The combination of perfectly seared New York strip steak, infused with rich garlic butter and fresh herbs, creates an unforgettable dining experience. The steak is cooked to a beautiful medium-rare, with a crispy, golden-brown crust and tender, juicy interior.
The simple yet flavorful ingredients allow the natural taste of the steak to shine through, making this dish a standout for both casual and special occasions. With minimal prep and cooking time, it’s a go-to recipe for anyone who loves a classic, mouthwatering steak dinner.
Full Recipe:
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2 New York Strip steaks (1 inch thick)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 tablespoon butter
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 sprigs fresh thyme
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1 sprig fresh rosemary
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Pat the steaks dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
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Heat a heavy skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat. Add olive oil to the pan and heat until shimmering.
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Place the steaks in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for your preferred doneness.
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Add butter, garlic, thyme, and rosemary to the skillet in the last minute of cooking. Spoon the melted butter over the steaks to baste them.
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Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 2 servings
Seared New York Strip Steak: A Classic Steakhouse Experience
Seared New York Strip Steak is a beloved dish among steak enthusiasts for its combination of rich flavor, tenderness, and satisfying texture. This cut of beef, often referred to as a “striploin” or “sirloin strip,” is known for its balanced fat content, making it perfect for searing in a hot skillet. With a beautifully caramelized crust on the outside and a tender, juicy interior, it provides a steakhouse-quality experience that can easily be recreated in the comfort of your own kitchen. This dish is ideal for a weeknight dinner or special occasion when you want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice, the Seared New York Strip Steak is a recipe that delivers impressive results with minimal effort.
Why Choose New York Strip Steak?
The New York Strip Steak is one of the most popular cuts of beef, renowned for its tenderness and robust flavor. It comes from the short loin section of the cow and is a relatively lean cut compared to others like ribeye. What makes it stand out is the combination of tenderness and marbling—thin layers of fat that add flavor and moisture during cooking. While not as fatty as the ribeye, the New York Strip still provides enough richness to satisfy steak lovers. Additionally, its versatility makes it an excellent choice for various cooking methods, but searing it in a hot pan is one of the best ways to enhance its natural flavor.
The Art of Searing the New York Strip Steak
Searing is an essential technique for achieving that perfect steakhouse-quality crust. When you sear a steak, you’re essentially browning the surface, which caramelizes the natural sugars in the meat, creating a flavorful crust. The high heat of the pan also helps seal in the juices, ensuring that the steak stays moist and tender. For a New York Strip Steak, it’s important to use a heavy-bottomed pan, such as a cast iron skillet, which retains and distributes heat evenly. To begin, the steak should be brought to room temperature before cooking, as this helps it cook more evenly. Once it’s seasoned with salt and pepper, it’s essential to preheat your pan until it’s smoking hot. Then, add a bit of oil, followed by the steak, and let it sear undisturbed for a few minutes on each side. Basting with butter and herbs like rosemary and thyme can elevate the flavor, adding richness and a fragrant aroma.
Cooking Time and Desired Doneness
New York Strip Steaks are versatile in terms of doneness, but the most common way to enjoy them is medium-rare to medium. For medium-rare, you’ll want to cook the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side, while for medium, aim for 6-7 minutes per side. Cooking times will vary depending on the thickness of the steak and the heat of your pan. One of the most accurate ways to check for doneness is by using a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should reach 130-135°F (54-57°C), and for medium, it should be around 140-145°F (60-63°C). It’s important to let the steak rest for about 5-10 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and juicy steak.
Flavor Enhancements: Garlic Butter and Fresh Herbs
One of the secrets to making a great New York Strip Steak even better is the addition of garlic butter and fresh herbs. Garlic butter infuses the steak with rich, savory flavors and a silky texture. Fresh rosemary and thyme pair wonderfully with the steak’s meaty taste, while also imparting a fragrant aroma that fills the kitchen as the steak cooks. Adding these ingredients during the last few minutes of cooking, when the steak is nearly done, allows the flavors to meld together without burning the herbs or garlic. The butter and herbs also help to baste the steak, keeping it moist and enhancing its flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
A Seared New York Strip Steak can be served in a variety of ways, making it an adaptable dish for different occasions. It can be served simply with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a classic meal. For a more decadent experience, consider pairing the steak with a creamy sauce like béarnaise or a tangy chimichurri. If you’re hosting a dinner party, you can even slice the steak into thin strips and serve it with a variety of dipping sauces, allowing guests to customize each bite. The steak also pairs beautifully with red wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec, which complement the rich flavors of the beef.
Perfect Pairings for a Memorable Meal
When it comes to pairing sides with Seared New York Strip Steak, you want dishes that complement the steak’s rich and savory flavor without overshadowing it. Roasted garlic mashed potatoes are always a crowd-pleaser, offering a creamy, indulgent contrast to the steak’s crispy exterior. Sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions also make excellent accompaniments, adding earthiness and sweetness that balance the savory beef. For a lighter option, a fresh arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the steak.
For a luxurious touch, consider serving the steak with grilled asparagus or a buttery corn on the cob. These side dishes are not only delicious but also enhance the overall presentation of the meal. You can even add a side of crispy fries or a baked potato if you’re looking for something more indulgent. For dessert, a rich chocolate cake or crème brûlée can round off the meal, providing a sweet finish to the savory experience.
The Versatility of Seared New York Strip Steak
One of the reasons why Seared New York Strip Steak is so popular is its versatility. It’s the perfect dish for a romantic dinner, a family meal, or even a festive gathering. Its quick cooking time and minimal ingredients make it an easy weeknight dinner, while the option to elevate it with flavorful sauces and sides makes it suitable for special occasions. Whether you prefer your steak cooked rare or well-done, the New York Strip can easily be adapted to suit your taste.
The steak can also be used in other dishes. For example, thinly sliced Seared New York Strip can be added to salads, tacos, or even sandwiches. If you have leftovers, the steak can be reheated and served on top of a bed of greens for a delicious steak salad. The possibilities are endless, making this dish a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.
Conclusion
The Seared New York Strip Steak is a simple yet impressive dish that brings together high-quality ingredients and classic cooking techniques. With a crispy, caramelized crust, a juicy interior, and a rich flavor profile, it’s a meal that will satisfy steak lovers every time. Whether you enjoy it with a side of mashed potatoes, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad, this steak is sure to be the star of the show. Its versatility allows you to serve it in many different ways, whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner or a special occasion. By following the proper searing techniques and experimenting with flavor enhancements, you can create a memorable and delicious steak experience that rivals any steakhouse.