New York Strip vs. Ribeye: Nutrition and Taste

What Is a New York Strip Steak?

A New York strip steak aka strip steak, strip loin, or sirloin strip, is a favored cut of beef from the short loin of the cow, which is located behind the rib section and in front of the sirloin (the middle section of the cow's back).

This steak balances tenderness and flavor, as it is usually leaner than a ribeye steak but still has a good amount of marbling, which creates juicy and flavorful meat.

The New York strip steak is usually a rectangular cut with a strip of fat running along one edge. It is a boneless cut, though sometimes it is sold with the bone in, which is called the Kansas City strip.

The New York strip is versatile and can be made using various cooking methods, i.e., you can grill, broil, pan-sear, or roast it. Generally, people cook it to medium-rare to medium doneness to keep its tenderness and flavor.

You can season it with salt and pepper if you like its natural flavor. You can also serve it with many sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. It also tastes great with sauces like peppercorn, Béarnaise, or blue cheese.

In addition to being yummy, New York strip steak is a good source of fat and protein, making it a good option for those on low-carb diets. But fat and protein are not the only important nutrients found in this steak. You can check the table below for more nutritional facts about the NY strip [1].

To be able to compare the New York strip vs. ribeye steak, we need to learn about ribeye steak and its main features.

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What Is a Ribeye Steak?

A ribeye or rib eye steak is a highly popular cut of beef from the rib section of the cow, the rib primal portion, usually ribs six through twelve, which is located along the upper middle part of the cow, near the backbone.

One of the most distinctive features of ribeye steak is its marbling, i.e., the streaks of fat interwoven throughout the meat, which adds to the steak's flavor, tenderness, and juiciness. The more marbled a ribeye, the richer and more flavorful it tends to be.

Ribeye steaks can be found in both bone-in and boneless varieties. A bone-in ribeye aka cowboy steak (or tomahawk steak), which includes a long rib bone, has a richer flavor because the bone can add to the meat's taste during cooking. Boneless ribeyes are easier to cook and carve.

Ribeye steaks are versatile and can be cooked in many ways. You can use grilling, pan-searing, or broiling. Also, because of their fat content, they can be cooked to various degrees of doneness, though medium-rare to medium is often recommended for optimal texture and flavor.

You can just season ribeye steaks with salt and pepper, with different sides, such as potatoes, vegetables, or salads, and sauces like chimichurri, garlic butter, or a classic steak sauce.

Rib eye is not only delicious but also a good source of various nutrients. The table below summarizes the main nutrients found in 100 grams of rib-eye steak [2].

Now that we know the basics about these two popular cuts of meat, let’s compare New York strip vs. ribeye to find out which can be a better addition to our diet.

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New York Strip vs. Ribeye Steak

New York strip and ribeye steaks are two of the most popular cuts of beef, with unique characteristics. Both steaks have rich flavors and tenderness but differ in fat content, taste, texture, thickness, and cost.

Understanding these differences can help you choose the best steak for your diet, special dishes, and cooking style.

Fat Content

• The New York strip is leaner than the ribeye, and has a moderate amount of marbling, with a noticeable strip of fat running along one edge, making it a good option for those preferring a steak with less fat.
• Ribeye steaks are higher-fat cuts with large marbling throughout the meat, making them tastier and juicier. The fat in ribeye steaks is more evenly distributed, providing a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Taste

• The taste of a New York strip steak is strong and beefy. The leaner nature of the cut means it has a more beef flavor, with the fat strip adding a slight richness without overwhelming the palate.
• Ribeye steaks have a deeper flavor due to their higher fat content. The marbling in the ribeye melts during cooking, infusing the meat with a juicy, buttery taste that many steak lovers look for.

Learn More: White Meat vs. Dark Meat: Which One Is Better for You?

Tenderness

• The New York strip is tender but slightly firmer than the ribeye. It has a fine-grained texture providing good chewiness.
• Ribeye steaks are among the most tender cuts of beef. The high-fat content keeps the meat juicy and tender.

Thickness

• New York strip steaks are usually cut to a thickness of about 1 to 1.5 inches, which allows for even cooking and provides a good sear while maintaining a juicy interior.
• Ribeye steaks are generally cut thicker, usually around 1.5 to 2 inches, which allows for more marbling, improving the flavor and tenderness. This thickness also makes ribeye suitable for grilling and other high-heat cooking methods.

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Cost

• Generally, New York strip steaks are less expensive than ribeye steaks, partly due to the leaner cut and slightly lower demand than ribeye. However, prices can vary based on quality, aging process, and market conditions.
• Ribeye steaks are usually more expensive due to their higher fat content, marbling, and popularity. The rich, buttery flavor and tenderness of ribeye steaks make them a popular choice, affecting the price.

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Calories

Due to its lower fat content, a New York strip steak usually has fewer calories than a ribeye of the same size. The above nutrient tables of these two steaks show that 100 grams of NY strip have only 6.39 grams of fat while 100 grams of ribeye contains 20 grams.

Although it’s a good point calorie-wise, it is not good news for those following low-carb diets like Carnivore and Keto who should consume fatty meats.

Protein Content

Both cuts are rich sources of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle building and repair. Although they have a similar protein content, the New York strip tends to have slightly more protein. However, different cuts can have varying protein levels.

So, to wrap your head around the similarities and differences of the New York strip vs. ribeye steak and decide more easily, you can check the following table.

So, based on these factors, which of these two steaks can be a healthier choice?

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New York Strip vs Ribeye: Which One Is Healthier?

It’s essential to remember that your health goals can affect the cut of meat you consider healthy. For example, if you’re following a high-fat animal-based diet, a leaner cut is not always the best choice for you.

But if you have high levels of cholesterol or underlying health conditions like heart disease, it can be good to use leaner cuts of meat.

So, there is no one-size-fits-all solution and we need to consider our health status, diet, lifestyle, and fitness goals.

Anyhow, to compare New York strip vs. ribeye steak regarding healthiness, we need to consider several factors, including their fat content, calorie count, and nutritional benefits.

As we learned in the previous sections, contrary to ribeye, the New York strip has lower fat and so fewer calories, making it a calorie-healthier option.

Also, it generally contains less saturated fat than ribeye so it can be a slightly better option for those watching their cholesterol levels.

Additionally, grass-fed beef, in general, contains higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids than grain-fed beef. Both New York strip and ribeye can be sourced from grass-fed cattle, offering additional health benefits.

So, if we just focus on health in general, the New York strip can be a healthier option. Then again, each individual’s health status and goals define healthy and unhealthy for them.

It’s also good to remember that moderation is key, and both cuts can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in appropriate portions and prepared using healthy cooking methods, such as grilling or broiling instead of frying.

But what if we’re on a low-carb diet? Which of these two delicious meat cuts would be better for us?

Learn More: A Low-Carb Diet: Your Free Beginner Guide

Which One Is Better for a Low-Carb Diet?

Both New York strip and ribeye steaks can be good choices for a low-carb diet, like Keto and Carnivore due to their high protein and low carbohydrate content.

If you’re on a Ketogenic Diet, which is high in fats, moderate in proteins, and very low in carbohydrates to induce a fat-burning state (ketosis), you can use ribeye.

Ribeye is particularly well-suited for the Keto Diet because of its higher fat content, which helps induce and maintain ketosis. The higher fat content also increases satiety, helping keep you full and satisfied longer​.

While leaner than ribeye, the New York strip still provides a good amount of fat but in a lower quantity. It is suitable if you prefer a balance between protein and fat without excessive fat intake​​.

If you’re following a Carnivore Diet, which emphasizes high protein and fat intake while eliminating all carbohydrates, you can go for ribeye.

Ribeye is often considered one of the best choices due to its high fat content, which is necessary for ketosis and energy production in the absence of carbohydrates.

Although the New York strip steak is also a great choice for the Carnivore Diet, it provides slightly less fat, which can be good only if you prefer a leaner cut of meat while still following the diet.

If you prefer the New York strip for its leaner nature, you can complement it with other high-fat animal products like butter or fatty cuts of pork to meet your dietary fat requirements​ on a Carnivore Diet.

So, after deciding on one (or even both) of these two steaks, you need to find healthy and delicious cooking methods to preserve their nutrients while enjoying their taste.

No worries! You don’t have to crawl the net looking for easy and affordable ways to cook steak, as I have provided some of the best methods to cook New York strip and ribeye steaks below.

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How to Cook a New York Strip?

Cooking a New York strip steak to perfection involves a few key steps and tips. Here are the ingredients, instructions, and tips to cook a yummy NY strip steak. You can also check these Carnivore Diet recipes for more delicious low-carb dishes.

Ingredients:

• 1 New York strip steak
• 2-3 tbsp oil or butter
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground black pepper
• 2 cloves of garlic (optional)
• 2 springs of rosemary or thyme (optional)

Instructions:

1. Take the steak out of the refrigerator about 30-60 minutes before cooking.
2. Season both sides of the steak with salt and pepper. You can also add garlic and herbs if using.
3. Preheat the grill to high heat.
4. Coat the steak with oil or butter to prevent sticking.
5. Place the steak on the hot grill.
6. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until done as you like.
7. Rest for about 10 minutes, then serve.

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.

• Rare: 120-125°F (49-52°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+)

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Tips for a Better New York Strip Steak

• Quality Meat: Buy a high-quality steak. Look for good marbling and choose a USDA Prime or Choice grade steak.
• Dry the Steak: Pat the steak dry with paper towels before seasoning to get a better sear.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re cooking more than one steak, make sure there’s enough space in the skillet or on the grill. Overcrowding can cause steaming rather than searing.
• Use High Heat: High heat is essential for a good sear to create a tasty crust on the steak.
• Let It Rest: Never skip the resting step. It’s crucial for maintaining the steak’s juices and ensuring a tender bite.
• Slice Against the Grain: When cutting the steak, slice against the grain for a more tender texture.

Side Dishes

Depending on the special diet you’re following, you can serve the New York strip steak with sides like

• Mashed Potato
• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and parsnips roasted with oil, salt, and pepper
• Steamed or Roasted Asparagus
• Baked Potato: Serve with classic toppings like sour cream, chives, butter, and bacon bits.
• Sautéed Mushrooms
• Grilled Corn on the Cob: Brush with butter and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese or chili powder.
• Quinoa Salad: A fresh quinoa salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette
• Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries seasoned with sea salt and paprika
• Creamed Spinach
• Risotto: A creamy Parmesan risotto or a mushroom risotto
• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine, croutons, and Parmesan
• Arugula Salad: Peppery arugula with cherry tomatoes, shaved Parmesan, and a lemon vinaigrette
• Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze
• Garlic Bread
• Wild Rice Pilaf: A wild rice pilaf with cranberries and nuts
• Polenta: Creamy polenta or grilled polenta cakes
• Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans with toasted almonds and a touch of lemon zest
• Coleslaw
• Cucumber Salad: Sliced cucumbers with red onions, dill, and a light vinegar dressing

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How to Cook Ribeye?

Cooking a mouth-watering ribeye steak involves selecting the right cut, seasoning it well, and using proper cooking techniques. Here are the ingredients, instructions, and tips.

Ingredients:

• 1 ribeye steak (about 1-1.5 inches thick, 10-12 ounces)
• 2-3 tablespoons oil or unsalted butter
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 2 cloves of garlic (optional)
• 2 sprigs of rosemary or thyme (optional)

Instructions:

1. Remove the steak from the fridge and place it at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes.
2. Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
3. Season both sides of the steak with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. If using, add garlic and herbs at this stage.
4. Preheat the grill to high heat.
5. Cover both sides of the steak with oil or butter.
6. Place the steak on the grill and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side.
7. Transfer the steak to a plate and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
8. Enjoy!

To know when is the time to remove the steak from the heat, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.

• Rare: 120-125°F (49-52°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+)

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Tips for a Better Ribeye Steak

• Choose Quality Meat: Look for well-marbled USDA Prime or Choice grade ribeye.
• Dry the Steak: Pat the steak dry with paper towels before seasoning to achieve a better sear.
• Use High Heat: Ensure your skillet or grill is hot enough to create a good crust on the steak.
• Basting with Butter: Adding butter during cooking enhances the flavor and keeps the steak moist. Be careful not to burn the butter; add it after the initial sear.
• Let It Rest: Resting the steak is crucial for retaining its juices and ensuring tenderness.
• Slice Against the Grain: When ready to serve, slice the steak against the grain to get a more tender bite.

Learn More: What Is The Best Way to Cook Tomahawk Steak: Grilling or Oven-Cooking?

Side Dishes

• Blue Cheese Wedge Salad: A wedge salad topped with blue cheese dressing, bacon bits, and diced tomatoes
• Scalloped Potatoes: Thinly sliced potatoes layered with cream, cheese, and herbs, then baked until golden and bubbly
• Grilled Portobello Mushrooms: Large portobello mushrooms marinated in balsamic vinegar, garlic, and herbs, then grilled until tender and juicy
• Crispy Onion Rings: Thick-cut onion rings coated in a seasoned batter, then deep-fried until golden brown and crispy
• Mashed Potato
• Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, Brussels sprouts, and parsnips
• Steamed Asparagus
• Baked Potato: With toppings like sour cream, chives, butter, and bacon bits
• Sautéed Mushrooms
• Grilled Corn on the Cob: Brushed with butter and sprinkled with Parmesan cheese or chili powder
• Quinoa Salad: With tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette
• Sweet Potato Fries: Seasoned with sea salt and paprika
• Creamed Spinach
• Parmesan or Mushroom Risotto
• Caesar Salad: With crisp romaine, croutons, and Parmesan
• Arugula Salad: Peppery arugula with Parmesan, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette
• Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil with balsamic
• Garlic Bread
• Wild Rice Pilaf: With cranberries and nuts
• Polenta
• Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans with toasted almonds and lemon zest
• Coleslaw
• Cucumber Salad: Sliced cucumbers with red onions, dill, and vinegar

Some may ask if we can substitute the New York strip with ribeye since they have similar cooking methods. Generally, we can, but there are points to consider.

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Can Ribeye Substitute the New York Strip?

Comparing the New York strip vs. ribeye we find many similarities, so they can be substituted for each other in many recipes. However, we need to consider their differences and our goals and preferences first.

Ribeye steaks have a rich flavor, juiciness, and tenderness due to the marbling of fat throughout the meat. On the other hand, New York strip steaks are leaner with less marbling, but they still offer a good beefy flavor and tenderness.

If you're substituting ribeye for a New York strip in a recipe, keep in mind that the ribeye will likely impart a richer flavor and juiciness due to the higher fat content.

This could be desirable in some dishes but might not be suitable for others, especially if you're looking for a leaner cut of meat.

Additionally, because ribeye steaks tend to be thicker and have more fat, they may require slightly different cooking times and methods than New York strip steaks.

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Conclusion

The winner in the New York strip vs. ribeye steak is the one that suits your lifestyle, diet, health status, and fitness goals. But it’s wise to consume these yummy cuts of meat in moderation to avoid potential health problems like high cholesterol or cardiovascular issues.