Flank Steak Alternative: 5 Delicious Cuts to Try in 2024

If you love the flavor and tenderness of flank steak but are looking for something a little different, you’re in luck! There are plenty of cuts out there that are great flank steak alternative. They might even surprise your taste buds! In 2024, as more home cooks experiment with different meats and recipes, knowing your options can make all the difference for a standout meal. Today, let’s dive into five incredible flank steak alternatives that will satisfy your craving for tender, juicy meat. Whether you’re hosting a cookout in Delavan, WI, or looking to impress family during dinner, these cuts are worth a try!

1. Skirt Steak vs. Flank Steak: What’s the Difference?

Skirt steak is often mentioned in the same breath as flank steak—and for good reason! Both are thin, flavorful cuts that are perfect for grilling or stir-frying. However, there are some key differences.

Skirt steak is a bit fattier, giving it a rich flavor that’s perfect for bold marinades. It also cooks a little faster than flank steak, making it a great choice for weeknight dinners when time is of the essence. Skirt steak tends to be more tender if not overcooked, making it ideal for slicing against the grain for fajitas or a fresh summer salad.

Why choose skirt steak in 2024? With the rise of quick, nutritious meals, skirt steak is a great option for anyone looking to make something delicious in under 20 minutes. Plus, it’s a bit more forgiving than flank steak if you’re not used to cooking meat.

2. Hanger Steak: The “Butcher’s Secret”

Hanger steak is affectionately known as the “butcher’s steak” because butchers used to keep it for themselves instead of selling it—it’s that good! This cut comes from the diaphragm area and has a deep, beefy flavor similar to flank steak but with even more tenderness.

Hanger steak can be harder to find, but if you see it at Wilson Farm Meats in Elkhorn or another local butcher shop, grab it. The texture and rich flavor make it perfect for grilling, broiling, or even pan-searing. Just be sure to cook it to medium-rare and let it rest for a few minutes to keep it juicy.

Pro Tip: Cook hanger steak to 145°F and let it rest for three minutes, per USDA guidelines, to ensure food safety while keeping all that wonderful flavor intact.

3. Flat Iron Steak: The Best Bang for Your Buck

Flat iron steak is becoming increasingly popular as a flank steak alternative. It’s cut from the shoulder and is known for being incredibly tender—second only to filet mignon. What makes it even better is its affordability, which is why it’s been gaining popularity in 2024 as people look for ways to enjoy gourmet meals without breaking the bank.

Flat iron steak is versatile: you can grill it, sear it, or even throw it into the smoker for added depth. Its marbling makes it flavorful, and if you season it well, it’s hard to beat.

Flat Iron vs. Flank Steak: While flank steak is leaner, flat iron steak has more marbling, making it a bit richer. This makes flat iron a perfect option for those who love a juicy, flavorful steak without paying premium prices.

4. Tri-Tip: The Underrated Star

Tri-tip isn’t the most obvious choice when considering flank steak alternatives, but it’s a cut that deserves more love. It’s a triangular piece of meat cut from the sirloin and is popular on the West Coast, but it’s gaining traction in the Midwest, including right here in Delavan, WI.

Tri-tip has a great balance of flavor and tenderness, and it’s perfect for grilling or roasting. You can marinate it just like flank steak, but it’s also delicious with just salt, pepper, and garlic. When cooked to 145°F and allowed to rest, tri-tip makes a fantastic centerpiece for your next BBQ.

Why Try Tri-Tip in 2024? With people focusing on sustainable and cost-effective meat options, tri-tip is an excellent choice because it’s often more affordable than other premium cuts. Plus, it’s easy to feed a crowd, making it perfect for gatherings.

5. Bavette Steak: A French Favorite

If you’re a fan of rich, beefy flavors, bavette steak (often called flap steak) is a great flank steak alternative. This cut comes from the bottom sirloin, and it’s popular in French cooking for its tenderness and ability to absorb marinades beautifully.

Bavette steak is perfect for grilling or pan-searing. It’s similar to flank steak but a bit more tender, which means you get that same deep flavor without the chewiness sometimes associated with flank steak. Cook bavette to a minimum of 145°F for food safety, and remember to slice it thinly against the grain for the best experience.

Bavette in 2024: With French cuisine trending in 2024, bavette steak is a great way to add an international flair to your home-cooked meals without needing fancy ingredients or techniques. It’s a simple way to impress guests or elevate your weeknight dinners.

How to Choose the Right Flank Steak Alternative for Your Meal

With so many amazing flank steak alternatives, how do you choose the right one? Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:

• For Quick Grilling: Skirt steak or flat iron steak are perfect for fast, flavorful meals.
• For Deep Flavor: Hanger steak and bavette steak offer rich, beefy flavors that are great for special occasions.
• For Feeding a Crowd: Tri-tip is your go-to for its versatility and ability to serve several people without hassle.

Cooking Tips for Success

No matter which flank steak alternative you choose, it’s essential to follow USDA guidelines for safe cooking. Using a food thermometer to check internal temperatures ensures your meat is safe to eat and cooked to perfection. Here’s a reminder of key temperatures:

• Beef Steaks (like tri-tip, hanger, and bavette): Cook to 145°F with a three-minute rest time.
• Ground Meats: If you’re using ground versions of these cuts, cook to 160°F to prevent foodborne illnesses.

These simple steps will keep your meals safe and flavorful every time.

2024 Meat Trends: Experiment and Enjoy!

In 2024, home cooking is all about experimenting with different flavors and making restaurant-quality meals at home. Whether you’re cooking for your family in Delavan, WI, or hosting a cookout, using different cuts of meat can make all the difference. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try something other than flank steak—you might discover a new favorite!

Visit Wilson Farm Meats for Fresh, Local Cuts

Ready to try one of these fantastic flank steak alternatives? Visit Wilson Farm Meats at 406 S Wisconsin St, Elkhorn, WI 53121 for the freshest, locally raised meats. Our team can help you pick the perfect cut for your next meal, and we’re always happy to offer cooking tips and suggestions. Don’t forget to check out our weekly specials and value boxes for even more great deals.

Call us at 262-723-2919 or stop by our store today! Let’s make your next meal a memorable one.