Planning a summer cookout? The right cut of meat makes a huge difference when determining the best steaks to grill or BBQ. Some steaks are known for their rich marbling and juicy tenderness, while others are better suited for specific dishes like stir-fries or fajitas.
For this reason, knowing which cuts are worth the price and which are the best steaks for grilling can make it easier to choose the right option for your meal. To help you choose the best option for your next BBQ, we’ll break down the different cuts, share simple tips to make your steak even better, and explore the best steaks to grill.
The Best Steaks to Grill
Wagyu Filet Mignon Steak
There’s a reason why Filet Mignon has the reputation it has. This type of cut is one of the most tender, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s guaranteed to wow your friends and family at a potluck. While it’s milder than a ribeye or strip steak, it still has an incredible flavor (especially when it’s BBQed to perfection). Wagyu Filet Mignon is an excellent choice, as it has a bit more marbling that adds a layer of richness without needing heavy seasoning or sauces.
Flat Iron Steak
After the Filet Mignon, a nice slab of flat iron is the second most tender cut of steak there is. Cut from the chuck (shoulder), flat iron is the perfect combination of juicy texture and beefy flavor. It’s also one of the few cuts that stays fairly tender even when cooked well done, so it’s a good choice if you prefer your steak more fully cooked.
Cowboy Steak
With a name like Cowboy Steak, you know you’re in for a seriously impressive meal! It’s a giant bone-in ribeye that clocks in around 2 pounds, so it’s large enough to serve two hungry mouths. What we also love is that it’s been cleaned of fat and cut for presentation (similar to a Tomahawk), making it a great option for special events or parties.
New York Strip Steak
When it comes to the best steaks for grilling, many people opt for the New York Strip. This is because it’s a lean cut that can develop a great crust when grilled. While it’s naturally lean, you can get a bigger, bolder flavor if you choose something dry-aged. That way, you can get that crispy sear on the outside while still keeping the inside juicy and flavorful.
Top Sirloin
Top Sirloin is a great all-around steak that’s both tasty and affordable. It’s much leaner than a ribeye or strip steak, which means it’s lower in fat and calories. However, it does have a reputation for being a tougher piece of meat. To counteract this, it’s best to cook on high heat and to slice against the grain for a better chew. You can also make sure your meat is marinated (Chimichurri or Whisky are good options) before cooking.
T-Bone
If you’re looking for the true steakhouse experience, go for a classic T-Bone. With a tender filet on one side of the bone and a flavorful strip steak on the other, a T-Bone is really the best of both worlds. As an added benefit, it’s one of those visually striking meats that immediately stands out on the plate, so it’s great for impressing your guests.
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Flank Steak
Don’t have a lot of time to whip up dinner? Then a flank steak is one of the best steaks to grill. Because it’s lean and flat, it cooks in a fraction of the time as other meats. And while it’s not considered a tender cut, it’s extremely flavorful, especially if you marinate it beforehand. Flank steaks can be used for a variety of dishes, including fajitas, steak salads, and even tacos.
Tips for Cooking the Best Steak
- Bring the steak to room temperature for 20-30 minutes: This is key for prepping steak as it allows it to cook more evenly on the grill.
- Pat the steak dry: By removing excess moisture, you can get a better sear and crust on your steak.
- Use high heat: This will create a crust while locking in flavor and juices on the inside.
- Experiment with seasoning: It’s great to use different types of seasoning, but sometimes all a steak needs is a little salt and pepper.
- Understand the cut: Not all steaks should be cooked the same way or for the same amount of time. Leaner steaks can dry out a lot faster than thicker cuts.
- Use a meat thermometer: The last thing you want is an overcooked steak! A thermometer is one of those BBQ accessories to help you get the perfect temperature and doneness each time.
- Let it rest: After grilling, let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes so the juices can redistribute around the meat.
Related: How to Meal Prep with Steak
Best Steaks to Grill: Doneness Levels Explained
Rare (120–125°F)
Rare steaks have a cool red center and are very tender and soft. Best for ribeye or filet mignon.
Medium Rare (130–135°F)
Thanks to the warm, juicy center, it’s popular choice for many cuts, including ribeye, New York strip, and T-Bone.
Medium (140–145°F)
Medium steaks have a warm pink center and a firmer texture, which is good for top sirloin or flank steaks.
Medium-Well (150–155°F)
This is ideal for fattier cuts (or for people who prefer less redness), as the center of the steak is only a little pink.
Well Done (160°F+)
Well done steaks are fully cooked in the center, so there’s no redness or pink. Leaner cuts that are cooked well done may be dry, although those with more marbling can still be tender.
Related: How to Grill Steak Like a Chef – 5 Amazing Tips
The Best Steaks to Grill for Your BBQ
When it comes to the best steaks to grill, there’s no right or wrong answer. It ultimately depends on your taste preference and budget. As long as you know how to choose and cook each cut properly, you can turn almost any steak into a delicious, satisfying meal. And if you are looking for other options to serve at your BBQ, here are some great seafood dishes that’ll taste great on the grill!
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