A Delmonico steak recipe is a must-know for any steak lover. This classic dish, also known as a New York strip steak, has a rich history dating back to Delmonico’s Restaurant in 19th-century New York City. The Delmonico steak was one of the restaurant’s signature dishes and quickly gained fame for its incredible flavor and tenderness.
The steak was named after the restaurant and became synonymous with high-quality, flavorful beef. The Delmonico steak is renowned for its tenderness and rich flavor, making it a favorite among steak enthusiasts. Over the years, the dish has evolved, with various chefs and home cooks adding their own unique twists to the classic recipe.
Despite these adaptations, the essence of the Delmonico steak remains rooted in its historical significance and culinary tradition.
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Choosing the Best Cut of Meat for Your Delmonico Steak
Selecting the right cut of meat is crucial when preparing a delicious Delmonico steak. Ideally, you should choose a well-marbled, boneless New York strip steak. This cut comes from the short loin of the cow and is highly prized for its tenderness and robust flavor.

Moreover, the marbling, or intramuscular fat, significantly contributes to the steak’s juiciness and enhances its overall taste. When purchasing a New York strip steak for your Delmonico recipe, be sure to look for cuts that have a generous amount of marbling throughout the meat. This will guarantee that your steak remains delicate and succulent amid the cooking process.
Additionally, choosing a thicker cut of steak, around 1.5 to 2 inches in thickness, will allow for better control over the cooking temperature. As a result, you can achieve a perfectly cooked Delmonico steak with a flavorful crust and juicy center.
Traditional vs. Modern Cooking Methods
The traditional approach to cooking Delmonico steak is quite simple yet highly effective. Typically, it involves seasoning the steak with salt and pepper, followed by grilling or pan-searing to create a flavorful crust while maintaining a juicy interior. This classic method allows the natural flavors of the steak to shine through, making it a timeless and satisfying dish.
On the other hand, modern approaches may involve marinating the meat in a blend of herbs, spices, and oils to infuse additional flavors before cooking. Some chefs even experiment with sous vide techniques to achieve precise doneness and optimal tenderness. While these contemporary methods offer innovative twists on the traditional recipe, they still aim to preserve the essence of the Delmonico steak’s rich flavor and succulent texture.
The Secret to Making Delmonico Steak Tender and Juicy
The key to achieving a tender and juicy Delmonico steak recipe lies in proper preparation and cooking techniques. First and foremost, it is essential to bring the steak to room temperature before cooking to ensure even heat distribution. Moreover, allowing the steak to rest after cooking will help redistribute the juices, resulting in a more succulent and flavorful final product.
In addition, proper seasoning plays a crucial role in achieving the best texture and taste. For instance, generously sprinkling kosher salt on both sides of the steak at least 40 minutes before cooking will help tenderize the meat and enhance its natural flavors. Not only does this dry brining technique season the steak, but it also improves its texture by breaking down proteins and allowing for better moisture retention during cooking.
Lastly, achieving the perfect level of doneness is essential for ensuring a tender and juicy Delmonico steak recipe. Whether you prefer rare, medium-rare, or medium doneness, using an instant-read meat thermometer will help you monitor the internal temperature. This way, you can cook the steak to your desired level of doneness without running the risk of overcooking.
Three Delicious Recipes for Cooking Delmonico Steak at Home

Recipe Name | Ingredients | Preparation Time | Serving Size |
---|---|---|---|
Classic Delmonico Steak | Delmonico steak, olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic, butter, thyme | 30 minutes | 2 servings |
Garlic Butter Delmonico Steak | Delmonico steak, olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic, butter, parsley | 25 minutes | 2 servings |
Balsamic Glazed Delmonico Steak | Delmonico steak, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic, rosemary | 35 minutes | 2 servings |
1. Classic Grilled Delmonico Steak
- Season steak with salt and pepper.
- Set the grill to high heat and lightly grease the grates.
- Cook on the grill for 4–5 minutes per side for medium-rare.
- Allow it to sit for 5–10 minutes before serving.
2. Pan-seared Delmonico Steak with Herb Butter
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Heat a cast-iron skillet on high. Add a tablespoon of butter.
- Cook for 3–4 minutes per side over high heat for medium-rare.
- Top with herb butter (butter, garlic, and fresh herbs). Serve immediately.
3. Sous Vide Delmonico Steak
- Season the steak and place it in a vacuum-sealed bag.
- Cook in a water bath at 129°F (54°C) for 1–2 hours.
- Sear in a hot skillet for one minute per side.
- Rest, slice, and serve.
Tips for Perfecting Your Delmonico Steak Cooking Technique

- Use a meat thermometer for precise doneness.
- Let the steak rest sometime recently cutting to hold juices.
- Experiment with seasonings and marinades for additional flavor.
- Invest in high-quality New York strip steak.
- Master grilling and pan-searing for the best crust.
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes to Complement Your Delmonico Steak
Pair your steak with delicious sides for a well-rounded meal. Great options include:
- Roasted or mashed potatoes
- Grilled asparagus or sautéed green beans
- Creamed spinach or a fresh garden salad
- Compound butter or homemade steak sauce

Delmonico Steak Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 Delmonico steaks New York strip or ribeye, 1.5–2 inches thick
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp black pepper freshly ground
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp fresh thyme or rosemary
- 1 tsp paprika optional, for extra flavor
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
- Remove the steaks from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature.
- Pat them dry with paper towels, then rub both sides with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using).
Step 2: Cook the Steak
- For Grilling:
- Preheat the grill to high heat (450–500°F).
- Place the steaks on the grill and cook for 4–5 minutes per side for medium-rare (adjust time based on desired doneness).
- Remove the steaks from the grill and let them rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
- For Pan-Searing:
- Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat until smoking hot.
- Add 1 tbsp butter and sear the steaks for 3–4 minutes per side.
- Lower the heat, add the remaining butter, garlic, and thyme, and baste the steaks for 1–2 minutes.
- Remove from the pan and let the steaks rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Total Fat: 45g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
- Protein: 50g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 750mg
FAQs
What is a Delmonico steak?
It’s a thick-cut, boneless ribeye known for its tenderness and rich flavor. The name comes from Delmonico’s Restaurant in New York City.
What are the best cuts for Delmonico steak?
Ribeye, New York strip, or T-bone steaks work best. These cuts have great marbling, making them tender and flavorful.
How can I make my steak more tender?
Use a meat tenderizer, marinate in oil and acid (vinegar or citrus), or cook it low and slow to break down connective tissue.
What’s the best way to cook Delmonico steak?
Traditional methods include grilling and pan-searing. Modern techniques like sous vide or reverse searing help achieve perfect doneness.
What are the best sides for Delmonico steak?
Mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, creamed spinach, and a bold red wine complement the steak beautifully.