Ever fantasized about cooking the ultimate New York strip steak in slow cooker? It’s time to turn those dreams into a dinner table triumph. With the right cut, a perfect marinade, and the low-and-slow cooking method, you’ll be feasting on a tender, slow-cooked steak that will have everyone clamoring for seconds.
This guide will walk you through the steps to perfectly slow cook a New York Strip, ensuring it’s juicy and flavorful every time. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or new to slow cooking, this method will up your culinary skills and impress at any meal.
Keep reading to unlock all the tips and tricks you need to master cooking a New York Strip steak in your slow cooker, making your next dinner not just a meal but a memorable culinary experience.
Why the New York Strip Steak is Ideal for Slow Cooking
Using a slow cooker for New York strip steak may seem unusual, but it’s an excellent method for tenderizing this already succulent cut of beef. While the New York Strip is typically known for its robust flavor and tenderness when grilled or pan-seared, slow cooking unlocks a deeper level of flavor and ensures the meat is exceptionally tender and juicy.
The key to success with this method lies in the slow cooker’s ability to gently cook the steak over several hours, allowing it to absorb the flavors of herbs, spices, and any added liquids. This technique is particularly useful when you want to enhance the steak without overpowering its natural taste. Plus, it’s a superb option for those busy days when you want to come home to a ready-to-eat meal.
Remember, the New York Strip is leaner than cuts like chuck or brisket, so adding some broth or a marinated base can help maintain moisture and add flavor. This method transforms the New York Strip into a fork-tender meal that breaks away from traditional steak preparations, making it a standout choice for a low-maintenance yet luxurious dinner.
Related Article: While the New York Strip is a prime choice due to its delectable fat content that melts into perfection, don’t overlook other stars like sirloin and ribeye steak, which equally revel in the low heat, slow cooking process. For a deeper comparison, check out our article on sirloin vs ribeye.
Preparing New York Strip for the Slow Cooker
Getting your New York Strip steak ready for slow cooking involves a few key steps to ensure maximum flavor and tenderness.
To Sear or Not to Sear
Searing the steak before placing it in the slow cooker is a debated topic. Doing so can enhance the steak’s flavor by creating a rich, caramelized crust. This method also helps to seal in the juices, making the meat more succulent.
While not strictly necessary—your steak will still be tasty without it—searing adds a layer of complexity and texture that many find appealing.
Crafting a Flavorful Marinade
A good marinade is essential for imparting depth and personality to your New York Strip, especially when slow cooking. Ingredients like minced garlic, steak sauce, or Worcestershire sauce, combined with your favorite herbs and spices, can transform a simple piece of meat into a flavorful delight.
Allow the steak to marinate for several hours or even overnight to let the flavors deeply penetrate the meat, setting the stage for a delicious, slow-cooked meal.
Cooking New York Strip Steak in Slow Cooker
Cooking a New York Strip steak in a slow cooker can seem unconventional, but with the right approach, it can yield delicious results. Here’s a simple guide to getting it just right:
- Preparation: Begin by trimming any excess fat from the edges of your New York Strip steak to prevent the dish from becoming too greasy.
- Seasoning: Generously season the steak on both sides with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you prefer. Rubs or a simple mix of garlic powder and onion powder work well.
- Searing (Optional): For added flavor, quickly sear the steak in a hot skillet with a little oil until each side is golden brown. This step is optional but recommended to enhance the steak’s flavor and texture.
- Layering Ingredients: Place sliced onions and minced garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker. These will serve as a bed for the steak and add extra flavor as they cook.
- Adding the Steak: Lay the seared steak on top of the onions and garlic in the slow cooker. If you have more than one steak, stack them staggered so they cook evenly.
- Adding Liquids: Pour in a cup of beef broth, which will help to keep the steak moist and tender as it cooks. Optionally, you can add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for a deeper flavor.
- Cooking: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for about 4 hours. The goal is for the steak to become wonderfully tender.
- Finishing Touches: Once cooked, you can remove the steak and let it rest for a few minutes. Meanwhile, you can turn the remaining juices in the slow cooker into a flavorful gravy by thickening it with a little flour or cornstarch if desired.
- Serving: Slice the steak against the grain and serve it with the gravy poured over it. Pair with side dishes like mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
This slow-cooked method turns the New York Strip into a tender, flavorful meal that’s surprisingly easy to prepare, especially when you want the convenience of a set-it-and-forget-it dinner.
Related Article: After mastering the New York Strip Steak in your slow cooker, why not explore other tantalizing options? Check out recipes for Slow Cooker Ribeye Steak, Slow Cooker Skirt Steak, and the Tender Slow Cooker Flank Steak Recipe, each offering unique flavors and textures that are perfect for your next dinner.
Optimal Cooking Times and Temperatures for Tenderness
When it comes to nailing the New York Strip steak’s internal temperature, patience is your pal. A general guideline is to cook your steak on low for about 6-8 hours. This range ensures that the meat is cooked through and tender but still holds its structure without becoming mushy.
Although slow cookers are designed to maintain a safe cooking temperature, it’s a good idea to check your steak with a meat thermometer towards the end of cooking. The ideal internal temperature for a medium-rare steak is about 145°F (63°C), but you can adjust this depending on how well-done you prefer your steak.
Enhancing Your New York Strip Steak with Sides and Sauces
Pair your slow-cooked New York Strip steak with the perfect side dishes and sauces to elevate your meal to gourmet status. Crafting a delicious dinner is all about the right combinations, bringing together flavors and textures that complement the rich taste of the steak.
Classic Pairings:
- Steak and Potatoes: A timeless combination that thrives even in a slow cooker. Let these classics simmer together to meld their flavors for a straightforward yet satisfying dish.
- Vegetable Medley: Brighten your meal with an assortment of vegetables like beets, carrots, and green beans. Cooking them alongside your steak in the slow cooker allows them to absorb the meaty juices, enhancing their flavors.
Creative Sauce Options:
- Worcestershire and Red Wine Sauce: Mix Worcestershire sauce with a touch of red wine for a deep, complex flavor that complements the steak’s richness.
- Herb-Infused Butters: Consider adding a dollop of herb-infused butter to melt over your steak, adding a layer of richness and flavor.
Mastering the New York Strip Steak In Slow Cooker
Unleash the full potential of a New York Strip steak with this slow cooker recipe, designed to simplify your dinner preparations while delivering mouthwatering results. Perfect for busy evenings or when you need that set-it-and-forget-it magic.
Ingredients
- New York strip steaks, trimmed of excess fat
- 1 tablespoon oil, if searing
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder)
- Optional: splash of Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Step 1 – Trim any excess fat from your steaks to keep the dish from becoming too greasy.
- Step 2 – Generously season both sides of the steak with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you prefer.
- Step 3 – Heat oil in a skillet over high heat and sear the steak briefly on each side until golden brown. This enhances flavor and texture.
- Step 4 – Place sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker to create a flavorful bed.
- Step 5 – Place the seared steak over the onions and garlic. If cooking multiple steaks, stack them staggered for even cooking.
- Step 6 – Pour beef broth over the steaks. Add Worcestershire sauce if using, for extra flavor.
- Step 7 – Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the steak is tender.
- Step 8 – Remove the steak and let it rest. Thicken the cooking juices with flour or cornstarch to make gravy, if desired.
- Step 9 – Slice the steak against the grain and serve with the gravy. Accompany with sides like mashed potatoes or a fresh salad.
FAQ
Is it necessary to turn the steak while it cooks in the slow cooker?
No, due to the even cooking environment in a slow cooker, you don’t need to turn the steak while it cooks.
How can I prevent my New York Strip from becoming too dry in the slow cooker?
Keeping the slow cooker covered and using enough cooking liquid will help prevent the steak from drying out.
What thickness of New York Strip is best for slow cooking?
Steaks that are at least 1 inch thick are best as they will cook more evenly and retain more moisture.
How do I know when the New York Strip is done cooking in the slow cooker?
The steak should be tender enough to be easily cut with a fork. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached the desired doneness.
Can I add barbecue sauce to my New York Strip in the slow cooker?
Yes, adding barbecue sauce during the last hour of cooking can add a nice glaze and flavor to the steak.
What can I do if my slow-cooked New York Strip is tough?
If the steak is tough, it may need more cooking time. Slow cookers can vary in temperature, so adjust the time accordingly.
How long can I store leftover slow-cooked New York Strip steak?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can the leftovers be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked steak for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.