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Perfect Pan-Seared New York Strip Steak Recipe with Herb Butter and Crispy Frites Made Easy

pan-seared New York strip steak - featured image

A simple and satisfying pan-seared New York strip steak with herb butter paired with crispy baked frites, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 New York strip steaks, about 1-inch thick (8 oz / 225 g each)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic, smashed
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch (6 mm) thick strips
  • Sea salt, to season frites
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Peel and cut potatoes into 1/4-inch (6 mm) thick strips. Soak them in cold water for at least 20 minutes to remove excess starch.
  3. Drain and dry the potatoes thoroughly. Toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil and sea salt. Spread evenly on a baking sheet in a single layer.
  4. Bake the frites for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
  5. While the frites bake, pat the New York strip steaks dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.
  6. Heat the cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until very hot, about 5 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and swirl to coat.
  7. Place the steaks in the pan, laying them away from you to avoid splatters. Sear without moving for 3-4 minutes, until a deep brown crust forms.
  8. Flip the steaks and add butter, garlic cloves, and herb sprigs to the pan. As the butter melts, tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to baste the steaks with the melted butter mixture for another 3-4 minutes, or until desired doneness (125°F/52°C for medium-rare).
  9. Remove the steaks from the pan and transfer to a plate. Let rest for 5-7 minutes to redistribute juices.
  10. Optional herb butter: While resting, mix softened butter with finely chopped thyme, rosemary, and a teaspoon of Dijon mustard. Spoon this over the steak just before serving.

Notes

Let the steak rest for 5-7 minutes after cooking to keep it juicy. Soaking potatoes before baking is essential for crispy frites. Use a spoon to baste the steak with butter and herbs to enhance flavor and moisture. Avoid overcrowding the pan when searing steaks.

Nutrition

Keywords: New York strip steak, pan-seared steak, herb butter, crispy frites, baked fries, easy steak recipe, weeknight dinner, cast iron skillet steak