Looking for a delicious and easy way to cook a NY strip steak on the stove? Look no further! This article will guide you through the steps to create a mouthwatering steak that is juicy and packed full of flavor. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress.
NY strip steak, also known as New York strip or top loin steak, is a popular cut of beef that comes from the loin section of the cow. It is known for its tenderness and rich, beefy flavor. By cooking it on the stove, you can control the heat and cooking time for a perfectly cooked steak every time.
Before you begin cooking, it is important to select a good quality NY strip steak. Look for a steak that is bright red in color with a fine marbling of white fat throughout. This fat will melt during cooking and add flavor and juiciness to the steak. Additionally, choose a steak that is about 1 inch thick for best results.
Now that you have your steak, it’s time to get cooking! Follow the steps below to cook a NY strip steak on the stove:
Preparing the Steak
Before cooking your New York strip steak, you’ll need to bring it to room temperature. Take the steak out of the refrigerator and let it sit on the counter for about 30 minutes. This will help it cook more evenly.
While the steak is coming to room temperature, you can season it with your preferred spices. A simple combination of salt and pepper works well, or you can get creative with garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika. Rub the spices onto the steak, making sure to cover all sides.
Next, you’ll want to pat the steak dry with paper towels. This removes any excess moisture and helps ensure a nice sear. Blot the steak gently on all sides until it’s dry.
It’s also a good idea to preheat your skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. This will help you achieve a beautiful crust on the steak. Allow the pan to get hot before adding the steak.
Seasoning the Steak
Before cooking your NY strip steak on the stove, it’s important to season it properly to enhance its flavor. Here are some tips on how to season your steak:
1. Choosing the right seasoning
When it comes to seasoning a NY strip steak, less is often more. A simple combination of salt, black pepper, and garlic powder can bring out the natural flavors of the beef without overpowering it. However, feel free to experiment with other seasonings like paprika, cayenne pepper, or herbs for added taste.
2. Applying the seasoning
Before adding the seasoning, make sure the steak is dry by patting it with a paper towel. This will allow the seasoning to adhere better to the meat. Sprinkle the seasoning on both sides of the steak, using your hands to press it firmly into the surface. Make sure to cover the entire steak evenly with the seasoning.
If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can season the steak ahead of time and let it rest in the refrigerator for a couple of hours or overnight. This will allow the seasoning to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful steak.
Be mindful that salt can draw out moisture from the steak, so if you’re planning to season it ahead of time, it’s best to do it just before cooking to retain the juiciness of the meat.
3. Letting the seasoned steak rest
After seasoning the steak, let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the meat to come to room temperature, ensuring more even cooking.
Remember to cover the steak with plastic wrap or place it in a sealed container to prevent any contamination and keep it safe from bacteria.
Now that your NY strip steak is properly seasoned, it’s time to move on to the next step: cooking it on the stove.
Preheating the Stove
Before you start cooking your NY strip steak on the stove, it’s important to preheat the stove properly. This ensures that the steak cooks evenly and gets that perfect sear.
Step 1: Clean the Stove
Make sure your stove is clean and free of any debris. This will prevent any unwanted flavors from getting into your steak.
Step 2: Turn on the Stove
Turn on the stove to a medium-high heat setting. This will usually be around 400-450 degrees Fahrenheit or 200-230 degrees Celsius.
Step 3: Preheat a Cast Iron Skillet
Place a cast iron skillet on the stove and let it preheat for about 5 minutes. Cast iron is a great choice for cooking NY strip steak as it retains heat well and creates a nice sear.
Step 4: Test the Heat
To test if the stove is preheated, sprinkle a few droplets of water onto the skillet. If the water sizzles and evaporates almost immediately, the stove is ready for cooking.
Once the stove is preheated, you’re ready to move on to the next step of cooking your NY strip steak on the stove.
Cooking the Steak
Once the steak is seasoned and brought to room temperature, it’s time to cook it on the stove. Follow these steps to ensure a juicy and perfectly cooked NY strip steak:
1. Preheat the Pan
Place a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Allow it to heat up for a few minutes until it gets hot.
2. Add Oil
Add a small amount of oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or vegetable oil, to the pan. Tilt the pan to ensure the entire surface is coated with a thin layer of oil.
3. Sear the Steak
Gently place the steak in the hot pan. Let it sear undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes on one side. This will create a flavorful brown crust.
4. Flip and Cook
Using tongs, carefully flip the steak to the other side. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes for medium-rare doneness, or adjust the cooking time according to your desired level of doneness.
5. Check the Temperature
For a more accurate measure of doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, the ideal temperature is around 135°F (57°C).
6. Rest the Steak
Once cooked to your liking, remove the steak from the pan and let it rest on a cutting board or plate for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a tender and juicy steak.
Now that the NY strip steak is cooked to perfection, it’s ready to be served and enjoyed. Whether you prefer it just as it is or with a side of your favorite sauce or accompaniments, this stove-cooked steak is sure to impress.
Checking the Doneness
Checking the doneness of your NY strip steak is important to ensure that it is cooked to your preferred level of doneness. Here are a few methods you can use to check the doneness:
1. Visual Inspection
One way to check the doneness is by visually inspecting the steak. A rare steak will have a deep red center, while a medium-rare steak will have a slightly pink center. A medium steak will have a pink center, and a medium-well to well-done steak will have a grayish center.
2. Meat Thermometer
Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to check the doneness of your steak. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak without touching the bone, and check the temperature. The following are the recommended internal temperatures for steak:
- Rare: 125°F (51°C)
- Medium Rare: 135°F (57°C)
- Medium: 145°F (63°C)
- Medium Well: 150°F (66°C)
- Well Done: 160°F (71°C)
Keep in mind that the steak will continue to cook after it is removed from the heat, so you may want to take it out a few degrees below your desired temperature.
Pro tip: Let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute and the steak to reach its final temperature.
Resting and Serving
Once the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove it from the heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak.
After resting, transfer the steak to a cutting board and slice it against the grain to ensure a tender bite. Cutting against the grain helps to break up the muscle fibers, making each bite more tender.
Serve the ny strip steak immediately while it is still hot. You can enjoy it as is, or pair it with your favorite steak sauce or compound butter for added flavor. Serve with a side of vegetables and a starch of your choice for a complete meal.
- Rest the steak for 5 minutes after cooking.
- Slice the steak against the grain.
- Serve immediately while hot.
- Pair with sauce or compound butter for extra flavor.
- Serve with vegetables and a starch of your choice.
Q&A
What is a NY strip steak?
A NY strip steak, also known as a New York strip steak or a Kansas City strip steak, is a cut of beef that comes from the short loin. It is known for its tenderness and rich flavor.
What is the best way to cook a NY strip steak on the stove?
The best way to cook a NY strip steak on the stove is to start by seasoning the steak with salt and pepper. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Place the steak in the hot skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side for medium rare. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before serving.
Can I use a different type of steak for this cooking method?
Yes, you can use a different type of steak for this cooking method. The stovetop method works well for other cuts of beef, such as ribeye or filet mignon. Just adjust the cooking time according to the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness.
Can I marinate the NY strip steak before cooking it?
Yes, you can marinate the NY strip steak before cooking it. Marinating the steak can add flavor and help tenderize the meat. You can use a simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, and herbs, or try other marinade recipes according to your taste preferences.