Celebrity home cooks are captivating and completely transforming our social media feeds these days, as they boldly swap their usual red-carpet glamour for humble aprons tied around their waists, and they’re generously sharing cherished family recipes that not only thrill the senses but also inspire everyday enthusiasts to get into the kitchen. From the actress Florence Pugh’s delightfully creamy and tangy tzatziki dip that she whipped up with fresh ingredients and a personal twist, to the utterly viral pasta creations by the stylish Hadid sisters Gigi and Bella, who effortlessly blend Italian classics with modern flair these high-profile stars are undeniably bringing the art of cooking right into the spotlight of our daily scrolls, proving that whipping up a meal can be surprisingly straightforward and a total snap for anyone willing to try.
Courteney Cox, the beloved icon from iconic TV shows like Friends and spine-tingling films such as Scream, recently took to her Instagram account to share an enticing recipe for what she enthusiastically dubs the “best steak ever made,” a mouthwatering dish that cleverly draws its creative inspiration from the talented singer-songwriter Brandi Carlile, whose rustic yet refined style seems to echo in every step of the preparation.
This remarkable recipe masterfully pairs bold, assertive flavors like smoky marinades, herbaceous seasonings, and a perfect sear with an overall sense of relaxed ease that makes it accessible even for novice grill masters, requiring minimal fuss and maximum reward. I decided to prepare it myself in my own kitchen, following her guidance to the letter, and let me tell you, it turned out just as spectacular and satisfying as she promised it would be, effortlessly elevating a simple, everyday steak into an unforgettable, restaurant-worthy meal that left everyone at the table raving and reaching for seconds.
The Story Behind the Steak
Courteney Cox’s steak dish is preceded by a sweet undercurrent that only enhances its charm. She gives credit to her friend Brandi Carlile, singer, for the fresh spice rub that pushes the recipe over the edge. The two first met after Carlile heard Cox play her song “The Joke” on the piano and extended her an invitation, which they used as an opportunity to bond over art. This is the kind of friendship that inspired Cox to make Carlile’s music video and unveil this kitchen gem. The history of the recipe is also that of gift among friends, which makes it even sweeter.
- A Friendship Born Out of Music: The piano cover version of the song by Cox impressed Carlile, which is why a friendship based on common interests in music and food was forged.
- Creative Cooperation: Cox also directed on Carlile’s “Right on Time” video, showing how their relationship extends far beyond the stove.
- Submissive Acknowledgment: Cox admits Carlile’s meal is superior to hers, giving more credence through direct complimenting.
The Best Reverse-Sear Method for Thick Steaks
Equipment
- 1 Cast-iron skillet Heavy-bottomed and oven-safe
- 1 Baking Sheet Lined with aluminum foil
- 1 Wire Rack To fit the baking sheet, for even cooking
- 1 Instant-Read Thermometer Crucial for precise temperature control
- 1 Tongs For safe handling of hot steaks
Ingredients
Main
- 2 6 ounce/2-inches-thick rib-eye steaks, room temperature
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons ground black pepper
- 4 tablespoons canola oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic crushed
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 1 pinch sea salt flakes to taste
Instructions
- Position racks in the middle and lower third of the oven. Place a cast-iron skillet on the bottom rack. Preheat the oven to 225 degrees F (110 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top.
- Pat steaks dry with a paper towel; season generously on all sides with salt and black pepper. Place on the wire rack on the baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven on the middle rack until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center reads 120 degrees F (49 degrees C) for medium-rare. Begin checking the temperature at 40 minutes; continue baking and checking temperature every 10 minutes. Remove steaks from oven; set aside.
- Carefully remove hot cast-iron skillet from the oven using an oven mitt. Set it on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Add oil; heat until barely starts smoking. Carefully add steaks, releasing them away from you so oil doesn’t splatter in your direction. Cook until a golden crust forms, 2 minutes per side, flipping only once. Stand steaks on their sides to render any fat using tongs.
- Reduce heat to low; add butter, garlic, and rosemary to skillet. Baste steaks with butter mixture using a spoon, about 3 minutes. Transfer steaks to a cutting board; rest about 10 minutes.
- Serve steaks whole or sliced; sprinkle with sea salt flakes.
Notes
This story of friendship and cooperative imagination gives this recipe more than just food. It’s a celebration of togetherness, in which a common steak becomes more as a symbol of cooperation. Cox’s honesty regarding where she got her idea inspires us to try doing it with such passion.
A Brash but Simple Seasoning Method
The key to Cox’s steak lies in its assertive but well-guided seasoning. She starts with olive- or truffle-oil-brushed room-temperature New York or rib-eye steaks, coated lightly with coarse pepper and salt. The stroke of brilliance is a rub of brown sugar and ground coffee, an unusual combination that elevates the flavor to sublime heights. A mixture of sweet and bitter coaxes a harmony between the steak. It’s a gamble that’s amazingly easy to pull off.
- Coffee and Brown Sugar: Coffee enhances the richness of the meat, with brown sugar caramelizing to a crisp crust.
- Simple Usage: No accurate measurements are required just coat the steak generously, making it simple for home cooks.
- Pressing the Rub: Pressing the seasonings onto the meat enables the seasonings to bind, trapping in flavor and texture during cooking.
This is an innovative way within one’s means, where chefs can play uninhibited without fear. The coffee never drowns but enhances the natural flavor of the steak, and the sugar creates a divine crust. It’s a quality dish but simple enough for anyone to try.
Cooking the Perfect Steak
Cox’s cooking method is straightforward, with restaurant-standard meals coming out of the domestic kitchen. She sears steaks outdoors in a dramatic outdoor kitchen, but a grill pan or cast-iron skillet can be substituted. It is a two-step process of hot sear to seal the juices and quick finishing in the oven. The two-step process results in a juicy interior and caramelized crust. It is easy but precise, perfect for all home cooks.
- Searing for Flavor: Pan-sear on water-sizzling heat, and sear both sides for 2–3 minutes for development of rich-tasting crust.
- Oven Finish: Cook at 425°F for 5 minutes for medium-rare to medium doneness, still tender.
- Resting Time: Let the steak sit for a bit after cooking so it keeps its juices in and for improved flavor.
Barbeque Spiced Grilled T-Bone Steak
Equipment
- 1 Outdoor Grill Essential for achieving authentic grilled flavor and char on the T-bone steaks.
- 1 Heavy-bottomed saucepan Ideal for simmering the Zinfandel reduction slowly and reducing it to a rich consistency.
- 1 Large Skillet or Deep Pot Required for frying the Yukon Gold potatoes evenly until golden and crispy.
- 1 Chef’s Knife & Cutting Board Crucial for precise dicing of vegetables and preparing ingredients efficiently.
- 1 Heat-Resistant Tongs For safely handling and turning steaks on the hot grill and tossing ingredients.
Ingredients
Main
- Four 14- to 16-ounce T-Bone steaks
- 2 ounces chili oil
- 6 ounces BBQ Spice recipe follows
- 1 pound Garlic Fried Yukon Gold Potatoes recipe follows
- 16 ounces Arugula Chanterelle Succotash recipe follows
- 6 ounces BBQ Zinfandel Reduction recipe follows
- 1- ounce dry mustard
- 1- ounce chili powder
- 1/2 ounce cayenne
- 2 ounces brown sugar
- 1- ounce orange zest
- 1- ounce paprika
- 1- ounce garlic powder
- 1- ounce onion powder
- 1/2 ounce salt
- 1/2 ounce black pepper
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 6 ounces butter
- 1 pound Yukon gold potatoes diced 1/2-inch thick
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Canola oil for frying
- 3 tablespoons grape seed oil
- 3 ounces chanterelle mushrooms
- 1- ounce garlic minced
- 1- ounce shallots minced
- 4 ounces sweet peas blanched
- 4 ounces sweet corn cut off cob
- 4 ounces baby lima beans blanched
- 1- ounce red bell pepper diced
- 1- ounce yellow bell pepper diced
- 1- ounce chives minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 ounce grapeseed oil
- 1 shallot minced
- 1 green apple chopped
- 2 stalks celery chopped
- 1 carrot chopped
- 4 bay leaves
- 1/2 tablespoon black peppercorns
- 2 bottles zinfandel wine
- 1- quart veal stock
- 3 ounces barbeque sauce
- 1- ounce butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Grill: Rub steak with chile oil and BBQ Spice on both sides. Grill steak to desired temperature. Place 4 ounces of garlic potatoes on 4 plates. Plate T-bone over potatoes and top with arugula succotash. Spoon sauce around steak and serve.
Notes
When I tried this approach, my kitchen was filled with the heavenly aroma of beef and coffee. The result was a perfectly grilled steak with a dark, crusted exterior and a tender interior. Cox’s technique has a power to prepare professional-quality food without using any sophisticated gadgets.
Complementary Sides for a Complete Meal
Cox accompanies her steak with sides that make the meal an experience. Her mashed cauliflower and grilled asparagus are refined but simple, balancing the robust flavors of the steak. Both show her ability to take refined recipes and simplify them.
Grilled Asparagus
Equipment
- 1 Outdoor Grill Or a heavy-duty grill pan for stovetop alternative
- 1 Tongs Heat-resistant for turning asparagus
- 1 Small Mixing Bowl For tossing asparagus with oil and seasoning
- 1 Cutting Board
- 1 Chef’s knife For trimming asparagus ends
Ingredients
Main
- 1 pound fresh asparagus spears trimmed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather the ingredients. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
- Preheat an outdoor grill for high heat and lightly oil the grate.
- Lightly coat the asparagus spears with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
- Cook asparagus on the preheated grill, turning often until lightly charred and fork-tender about 3 to 5 minutes. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
- Serve hot and enjoy! Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
Notes
All of the sides are simple to prepare and great for home cooks on a tight schedule. They bring variety and richness to the plate, showing Cox’s consideration.
- Mashed Cauliflower: Mix steamed cauliflower with butter, cream cheese, salt, and white pepper as a light, creamy side dish.
- Grilled Asparagus: Dust asparagus with olive oil and garlic salt in a foil pan for a quick, tasty addition.
- Practical Tips: Cox’s use of garlic salt illustrates that she enjoys easy shortcuts without losing flavor.
Steak Coffee Rub
Equipment
- 1 Mixing Bowl
- 1 Whisk
- 1 Measuring Spoons
- 1 Airtight Container (for storage of extra rub)
- 1 Grill or Cast Iron Skillet (for cooking steak)
Ingredients
Main
- 1 tablespoon espresso coffee powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
Instructions
- Whisk espresso powder, onion powder, paprika, brown sugar, black pepper, salt, and chili powder together in a bowl.
Notes
These sides complete the meal without weighing on the cook. The creaminess of cauliflower is a good foil to the richness of the steak, and the asparagus adds a splash of bright, savory flavor. Cox’s recipes demonstrate that great food is simple and delicious, perfect for any dinner table.
Cox’s Culinary Charm Beyond the Steak
Cox’s Instagram is a food paradise, the blending of her Southern roots and innovative imagination. Her “Alabama Roll,” that eccentric hand roll of turkey, Fritos, and avocado, is a childhood Birmingham reference. Other dishes, like garlic-spiced spaghetti or chicken and vegetables, show range. Her own relaxed, confident style makes cooking look easy. She is not aiming for perfection but for flavor and happiness.
- Alabama Roll: A tasty mix of turkey, baked mayonnaise, mustard, Fritos, cheese, and avocado, rolled in an intriguing treat.
- Simple Pasta: Cox’s baked pasta flavored with garlic and oil and spices is a testament to her capability to cook simple but great food.
- Reproducible Style: Her take on the philosophy of “I’m not a chef, I just make things that taste good” inspires home cooks.
Spinach Pesto Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Food Processor For blending the pesto ingredients.
- 1 Large Pot For cooking the spiral pasta.
- 1 Large Skillet For cooking the chicken.
- 1 Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board For chopping chicken and garlic.
- 1 Spatula or wooden spoon For stirring and tossing ingredients.
Ingredients
Main
- 2 cups packed spinach leaves stems removed
- 1/3 cup pistachios
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1 medium clove garlic coarsely chopped (about 1 teaspoon)
- 1 teaspoon juice from 1 lemon
- 1/3 cup grated pecorino romano cheese
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 1/4 pound chicken breast chopped into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cups cooked spiral pasta
Instructions
- Cook spiral pasta according to package directions; drain and reserve a small amount of the pasta water.
- In a food processor, combine the packed spinach leaves, pistachios, olive oil, coarsely chopped garlic, and lemon juice.
- Pulse until a coarse, vibrant pesto forms. Stir in the grated pecorino romano cheese and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Season the 1-inch chicken cubes generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Melt the tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken cubes to the hot skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the cooked spiral pasta and the prepared spinach pesto to the skillet with the chicken.
- Toss all ingredients together thoroughly until the chicken and pasta are evenly coated with the pesto. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
- Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with extra pecorino romano or a lemon wedge if desired.
Notes
Cox’s charm is that she is real, providing recipes that are intimate and accessible. Her videos, complete with exceedingly realistic seconds of spoon licking, make her lovable. She reminds us all to cook simply, using regular meals as options for celebration.
The Power of Celebrity Home Cooking
Celeb home cooks like Cox are transforming cooking inspiration on social media. Her steak video that received thousands of likes was answered by celebrities and fans like Jennifer Garner, who dubbed it “delicious.” Platforms like Instagram make recipes alive, with a sense of closeness that books can never achieve. Cox’s no-nonsense approach strikes a chord and puts her as a food influencer. It is a revolution of shared enthusiasm, not perfection.
- Social Media Impact: Instagram’s live feature enables celebrities like Cox to post recipes in real time, establishing the trust of followers.
- Celeb Stamp of Approval: Garner and Carlile’s approbation authenticates the recipe, enabling users to be part of a shared experience.
- Inspiring Access: Celebrities like Pugh and the Hadids trend sophisticated cooking, inspiring fans to try new recipes.
This movement socializes cooking, closing the gap between the stars and fans. Cox’s videos are like having a friend share a favorite recipe, which inspires the kitchen. Her steak recipe is a great example of how social media makes food a shared experience.
Why This Recipe Resonates
Cox’s steak recipe is memorable due to its brazen innovation and personal heritage. The coffee-brown sugar rub is innovative, but simple to make, so everyone can use it. When I served it to my coffee-disliking boyfriend, he liked the flavors, which shows its overall popularity. The recipe’s versatility provides cooks with the ability to alter it. It’s a recipe that sparks adventure and comfort in the kitchen.
- Creative Taste: The combination of sugar and coffee produces a rich, sweet taste that blends well with the steak.
- Favorite of All: Even people who do not consume coffee like the subtle, balanced taste, hence becoming a favorite among all.
- Friendship Story: The Cox-Carlile tale gives the food a deeper meaning with the connection of creativity, relationship, and food.
The perfection of the recipe lies in how it inspires confidence and experimentation. Cox’s down-to-earth, real-life style, coupled with the story of her friendship with Carlile, makes every bite extraordinary. It’s a reminder that food is all about happiness, moments shared, and the courage to try something different.
