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Flavorful Coffee-Rubbed Ribeye Steak Recipe with Easy Zesty Chimichurri Sauce

coffee-rubbed ribeye steak - featured image

A bold and unexpected coffee-rubbed ribeye steak paired with a fresh, zesty chimichurri sauce that balances the richness with bright herbs and acidity. Perfect for a quick, gourmet dinner or impressing guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons finely ground coffee (freshly ground or good-quality instant coffee grounds)
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • 2 ribeye steaks, about 12 oz (340 g) each, 1-inch thick
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
  • 1 cup fresh parsley leaves, packed (flat-leaf preferred)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Make the Coffee Rub: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons finely ground coffee, 1 tablespoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon cayenne, and 1 teaspoon brown sugar. Mix well.
  2. Prep the Ribeye: Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. Drizzle both sides lightly with olive oil (about 1 tablespoon per steak).
  3. Apply the Rub: Generously coat both sides of each steak with the coffee rub mixture, pressing gently. Let rest at room temperature for 20-30 minutes.
  4. Prepare the Chimichurri: Combine 1 cup chopped parsley, 3 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, ½ cup olive oil, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, and red pepper flakes in a blender or food processor. Pulse until finely chopped but still chunky. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
  5. Heat the Skillet: Place cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and heat for about 5 minutes until very hot.
  6. Sear the Steaks: Add 1 tablespoon olive oil to skillet. Place steaks in pan and sear without moving for 3-4 minutes until deep brown crust forms. Flip and sear other side for 3-4 minutes for medium-rare (130°F / 54°C internal temperature).
  7. Rest the Meat: Transfer steaks to a plate, tent loosely with foil, and rest for 5-10 minutes.
  8. Serve: Slice ribeye against the grain and spoon chimichurri over the top.

Notes

Use freshly ground coffee for best flavor. Pat steaks dry before applying rub to ensure a good crust. Let steaks rest after cooking to keep them juicy. Chimichurri can be made ahead and tastes better after sitting for a few hours. If grilling, watch for flare-ups due to sugar in rub.

Nutrition

Keywords: coffee rub, ribeye steak, chimichurri sauce, grilled steak, easy steak recipe, zesty sauce, smoky steak rub