When it comes to selecting the perfect steak, it all comes down to flavor, tenderness, size, and cooking style. Whether you're looking for a juicy, well-marbled cut or a lean and flavorful option, understanding the differences between steak cuts will help you make the best choice.
At our family ranch, we offer high-quality, farm-to-table beef, and we’re here to help you choose the best steak for your next meal. Let’s compare six popular steak cuts so you can find the one that best suits your taste and cooking preferences.
🥩 Ribeye: The King of Flavor
Best for: Steak lovers who crave rich marbling and intense beefy flavor.
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Size: Typically 12-18 oz
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Marbling: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Highest)
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Tenderness: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
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Flavor: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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Cooking Methods: Grilling, pan-searing, reverse-searing
Ribeye is one of the most popular cuts for a reason. It’s well-marbled, incredibly juicy, and packed with flavor. The fat content melts into the meat during cooking, creating a rich, buttery texture. If you want a steak that’s indulgent and flavorful, ribeye is the way to go!
🥩 Sirloin: The Balanced Choice
Best for: Those looking for a balance of tenderness and flavor at an affordable price.
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Size: Typically 12-16 oz
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Marbling: ⭐⭐⭐
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Tenderness: ⭐⭐⭐
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Flavor: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
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Cooking Methods: Grilling, broiling, pan-searing
Sirloin is a versatile cut with great flavor and moderate marbling. It’s leaner than a ribeye but still tender when cooked properly. This cut is a great choice for grilling, offering a delicious steak experience at a budget-friendly price.
🥩 New York Strip: Bold & Beefy
Best for: Those who want a robust, beef-forward steak with a firmer texture.
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Size: Typically 12-16 oz
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Marbling: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
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Tenderness: ⭐⭐⭐
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Flavor: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
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Cooking Methods: Grilling, pan-searing, broiling
New York Strip is known for its bold, beefy flavor and firm bite. It has a good amount of marbling but is leaner than a ribeye. This cut is perfect for those who enjoy a steak with a slightly firmer texture while still being tender and juicy.
🥩 Tenderloin (Filet Mignon): The Most Tender
Best for: Anyone who prioritizes tenderness above all else.
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Size: Typically 5-8 oz
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Marbling: ⭐⭐
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Tenderness: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Most tender)
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Flavor: ⭐⭐⭐
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Cooking Methods: Grilling, pan-searing, oven-roasting
Tenderloin is the most tender steak cut available. It has little marbling, so it’s not as flavorful as a ribeye or strip steak, but it makes up for it with its buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture. It’s perfect for special occasions or when you want an elegant, refined steak experience.
🥩 Flat Iron: Hidden Gem of Tenderness & Flavor
Best for: Those who want a budget-friendly alternative to a ribeye with great tenderness.
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Size: Typically 5-8 oz
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Marbling: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
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Tenderness: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
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Flavor: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
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Cooking Methods: Grilling, pan-searing, sous vide
Flat Iron is one of the most underrated steak cuts. It’s second only to the tenderloin in tenderness but has much more marbling and flavor. It’s a fantastic, budget-friendly option that delivers an excellent balance of texture and taste.
🥩 Flank: Lean & Flavorful
Best for: Marinating and slicing for fajitas, stir-fry, or steak salads.
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Size: Typically 12-14 oz
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Marbling: ⭐⭐
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Tenderness: ⭐⭐
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Flavor: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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Cooking Methods: Grilling, broiling, stir-frying
Flank steak is lean, flavorful, and best when marinated. While it’s not as naturally tender as other cuts, slicing it against the grain helps make it more enjoyable. It’s a great option for fajitas, tacos, and steak salads!
Which Steak is Right for You?
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For the most flavor: 🥇 Ribeye
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For a balance of price, tenderness, and flavor: 🥇 Sirloin
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For a bold, beefy bite: 🥇 New York Strip
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For ultimate tenderness: 🥇 Tenderloin
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For an underrated, budget-friendly gem: 🥇 Flat Iron
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For lean, flavorful steak dishes: 🥇 Flank
No matter which cut you choose, you can count on our farm-to-table beef for superior quality and freshness. Order from our ranch today and taste the difference! 🥩🔥
