When it comes to grilling steaks, few cuts are as popular or well-loved as the New York strip. This flavorful cut is known for its marbling, tenderness, and excellent texture, making it a favorite among steak lovers everywhere. However, as with all cuts of meat, cooking the perfect New York strip on the grill requires some skill and know-how to ensure that it’s cooked to perfection.
If you’re not sure how long to cook a New York strip steak on the grill, don’t worry – you’re not alone. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the art of grilling New York strip steaks, providing tips, tricks, and insider secrets to help you grill up the most delicious, succulent, and flavorful steak you’ve ever had. From the perfect grill temperature to how long to cook it for, we’ve got you covered. So, grab your tongs and let’s get grilling.
Factors to Consider Before Grilling New York Strip Steak
Before getting into the specifics of cooking a New York strip steak on the grill, it’s important to take some factors into consideration. The first thing to consider is the thickness of the steak. A thicker steak will require more time on the grill while a thinner steak will cook faster. It’s also important to take into account the level of doneness you prefer your steak to be. If you prefer your steak rare, it will require less time on the grill than if you prefer it well done.
Another factor to consider is the temperature of the steak. It’s important to let the steak come to room temperature before grilling. This allows the steak to cook evenly. Additionally, the temperature of the grill should also be taken into account. A medium-high heat is generally recommended for cooking a New York strip steak on the grill. By considering these factors before cooking, you can ensure a perfectly cooked New York strip steak that is tender, juicy, and full of flavor.
Prepping Your Grill for Cooking New York Strip Steak
Before you start cooking your New York Strip Steak on the grill, it’s important to prep your grill properly. This will ensure that your steak is evenly cooked and has a perfectly grilled flavor. The first thing you need to do is to clean your grill thoroughly. You can use a grill brush to remove any leftover food particles and debris from your previous grilling sessions. After that, turn on your grill and let it heat up. This will help to kill any bacteria that might be on the grill surface.
Once your grill is hot, you need to oil the grates to prevent your steak from sticking to it. You can use a paper towel to lightly coat the grates with oil. Be careful not to use too much oil, as it can cause flare-ups. After that, you’re ready to start grilling your New York Strip Steak. Remember to keep an eye on the heat, and adjust it accordingly. With the right grilling technique, you’ll end up with a mouth-watering, perfectly cooked steak that will impress your guests.
Ideal Temperature for Grilling New York Strip Steak
When grilling a New York strip steak, the ideal temperature for achieving the perfect level of doneness depends on personal preference. However, a general rule of thumb is to aim for a grill temperature of 450-500°F for a medium-rare steak.
To achieve this temperature, preheat your grill for at least 10-15 minutes before cooking. You can test the temperature by holding your hand close to the grill grates for 2-3 seconds. If it’s too hot to keep your hand there, it’s ready. Alternatively, you can use a digital meat thermometer to accurately measure the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F. Remember to let your steak rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to distribute evenly.
Cooking Times for Different Degrees of Doneness
When cooking a New York Strip steak on the grill, one of the most important decisions you’ll need to make is how long to cook it for. However, cooking times can vary depending on how well-done you like your steak. To achieve the perfect degree of doneness, follow the recommended cooking times below.
For a rare steak, cook for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 125°F. For medium-rare, cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side for medium doneness, with an internal temperature of 145°F. For medium-well, cook for 7-8 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 150°F. Finally, for a well-done steak, cook for 8-10 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Keep in mind that these are just general guidelines, and individual grills and steaks may require slight adjustments. By keeping a reliable meat thermometer on hand and testing the internal temperature of your steak frequently, you can ensure perfect results every time.
Using A Meat Thermometer for Checking Your Steak
Using a meat thermometer is one of the most accurate ways to determine the doneness of your New York strip steak. Simply insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak and wait for the temperature reading. For rare, the thermometer should read around 125°F, for medium-rare the temperature should be around 130°F, and for medium, the thermometer should read around 140°F.
Keep in mind that the temperature will continue to rise a few degrees after removing the steak from the grill, so it is recommended to take the steak off the grill a few degrees below your desired doneness. By using a meat thermometer, you will ensure that your New York strip steak is cooked to perfection and will avoid the guesswork of trying to determine doneness by sight or touch.
Resting Your Steak After Cooking, and Why It Matters
After cooking your New York strip steak on the grill, it is crucial to let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This process of resting allows for the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. If you were to cut into the steak immediately after cooking, the juices would simply run out of the meat and onto the plate, resulting in a less flavorful and juicy steak.
Resting your steak also allows for the internal temperature to continue rising by a few degrees, which is known as carryover cooking. As a general rule, you should let a steak rest for about five minutes for every inch of thickness. By taking the time to let your New York strip steak rest after cooking, you will end up with a more tender and flavorful steak that is sure to impress your guests.
Tips for Serving Perfectly Grilled New York Strip Steak
Serving perfectly grilled New York strip steak is a crucial part of the cooking process. Here are a few tips to help you achieve steakhouse-level results at home:
Firstly, let your steak rest for a few minutes before serving. This ensures that the juices, which have been redistributed during cooking, are reabsorbed, making for a juicier and tender steak. Secondly, when slicing the steak, cut against the grain. This results in a chewier and more rubbery steak and can make it tougher to swallow. Lastly, consider adding finishing butter, which is a mix of butter, herbs, and spices, placed on top of the steak right before serving. This adds depth of flavor and richness to the steak, making it a real show stopper.
By following these tips, you’re sure to impress your guests with a steak that is juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked every time.
Final Thoughts
Grilling a New York Strip Steak to perfection is an art that requires precision and patience. The amount of time it takes to cook a New York Strip Steak on the grill depends on multiple factors, such as the thickness of the cut, the heat of the grill, and personal preferences. However, a general rule of thumb is to cook a 1-inch thick steak for 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, and 5-6 minutes on each side for medium.
To ensure a juicy and flavorful steak, it is imperative to let it rest for a few minutes after cooking. Resting the steak allows the juices to settle, resulting in a tender and succulent cut of meat. Additionally, brushing the steak with butter or oil before cooking can enhance the flavor and add a nice crust to the steak. Remember, grilling a New York Strip Steak takes practice, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different cooking times and techniques until you find the perfect method that suits your taste buds.