Juicy ribeye steak served with creamy cheesy scalloped potatoes.

Ribeye Steak with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Ribeye Steak with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is a dish that sweeps you off your feet with its robust flavors and homely comfort. This culinary delight combines perfectly seared ribeye steaks with creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes that evoke heartwarming nostalgia. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering, a cozy date night, or simply treating yourself, this recipe is easy, satisfying, and sure to impress. With a step-by-step approach, you’ll find that executing this dish is not only straightforward but also immensely rewarding.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this Ribeye Steak with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe for so many reasons. First, the preparation is effortless. A few seasonings elevate the steaks, while the scalloped potatoes layer creamy goodness with minimal effort. It’s a quick yet gourmet meal that comes together in less than an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Moreover, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The rich flavors of the ribeye paired with the comforting nature of cheesy potatoes create a wholesome dining experience. The combination of textures—from the juicy, tender steak to the creamy, cheesy potatoes—ensures there’s something for everyone at the table.

Ingredients

2 Ribeye Steaks (about 1-inch thick): Juicy and flavorful, these steaks are a true treat for your taste buds.
2 tbsp Olive Oil: Adds a hint of richness and aids in achieving a nice golden-brown crust.
1 tsp Garlic Powder: This brings a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible.
1 tsp Onion Powder: Enhances the savory profile, making each bite tantalizing.
1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika: Introduces a subtle smokiness that complements the steak beautifully.
Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: To taste, ensuring your steak is seasoned to perfection.
2 tbsp Butter: For basting, adding a rich buttery finish to the ribeye.
2 Sprigs Fresh Rosemary (optional): Infuses a fragrant herbaceous note.

For the scalloped potatoes:

4 Large Russet Potatoes: Peeled and thinly sliced, these potatoes create the perfect creamy layers.
1 1/2 cups Heavy Cream: Provides a rich, luxurious texture.
1 cup Whole Milk: Balances the richness of the cream for a silky consistency.
2 tbsp Unsalted Butter: Enhances flavor and helps meld the ingredients together.
2 Cloves Garlic (minced): Imparts a lovely aroma and delicious taste.
2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully to create that cheesy goodness.
1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a touch of salty sharpness.
1 tsp Salt: Essential to bring out the flavors.
1/2 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper: For subtle heat.
1/4 tsp Ground Nutmeg: A hint of warmth and complexity.
1 tbsp Fresh Parsley (chopped, for garnish): Brightens the dish with a pop of color.

Step-by-Step Directions

Prepare the Scalloped Potatoes

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the potatoes cook evenly and thoroughly.
Butter the Baking Dish: Take a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it generously with butter to prevent sticking.
Create the Cream Mixture: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant. Then, pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, along with the salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.
Melt the Cheeses: Lower the heat and gradually stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until fully melted and smooth. This heavenly mixture sets the stage for your scalloped potatoes.
Layer the Potatoes: Arrange half of the thinly sliced potatoes in the buttered baking dish, overlapping them slightly. Pour half of the creamy cheese sauce over the potatoes, ensuring even coverage. Repeat this process with the remaining potatoes and final layer of cheese sauce.
Bake: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Final Touch: After baking, remove the foil, sprinkle some extra cheese on top, and return it to the oven for an additional 10 minutes. You want a lovely golden crust that signifies cheesy perfection. Finish by garnishing with fresh parsley.

Cook the Ribeye Steaks

Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s just beginning to shimmer.
Season the Steaks: Generously season both sides of the ribeye steaks with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. The seasoning will form a flavorful crust as they cook.
Sear the Steaks: Once the skillet is hot, add the steaks. Sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Adjust timing depending on your desired doneness.
Baste for Extra Flavor: In the last minute of cooking, add the butter and fresh rosemary sprigs to the skillet. Tilt the skillet and use a spoon to baste the melted butter over the steaks, enhancing their flavor and juiciness.
Rest and Serve: Once cooked to your preference, remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy.
Plate Your Dish: Slice the steaks and serve alongside a generous helping of cheesy scalloped potatoes. Sit back, relax, and enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

Choose the Right Cut: Look for ribeye steaks that have good marbling; the intramuscular fat enhances flavor and tenderness.
Don’t Skip Resting: Allowing the steaks to rest post-cooking is crucial. It makes for a more succulent bite every time.
Using a Mandoline: To achieve uniform potato slices, consider using a mandoline slicer. This tool helps to ensure even cooking.
Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar and Parmesan create a classic flavor, feel free to experiment with other cheese varieties like Gruyere or Fontina for different tastes.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Ribeye Steak with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes makes an excellent centerpiece for any meal. Pair it with a simple green salad dressed in light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. For beverages, choose a robust red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, which complements the steak beautifully.

This meal is perfect for special occasions such as anniversaries, family gatherings, or a delightful weekend dinner. It evokes the warmth of home-cooked flavors while still feeling indulgent.

Nutritional Information

The Ribeye Steak with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is rich and filling, perfect for a comforting meal. A rough estimate per serving (1 steak with a generous portion of potatoes) includes:

Calories: 850
Protein: 50g
Fat: 56g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 4g

While it’s good to enjoy dishes rich in flavor and indulgence, balance them with physical activity and healthier options on other days.

Storing Tips & Variations

Storing: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the potatoes to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing: You can freeze the freshly made scalloped potatoes (without baking) in a freezer-safe dish. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
Reheating: To reheat, place in an oven set at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes until heated through.
Variations: Feel free to add cooked vegetables like spinach or broccoli to the potato layers to sneak in some greens or substitute the ribeye for a leaner cut like sirloin.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to create this delightful Ribeye Steak with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, it’s time to unleash your inner chef! The combination of juicy steak paired with creamy, cheesy potatoes makes for an unforgettable dining experience. Don’t hesitate to share your experience or any variations you try out—cooking is all about exploring and discovering new flavors!

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of steak?
Yes! While ribeye offers rich flavor and tenderness, you can substitute with sirloin or filet mignon for a leaner option.

2. Can I prepare the scalloped potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the potatoes a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just add the baking time if they’re cold.

3. What’s the best way to know my steak is done?
An instant-read thermometer is best. Aim for 130°F for medium-rare or adjust the temperature based on your preferred doneness.

4. Can I make it low-carb?
Certainly! Substitute the potatoes with cauliflower for a low-carb version while keeping the creamy cheese sauce the same.

5. What to do if my potatoes are still hard after baking?
If they are not tender after the suggested baking time, cover them and keep baking, checking every 10 minutes until they reach the desired doneness.