If you’re craving a juicy, flavorful steak that’s easy to cook at home, the New York strip is a fantastic choice. Known for its tenderness and rich beefy flavor, this cut is a favorite among steak lovers. Whether you’re a kitchen newbie or a seasoned cook, mastering the art of cooking a New York strip steak will elevate your dinner game. Here’s a friendly, step-by-step guide to help you cook a perfect New York strip every time.
What You’ll Need
Before you start, gather these ingredients:
– New York strip steaks (1 to 1.5 inches thick is ideal)
– Olive oil or a high-heat cooking oil
– Salt (kosher or sea salt works best)
– Freshly ground black pepper
– Butter
– Fresh garlic cloves
– Fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary (optional but highly recommended)
Preparing Your Steak
- Bring to Room Temperature
Take your steak out of the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly and prevents the outside from overcooking while the inside warms up.
- Pat Dry and Season
Use paper towels to pat the steak dry. This step is crucial for getting a nice crust. Rub olive oil all over the steak, then generously season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Cooking Your New York Strip Steak
Step 1: Sear the Steak
Heat a cast iron skillet or heavy pan over high heat until it’s very hot and just starting to smoke. Add a little oil to the pan. Place the steak in the pan without moving it around. Let it sear for about 2-3 minutes on the first side until a golden-brown crust forms.
Step 2: Flip and Add Flavor
Flip the steak and add butter, crushed garlic cloves, and fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary to the pan. As the butter melts, tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to baste the steak with the melted butter and herb mixture. This adds incredible flavor and keeps the steak moist.
Step 3: Finish Cooking in the Oven (Optional)
For thicker cuts or to get your steak to the perfect doneness, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400-500°F (204-260°C). Roast the steak for:
– 2-3 minutes for rare
– 3-4 minutes for medium-rare
– 4-5 minutes for medium
– 5-7 minutes for medium-well
Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature: 120°F for rare, 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, and 150°F for medium-well.
Step 4: Rest Your Steak
Once cooked, remove the steak from the pan and let it rest on a plate tented loosely with foil for about 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making your steak juicy and tender.
Tips for Steak Success
– Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook one or two steaks at a time to maintain high heat and a good sear.
– Use a cast iron skillet: It retains heat well and helps create that perfect crust.
– Season generously: Salt enhances flavor and helps form the crust.
– Baste with butter and herbs: This simple step adds richness and aroma.
– Use a thermometer: It’s the best way to avoid overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
New York strip steak pairs wonderfully with classic sides like:
– Twice-baked potatoes
– Oven-roasted asparagus
– Italian salad
– Scalloped potatoes
A simple garlic butter sauce or herb butter on top of the steak can also take your meal to the next level.
Cooking a New York strip steak is easier than you think and incredibly rewarding. With a hot pan, good seasoning, and a little patience, you’ll have a steakhouse-worthy meal right at home.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked New York strip steak!
Perfect steak, every time.