There’s nothing like the sizzle of a perfectly cooked steak, and Texas Roadhouse nails it every time. I’ve always been a fan of their juicy, tender cuts and that irresistible seasoning that makes each bite unforgettable.
Recreating that experience at home seemed like a fun challenge, so I dove into crafting my own copycat recipe. With just a few simple ingredients and some easy techniques, you can bring the Texas Roadhouse magic right to your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 ribeye steaks, 1-inch thick, preferably grass-fed and well-marbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for searing
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, smashed
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
Tools And Equipment
To master the Texas Roadhouse Steak Copycat Recipe, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what I use in my kitchen:
Cast Iron Skillet
- Perfect for achieving a deep, even sear on the steaks.
Tongs
- Essential for flipping steaks without piercing them, keeping juices intact.
Meat Thermometer
- Ensures your steak reaches the perfect level of doneness.
Cutting Board
- Provides a sturdy surface for seasoning and resting the steaks.
Chef’s Knife
- Ideal for slicing and trimming the meat with precision.
Mixing Bowls
- Useful for combining and marinating the steak seasoning.
Aluminum Foil
- Helps the steaks rest after cooking, locking in flavors and juices.
Basting Spoon
- Allows you to apply melted butter and herbs evenly over the steak.
- Offers an alternative cooking method for those who prefer grilling over stovetop cooking.
Having these tools on hand will streamline your cooking process and help you achieve that restaurant-quality steak at home.
Directions
Follow these steps to recreate the mouthwatering Texas Roadhouse steak right in your kitchen. Each step is designed to bring out the rich, juicy flavors you love.
Prep The Steak
- Bring to Room Temperature
- Remove the ribeye steaks from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. This ensures even cooking.
- Dry the Steaks
- Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is key to achieving a perfect sear.
- Prepare the Seasoning
- In a mixing bowl, combine:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- A pinch of cayenne pepper
- Mix thoroughly to create a uniform seasoning blend.
- Season the Steaks
- Rub the seasoning mixture generously over both sides of each steak. Ensure the spices adhere well by pressing them into the meat.
- Let the Flavors Meld
- Allow the seasoned steaks to sit for 10 minutes. This helps the flavors penetrate the meat deeply.
Cook The Steak
- Heat the Skillet
- Place a cast iron skillet on the stove over medium-high heat. Let it preheat for about 5 minutes until it’s smoking hot.
- Add Olive Oil
- Pour 1 tablespoon of olive oil into the skillet. Swirl to coat the bottom evenly.
- Sear the Steaks
- Carefully place the steaks in the hot skillet. Sear without moving for 4 minutes to develop a beautiful crust.
- Flip and Sear
- Using tongs, flip the steaks and sear the other side for 3 minutes.
- Add Butter and Aromatics
- Reduce the heat to medium. Add:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 crushed garlic cloves
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary
- 1 sprig fresh thyme
- Allow the butter to melt and the aromatics to infuse.
- Baste the Steaks
- Tilt the skillet slightly and use a basting spoon to continuously spoon the melted butter and herbs over the steaks. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare.
Rest The Steak
- Transfer to Cutting Board
- Remove the steaks from the skillet and place them on a cutting board.
- Tent with Foil
- Loosely cover the steaks with aluminum foil. This traps the heat and allows the juices to redistribute.
- Let Rest
- Let the steaks rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This ensures maximum juiciness and flavor in every bite.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing your Texas Roadhouse Steak Copycat Recipe in advance can save you time and enhance the flavors even more. Here’s how I like to make ahead steps to ensure your steaks are perfectly seasoned and ready to cook when you are.
Prepare the Seasoning Blend Ahead of Time
Creating the seasoning mix ahead ensures that all the flavors are well combined. Here’s how I do it:
- Combine Ingredients
In a small mixing bowl, combine the following:
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Store the Seasoning
Transfer the seasoning blend to an airtight container. This mix can be stored in your pantry for up to 3 months, making it easy to use whenever you’re ready to cook.
Season the Steaks in Advance
Seasoning your steaks ahead of time allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply. Follow these steps:
- Rub the Steaks
Take your ribeye steaks and generously rub both sides with the prepared seasoning blend.
- Marinate Refrigerated
Place the seasoned steaks on a plate or tray and cover them with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours. The longer marinating time enhances the depth of flavor.
| Marinating Time | Flavor Intensity |
|---|---|
| 1 hour | Mild |
| 4-6 hours | Medium |
| 12-24 hours | Robust |
- Bring to Room Temperature Before Cooking
When you’re ready to cook, remove the steaks from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This ensures even cooking and a juicy result.
Prepare Aromatics and Butter Mixture
Having your aromatics and butter ready makes the cooking process smoother:
- Prepare the Garlic and Herbs
- Mince 3 cloves of garlic.
- Chop fresh rosemary and thyme to your preference.
- Mix with Butter
In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped herbs, and 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Store this mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to 3 days.
Organize Your Cooking Tools
Ensuring all your tools are ready beforehand can streamline the cooking process:
- Cast Iron Skillet
Preheat your skillet before starting to sear the steaks.
- Meat Thermometer
Have your thermometer handy to check the doneness without overcooking.
- Aluminum Foil
Use it to tent the steaks while they rest, locking in the juices.
By following these make-ahead steps, you’ll set yourself up for a stress-free cooking experience and enjoy a restaurant-quality steak at home, just like Texas Roadhouse.
Serving Suggestions
Elevating your Texas Roadhouse Steak Copycat experience starts with thoughtful serving suggestions. Here’s how I like to present this mouthwatering steak to create a complete and satisfying meal:
Classic Sides
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Smooth and buttery mashed potatoes complement the rich flavors of the steak. I prepare them with roasted garlic and a splash of heavy cream for extra decadence.
- Seasoned Roasted Vegetables
A medley of carrots, Brussels sprouts, and bell peppers roasted with olive oil, salt, and pepper adds a vibrant and healthy balance to the plate.
- Buttered Green Beans
Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with garlic and a touch of lemon zest provide a fresh and zesty contrast to the savory steak.
Savory Additions
- Garlic Herb Butter
A pat of homemade garlic herb butter melts beautifully over the hot steak, infusing it with rich, aromatic flavors.
- Creamed Spinach
Silky creamed spinach offers a luxurious texture and earthy taste that pairs perfectly with the hearty steak.
Refreshing Beverages
- Full-Bodied Red Wine
A glass of Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot enhances the steak’s robust flavors, creating a harmonious pairing.
- Cold Craft Beer
Opt for a hearty lager or a rich stout to complement the savory notes of the steak.
- Sparkling Water with Lemon
For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a squeeze of fresh lemon keeps the palate refreshed.
Perfect Presentation
- Slice Against the Grain
Cutting the steak against the grain ensures each bite is tender and easy to enjoy.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs
A sprinkle of chopped parsley or rosemary not only adds a pop of color but also a hint of freshness to the dish.
- Plate Arrangement
Arrange the steak alongside your chosen sides in an appealing layout. Place the mashed potatoes in a mound, vegetables neatly arranged, and position the steak as the centerpiece.
By thoughtfully selecting sides, beverages, and presentation techniques, you can transform your Texas Roadhouse Steak Copycat into a restaurant-quality meal that delights all the senses.
Tips And Tricks
Mastering the Texas Roadhouse Steak Copycat Recipe is all about attention to detail and using the right techniques. Here are my top tips to ensure your steak turns out perfect every time:
Choose the Right Cut
Selecting the right cut is crucial for a juicy and flavorful steak. I recommend using ribeye for its marbling and tenderness. If you prefer leaner options, sirloin or New York strip are excellent choices.
Let Steaks Reach Room Temperature
Before cooking, allow your steaks to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect medium-rare center.
Pat Steaks Dry
Moisture is the enemy of a good sear. Use paper towels to thoroughly dry both sides of the steaks. This step enhances browning and prevents steaming.
Preheat Your Cast Iron Skillet
A hot skillet is essential for a great sear. Heat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for at least five minutes until it’s smoking hot. This creates a delicious crust on your steak.
Use a Meat Thermometer
To achieve the desired doneness, a meat thermometer is your best friend. Here are the internal temperatures to aim for:
| Doneness | Temperature (°F) |
|---|---|
| Rare | 125 |
| Medium Rare | 135 |
| Medium | 145 |
| Medium Well | 155 |
| Well Done | 165 |
Baste with Butter and Herbs
For extra flavor, add unsalted butter, garlic, rosemary, and thyme to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking. Tilt the pan and spoon the melted butter over the steaks continuously.
Let Steaks Rest
After cooking, let your steaks rest on a cutting board covered with aluminum foil for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender bite.
Slice Against the Grain
When it’s time to slice, always cut against the grain. This shortens the muscle fibers and makes the steak easier to chew, enhancing the eating experience.
Prepare Seasoning in Advance
Create your seasoning blend ahead of time and store it in an airtight container. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a more robust seasoning.
Organize Your Tools
Having all your tools ready before you start cooking streamlines the process. Keep your cast iron skillet, meat thermometer, tongs, and basting spoon within easy reach to maintain efficiency in the kitchen.
Avoid Overcrowding the Pan
Cook one or two steaks at a time to avoid crowding the skillet. Overcrowding lowers the pan temperature, preventing proper searing and leading to uneven cooking.
Adjust Seasoning to Taste
Feel free to tweak the seasoning blend according to your preferences. A pinch more cayenne for heat or extra garlic powder for depth can customize the flavor to your liking.
By following these tips and tricks, you’ll elevate your Texas Roadhouse Steak Copycat Recipe to restaurant-quality levels, impressing family and friends with every bite.
Conclusion
Bringing Texas Roadhouse flavors into my kitchen has been a rewarding experience. Seeing the steaks turn out juicy and perfectly seasoned reminds me that great meals don’t have to be exclusive to restaurants.
Cooking this copycat recipe lets me enjoy a delicious restaurant-quality steak any time I want. It’s amazing how simple ingredients and a bit of effort can make such a difference. I hope you give this recipe a try and savor every bite just like I do. Happy cooking!
