Grilling steak is truly a culinary art; choosing the right steak cuts for the grill helps with getting those juicy results. Whether you’re using a charcoal grill, gas grill, or are just starting out, this guide will help you select the best steaks for grilling and ensure your steak night is a success.
While technically, you can grill any steak on a grill some cuts are more likely to burn or dry ending up with tough flavorless meat. On the other hand, some steak cuts are jammed packed with plenty of fat to add flavor and keep the meat juicy while searing it on the grill.
Best Steaks to Grill on a Charcoal Grill
Charcoal grills are known for their ability to impart a smoky, rich flavor, making them ideal for bold, robust cuts of steak. Grilling a steak on a grill might require a few skills but the reward is pure flavor!
- Ribeye
- Why It’s Great: Ribeye is rich in marbling, which melts during grilling to infuse the meat with incredible flavor.
- Pro Tip: Grill over high heat to get a good sear, then move to indirect heat to finish cooking, or try the reverse sear method.
- Porterhouse
- Why It’s Great: A premium cut featuring both tenderloin and strip steak, offering two textures in one.
- Pro Tip: Use the two-zone grilling method to cook the thicker part evenly without overcooking the tenderloin.
- T-Bone
- Why It’s Great: Similar to the porterhouse but with a smaller tenderloin section, it grills beautifully over an open flame.
- Pro Tip: Brush with olive oil and season with Stella On Fire Co.’s Gypsy Seasoning for a smoky kick.
Best Steaks to Grill on a Gas Grill
Gas grills offer precise temperature control, perfect for thinner cuts or steaks that require a quick sear.
- New York Strip
- Why It’s Great: A balance of tenderness and beefy flavor, it’s a classic choice for gas grilling.
- Pro Tip: Preheat the grill to high heat and cook for 3-5 minutes per side for a perfect medium-rare finish.
- Flat Iron Steak
- Why It’s Great: Known for its tenderness and affordability, it’s a great alternative to pricier cuts.
- Pro Tip: Marinate before grilling to enhance its natural flavor and cook over medium-high heat.
- Sirloin Steak
- Why It’s Great: Lean, versatile, and flavorful, sirloin is a dependable option for gas grills.
- Pro Tip: Avoid overcooking and let it rest for 5 minutes after grilling to lock in juices.
Easiest Steaks to Cook for Beginners
If you’re new to grilling, these steaks are forgiving and simple to cook:
- Skirt Steak
- Why It’s Great: Skirt steak is thin and cooks quickly, perfect for tacos or stir-fries.
- Pro Tip: Grill for just a few minutes on each side to avoid overcooking.
- Flank Steak
- Why It’s Great: Flank steak‘s bold flavor shines with a good marinade and quick grilling.
- Pro Tip: Slice against the grain after cooking for maximum tenderness.
- Filet Mignon
- Why It’s Great: While premium, its thickness makes it easy to control on the grill.
- Pro Tip: Wrap in bacon for added flavor and grill over indirect heat to avoid flare-ups.
Why Are Some Steaks Easier to Cook on a Charcoal Grill and others on a Gas Grill, Especially for Beginners?
Grilling with charcoal adds a smoky flavor to steaks, but it also requires more skill to manage heat compared to gas grills. Simply put, when using a charcoal grill, you must know how to start the charcoal, control temperature using airflow, and handle flare-ups.
Things to Consider
Thickness and Cooking Time
- Easier Steaks: Thin cuts like skirt steak or flank steak cook quickly, making them less intimidating for beginners. They don’t require extended monitoring or advanced techniques to achieve a perfect doneness.
- Challenging Steaks: Thick cuts, like a porterhouse or ribeye, take longer and require precise heat management to cook evenly without burning the outside.
Fat Content
- Easier Steaks: Leaner cuts like sirloin or flat iron steak are less prone to flare-ups caused by dripping fat, which can be overwhelming for beginners.
- Challenging Steaks: Highly marbled cuts like ribeye are delicious but can cause significant flare-ups on a charcoal grill, requiring quick adjustments to prevent charring.
Tips for Perfectly Grilled Steaks
- Season Generously: Stella On Fire Co.’s Gypsy Seasoning enhances the natural flavor of beef, making it a must-have for grilling.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Aim for 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, and 150°F for medium-well.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow steaks to rest for 5-10 minutes to retain juices and enhance flavor.
FAQs
Q: What’s the best steak for beginners to grill?
A: Skirt steak or flank steak are excellent choices due to their quick cooking times and forgiving nature.
Q: How do I get a good sear on my steak?
A: Preheat your grill to high heat, oil the grates, and pat the steak dry before placing it on the grill.
Q: Should I marinate all steaks?
A: Not necessarily. Rich cuts like ribeye don’t need a marinade, but leaner cuts like flank or sirloin benefit from one.
Enhance Your Steak Grilling with Stella On Fire Co.
Make your grilled steaks unforgettable with Stella On Fire Co.’s premium seasonings. From smoky to savory blends, our seasonings are crafted to bring out the best in every cut. Visit our Beef Recipes section for more grilling tips and ideas.