Craving a restaurant-quality steak dinner without the restaurant prices? Then look no further! This Delmonico steak recipe delivers a juicy, flavorful masterpiece right to your kitchen table. It's easier than you think to achieve that perfect sear and tender interior, making it a fantastic option for a quick dinner idea or a special occasion meal. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this delicious dish!
What is a Delmonico Steak?
Before we dive into the recipe, let's clarify what exactly a Delmonico steak is. It's a thick-cut steak, typically from the ribeye, known for its rich marbling and intense flavor. This marbling is key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. While the exact origin is debated, the Delmonico's reputation for quality and taste remains undisputed. This recipe focuses on bringing out the best of this exceptional cut of meat.
Ingredients for the Best Delmonico Steak
- 2 (1-inch thick) Delmonico steaks (about 12-16 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions:
Getting Started:
- At least 30 minutes before cooking, remove the steaks from the refrigerator to allow them to come to room temperature. This ensures even cooking.
Searing the Perfection:
- Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. This is crucial for a good sear.
- Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet (or heavy-bottomed pan) over high heat until it just begins to smoke.
- Carefully place the steaks in the hot skillet. Do not overcrowd the pan. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until a deep brown crust forms.
Achieving the Perfect Doneness:
- Reduce the heat to medium-high.
- Add the butter, minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme to the skillet.
- Tilt the pan and spoon the melted butter over the steaks for 2-3 minutes per side, basting continuously. This adds flavor and richness.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature:
- Rare: 125°F (52°C)
- Medium-rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
- Medium-well: 150-155°F (66-68°C)
- Well-done: 160°F (71°C) and above
Resting is Key:
- Once the steaks reach your desired doneness, remove them from the skillet and place them on a cutting board. Tent loosely with foil and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Serving Suggestions and Variations:
This Delmonico steak is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it further! Serve it with:
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Creamy mushroom sauce
- A simple salad
Variations:
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet with the butter and herbs.
- Experiment with different herbs like oregano or sage.
- Add a splash of your favorite red wine to the pan during the basting process for extra depth of flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on the size of the steak and ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: 40-50g
- Fat: 25-35g
This easy recipe offers a healthy meal packed with protein and flavor. The cooking time is relatively short, making it a perfect choice for a quick yet impressive weeknight dinner. Enjoy your perfectly cooked Delmonico steak!