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Homemade Coffee-Rubbed Beef Steak photo

Coffee-Rubbed Beef Steak

This Coffee-Rubbed Beef Steak is a bold, smoky delight with a unique coffee-spice crust that locks in juicy, tender flavor. Perfect for an impressive steak night!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 2 servings

Equipment

  • Cast-Iron Skillet
  • Grill pan
  • Small Bowl
  • Tongs
  • Plate
  • Foil

Ingredients
  

  • 2 beef steaks (ribeye or sirloin, about 1 inch thick)
  • 2 tablespoons ground coffee (freshly ground for best flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (light or dark, depending on preference)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions
 

Prepare the Coffee Rub

  • Start by mixing the ground coffee, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This blend of spices and coffee will form the flavorful crust on your steak.

Coat the Steaks

  • Pat your steaks dry with paper towels to ensure the rub adheres well. Drizzle both sides with olive oil, then generously coat each steak with the coffee rub mixture. Press the rub into the meat with your fingers to help it stick evenly.

Marinate the Steaks

  • Allow the rubbed steaks to rest at room temperature for 20-30 minutes. This step lets the flavors penetrate the meat and helps the steaks cook more evenly.

Preheat Cooking Surface

  • Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. The pan should be hot enough to sear the steak and create a crust but not so hot that it burns the rub immediately.

Cook the Steaks

  • Place the steaks onto the hot skillet. For medium-rare, cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on thickness. Avoid moving the steak too much to develop a nice crust. Use tongs to flip the steaks gently.

Rest the Steaks

  • Remove the steaks from the pan and transfer them to a plate. Tent loosely with foil and let rest for 5-10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender steak.

Serve

  • Slice against the grain and serve your Coffee-Rubbed Beef Steak with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

Notes

  • Use freshly ground coffee beans to avoid bitterness in the rub.
  • Dry steaks thoroughly before applying the rub to ensure a good crust forms.
  • Let the steak rest after cooking to keep it juicy and tender.
  • Adjust cooking times based on steak thickness and desired doneness.
  • Try grilling the steak for a smoky flavor, but watch for flare-ups due to sugar in the rub.
Keyword Dairy-Free, Easy, Gluten-Free, Low-carb, Paleo, Quick