Q2: Can I cook the steak on the grill instead of in a skillet? Absolutely! Grilling the rib-eye steak will impart a smoky flavor. Simply season the steak as directed, then grill over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side (adjust depending on the thickness and desired doneness). You can still baste with butter on the grill, but it’s typically done during the final moments of cooking.

Q3: How do I ensure my rib-eye steak is cooked perfectly? The key to cooking a perfect rib-eye steak is to monitor the internal temperature. A meat thermometer is your best friend. Aim for your desired doneness and remember to rest the steak before serving.

Q4: Can I make this dish ahead of time? While the steak is best enjoyed freshly cooked, you can roast the sweet potatoes ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving. You can also sear the steaks and baste them up to 30 minutes in advance, then finish them with a quick sear right before serving.

Q5: What wine pairs well with rib-eye steak and sweet potatoes? A bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, or Merlot pairs wonderfully with rib-eye steak. The richness of the wine complements the savory steak, while its tannins balance the sweetness of the potatoes.

Q6: Can I make this recipe dairy-free? To make this recipe dairy-free, simply replace the butter with a plant-based butter alternative, like olive oil or coconut oil. The flavor won’t be exactly the same, but it will still work well with the steak and sweet potatoes.

Q7: What can I serve as a side dish with this meal? If you're looking to add a little more variety to your plate, consider a fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette, roasted Brussels sprouts, or sautéed spinach. A crunchy side will contrast beautifully with the rich steak and creamy sweet potatoes.

This Butter Basted Rib Eye Steak with Sweet Potatoes recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout meal that's both indulgent and satisfying. Enjoy it with a glass of your favorite wine and share it with friends or family for an unforgettable dining experience!