The Most Common Steak Cuts, From Worst to Best

Sizzling Steaks: Ranking the Best Cuts from Top to Bottom

steak-cuts

Introduction: A Symphony of Steak Cuts

Welcome to the marvelous world of steak cuts! With a plethora of options to choose from, we'll guide you through the delightful journey of discovering the best cuts of steak, from the most tender and luxurious to the budget-friendly yet flavorful. Join us as we explore and rank the symphony of flavors, textures, and cooking techniques for these delectable meats.

The Art of Butchering: Understanding Meat Cuts and Techniques

When it comes to choosing the perfect steak, understanding the technical side of meat cuts and butchering can make a significant difference in the flavor, tenderness, and overall quality of your meal. In this section, we'll delve into the world of butchering, exploring the intricacies of different cuts and how they impact the final product on your plate.

Primal Cuts and Subprimal Cuts

primal-cuts

At the most basic level, beef is divided into primal cuts, which are large sections of the animal. These primal cuts include the chuck, rib, short loin, sirloin, round, brisket, plate, and flank. Butchers then break down these primal cuts into smaller, more manageable subprimal cuts, which are often what you see in the meat case at your local grocery store or butcher shop.

Some of the more popular subprimal cuts you may encounter include the ribeye steak, T-bone steak, top sirloin steak, and New York strip steak, among others. These cuts can vary in tenderness, flavor, and ideal cooking methods, depending on the specific muscles and connective tissue involved.

Marbling and Beefy Flavor

marbling

One critical factor to consider when selecting a cut of steak is marbling, which refers to the fat distribution within the meat. Cuts with a higher degree of marbling, such as the ribeye or strip steak, tend to be juicier and more flavorful, as the fat melts during cooking, imparting a rich, beefy flavor to the meat.

Conversely, leaner cuts, like the top sirloin or flank steak, may have less marbling and thus, a milder flavor. However, these leaner cuts can still be incredibly tender and delicious when cooked properly and paired with the right seasonings or sauces.

Cooking Techniques and Meat Tenderness

cooking-techniques

Different cuts of steak may require specific cooking techniques to achieve the best results. For example, tender cuts like filet mignon, New York strip, and ribeye steaks are ideal candidates for high heat cooking methods, such as grilling, pan-searing, or broiling, as these techniques help to create a beautiful crust while keeping the interior juicy and tender.

On the other hand, tougher cuts, like chuck steak or bottom sirloin, often benefit from slow, low heat cooking methods, like braising or stewing. These methods help to break down the connective tissue within the meat, resulting in a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that is perfect for dishes like pot roast or beef stew.

Slicing and Presentation

Slicing

Once your steak is cooked to perfection, the way you slice and present it can also impact the overall experience. For cuts with a pronounced grain, like flank or skirt steak, be sure to slice thinly and against the grain to minimize chewiness and ensure a tender bite. When it comes to thicker, more marbled cuts like the T-bone or ribeye, a more generous, thicker slice will help showcase the beautiful marbling and tender meat within.

In conclusion, understanding the technical side of meat cuts and butchering can significantly enhance your steak-eating experience. By considering factors like primal and subprimal cuts, marbling, cooking techniques, and presentation, you'll be better equipped to choose the perfect cut of steak and cook it to perfection, ensuring a delicious and satisfying meal every time.

1. Filet Mignon

mignon

Filet mignon, the epitome of tender and luxurious steak cuts, is sourced from the tenderloin section of the cow. The best cut of steak ever is renowned for its buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture, making it a popular choice for special occasions and fine dining experiences. Due to its lean nature, it's best cooked to medium rare or medium to preserve its tenderness.

To make the most of this decadent tenderloin steak incredible tenderness, consider serving it with a rich, creamy sauce, like a classic béarnaise or a decadent mushroom sauce. Pair it with a side of silky mashed potatoes or delicate steamed asparagus for an elegant, unforgettable meal that's sure to impress your guests. Alternatively, you can enhance the filet mignon's mild flavor by wrapping it in bacon and pan-searing or grilling it to add a smoky, savory dimension to the dish. Finish your creation with a drizzle of truffle oil or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for an extra touch of luxury.

2. Ribeye Steak

ribeye-steak

The ribeye steak is a favorite among steak enthusiasts for its mouthwatering combination of marbling, juiciness, and intense beefy flavor. This well-marbled cut of steak comes from the rib section of the cow, and it can be found both bone-in and boneless. The generous marbling ensures a delicious, juicy steak that's bursting with flavor.

When cooking a ribeye, it's essential to sear it over high heat to develop a beautiful crust, locking in the juiciness and enhancing the beefy flavor. Consider serving your ribeye steak with a side of garlic and herb roasted potatoes or a fresh, crisp salad for a tasty, balanced meal. For an added touch, top it off with a dollop of compound butter to complement the rich, beefy flavor. Another option is to marinate the ribeye in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs before grilling, which adds an extra layer of flavor to this already delicious cut. If you prefer a bone-in ribeye, also known as a cowboy steak, you'll enjoy the enhanced flavor that comes from cooking the meat on the bone.

3. Prime Rib

prime-rib

Prime rib, also known as standing rib roast, is a luxurious and delicious cut that comes from the same section as the ribeye cut but is left as a whole roast with the rib bones intact. This cut is perfect for special occasions, holiday dinners, or when you want to treat your guests to an impressive, mouthwatering centerpiece.

To prepare your prime rib roasts, season it generously with coarse salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, and then roast it in the oven at a low temperature to ensure even cooking and a juicy, tender interior. You can also enhance the flavor of your prime rib by rubbing it with a mixture of fresh herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, and sage, and allowing it to rest in the refrigerator for several hours or even overnight before roasting.

Once your prime rib has reached your desired level of doneness, allow it to rest for at least 15-20 minutes before carving to ensure that the juices redistribute evenly throughout the meat, resulting in a succulent and flavorful roast.

Serve this incredibly tender cut of steak with a side of classic, creamy horseradish sauce or a rich, savory au jus for dipping. Pair it with a side of buttery, garlic-infused green beans or a heaping helping of golden-brown, crispy Yorkshire puddings for a truly unforgettable meal.

Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or simply want to try your hand at preparing this magnificent cut of meat, prime rib is a delicious and impressive choice that is sure to leave a lasting impression on your guests.

4. Porterhouse Steak

porterhouse

The porterhouse steak is a true indulgence for steak lovers, as it features both the tender filet mignon and the flavorful strip steak separated by a T-shaped bone. This massive cut is perfect for sharing or for satisfying the heartiest of appetites. Grilling your porterhouse will bring out the best in its flavor and texture, ensuring a tender and juicy meal.

To elevate your porterhouse experience, serve it alongside a side of creamy scalloped potatoes or a bright, zesty slaw for a satisfying meal. Don't forget a flavorful sauce, such as a classic red wine reduction or a tangy horseradish cream, to complement the richness of the meat. To bring out even more flavor, consider dry-aging the porterhouse before cooking to concentrate its beefy taste and further tenderize the meat. You can also opt for a reverse sear, which involves cooking the steak at a low temperature before finishing it with a high-heat sear, resulting in a perfectly cooked, tender steak with a delicious crust.

5. New York Strip Steak

new-york

The New York strip steak, also known as the strip steak or top loin steak, is a popular choice for its balance of tenderness and flavor. This cut of steak is perfect for grilling and it can be cooked to medium rare or medium for optimal tenderness. The strip steaks robust flavor can stand up to bold seasonings and sauces, making it a versatile option for a variety of dishes.

Serve your New York strip with a side of sautéed mushrooms and a rich, red wine reduction for a sophisticated, restaurant-quality meal at home. For a more casual option, pair it with a side of crispy French fries and a simple green salad for a satisfying, well-rounded meal. To add a touch of smoky flavor, try grilling the New York strip steak over charcoal or wood chips. Alternatively, you can prepare the steak using a sous vide method, followed by a quick sear in a cast iron skillet to create a perfect crust and ensure an evenly cooked, tender steak.

6. T-Bone Steak

t-bone

T-bone steaks are a classic cut that features a distinctive T-shaped bone separating the tenderloin and strip sections. These steaks are perfect for special occasions, as they offer both the tenderness of the filet mignon and the robust flavor of the strip steak. Grilling or pan-searing your T-bone will bring out the best in its flavor and texture, ensuring a tender and juicy meal.

Serve your T-bone steak with a side of buttery, garlic-infused mashed potatoes or a colorful medley of roasted vegetables for a hearty, satisfying meal. To enhance the whole T-bone steak's natural flavors, try marinating it in a mixture of olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, and fresh herbs before grilling or searing. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also try a "Pittsburgh-style" T-bone, which involves searing the steak at extremely high temperatures to create a deeply caramelized crust while keeping the interior rare and juicy.

7. Top Sirloin

top-sirloin

Top sirloin is a budget-friendly cut that still offers a great balance of flavor and tenderness. This lean steak is an excellent choice for those looking for a healthier option without sacrificing taste. It's best cooked to medium rare or medium to maintain its juiciness and tenderness. You can also find it with the fat cap on for extra richness.

Pair your top sirloin with a side of grilled asparagus or a light, lemony quinoa salad for a nutritious and delicious meal. To enhance the natural flavors of the top sirloin, try marinating it in a simple mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger before grilling or pan-searing. Alternatively, you can slice the cooked top sirloin thinly and serve it in stir-fries or fajitas for a flavorful, protein-packed addition to your favorite dishes. The top sirloin with or without fat cap attached is a perfect family meal.

8. Flat Iron Steak

flat-Iron

Flat iron steak, also known as top blade steak, is a tender and flavorful cut that's perfect for grilling or pan-searing. This lesser-known cut offers a great value, as it's relatively inexpensive but still delivers a satisfying beefy flavor and tender texture.

Serve your flat iron steak with a side of crispy, herb-roasted fingerling potatoes or a tangy, fresh chimichurri sauce for a tasty, budget-friendly meal. To ensure maximum tenderness, be sure to slice the cooked steak against the grain into thin slices. You can also marinate the flat iron steak in a mixture of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and fresh rosemary before cooking to infuse it with even more flavor.

9. Flank Steak

flank-steak

Flank steak is a lean, flavorful cut that's perfect for a variety of dishes, from fajitas to stir-fries. This cut comes from the abdominal muscles of the cow, and while it's a bit tougher than some of the other cuts on this list, it can still be quite tender and delicious when prepared correctly.

To make the most of your flank steak, it's essential to marinate it for several hours in a mixture of acidic and flavorful ingredients, such as lime juice, soy sauce, and garlic. This will help to tenderize the meat and add depth to its natural flavors. Cook the flank steak quickly over high heat, either on the grill or in a cast iron skillet, to achieve a nice sear while keeping the interior juicy. Be sure to slice the cooked steak thinly and against the grain to ensure tender, easy-to-chew bites.

Serve your flank steak with a side of fluffy cilantro-lime rice or a vibrant, crunchy Asian slaw for a delicious, well-rounded meal. Alternatively, use the cooked and sliced flank steak in tacos, fajitas, or stir-fries for a versatile, flavorful addition to your favorite dishes.

10. Skirt Steak

skirt-steak

Skirt steaks a truly great steak is another lean, delicious cut that's ideal for grilling or searing in a pan this cut comes from the diaphragm muscles of the cow and is often used in dishes like fajitas and tacos. It's a bit tougher than some other cuts but, when cooked and sliced properly, can still be incredibly tender, and delicious. This steak gets a bad wrap for being a tough steak but this couldn't be further from the truth!

To get the most out of your meal and avoid a tough steak, before you cook skirt steak marinate it in a mixture of acidic and flavorful ingredients, such as citrus juice, soy sauce, and fresh herbs, to help tenderize the meat and add depth to its natural flavors. Cook skirt steak quickly over intense heat to achieve a nice sear and keep the interior juicy. As with the flank steak, be sure to slice the cooked skirt steak thinly and against the grain to ensure tender, easy-to-chew bites.

Serve your skirt steak with a side of zesty, fresh pico de gallo or a creamy, tangy avocado crema for a delightful, flavor-packed meal. You can also use the cooked and sliced skirt steak in a variety of dishes, such as fajitas, tacos, or even a hearty steak salad.

11. Hanger Steak

hanger-steak

Hanger steak, also known as the butcher's steak, is a flavorful and relatively tender cut that's ideal for grilling or pan-searing. This lesser-known steak cut comes from the diaphragm area of the cow and is named because it "hangs" between the rib and the loin. While it's not as tender as some of the top cuts, it offers a great balance of flavor and tenderness at a lower price point.

To prepare your hanger steak, marinate it in a mixture of red wine, garlic, and fresh herbs to help tenderize the meat and enhance its natural flavors. Cook the steak over high heat, either on the grill or in a cast iron skillet, to achieve a nice sear while keeping the interior juicy. As with other tougher cuts of steak, be sure to slice the cooked hanger steak thinly and against the grain to ensure tender bites.

Serve your hanger steak with a side of garlicky, Parmesan-roasted broccoli or a simple arugula salad dressed with a tangy lemon vinaigrette for a delicious, satisfying meal. Alternatively, try using the cooked and sliced hanger steak in a hearty steak sandwich or piled high on a warm, crusty baguette with caramelized onions and melted blue cheese for an indulgent, mouthwatering treat.

With so many delicious cuts of steak to choose from, there's truly something for everyone, whether you're celebrating a special occasion with a luxurious filet mignon or enjoying a casual weeknight dinner with a tender and flavorful top sirloin. By understanding the unique characteristics and ideal cooking methods for each cut of steak, you can make the most of your chosen steak cut and create a delicious, satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends.

12. Sirloin Steak

sirloin-steak

Sirloin steak is a versatile and budget-friendly cut that offers a good balance of tenderness and flavor. It's perfect for grilling, pan-searing, or broiling and can be cooked to medium rare or medium for optimal tenderness.

Serve your steak with a side of creamy, buttery mashed potatoes or a crisp Caesar salad for a classic, crowd-pleasing meal. To enhance the natural flavors of the sirloin, try rubbing it with a mixture of coarse salt, black pepper, and garlic powder before grilling or searing. You can also slice the cooked sirloin thinly and use it in a variety of dishes, such as stir-fries, fajitas, or even a hearty steak sandwich.

13. Strip Steak

strip-steak

Strip steak, also known as Kansas City strip loin steak or top loin steak, is a popular choice for its excellent balance of tenderness and flavor. It's perfect for grilling, or broiling and can be cooked to medium rare or medium for optimal tenderness.

Pair your strip steak with a side of rich, creamy macaroni and cheese or a colorful medley of grilled vegetables for a delicious and satisfying meal. To bring out the best in its flavor and texture, try marinating the strip steak in a mixture of olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, and fresh herbs before grilling or searing. Alternatively, you can serve the cooked strip steak with a dollop of herb-infused compound butter for a decadent and flavorful finish.

14. Round Steaks

round-steaks

Round steaks, such as top round, bottom round, and eye of round, are lean and flavorful cuts that come from the hindquarters of the cow. While these cuts of flank steaks are not as tender as some of the other options on this list, the round steaks can still be quite tasty and satisfying when prepared correctly.

To make the most of your round steak, marinate it for several hours in a mixture of acidic and flavorful ingredients, such as red wine, soy sauce, and fresh herbs, to help tenderize the meat and add depth to its natural flavors. Cook the steak quickly over high heat, either on the grill or in a cast iron skillet, to achieve a nice sear and keep the interior juicy. Be sure to slice the cooked steak thinly and against the grain to ensure tender, easy-to-chew bites.

Serve your round steak with a side of garlic-infused green beans or a rustic, herb-roasted potato medley for a delicious, well-rounded meal. You can also use the cooked and sliced round steak in a variety of dishes, such as stroganoff, beef and broccoli, or even a hearty steak and mushroom pie.

15. Chuck Steak

chuck-steak

Chuck steak is a flavorful and affordable cut that comes from the shoulder of the cow. While it's not as tender as some of the other cuts on this list, it can still be quite delicious and satisfying when cooked properly, such as braising or slow-cooking.

To get the most out of your chuck steak, season it with a flavorful rub or marinade, and then cook it low and slow using a method like braising or slow-cooking in a Dutch oven or slow cooker. This will help to break down the various connective tissue and tissues in the meat, resulting in a tender, succulent dish.

Serve your chuck steak with a side of creamy, cheesy polenta or a heaping helping of buttery egg noodles for a comforting, hearty meal. You can also use the cooked chuck steak in a variety of dishes, such as beef stew, pot roast, or even pulled beef sandwiches with a tangy, smoky barbecue sauce.

16. Bottom Sirloin Steak

bottom-sirloin

Bottom sirloin steak is a lean and flavorful cut that comes from the lower portion of the sirloin. While it's not as tender as some of the other cuts on this list, it can still be quite delicious and satisfying when prepared correctly, such as marinating and grilling or pan-searing.

To make the most of your bottom sirloin steak, marinate it in a mixture of acidic and flavorful ingredients, such as lemon juice, soy sauce, and fresh herbs, to help tenderize the meat and add depth to its natural flavors. Cook the steak quickly over high heat, either on the grill or in a cast iron skillet, to achieve a nice sear and keep the interior juicy. Be sure to slice the cooked steak thinly and against the grain to ensure tender, easy-to-chew bites.

Serve your bottom sirloin steak with a side of crispy, oven-roasted Brussels sprouts or a zesty, refreshing cucumber salad for a delicious, well-rounded meal. You can also use the cooked and sliced bottom sirloin steak in a variety of dishes, such as fajitas, tacos, or even a hearty steak and vegetable stir-fry.

17. Denver Steak

denver-steak

Denver steak, a relatively lesser-known cut, is a tender and flavorful option that comes from the under-blade section of the chuck. This cut is gaining popularity among steak enthusiasts due to its perfect balance of tenderness and beefy flavor, making it an excellent choice for grilling or pan-searing.

To prepare this truly great steak, season it with coarse salt, black pepper, and your choice of dried herbs or spices, such as smoked paprika or cumin, to complement its natural flavors. You can also marinate the steak in a mixture of olive oil, soy sauce, and fresh herbs, like rosemary or thyme, for a few hours to enhance its taste and tenderness.

Cook the Denver steak over a high setting, either on the grill or in a cast iron skillet, to achieve a nice sear while maintaining a juicy interior. Be sure to rest the steak for a few minutes after cooking, allowing the juices to redistribute and resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite.

Serve your this great steak with a side of roasted sweet potatoes or a fresh, vibrant arugula salad with shaved Parmesan for a delicious, well-rounded meal. You can also use the cooked and sliced Denver steak in a variety of dishes, such as fajitas, tacos, or even a savory, satisfying steak and mushroom risotto.

As you continue to explore the world of steak, don't hesitate to give the Denver steak a try for its unique combination of tenderness, flavor, and versatility in cooking methods.

1 comment

I loved how you talked about the Denver steak and how it’s best for grilling or pan-searing because of the perfect balance between beefy flavor and tenderness. My little sister prefers pan-seared beef, while I like it grilled. I think Denver steak will suit both of our palates. https://www.premiummeats.com.au/

Elaina D'Agostino December 12, 2023

Leave a comment

All comments are moderated before being published

Top Products