New York Strip Recipe: How to Cook the Perfect Steak

If you’re a steak lover, you know that the New York strip is one of the most popular cuts of beef. This steak is known for its tenderness, juicy flavor, and beautiful marbling. It’s no wonder that so many people are searching for the perfect New York strip recipe.

Cooking the perfect New York strip steak can be a challenge, but with the right technique, you can achieve a delicious result every time. There are many ways to cook a New York strip, from grilling to pan-searing, and each method has its own unique benefits. Whether you’re a fan of classic steakhouse flavor or you prefer to experiment with different seasonings and sauces, there’s a New York strip recipe out there that’s perfect for you.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the best New York strip recipes available, from classic preparations to innovative twists on this beloved cut of beef. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself to a delicious steak dinner, you’re sure to find a recipe that will satisfy your cravings. So fire up your grill or heat up your skillet, and get ready to enjoy one of the most delicious cuts of beef around.

Essential Ingredients

When it comes to preparing a delicious New York strip steak, there are a few essential ingredients you’ll need to have on hand. These include the right cut of beef, as well as the right seasonings to bring out the natural flavor of the meat.

Beef Selection

The first step in preparing a great New York strip steak is selecting the right cut of beef. Look for a well-marbled steak with a bright red color and a firm texture. The New York strip is a popular cut of beef that comes from the short loin of the cow. It is known for its tenderness and rich flavor, making it an excellent choice for grilling or pan-searing.

When selecting your steak, it’s important to choose a cut that is at least one inch thick. This will give you enough meat to work with and allow you to achieve a nice crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender.

Seasonings

The key to a flavorful New York strip steak is using the right seasonings. While some people prefer to keep it simple with just salt and pepper, others like to get creative with their seasonings.

A classic seasoning blend for a New York strip steak includes salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat, or some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for added flavor.

When seasoning your steak, be sure to rub the seasonings into the meat well, covering all sides evenly. This will ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed and that every bite is packed with delicious flavor.

Preparation Techniques

Trimming Fat

Before cooking a New York Strip Steak, it’s important to trim any excess fat. This will not only improve the taste of the steak, but also make it healthier. You can use a sharp knife to trim the fat. Make sure to remove any large pieces of fat that won’t render down during cooking.

Tenderizing

Tenderizing the steak is an important step to ensure that it’s juicy and tender. There are a few ways to tenderize a New York Strip Steak:

  • Salt: Sprinkle salt on both sides of the steak and let it sit for at least 40 minutes before cooking. This will help break down the muscle fibers and make the steak more tender.
  • Marinade: You can also marinate the steak in a mixture of oil, acid, and seasonings. This will not only tenderize the steak but also infuse it with flavor.
  • Meat Tenderizer: You can use a meat tenderizer to physically break down the muscle fibers. Simply pound the steak with the tenderizer until it’s evenly flattened.

By following these preparation techniques, you can ensure that your New York Strip Steak is juicy, tender, and flavorful.

Cooking Methods

Pan-Searing

Pan-searing is a quick and easy way to cook a New York strip steak. To pan-sear a steak, heat up a skillet over high heat. Add some oil and heat it until it starts smoking. Then, add the steak to the skillet and cook it for about 1 minute on each side without disturbing it. This will give the steak a nice sear. After searing, reduce the heat and cook the steak to your desired temperature. For a medium-rare steak, cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side.

Grilling

Grilling is a great way to cook a New York strip steak, especially during the summer months. To grill a steak, preheat your grill to high heat. Season the steak with salt and pepper and place it on the grill grates at a diagonal. For a medium-rare steak, cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, then rotate it 45 degrees and grill for another 2-3 minutes. Finish grilling the steak to your preferred doneness.

Oven Finishing

Oven finishing is a great way to cook a New York strip steak if you want to ensure that it is cooked evenly. To oven finish a steak, preheat your oven to 400°F. Season the steak with salt and pepper and let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Heat up a cast iron grill pan or skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat for about 3 minutes. Sear the steak for about 2-3 minutes on each side, then transfer it to the preheated oven and cook it for about 5-7 minutes until it reaches your desired temperature.

Using these cooking methods, you can enjoy a perfectly cooked New York strip steak every time.

Temperature and Doneness

Meat Thermometer Use

Cooking a perfect New York strip steak requires precise temperature control. The best way to achieve this is by using a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, making sure not to touch the bone. The temperature you are looking for depends on your preferred level of doneness. Here are the temperatures you should aim for:

  • Rare: 120-130°F
  • Medium rare: 130-135°F
  • Medium: 135-145°F
  • Medium well: 145-155°F
  • Well done: 155°F and above

It is important to note that the temperature will continue to rise a few degrees after you take the steak off the heat. Therefore, it is recommended to remove the steak from the heat 5°F lower than your target temperature.

Resting the Meat

After removing the steak from the heat, it is important to let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful steak. The general rule of thumb is to let the steak rest for about 5 minutes for every inch of thickness.

During this resting period, it is recommended to tent the steak loosely with foil to keep it warm. This will also prevent the steak from drying out.

By using a meat thermometer and allowing the steak to rest, you can achieve a perfectly cooked New York strip steak with the desired level of doneness.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes

When it comes to serving New York strip steak, there are many side dishes that can complement its rich flavor. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

  • Roasted Vegetables: Roasting vegetables like carrots, asparagus, and bell peppers can be a great way to add some color and nutrition to your plate. Simply toss your veggies in olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast in the oven until tender.
  • Garlic Mashed Potatoes: A classic side dish that pairs perfectly with steak, garlic mashed potatoes are easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Boil your potatoes until tender, then mash them with butter, milk, and plenty of minced garlic.
  • Grilled Corn: Grilled corn on the cob is a delicious and easy side dish that can be cooked alongside your steak. Simply brush your corn with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and grill until charred and tender.

Wine Pairings

Pairing the right wine with your New York strip steak can enhance its flavor and make for a more enjoyable dining experience. Here are a few wines to consider:

  • Cabernet Sauvignon: A bold, full-bodied wine with flavors of black currant and dark chocolate, Cabernet Sauvignon is a classic pairing with steak.
  • Merlot: A softer, more approachable wine than Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot has flavors of plum and cherry that can complement the rich flavor of New York strip.
  • Malbec: A medium-bodied wine with flavors of blackberry and spice, Malbec can be a great choice for those who prefer a slightly fruitier wine.

Remember, the key to a successful wine pairing is to choose a wine that complements the flavors of your steak without overwhelming them.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best method to tenderize a New York strip steak?

The best way to tenderize a New York strip steak is to use a meat mallet to pound the steak. Be gentle while pounding the steak, as you don’t want to completely flatten it. Another way to tenderize the steak is to marinate it for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

What are the optimal cooking times for a 1-inch New York strip steak?

For a 1-inch New York strip steak, the optimal cooking times are as follows:

  • Rare: 2-3 minutes per side
  • Medium rare: 3-4 minutes per side
  • Medium: 4-5 minutes per side
  • Well done: 6-7 minutes per side

Can you provide a recipe for cooking New York strip steak in the oven?

Sure! Here’s a recipe for cooking New York strip steak in the oven:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
  2. Season the steak with salt and pepper on both sides.
  3. Heat an oven-safe skillet over high heat.
  4. Once hot, add the steak and sear for 2-3 minutes per side.
  5. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 6-8 minutes, or until the steak reaches your desired level of doneness.
  6. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Is marinating necessary for a NY strip steak, and if so, for how long?

Marinating is not necessary for a New York strip steak, but it can add flavor and help tenderize the meat. If you choose to marinate your steak, do so for at least 30 minutes, but no more than 24 hours.

The recommended way to cook a New York strip steak on the stovetop is as follows:

  1. Heat a heavy skillet over high heat.
  2. Season the steak with salt and pepper on both sides.
  3. Once the skillet is hot, add the steak and sear for 2-3 minutes per side.
  4. Reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes per side, or until the steak reaches your desired level of doneness.
  5. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

How can I achieve a perfectly cooked New York strip steak on the grill?

To achieve a perfectly cooked New York strip steak on the grill, follow these steps:

  1. Preheat the grill to high heat.
  2. Season the steak with salt and pepper on both sides.
  3. Grill the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, then rotate 45 degrees and grill for an additional 2-3 minutes per side for medium rare.
  4. For medium, continue grilling for an additional 1-2 minutes per side.
  5. For well done, continue grilling for an additional 3-4 minutes per side.
  6. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.