If you’re a steak lover, there’s nothing more satisfying than a perfectly cooked cowboy steak topped with rich, flavorful compound butter. This thick, bone-in ribeye is known for its marbling and tenderness, making it one of the most sought-after cuts for steak enthusiasts. In this recipe, we’ll cover the best steak marinade, cooking techniques for steak, and how to achieve the perfect sear. Whether you prefer grilling, sous vide steak, or pan-searing, we’ve got you covered!
Ingredients
For the Steak:
- 1 cowboy steak (bone-in ribeye, about 2 inches thick)
- 2 tbsp steak seasoning (salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, smashed
- 2 tbsp butter (for basting)
- Fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs
For the Garlic Herb Compound Butter:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Compound Butter
- In a bowl, mix the softened butter with garlic, parsley, thyme, rosemary, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Shape the butter into a log using plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Steak
- Remove the steak from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature.
- Pat the steak dry with paper towels and season generously with steak seasoning.
- If using a steak marinade, apply it at least 1 hour before cooking.
3. Cooking the Steak
Option 1: Pan-Searing & Butter Basting
- Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat and add olive oil.
- Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side until a golden-brown crust forms.
- Reduce heat to medium, add butter, garlic, rosemary, and thyme, and baste the steak continuously for another 2-3 minutes.
- Use a steak temperature guide to check doneness: 125°F (rare), 135°F (medium-rare), 145°F (medium), 150°F (medium-well), 160°F (well-done).
- Rest the steak for 10 minutes before serving with compound butter on top.
Option 2: Sous Vide & Searing
- Set your sous vide machine to 130°F for medium-rare doneness.
- Place the steak in a vacuum-sealed bag with butter, garlic, and herbs.
- Cook for 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Remove from the bag, pat dry, and sear on high heat for 1-2 minutes per side.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The rich flavors of garlic herb butter enhance the natural taste of the steak.
- A cowboy steak is known for its juicy, tender texture and deep marbling.
- Multiple cooking techniques allow flexibility depending on your preference.
- Perfect for special occasions or a weekend treat.
My Tips
- Always let the steak rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
- For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a hint of smoked salt.
- Pair with side dishes for steak like garlic mashed potatoes or grilled asparagus.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate doneness levels.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked cowboy steak with compound butter! Let me know how your steak turns out and what your favorite steak garnishes are. Happy cooking!


Cowboy Steak with Compound Butter: The Ultimate Guide to a Perfectly Cooked Steak
Description
Elevate your Cowboy Steak with rich, flavorful compound butter. Discover simple recipes to enhance your meal and impress your guests tonight!
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Servings 3
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 750kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 55g85%
- Total Carbohydrate 2g1%
- Protein 60g120%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Time: Prep: 10 minutes | Cooking: 15-20 minutes | Resting: 10 minutes
- Cooking Temp: Medium-high heat (searing) | 130°F (sous vide for medium-rare)
- Estimated Cost: $30-$50 (varies by steak quality)
- Servings: 2-3 people
- Nutrition Facts (per serving): Calories: 750 | Protein: 60g | Fat: 55g | Carbs: 2g