How I Cook My Perfect NY Strip Steak: A Wellness Girlie's Go-To Recipe
If you know me, you know that I’m all about balance—whether it’s in my wellness routine, mindset, or the meals I enjoy. I believe in indulging in the things I love, while also fueling my body with what it needs. That’s why steak is such a treat for me. It’s filling, flavorful, and when cooked right, it’s the perfect blend of nourishment and satisfaction.
My absolute favorite cut? The NY strip. There's something about the rich flavor and tenderness of this cut that makes every bite feel like a special moment. It’s leaner than a ribeye but still packed with so much flavor—perfect for when I want a steak that’s both hearty and a little lighter.
Why I Love the NY Strip
When I want a steak that’s not too fatty but still rich and juicy, the NY strip is my go-to. I love its texture and the balance between tenderness and a satisfying chew. It's a perfect choice if you love a steak with a bit of bite but don’t want the overwhelming richness of a ribeye. Plus, it’s versatile—whether you're cooking for yourself or hosting friends, it always delivers. And I usually grab my NY strip from the butcher, where I can ensure it's fresh and get that perfect thickness I love.
Seasoning: Bold Yet Simple
I keep my steak seasoning simple but packed with flavor, which allows the natural taste of the NY strip to shine. Here’s what I use:
- Haitian Epis – A flavorful mix of fresh herbs, garlic, onion, and peppers. It’s a key part of Haitian cuisine, and it’s the perfect seasoning to add depth and warmth to my steak.
- Salt & Pepper – These classics bring out the steak’s natural flavor, and they’re always essential in any dish.
- Smoked Paprika – Just a sprinkle of this gives the steak a smoky richness without overwhelming it.
- Lemon Juice – A touch of citrus to balance out the richness of the meat and add a fresh, bright flavor.
I rub the steak with the Haitian epis, salt, pepper, paprika, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, letting the flavors soak in while I get the pan and oven prepped.
Cooking Method: Reverse Sear for Perfection
For me, the reverse sear method is the best way to cook a NY strip steak to perfection. It’s simple but gives you that perfect crust and juicy inside. Here’s how I do it:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the seasoned NY strip on a baking sheet and pop it in the oven. I let it cook for about 5 minutes. This ensures the steak gets cooked evenly and stays juicy.
- After 5 minutes, I check the internal temperature. I love mine medium-rare, which is about 130°F (54°C).
- Sear the steak in a hot pan for about 1 minute on each side. But here's the secret: during this searing step, I add a couple of garlic cloves and fresh thyme to the pan. The garlic and thyme infuse the steak with rich, aromatic flavors as it crisps up. The smell of garlic browning with thyme is honestly one of the best parts!
- Once the steak has that gorgeous golden-brown crust, I remove it from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes to lock in the juices.
The reverse sear method gives the steak that crispy, caramelized outside while keeping the inside perfectly tender and juicy—just the way I like it.
Chimichurri Sauce: The Perfect Match
Now, I couldn’t talk about steak without mentioning my all-time favorite sauce: chimichurri. This tangy, herb-filled sauce is the perfect complement to a rich cut of meat like the NY strip. It’s fresh, zesty, and cuts through the steak’s richness in the most satisfying way. I drizzle it over the steak right before serving, letting those garlicky, tangy flavors bring everything together.
The Final Bite: A Meal That Feels Like Self-Care
Cooking and enjoying a steak like this is an act of self-care for me. It’s about making time for something that feels indulgent, yet nourishing. I love that the process is simple but so rewarding, and the flavors are exactly what I crave—rich, smoky, fresh, and satisfying.
Whether it's a solo meal after a good workout, a treat on the weekend, or a dish I whip up when I want something delicious, this NY strip steak never disappoints. The reverse sear method gives me the perfect balance of crispy, juicy, and flavorful every time. Paired with chimichurri, it’s a match made in heaven.
If you’re looking to elevate your steak game and add a bit of wellness to your indulgent meals, give this a try. It’s simple, it’s balanced, and it’s always a hit.