Summer grilling often brings to mind classic cuts like ribeye, striploin, or filet mignon. While these are delicious, many lesser-known beef cuts offer incredible flavor and texture, often at a better price. Exploring these underrated cuts can elevate your grilling game and introduce new tastes to your summer cookouts. This guide highlights some of the best underrated beef cuts for grilling and shares practical tips on how to prepare them at home.

Why Try The Less Popular Beef Cuts?

Many beef cuts get overlooked because they require a bit more attention or preparation; however, these cuts often have rich flavors and unique textures that stand out when grilled properly. Choosing underrated cuts can also be more budget-friendly, allowing you to enjoy premium taste without the premium price tag.

Grilling these cuts can be rewarding because they respond well to high heat and quick cooking, locking in juices and flavor. Plus, experimenting with different cuts adds variety to your meals and impresses guests with something unexpected.

Top Underrated Beef Cuts for Grilling

1. Hanger Steak

Known as the "butcher’s steak," hanger steak hangs from the diaphragm of the cow. It has a robust, beefy flavor and a tender texture when cooked right. This cut is best grilled quickly over high heat to medium-rare or medium doneness.

Preparation tips:

• Marinate for 1-2 hours with olive oil, garlic, and herbs to enhance flavor.

• Grill for about 4-5 minutes per side.

• Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.

2. Flat Iron Steak

Flat iron steak comes from the shoulder and has a good balance of tenderness and marbling. It’s perfect for grilling and often cheaper than ribeye or striploins. Top this steak off with some chimichurri sauce for the ultimate flavor experience.

Preparation tips:

• Season simply with salt and pepper or a dry rub/marinade of your choice

• Grill over medium-high heat for 4-6 minutes per side.

• Cover the steak & let it rest.

• Slice thinly across the grain for the best texture.

3. Tri-Tip

Tri-tip is a triangular cut from the bottom sirloin. It’s lean but flavorful and popular in West Coast barbecue. It grills well and can be sliced thin for sandwiches or served as a main dish.

Preparation tips:

• Use a dry rub with smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper.

• Grill over indirect heat for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally.

• Rest for 10 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.

4. Outside Skirt Steak

Outside skirt steak is a long, thin cut from the diaphragm muscle. It has intense flavor but can be tough if overcooked. It’s ideal for quick grilling and slicing thin for tacos or salads.

Preparation tips:

• Marinate for at least 30 minutes to tenderize.

• Grill on high heat for 3-4 minutes per side.

• Cut against the grain into thin strips.

  
  

How to Prepare These Cuts at Home

Choosing the Right Cut

Visit your local butcher or grocery store and ask for these specific cuts. These cuts are usually available but may not be displayed as prominently as the other popular cuts. If you have any questions about preparation, grilling techniques, trimming, or portion sizes, butchers are always there to give advice!

Marinating and Seasoning

Marinating can enhance flavor and tenderness, especially for cuts like skirt steak and hanger steak. Use simple marinades with acid (like vinegar or citrus), oil, and herbs. For cuts like flat iron and tri-tip, a dry rub with salt, pepper, and spices works well.

Grilling Tips

• Preheat your grill to high heat for searing.

• Use direct heat for thinner cuts like skirt and hanger steak.

• For thicker cuts like tri-tip, start with indirect heat to cook through, then finish with direct heat for a crust.

• Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking: aim for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.

• Let the meat rest after grilling to allow juices to redistribute.

  
  

Serving Suggestions

• Slice thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness.

• Serve with fresh chimichurri, garlic butter, or a squeeze of lemon.

• Pair with grilled vegetables, corn on the cob, or a fresh salad.

Benefits of Exploring Underrated Cuts

Exploring these cuts gives you access to bold flavors and textures not found in more common steaks, and it's a fantastic way to impress your friends and family with something new. Plus, these cuts often come at a lower price, making them a smart choice for summer grilling on a budget.

Experimenting with these cuts can also improve your grilling skills. Each cut has its own ideal cooking method and timing, so mastering them builds confidence and versatility.

Next time you fire up the grill, send pictures of your finished product to marketing.imports@jbssa.com! We'd love to see your flavorful creations!