How do you know when a ribeye is cooked to the right doneness?
Use a meat thermometer: 125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium. The steak continues cooking as it rests, so pull it 5°F before your target.
Can you make the blue cheese butter ahead of time?
Yes. Mix softened butter with blue cheese and chives, roll in parchment, refrigerate up to 5 days or freeze up to 1 month. Slice and place on hot steak to melt.
Why rest the steak before serving?
Resting for 5-10 minutes after cooking allows juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy instead of bleeding onto the plate.
What's the best way to get a good sear on a bone-in ribeye?
Use high heat, pat the steak completely dry, season generously with salt and pepper just before cooking, and avoid moving it in the pan for the first 3-4 minutes.
Can you substitute blue cheese in the compound butter?
Yes. Gorgonzola, Roquefort, or Danish blue work well. For milder flavor, use crumbled feta or goat cheese instead.