🔥 Ribeye Steak (Caramelized Crust)

✅ Ingredients:

  • 2 ribeye steaks (1 to 1½ inches thick, boneless or bone-in)
  • Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tbsp high-smoke-point oil (e.g. canola, avocado)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 2–3 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary
  • 1 tsp brown sugar (for caramelization)

🔪 Instructions:

  1. Prep the Steaks:
    • Let steaks come to room temp for 30–60 minutes.
    • Pat dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
  2. Sear and Caramelize:
    • Heat oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high until smoking hot.
    • Place steaks in the skillet. Sear undisturbed for about 3–4 minutes until a golden crust forms.
    • Flip, add butter, garlic, thyme, and brown sugar.
    • Baste the steak with the melted butter mixture while searing the second side for another 3–4 minutes.
  3. Check Doneness:
    • Medium rare: internal temp 130–135°F (54–57°C)
    • Rest steaks on a cutting board for 5–10 minutes, loosely covered with foil.

🥔 Creamy Mashed Potatoes

✅ Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • ½ cup heavy cream (or milk)
  • ¼ cup sour cream (optional for tang and creaminess)
  • Salt & pepper to taste

🥣 Instructions:

  1. Boil the Potatoes:
    • Place potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold salted water.
    • Bring to a boil and simmer until fork tender (about 15–20 minutes).
  2. Drain & Mash:
    • Drain potatoes well, return to hot pot to steam dry for 1–2 minutes.
    • Mash with a potato masher or use a ricer for ultra-smooth texture.
  3. Add the Cream:
    • Gently stir in butter, cream, and sour cream. Add more cream if needed.
    • Season with salt and pepper to taste.

🍷 Serving Suggestion:

  • Slice the steak against the grain.
  • Plate on top of or next to a generous scoop of creamy mashed potatoes.
  • Spoon any pan juices over the steak for extra flavor.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley or chives.

Optional Add-ons:

  • Caramelized onions or garlic mushrooms on top of the steak.
  • A splash of balsamic glaze or red wine reduction sauce.
  • Finish with flaky sea salt for that final restaurant touch.