Cooking a bone-in NY strip steak in the oven can be a daunting task, especially for those who are new to cooking steak. However, with the right techniques and a bit of practice, you can achieve a perfectly cooked steak that is sure to impress your family and friends. In this article, we will take a closer look at the steps involved in cooking a bone-in NY strip steak in the oven, as well as some tips and tricks to help you get the best results.
Understanding the Basics of Cooking Steak
Before we dive into the specifics of cooking a bone-in NY strip steak in the oven, it’s essential to understand the basics of cooking steak. Steak is a type of meat that is best cooked using high heat, as this helps to create a crispy crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. There are several different ways to cook steak, including grilling, pan-frying, and oven roasting. Each method has its own unique advantages and disadvantages, and the best method for you will depend on your personal preferences and the equipment you have available.
Choosing the Right Cut of Meat
When it comes to cooking a bone-in NY strip steak, the first step is to choose the right cut of meat. A bone-in NY strip steak is a type of steak that is cut from the short loin of the cow, and it is known for its rich flavor and tender texture. When selecting a bone-in NY strip steak, look for a cut that is at least 1-1.5 inches thick, as this will help to ensure that the steak is cooked evenly. You should also look for a cut that has a good balance of marbling, as this will help to add flavor and tenderness to the steak.
What is Marbling?
Marbling refers to the streaks of fat that are dispersed throughout the meat. Marbling is an essential component of a good steak, as it helps to add flavor and tenderness. When cooking a bone-in NY strip steak, it’s essential to look for a cut that has a good balance of marbling, as this will help to ensure that the steak is cooked evenly and is full of flavor.
Preparing the Steak for Cooking
Once you have selected the right cut of meat, the next step is to prepare the steak for cooking. This involves bringing the steak to room temperature, seasoning the steak, and applying a dry rub.
Bringing the Steak to Room Temperature
Bringing the steak to room temperature is an essential step in the cooking process, as it helps to ensure that the steak is cooked evenly. To bring the steak to room temperature, simply remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit for 30-45 minutes before cooking.
Seasoning the Steak
Seasoning the steak is another crucial step in the cooking process, as it helps to add flavor to the steak. When seasoning the steak, use a combination of salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like. Be sure to season the steak liberally, as this will help to bring out the natural flavors of the meat.
Applying a Dry Rub
Applying a dry rub is a great way to add extra flavor to the steak. A dry rub is a mixture of spices and herbs that is applied to the steak before cooking. When applying a dry rub, be sure to apply it evenly, as this will help to ensure that the steak is cooked consistently.
Cooking the Steak in the Oven
Now that the steak is prepared, it’s time to cook it in the oven. Cooking a bone-in NY strip steak in the oven is a relatively straightforward process, but it does require some attention to detail.
Preheating the Oven
The first step in cooking the steak is to preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This will help to ensure that the steak is cooked evenly and is nice and tender.
Placing the Steak in the Oven
Once the oven is preheated, place the steak in a roasting pan or oven-safe skillet. Be sure to place the steak in the pan fat-side up, as this will help to add flavor to the steak.
Cooking the Steak
Cook the steak in the oven for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak, and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Internal Temperature Guide
| Level of Doneness | Internal Temperature |
| — | — |
| Rare | 120-130°F (49-54°C) |
| Medium Rare | 130-135°F (54-57°C) |
| Medium | 135-140°F (57-60°C) |
| Medium Well | 140-145°F (60-63°C) |
| Well Done | 145-150°F (63-66°C) |
Letting the Steak Rest
Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This will help the juices to redistribute, making the steak even more tender and flavorful.
Why is it Important to Let the Steak Rest?
Letting the steak rest is an essential step in the cooking process, as it helps to redistribute the juices and make the steak more tender. When you cut into a steak that has not been allowed to rest, the juices will flow out of the meat, making it dry and tough. By letting the steak rest, you can help to prevent this from happening and ensure that the steak is nice and tender.
Slicing and Serving the Steak
Once the steak has rested, it’s time to slice and serve it. When slicing the steak, be sure to slice it against the grain, as this will help to make it more tender.
How to Slice Against the Grain
Slicing against the grain involves slicing the steak in the direction of the muscle fibers. To do this, simply locate the lines of muscle fibers on the steak and slice in the opposite direction.
Conclusion
Cooking a bone-in NY strip steak in the oven is a relatively straightforward process, but it does require some attention to detail. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can achieve a perfectly cooked steak that is sure to impress your family and friends. Remember to choose the right cut of meat, prepare the steak for cooking, cook the steak in the oven, let it rest, and slice it against the grain. With a bit of practice, you’ll be cooking like a pro in no time.
Additional Tips and Tricks
- Use a cast-iron or oven-safe skillet to cook the steak, as this will help to distribute the heat evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the temperature of the oven and affect the quality of the steak.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak, as this will help to ensure that it is cooked to your liking.
- Let the steak rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving, as this will help to redistribute the juices and make the steak more tender.
By following these tips and tricks, you can achieve a perfectly cooked bone-in NY strip steak that is sure to impress your family and friends. Happy cooking!
What is the ideal internal temperature for a bone-in NY strip steak?
The ideal internal temperature for a bone-in NY strip steak depends on the level of doneness desired. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be around 130-135°F (54-57°C), while medium should be around 140-145°F (60-63°C). It’s essential to use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches a safe internal temperature.
It’s also important to note that the internal temperature will continue to rise slightly after the steak is removed from the oven. This is known as carryover cooking, and it’s essential to factor this in when determining the internal temperature. To avoid overcooking, it’s better to err on the side of undercooking slightly, as the steak can always be returned to the oven for a few more minutes if needed.
How do I season a bone-in NY strip steak for oven cooking?
Seasoning a bone-in NY strip steak is a crucial step in bringing out its natural flavors. Start by sprinkling both sides of the steak with a generous amount of salt and pepper. You can also add other seasonings such as garlic powder, paprika, or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary. Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the seasonings to penetrate the meat.
For added flavor, you can also rub the steak with a mixture of olive oil, butter, or other aromatics like minced garlic or lemon zest. Be sure to pat the steak dry with paper towels before applying any seasonings or rubs to ensure they adhere evenly. This will help create a flavorful crust on the steak as it cooks in the oven.
What is the best way to cook a bone-in NY strip steak in the oven?
Cooking a bone-in NY strip steak in the oven is a straightforward process that requires minimal equipment. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the steak on a rimmed baking sheet or broiler pan. You can also add some aromatics like onions, carrots, or celery to the pan for added flavor.
Place the steak in the oven and cook for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, and avoid pressing down on the steak with your spatula, as this can squeeze out juices and make the steak tough.
Can I cook a bone-in NY strip steak in the oven without a rack?
While a rack can be helpful in promoting air circulation and even cooking, it’s not essential for cooking a bone-in NY strip steak in the oven. You can place the steak directly on the baking sheet or broiler pan, and it will still cook evenly. However, keep in mind that the steak may not develop as nice of a crust on the bottom without a rack.
To compensate for the lack of a rack, you can try placing the steak on a bed of aromatics like onions or carrots, which will help elevate the steak and promote air circulation. You can also rotate the steak halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
How do I prevent a bone-in NY strip steak from becoming tough when cooking in the oven?
One of the biggest challenges when cooking a bone-in NY strip steak in the oven is preventing it from becoming tough. To avoid this, it’s essential to cook the steak to the right internal temperature and avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, and remove the steak from the oven when it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Another way to prevent toughness is to avoid pressing down on the steak with your spatula, as this can squeeze out juices and make the steak tough. Instead, let the steak cook undisturbed for the recommended time, and use tongs or a spatula to gently flip it halfway through cooking.
Can I cook a bone-in NY strip steak in the oven ahead of time and reheat it later?
While it’s possible to cook a bone-in NY strip steak in the oven ahead of time and reheat it later, it’s not the recommended approach. Cooking the steak ahead of time can cause it to lose its natural juices and become tough. However, if you need to cook the steak ahead of time, it’s best to cook it to a lower internal temperature than desired, then let it rest before reheating it in the oven or on the stovetop.
When reheating the steak, make sure to heat it to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. You can also add some aromatics like butter or herbs to the pan to help restore the steak’s natural flavors.
How do I store leftover bone-in NY strip steak?
Storing leftover bone-in NY strip steak requires some care to maintain its quality and safety. Once the steak has cooled to room temperature, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it within two hours of cooking. The steak can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, or frozen for up to three months.
When storing leftover steak, it’s essential to keep it away from strong-smelling foods, as it can absorb odors easily. You can also slice the steak thinly and store it in an airtight container to make it easier to reheat later.