Print

Flavorful Coffee-Rubbed Ribeye Steaks Recipe with Easy Herb Butter

coffee-rubbed ribeye steak - featured image

This recipe features ribeye steaks rubbed with a bold coffee and spice blend, seared to perfection, and topped with a fresh herb butter for a smoky, savory, and buttery finish. Ideal for quick, impressive dinners or weekend grilling.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons finely ground dark roast coffee (e.g., Starbucks French Roast)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon paprika (smoked paprika preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 ribeye steaks, about 1-inch thick, roughly 12 ounces each
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • Pinch of salt
  • Pinch of black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the coffee rub by mixing ground coffee, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
  2. Pat the ribeye steaks dry with paper towels. Rub about 1½ tablespoons of the coffee mixture evenly on each side of the steaks. Let rest at room temperature for 20-30 minutes.
  3. Make the herb butter by combining softened butter, chopped parsley, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Mix until smooth, form into a log using plastic wrap, and chill in the fridge.
  4. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and heat until shimmering but not smoking (about 2-3 minutes).
  5. Sear the steaks in the hot skillet for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare (internal temperature 130–135°F). Adjust time for thickness or preferred doneness.
  6. Transfer steaks to a plate, tent loosely with foil, and rest for 5-7 minutes.
  7. Slice steaks against the grain and top each with slices of chilled herb butter before serving.

Notes

Use fresh coffee grounds for best flavor. Let steaks rest with rub to enhance crust and flavor. Preheat pan thoroughly to get a good sear. Use tongs to flip steaks to avoid piercing and losing juices. Keep herb butter chilled until serving to maintain texture. For dairy-free option, substitute butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free yogurt with herbs.

Nutrition

Keywords: coffee rub, ribeye steak, herb butter, steak recipe, easy dinner, grilling, pan-seared steak, smoky steak, weekend dinner