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Perfect Campfire Cast Iron Cowboy Steak Recipe with Easy Herb Butter

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A rustic and flavorful cowboy ribeye steak seared in a cast iron skillet over a campfire, topped with a rich and aromatic herb butter. Perfect for outdoor cooking and memorable meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (32 oz / 900 g) bone-in cowboy ribeye steak, about 1.5 to 2 inches thick
  • Coarse sea salt (such as Maldon)
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil or avocado oil
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves, chopped
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 tsp lemon zest
  • Pinch of flaky sea salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Herb Butter (10 minutes): In a small bowl, combine softened butter, chopped rosemary, thyme, minced garlic, lemon zest, and a pinch of flaky sea salt. Mix until evenly blended. Set aside or refrigerate if preparing ahead. Let it come back to room temperature before serving.
  2. Bring Steak to Room Temperature (15-20 minutes): Remove the cowboy steak from the fridge and let it sit out while you prepare your fire or coals.
  3. Season the Steak: Pat the steak dry with paper towels. Generously sprinkle both sides with coarse sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  4. Preheat Your Cast Iron Skillet: Place the skillet over hot campfire coals or grill. Add vegetable oil and heat until shimmering but not smoking (around 450°F / 230°C).
  5. Sear the Steak (3-4 minutes per side): Carefully place the steak in the skillet. Let it cook undisturbed to develop a crust. Flip once using tongs. If your skillet is large enough, briefly sear the edges by holding the steak upright.
  6. Check Internal Temperature: Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F (54-57°C).
  7. Rest the Steak (10 minutes): Remove steak from skillet and place on a plate or cutting board. Tent loosely with foil.
  8. Serve with Herb Butter: Spoon generous dollops of the prepared herb butter over the hot steak.

Notes

Use high smoke point oils like vegetable or avocado oil for searing. Rest the steak for 10 minutes to redistribute juices. If cooking indoors, finish steak in a 400°F oven after searing. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure proper searing. For dairy-free, substitute butter with plant-based spread.

Nutrition

Keywords: campfire steak, cowboy steak, cast iron skillet, herb butter, outdoor cooking, ribeye steak, campfire recipe

Find it online: https://tastypierecipes.com/perfect-campfire-cast-iron-cowboy-steak-recipe-with-easy-herb-butter/