7 Budget-Friendly Steak Cuts You Might Be Overlooking
Enjoying a delicious steak doesn't have to break the bank. Many flavorful cuts of steak cost far less than ribeye or filet mignon but taste just as satisfying when cooked correctly.
These underrated cuts are often overlooked at the butcher counter, yet they deliver big value and bold flavor. Here are seven budget-friendly steaks worth adding to your grocery list.
Flat Iron Steak
The flat iron is a tender cut taken from the shoulder, known for its fine grain and bold beef flavor. It's great for grilling, pan-searing, or slicing thin for sandwiches.
Its even thickness helps it cook perfectly every time. With a simple marinade and careful cooking, it rivals more expensive steaks in both tenderness and taste.
Hanger Steak
Hanger steak, sometimes called the "butcher's cut," has a deep, meaty taste and a tender texture when cooked medium-rare.
Because it’s so flavorful, it doesn’t need much seasoning. A quick sear in a hot pan is all it takes to make this affordable cut shine.
Skirt Steak
Skirt steak is long, thin, and full of flavor. It's best cooked quickly over high heat and sliced thinly across the grain.
Often used in fajitas, it absorbs marinades beautifully and stays juicy if not overcooked.
Sirloin Tip Steak
Sirloin tip is a lean cut from the round. It's less marbled than pricier steaks but works well when marinated or sliced thin.
Cook it quickly to avoid toughness. It’s great for stir-fries or fajitas and delivers plenty of flavor without the high cost of premium cuts.
Flank Steak
Flank steak is lean but packed with bold beef flavor. It benefits from a good marinade and quick cooking to keep it tender.
Grill or sear it, then slice thinly against the grain. It's perfect for stir-fries, salads, or tacos.
Chuck Eye Steak
Often called the "poor man's ribeye," the chuck eye comes from the same part of the cow but costs much less. It’s rich, tender, and well-marbled when cooked over high heat.
A quick sear or grill brings out its juicy texture. Treat it like a ribeye and you’ll get similar results at a fraction of the price.
Tri-Tip Steak
Tri-tip comes from the bottom sirloin and combines tenderness with rich flavor. It's popular for roasting or grilling, developing a caramelized crust and juicy center.
Slice it thinly after resting for the best results. Tri-tip feeds a family on a budget while still offering that classic steakhouse experience.
Great flavor, lower cost
These budget-friendly steak cuts prove that great flavor doesn't require a premium price tag. With the right cooking methods (high heat, quick searing, and proper slicing), these steaks can rival any expensive cut.
Next time you’re shopping for meat, skip the ribeye and try one of these options instead. Your wallet and your taste buds will thank you.