“A great steak should be like a good friend—always reliable, tender, and just the right amount of flavor.” – Anonymous
There’s something about a perfectly cooked New York strip steak that elevates any meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual dinner or a special occasion, this tender cut of beef with its juicy marbling and robust flavor is a showstopper. But, how do you ensure you get it right every time? It’s easier than you think. In this blog, I’m going to walk you through the best way to cook New York strip steak, so you can enjoy a juicy, flavorful steak just like they serve at the finest steakhouses.
Why New York Strip Steak?
Before diving into the how-to, let’s talk about why New York strip steak is such a popular choice. This cut comes from the short loin of the cow, located near the rib area. It’s known for its tenderness and intense beefy flavor, with just the right balance of fat to keep the meat juicy and flavorful. Whether you call it New York steak, strip steak, or Kansas City strip, it’s a premium cut that’s perfect for a variety of cooking methods.
Simple New York Strip Steak Recipe
If you’ve ever wondered how to cook a New York strip steak at home and get that restaurant-quality result, keep reading.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Cooking New York strip steak is simple, but the quality of your ingredients will make a huge difference. Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:
- New York Strip Steaks: Aim for steaks about 1-inch thick. If possible, buy USDA Prime or USDA Choice for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Kosher Salt & Black Pepper: These are the only seasonings you need to bring out the natural flavors of the beef. You can add extra spices like garlic powder or smoked paprika if you prefer, but for the best results, keep it simple.
- Butter: For finishing the steak. This gives it a rich, savory flavor that’s hard to beat.
- Olive Oil: To help sear the steak and lock in those delicious juices.
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Best Way to Cook New York Strip Steak
Now that we’ve got the basics covered, let’s talk about the best way to cook New York strip steak. The key to achieving the perfect steak is a two-stage process: searing in a hot pan and finishing in the oven.
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 500°F (260°C). This high heat is essential for getting a crispy, flavorful crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. While the oven is heating up, season your steaks generously with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. This is where you want to build a solid flavor base for the steak, so don’t skimp on the seasoning.
Step 2: Sear the Steak on the Stove
Next, heat a well-seasoned cast iron skillet over high heat. The goal is to get the skillet smoking hot, so it creates a beautiful crust when you place the steak in it. This step is crucial because the searing process locks in the steak’s juices, keeping it tender and flavorful.
Once your skillet is ready, add a little bit of olive oil. Place the steaks in the skillet and cook for about 2 minutes on each side without moving them around. You want to develop a nice, golden-brown crust on the surface of the steak. After both sides have been seared, don’t forget to cook the fat strip for 30 seconds to render the fat and add extra flavor.
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Step 3: Finish in the Oven
Now comes the magic: transfer your skillet to the preheated oven. Roast the steak for 3-4 minutes for a medium-rare finish, or 4-5 minutes for medium. Keep in mind that the thickness of the steak will affect cooking time, so adjust accordingly.
The steak will continue to cook a little bit after you remove it from the oven due to residual heat, so let it rest for about 5 minutes. During this time, you can top it with a pat of butter to give it that rich, buttery finish that steakhouse chefs swear by.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
Once your steak has rested, slice it against the grain to ensure tenderness. This simple technique breaks up the muscle fibers and makes the steak easier to chew. Serve it with a simple side salad, some mashed cauliflower, or roasted carrots for a complete, healthy meal.
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Tips for the Perfect New York Strip Steak
Bring Steaks to Room Temperature:
For even cooking, let your steaks sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before you start cooking. This helps prevent the steak from cooking unevenly.
Use a Meat Thermometer:
If you want your steak cooked to perfection, invest in a meat thermometer. It will help you hit the ideal temperature for your desired doneness, whether you like your steak rare, medium-rare, or well-done.
Avoid Overcrowding the Pan:
If you’re cooking more than one steak, make sure they fit comfortably in the skillet. Overcrowding will trap moisture and prevent the steaks from getting that perfect sear.
Don’t Skip the Resting Step:
Letting your steak rest after cooking is crucial for locking in the juices. If you cut into it right away, all the flavor and moisture will escape.
Use Cast Iron:
A cast iron skillet is the best tool for cooking New York strip steak. It retains heat extremely well and helps you achieve that beautifully seared crust. If you don’t have one, any heavy-duty oven-safe skillet will work, but cast iron is the gold standard.
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How to Cook New York Strip Steak on the Stove
If you don’t have an oven or prefer to skip the oven step, you can still get a great steak by cooking it entirely on the stove. Here’s how:
Preheat Your Skillet:
Heat your cast iron skillet on medium-high heat until it’s hot but not smoking.
Sear Both Sides:
Add oil to the pan and place your steaks in it. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until a nice crust forms.
Lower the Heat:
After searing, reduce the heat to medium and cook for another 3-5 minutes per side, depending on your preferred doneness.
Rest Before Serving:
Let your steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Strip Steak in the Oven
If you prefer a more hands-off approach, you can also cook your strip steak entirely in the oven. Here’s how:
Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place your steak on a rack in a roasting pan.
Cook the Steak:
Roast for 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steak and your preferred doneness. You can also use a broiler for a similar result.
Rest the Steak:
As always, allow your steak to rest before slicing.
Variations to Try
While New York strip steak is fantastic on its own with just a bit of salt and pepper, you can elevate it with a few variations:
- Garlic Herb Butter: For an extra layer of richness, top your steak with garlic herb butter. Combine softened butter with minced garlic, fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, and a pinch of salt.
- Smoked Paprika: If you like a smoky flavor, try adding a bit of smoked paprika to your seasoning. It pairs wonderfully with the natural beefy flavor of the strip steak.
- Chimichurri Sauce: If you’re craving something zesty, a chimichurri sauce made with fresh herbs, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil will complement your steak perfectly.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
While steak is best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be stored for 3-4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, use the oven method mentioned earlier, or slice the steak and add it to a salad or sandwich. If you’re freezing it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
Conclusion
With this easy-to-follow recipe for New York strip steak, you’ll be able to cook the best steak in no time. The key to achieving that perfect juicy, tender texture is in the two-stage cooking process—searing in a hot skillet and finishing in the oven. Whether you choose to cook your steak in the oven, on the stove, or a combination of both, this recipe guarantees delicious results every time.
So, next time you’re craving a high-quality, mouthwatering steak, give this New York strip steak recipe a try. Pair it with your favorite healthy sides, and you’ve got a meal that’s both satisfying and full of flavor.
Happy cooking, and enjoy your steak!
