How To Cook Bone-In Strip Steak

Mastering the Art of Cooking Bone-In Strip Steak

There’s something undeniably satisfying about sinking your teeth into a juicy, tender, and perfectly cooked bone-in strip steak. The combination of rich flavor and succulent texture is enough to make any meat lover’s heart skip a beat. However, achieving that culinary masterpiece can be a bit intimidating for some. But fear not! With a few simple yet essential steps, you can become a pro at cooking bone-in strip steak in no time.

Choosing the Right Cut

Before you embark on your steak-cooking journey, it’s crucial to start with the right cut of meat. Look for a bone-in strip steak with good marbling. The marbling, those beautiful streaks of fat throughout the meat, is what adds flavor and tenderness to your steak. Ideally, choose a cut that is between 1 and 1.5 inches thick, as it will cook evenly and retain its juiciness.

Preparing for Perfection

Properly preparing your bone-in strip steak is just as important as cooking it. Begin by taking your steak out of the refrigerator and letting it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows the steak to cook more evenly. While you wait, preheat your grill or stove to high heat.

Now it’s time to season your steak. Liberally season both sides of the steak with salt and freshly ground black pepper. For an extra flavor boost, you can add other seasonings such as garlic powder, paprika, or your favorite steak rub.

The Sizzle and Sear

Whether you’re using a grill or stovetop, the key to cooking a bone-in strip steak to perfection is achieving that mouthwatering sear. Make sure your cooking surface is hot before you place the steak on it. This initial blast of intense heat will create a delicious crust and seal in the steak’s natural juices.

For a stovetop: Heat a cast-iron skillet or other heavy-bottomed pan until it begins to smoke. Place the steak in the pan and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until you achieve the desired level of doneness.

For a grill: Preheat your grill to high heat. Place the steak directly over the heat and cook for approximately 4-6 minutes on each side, depending on your preferred level of doneness.

Temperature is Everything

While cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your steak and your desired level of doneness, it’s essential to remember that temperature is everything when it comes to cooking bone-in strip steak.

For a rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of 125°F (51°C). For a medium-rare steak, aim for 130°F (54°C). Medium steaks should reach an internal temperature of around 135°F (57°C), while medium-well is around 145°F (63°C). Keep in mind that the steak will continue to cook slightly after you remove it from the heat, so it’s best to use an instant-read thermometer to ensure accuracy.

Rest and Enjoy

Once you’ve reached the desired temperature, remove the steak from the heat and transfer it to a cutting board. Allow it to rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing into it. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak.

Now it’s time to grab your knife and fork and indulge in the masterpiece you’ve created. Pair your perfectly cooked bone-in strip steak with a side of creamy mashed potatoes, grilled asparagus, or your favorite vegetable for a truly unforgettable meal.

With a little practice and these simple steps, you’ll soon become a master at cooking bone-in strip steak. So fire up that grill or turn on the stovetop, and get ready to savor every delicious bite!