Keto Ribeye Steak

When it comes to keto-friendly proteins, few things beat a keto ribeye steak. Loaded with natural marbling and flavor, ribeye is the perfect cut of beef for a low-carb, high-fat lifestyle. It’s rich, satisfying, and doesn’t require complicated prep—just quality ingredients and a good sear.

This recipe focuses on clean, keto-friendly fats like butter and olive oil and pairs perfectly with low-carb sides like creamed spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or cauliflower mash. Whether you’re cooking for one or meal prepping for the week, this keto ribeye delivers restaurant-quality results in under 20 minutes.

If you enjoy easy, filling low-carb dinners, you’ll also love this comforting Chicken Thighs and Rice or the creamy, soul-warming Hearty and Creamy Sausage Soup.

Credit: Pinterest

Ingredients You Will Need

• 2 boneless ribeye steaks (about 12–16 oz each, 1–1.5 inches thick)
  
• 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
  
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
  
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  
• 3 garlic cloves, smashed
  
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary (optional, for basting)
  

Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
  
• Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
  
• Rest Time: 5 minutes
  
• Total Time: 20 minutes
  
• Serves: 2
  

Equipment You’ll Need

• Cast iron skillet (preferred)
  
• Tongs
  
• Paper towels
  
• Meat thermometer (for precision)
  
• Cutting board
  

How to Make Keto Ribeye Steak: Step-by-Step

1. Bring to Room Temperature

Let your steaks sit out for 30 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook evenly and develop a better crust.

2. Pat Dry and Season

Use paper towels to blot any moisture off the steaks. Then season both sides generously with kosher salt and black pepper—key for both flavor and crust.

3. Sear the Steaks

Heat a cast iron skillet over high heat until smoking. Add the oil, then place the steaks in the pan. Sear for 3–4 minutes per side without moving them to develop a deep brown crust.

4. Add Butter and Aromatics

Reduce the heat to medium. Add butter, smashed garlic, and fresh herbs to the skillet. Tilt the pan and use a spoon to baste the steak continuously for 1–2 minutes. This enhances flavor and keeps the steak moist.

5. Check Doneness

Use a thermometer to check for your preferred doneness:

• Rare: 120–125°F
  
• Medium-Rare: 130–135°F
  
• Medium: 140–145°F
  

Remove steaks from heat 5°F before desired doneness to allow for carryover cooking.

6. Rest and Slice

Let steaks rest for 5 minutes on a cutting board to retain juices. Then slice against the grain and serve with your favorite keto sides.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 620
  
• Protein: 48g
  
• Fat: 50g
  
• Carbohydrates: 0g
  
• Fiber: 0g
  
• Sugar: 0g
  
• Net Carbs: 0g
  

Values based on 12 oz ribeye with butter baste.

Tips and Variations

• Use grass-fed beef for cleaner keto macros and deeper flavor.
  
• Add compound butter: Try garlic-parsley or blue cheese butter for extra keto fat and flavor.
  
• No cast iron? Use a heavy stainless steel pan, but preheat thoroughly.
  
• Grill it instead: Great for summer cooking—just use the same seasoning method and grill over high heat for 3–4 minutes per side.
  

Best Keto Side Dish Pairings

• Creamed spinach
  
• Cauliflower mash
  
• Roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon
  
• Zucchini noodles tossed in garlic butter
  
• Grilled asparagus with lemon
  

These sides add fiber and nutrients without raising carb counts.

How to Store and Reheat

• Refrigerate: Store cooked steak in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  
• Reheat: For best results, reheat in a hot skillet with a little butter. Avoid microwaving as it can dry the steak.
  
• Freeze: Let steak cool completely, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
  

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This keto ribeye steak delivers everything you want on a low-carb diet—juicy meat, a crispy crust, and healthy fats that satisfy. It’s simple to cook, high in protein, and rich in flavor, making it a go-to for both special occasions and weeknight meals. Plus, it’s easy to pair with other keto-friendly components to create a well-balanced, delicious plate.

Final Thoughts

When following a keto lifestyle, simplicity and flavor are everything—and this ribeye steak hits the mark every time. With just a handful of ingredients and one skillet, you can achieve steakhouse-quality results without leaving your kitchen. It’s one of those recipes I keep on rotation not just because it’s keto, but because it’s downright delicious.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this steak earns a place at your table.

Credit: Pinterest

Frequently Asked Questions

Is ribeye steak keto-friendly?
Yes! Ribeye is naturally low in carbs and high in fat, making it ideal for a ketogenic diet.

Can I use bone-in ribeye for this recipe?
Absolutely. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to account for the bone.

How can I add flavor without carbs?
Fresh herbs, garlic, butter, and keto compound butters are excellent ways to add flavor while keeping carbs at zero.

What steak doneness is best for keto?
Medium-rare or medium tends to offer the best flavor and tenderness, but cook to your preference.

If you’re looking for an indulgent, cheesy low-carb side, don’t miss this Bacon Jalapeño Mac n’ Cheese—it’s bold, creamy, and totally keto-friendly.