How to Cook Striploin Steak

Learn how to cook striploin steak, celebrated for offering the best of both worlds when it comes to texture and flavour. The striploin steak is celebrated for offering the best of both worlds when it comes to texture and flavour. It is similar to the classic tenderloin steak in terms of tenderness, and to the ribeye steaks when it comes to that powerful beefy, juicy taste. Whether you have a bone-out steak or bone-in striploin steak, you can be sure that you are in for a meaty treat, especially when pan-seared to perfection.

So, how do you cook this cut to perfection? Follow our easy guidelines!

Difference Between Striploin Steak vs. Sirloin Steak

The striploin steak also known as New York strip, along with the sirloin steak, is one of the most versatile cuts there is. Ideal for grilling, it excels when seared in a skillet, broiled, or smoked. Wondering which is better—striploin vs. sirloin? Both are tasty; however, striploin has a higher marbling ratio, lending it a slightly superior flavour. For the best results, allow your strip steak to rest after cooking and season generously with salt and pepper to ensure it remains juicy and tender. While discussing premium cuts, the fillet mignon is another excellent choice for those seeking tender and lean options. 

Cooking Striploin Steak to Perfection

Most experts advise bringing the strip loin steak to room temperature for about half an hour before cooking to ensure even cooking.

Pan-Seared Striploin Steak (Best for a Perfect Crust)

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

1. Allow the strip loin steak to reach room temperature (about 30 minutes) before cooking to ensure even doneness.
2. Rub the steak with extra virgin olive oil evenly, then season generously with salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Steak

1. Preheat a cast-iron or heavy-bottomed skillet over high heat (400 – 450°F) for one to two minutes before adding the steak.
2. Sear the steak for three minutes on one side for rare, or four minutes for medium, then flip it to develop a crust while keeping the inside juicy.

Step 3: Sear the Fat and Finish Cooking

1. If using a skillet, sear the external fat layer first over very high heat to let the natural juices flow into the skillet.
2. Continue cooking the steak in these juices and allow it to rest briefly once done.

Step 4: Enrich the Flavour

Add fresh herbs toward the end of cooking to infuse additional flavour, enriching the overall culinary experience.

Grilled Striploin Steak (Best for Smoky Flavour)

Grilling is perfect for those who love a charred, smoky finish with a juicy interior. The open flame intensifies the beef’s natural flavour while creating a delicious crust.

Steps to grilling a strip loin steak

1. Preheat the grill to 450°F (medium-high heat).
2. Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
3. Sear the steak over direct heat for 3–4 minutes per side to develop a crust.
4. Move to indirect heat and cook for another 2–3 minutes per side until desired doneness.
5. Rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.

Pro Tip: Use a meat thermometer to check doneness – striploin is best at 135°F (medium rare) for peak flavour.

3. Reverse-Sear Striploin Steak (Best for Thick Cuts)

The reverse-sear technique is ideal for thicker striploin steaks (1.5 inches or more). It allows for precise doneness and a perfectly even cook, followed by a high-heat sear to develop a rich crust.

Steps to using the reverse-sear technique:

1. Preheat the oven or smoker to 250°F.
2. Place the steak on a rack over a baking sheet and cook until 10°F below your target temperature (e.g., 125°F for medium-rare).
3. Preheat a skillet or grill to high heat.
4. Sear the steak for 1-2 minutes per side to create a crust.
5. Let the steak rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing.

Pro Tip: This method is ideal for thicker striploin steaks (1.5 inches or more).

What is the Ideal Steak Temperature?

The optimal temperature for cooking strip steak is largely subjective and frequently debated, depending on your desired level of doneness. My preference leans towards a doneness between medium rare and medium. A steak that is dry brined with salt, pan-seared, and basted with butter typically yields a tender and flavorful result at this level of doneness.

Preferences vary widely, with some favouring a rare steak while others opt for medium well.

How Long to Cook a Striploin Steak

It’s advisable to use a digital thermometer to monitor the steak’s temperature accurately. Remember, the steak’s internal temperature will continue to rise a few degrees after it is removed from the heat. I usually take the steak off the heat 5°F to 10°F below the target temperature, as it will reach the desired doneness while resting.

Now that you know how to cook striploin steak, you will need to purchase one. Why not buy meat online via the Chophouse Steaks online butcher store? Order now or contact us for more information.