17 Varieties Of The Best Steaks Ranked

If you love steak then you will know that there are a great many cuts of steak that all look and taste different. But which ones are the best?

Well, in this article we are going to look at answering that question for you. Steak is decadent, flavorsome, tasty and absolutely in your price range if you get the right cut. 

With all of that being said, it is finally time to start looking at these varieties of steak. So, without further ado, let us take a look at seventeen varieties of steak and rank them so that you do not have to. 

Let’s dive right in!

1. Ribeye Steak

This steak is sometimes known as Delmonico steak and once you get a bite of this popular variety of steak there is no going back.

It tends to be one of the fattier varieties of steak which just adds to the flavor and makes it all the more tender and delicious. 

These steaks have a wonderful marbling which is why this is one of the most flavorsome and tasty steaks of them all.

But because of the high fat content it can be hazardous to cook on the grill. But barbecued steak is wonderfully flavorful and in our opinion it is the best way to enjoy a steak. 

Pros And Cons 

In this section we are going to take a look at the pros and cons of using this cut of steak. So, without further ado, let us get started!

Pros

  • Tends to be a More Budget Friendly steak option
  • There is amazing marbling in this cut of meat which creates phenomenal flavor. 
  • The thickness of this steak makes it perfect for grilling or pan frying. 

Cons 

  • Because of the fat content of this steak it can cause flare-ups. 
  • This steak tends to shrink quite a bit when it is getting cooked.

2. Tenderloin Steak

This steak comes from the loin of a cow. But the tenderloin is also called the filet Mignon steak. This part of the cow gets very little exercise which is why it is so tender and does not contain much connective tissue.

It is an incredibly tender piece of steak which does not have a high fat content. For this reason it is a fantastic choice for those of you that are looking for a healthy cut of meat. 

Cooking A Tenderloin Steak 

In this instance, we are going to look at how you can pan fry a steak to perfection. This simple method is one of the most common methods of cooking this tasty steak.

Pros And Cons 

In this section we are going to take a look at the pros and cons of using this cut of steak. So, without further ado, let us get started!

Pros

  • Cooks perfectly in a pan and on the grill
  • Tastes amazing along with bacon
  •  One of the most tender cuts of steak.
  • This cut of meat is very lean and perfect for those of you that want something healthy.  

Cons 

  • This can be a very expensive steak cut. 
  • The flavor of this steak has a tendency to be less beefy in flavor than other cuts. 

3. Strip Steak

Also known as New York Strip Steak, this cut of meat is a very tasty and famous cut. It comes from the short loin of a cow and it has a very strong beefy flavor.

But that is not all, the strip steak also has pretty good marbling which helps to add flavor and tenderize the meat beautifully. 

The best way to enjoy this steak is by pan frying it. Just take care not to over cook it as it can easily become chewy if cooked for too long. 

Pros And Cons 

In this section we are going to take a look at the pros and cons of using this cut of steak. So, without further ado, let us get started!

Pros

  • If you like your steak rich and beefy then this cut is perfect for you. 
  • The marbling for this steak is almost always amazing. 
  • This is a very tender cut of steak 

Cons 

  • This steak tends to be quite thin which makes it harder to cook to perfection.
  • This variety of steak can cost quite a bit of money.

4. Hanger Steak

This is one of the less well known steaks but it is no less delicious.

It is a cut of meat that comes from the bellow of a cow, and as the name suggests this cut of meat hangs from the diaphragm and is located right in the middle of the ribs and loin. 

The hanger steak is chock-full of flavor and if you can get a hold of it, a very affordable cut of meat.

This steak tends to be very tender but if you truly want to enhance the flavor of this meat you need to marinade it as it can help to tenderize the meat and add more flavor to it.

It is recommended to grill it over a high heat to get the best results. 

Pros And Cons 

In this section we are going to take a look at the pros and cons of using this cut of steak. So, without further ado, let us get started!

Pros

  • This is a very tender cut of steak 
  • Because it is not as well known, it is easier to purchase this steak for a reasonable price. 
  • This steak tends to grill easily and evenly.

Cons 

  • This steak tends to be quite thin which makes it harder to cook to perfection.
  • Because this cut is rare you will need to go to a specialty butcher for it. 
  • To get good texture you need to marinade this steak. 

5. T-Bone Steak

Otherwise known as the Porterhouse steak, the T-Bone is a delicious cut of beef that includes two cuts of steak in one cut of meat.

It contains the tenderloin and strip steak on one. T-bones are sold on the bone so if that is not something you like then this cut of beef is probably not going to be the best for you. 

It is recommended cooking this steak on a high heat so that the fat and exterior crisp up beautifully but you still have a juicy interior.

Cooking the different sections to perfection may require you putting the tenderloin further away from the heat source.

Just make sure to have a thermometer on hand to check the internal temperature. It will make your life much easier. 

Pros And Cons 

In this section we are going to take a look at the pros and cons of using this cut of steak. So, without further ado, let us get started!

Pros

  • This cut of steak is the best of two different cuts of steak. 
  • The flavor and texture of this steak is phenomenal.
  • This steak is the perfect thickness for grilling. 
  • The marbling for this steak is almost always amazing. 

Cons 

  • This steak can be tricky to cook evenly.
  • This cut of steak tends to be a little more expensive than others. 

6. Flank Steak

If you need a large piece of meat then the flank steak is going to be exactly what you are looking for. It is a cut of meat that comes from the abdominal muscle of a cow.

Generally this gut of meat tends to be quite tough but if you are careful and prepare it properly you will have a delicious tender and juicy steak on your hands. 

Pros And Cons 

In this section we are going to take a look at the pros and cons of using this cut of steak. So, without further ado, let us get started!

Pros

  • This cut of steak is budget friendly.
  • This cut of meat is very lean and perfect for those of you that want something healthy. 
  • Can easily be cooked for steak sandwiches or fajitas.
  • The flavor and texture of this steak is phenomenal.

Cons 

  • To get good texture you need to marinade this steak. 
  • If you overcook this steak it can become very chewy. 

7. Skirt Steak

This steak is most often enjoyed in fajitas or in sandwiches. It comes from the belly of a cow and tends to be quite high in fat.

The skirt steak has a tendency to be very tough because of the connective tissue. But, if you cook it just right you will have a cut of meat that is super flavorful, a bit chewy, and totally delicious. 

Pros And Cons 

In this section we are going to take a look at the pros and cons of using this cut of steak. So, without further ado, let us get started!

Pros

  • This cut of meat is very lean and perfect for those of you that want something healthy. 
  • If you like your steak rich and beefy then this cut is perfect for you. 
  • Can easily be cooked for steak sandwiches or fajitas.
  • This cut of beef is very flavorful and with the right seasoning it has the best taste.

Cons 

  • If you overcook this steak it can become very chewy. 

8. Flat Iron Steak

This steak is sometimes known as the butler’s steak. It is a deliciously tender steak that is sinfully affordable. In some circles it is thought to be on par with some of the more expensive steaks.

Now that says a lot doesn’t it!

The flat iron steak is cut from the check which is essentially a part of the cow that is part of the lower neck and upper shoulder.

This cut of meat can often be found at meat markets or butchers. The best way to cook this tender steak is to grill it.

It is recommended to marinade this steak if you want to boost the flavor. But it can stand on its own if you season it right.

Pros And Cons 

In this section we are going to take a look at the pros and cons of using this cut of steak. So, without further ado, let us get started!

Pros

  • This steak generally has amazing marbling.
  • The flavor of the flat iron steak is wonderful and very rich. 
  • This cut of steak is generally very affordable and budget-friendly.
  • The flat iron steak tends to be tender and juicy.

Cons 

  • This steak has a shoulder membrane which can make it tough to cook just right.
  • There can be a large amount of gristle if you are not careful with preparation. 

9. Short Ribs

This steak is marbled with fat, this makes the meat super flavorsome and tender. The delicious flavor and meaty texture makes this steak one of the best out there.

Most chefs may prefer this cut of steak, but if you grill them you can also avoid any toughness that may occur.

It is recommended that you season these ribs with just a bit of salt and pepper before you grill them on a moderately hot grill. 

Pros And Cons 

In this section we are going to take a look at the pros and cons of using this cut of steak. So, without further ado, let us get started!

Pros

  • This cut of meat tends to be lean and tender with excellent flavor. 
  • This variety of steak is relatively inexpensive.
  • There is amazing marbling in this cut of meat which creates phenomenal flavor. 

Cons 

  • This steak tends to be quite short which makes it harder to cook as a steak.
  • This steak tends to be quite tough if it is not cooked properly. 

10. Sirloin Steak

Sirloin is a super common steak. It comes from the rear end of the animal, a part of the cow known as the sirloin.

This cut of meat is very popular and sold in most stores around the world.

Sirloin steaks tend not to have a high fat content, which is why they are a very common steak for those of you that are looking for a beefy steak that is also lean. 

Pros And Cons 

In this section we are going to take a look at the pros and cons of using this cut of steak. So, without further ado, let us get started!

Pros

  • If you like your steak rich and beefy then this cut is perfect for you. 
  • This cut of meat tends to be quite affordable and budget-friendly. 
  • This cut of meat is very lean and perfect for those of you that want something healthy. 

Cons 

  • Can get tough fast if you are not careful about overcooking it. 
  • It can take longer to cook this steak than other steaks of a similar size.
  • There is not a lot of marbling and flavor to this cut of steak. 

11. London Broil Steak

You may not have heard of this steak, but we assure you. Once you get a taste of it you will certainly find yourself going back to it.

Thai cut of meat is super flavorful which makes it perfect to enjoy in so many different ways, and who does not like a versatile steak packed with flavor. 

Pros And Cons 

In this section we are going to take a look at the pros and cons of using this cut of steak. So, without further ado, let us get started!

Pros

  • This cut of meat tends to be lean and tender with excellent flavor. 
  • If you want to enhance the flavor to the max you need to marinade this steak. 
  • This variety of steak is relatively inexpensive.

Cons 

  • This steak has a shoulder membrane which can make it tough to cook just right.

12. Tomahawk Steak

If you have never heard of a tomahawk steak then you are clearly missing out. This steak is packed with flavor, perfectly tender and the price tag reflects that.

The tomahawk steak can be very pricey but it is worth it to try out this wonderfully decadent steak. 

Pros And Cons 

In this section we are going to take a look at the pros and cons of using this cut of steak. So, without further ado, let us get started!

Pros

  • This cut of meat tends to be lean and tender with excellent flavor. 
  • There is amazing marbling in this cut of meat which creates phenomenal flavor. 
  • If you like your steak rich and beefy then this cut is perfect for you. 
  • This is a very fancy steak and perfect to serve for fancy meals.

Cons 

  • This can be a very expensive steak cut.
  • This steak has a large bone which is not edible. 

13. Flap Steak

This variety of steak tends to have a delicious, almost sweet taste. Despite that, the texture can be quite coarse and loose which may not be ideal for everyone.

But for those of you that can grill a steak, you will find it to be wonderfully delicious and undoubtedly perfect. 

Pros And Cons 

In this section we are going to take a look at the pros and cons of using this cut of steak. So, without further ado, let us get started!

Pros

  • This steak is very easy to overcook and become chewy. 
  • The thickness of this steak makes it perfect for grilling or pan frying. 
  • If you like your steak rich and beefy then this cut is perfect for you. 

Cons 

  • If you want to enhance the flavor to the max you need to marinade this steak. 

14. Tri-Tip Steak

If you want a steak that is full of flavor then the tri-tip steak is going to be exactly what you need. It has a wonderful amount of marbling which adds flavor and tenderness.

As long as you can cook this tasty steak just right you will have the most flavorsome steak ever. 

Pros And Cons 

In this section we are going to take a look at the pros and cons of using this cut of steak. So, without further ado, let us get started!

Pros

  • This steak cut is very affordable and budget-friendly. 
  • This cut of meat tends to be lean and tender with excellent flavor. 
  • The tri-tip steak cut us super easy to grill. 

Cons 

  • If you want to enhance the flavor to the max you need to marinade this steak. 
  • This steak may be hard to source properly so you may need to go to the butcher for it. 

15. Rump Steak

Rump steak is a very common steak and sold in just about every grocery store. This steak can be tough but if you cook it right it will be super tasty and tender.

This steak may be better suited for marinating. It is also recommended that you allow the steak to rest before you eat it. 

Pros And Cons 

In this section we are going to take a look at the pros and cons of using this cut of steak. So, without further ado, let us get started!

Pros

  • This variety of steak is relatively inexpensive.
  • This steak is full of flavor and very tender. 
  • If you like your steak rich and beefy then this cut is perfect for you. 
  • This cut of meat tends to be lean and tender with excellent flavor. 

Cons 

  • The tenderness won’t be consistent because of the different muscles in the steak. 
  • This steak is very easy to overcook and become chewy. 

16. Denver Steak

This cut of beef is not well known, which is a shame because it is wonderfully rich and flavorsome. The flavor is wonderfully meaty which is largely due to the perfect distribution of fat marbling.

This steak is perfect for grilling as long as you make sure to cook it for the right amount of time. 

Pros And Cons 

In this section we are going to take a look at the pros and cons of using this cut of steak. So, without further ado, let us get started!

Pros

  • The flat iron steak tends to be tender and juicy.
  • This variety of steak is relatively inexpensive.
  • Can easily be cooked for steak sandwiches or fajitas.
  • There is amazing marbling in this cut of meat which creates phenomenal flavor. 

Cons 

  • This steak is very easy to overcook and become chewy. 
  • If you want to enhance the flavor to the max you need to marinade this steak.

17. Coulotte Steak

This steak is not common but once you get a taste you will be hooked on this tender and juicy cut of meat. It is a Brazilian steak which is known for being tender and tasty while also being very lean and healthy. 

This meat is relatively low expense which makes it perfect for those of you that are looking for a tasty steak that is budget friendly. 

Pros And Cons 

In this section we are going to take a look at the pros and cons of using this cut of steak. So, without further ado, let us get started!

Pros

  • The flat iron steak tends to be tender and juicy.
  • This variety of steak is relatively inexpensive.
  • The flavor and texture of this steak is phenomenal.

Cons 

  • This steak is very easy to overcook and become chewy. 
  • Because this cut is rare you will need to go to a specialty butcher for it. 

Final Thoughts

We hope that you have enjoyed learning all about these amazingly delicious steaks. Each one has its own benefits and perks.

Picking the right one is entirely based upon what you prefer and what kind of food you are cooking. 

There are obviously a ton of other amazing cuts of beef out there that you can choose from. But these steaks are the best ones in our opinion. Your list of the best steaks ranked may be different to ours.

So, go ahead and check out any one of these steaks, they are wonderfully delicious and perfect to enjoy in many different ways. So, have a fantastic day and goodbye for now. 

Jenna
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