
What is Cowboy Cut Steak?
Cowboy cut steak is a large, bone-in ribeye steak that is typically between 18-20 ounces in size. It gets its name from the idea that cowboys would cook a big, hearty steak over an open flame after a long day of work.
The cowboy cut steak is cut from the rib primal, specifically the section of the rib primal that is closest to the loin. It is also sometimes referred to as a bone-in ribeye or a tomahawk steak, due to its distinctive shape and the long bone that extends from the meat.
The cowboy cut steak is known for its rich flavor and tenderness, thanks to its high fat content and the fact that it is dry-aged. The bone helps to distribute heat evenly during cooking, resulting in a juicy and flavorful steak with a crispy exterior.
This cut of meat is often associated with fine dining and is typically served as a large, shared entrée, often with sides like mashed potatoes or creamed spinach. It can also be seasoned simply with just salt and pepper, or with a variety of other spices and marinades, depending on personal taste.
Delicious Cowboy Cut Steak Recipe
Ingredients for Cowboy Steak:
- 1 (20 oz.) Ribeye Steak
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon Steak Rub
How to Prepare Cowboy Cut Steak:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- Season the cowboy cut steak generously with salt and pepper and steak rub. Let sit for 30 minutes.
- Heat the olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over high heat until hot.
- Add the steak to the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until a crust forms.
- Add the garlic and thyme to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 10-12 minutes for medium-rare, or until the desired internal temperature is reached.
- Remove the skillet from the oven and add the butter to the skillet. Use a spoon to baste the steak with the melted butter.
- Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Note: Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and personal preference. It’s recommended to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature to ensure that the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
How to Make A Delicious Homemade Steak Rub
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon kosher salt
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
In a small bowl, mix together all of the ingredients until well combined.
Rub the seasoning mixture all over the steak, making sure to coat both sides evenly.
Let the steak rest for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Great Recipe for your Backyard BBQ - Cowboy Cut Steak
- 1 20 oz. Ribeye Steak
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons Butter
- 1 tablespoon Steak Rub
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Preheat your oven to 400°F.
-
Season the cowboy cut steak generously with salt and pepper and steak rub. Let sit for 30 minutes.
-
Heat the olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over high heat until hot.
-
Add the steak to the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until a crust forms.
-
Add the garlic and thyme to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
-
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 10-12 minutes for medium-rare, or until the desired internal temperature is reached.
-
Remove the skillet from the oven and add the butter to the skillet. Use a spoon to baste the steak with the melted butter.
-
Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Note: Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and personal preference. It's recommended to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature to ensure that the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Let Cowboy steak rest for 30 minutes before cooking.
What to Serve with Cowboy Steak
Cowboy steak is a large and flavorful cut of meat that can be paired with a variety of sides to create a delicious and satisfying meal. Here are a few ideas for what to serve with cowboy steak:
Roasted Vegetables – Cowboy steak pairs well with roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots. Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and provides a great contrast to the rich flavor of the steak.
Baked Potatoes – Baked potatoes are a classic steakhouse side dish and make a great accompaniment to cowboy steak. Top them with butter, sour cream, chives, or any other toppings of your choice.
Grilled Corn on the Cob – Grilled corn on the cob is a tasty and simple side dish that complements the flavor of the cowboy steak. Brush the corn with butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper before grilling. Healthy Mexican Street Corn
Creamed Spinach – Creamed spinach is a rich and savory side dish that pairs well with cowboy steak. It’s also a great way to incorporate some greens into your meal. Easy Creamed Spinach Keto Style Recipe
Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Garlic mashed potatoes are a flavorful and creamy side dish that is perfect for soaking up the juices from the cowboy steak. You can add roasted garlic, cheese, or any other seasonings you like to make them your own. Garlic Redskin Mashed Potatoes
A Glass of Red Wine – Red wine is the classic pairing for steak and cowboy steak is no exception. Choose a full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot to complement the rich flavor of the meat.
You will Also Love Some of Our Other Steak Recipes:
Club Steak
Beef Bavette
Porterhouse Steak Recipe
Steak Butter Recipe
Beef Cuts