Are you craving a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant prices or lengthy cooking time? Then look no further! This KC Strip Steak recipe delivers juicy, flavorful perfection every time. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and it's the perfect solution for a quick dinner idea or a special occasion meal. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this fantastic homemade cooking experience!
Ingredients:
- 2 (8-ounce) Kansas City strip steaks, about 1-inch thick
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions:
Preparing the Steak:
- Pat the steaks dry: Using paper towels, thoroughly pat the steaks dry. This crucial step helps achieve a beautiful sear.
- Season generously: In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Generously season both sides of the steaks with the spice mixture.
Cooking the Steak:
- Sear the steaks: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the steaks in the skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until a deep brown crust forms.
- Add butter and aromatics (optional): Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter, rosemary (if using), and minced garlic (if using) to the skillet. Tilt the pan and spoon the melted butter over the steaks for 2-3 minutes, basting frequently. This process adds incredible flavor and richness.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steaks. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F; medium is 140-145°F; and well-done is 160°F or higher.
- Rest the steaks: Once cooked to your desired doneness, remove the steaks from the skillet and place them on a cutting board. Tent loosely with foil and let them rest for 5-7 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your delicious KC strip steak immediately. Consider pairing it with simple sides like roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, mashed potatoes, or creamy garlic parmesan pasta for a complete and satisfying healthy meal.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Steaks:
- Bring steaks to room temperature: Allowing the steaks to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking helps them cook more evenly.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature, preventing a good sear. Cook the steaks in batches if necessary.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most reliable way to ensure your steak is cooked to your preferred doneness.
Variations:
- Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs and spices. Thyme, oregano, or a blend of your favorite herbs can add unique flavors.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning for a spicy steak.
- Compound butter: Elevate your steak with a compound butter. Mix softened butter with herbs, garlic, or other flavorful additions before adding it to the skillet.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: Approximately 40-50g
- Fat: Approximately 25-35g
This KC Strip Steak recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. It's a delicious dish that showcases the beauty of simple, high-quality ingredients and easy techniques. Enjoy!