In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta water.
While the pasta is cooking, season both sides of the ribeye steaks with salt and pepper.
Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the steaks and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, depending on thickness. Use a meat thermometer for precision (130°F for medium-rare). Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the butter and let it melt. Stir in the minced garlic, parsley, rosemary, thyme, smoked paprika, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden.
Add the cooked linguine to the skillet with the cowboy butter sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta, adding some reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired sauce consistency.
Thinly slice the rested ribeye steaks against the grain.
Plate the buttered linguine and arrange the sliced steak on top. Finish with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of extra cowboy butter from the skillet. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the dish.
Notes
Serve in wide, shallow bowls for an appealing presentation.