Collage of different beef cuts

The Grocery Store Guide To The Best Cuts Of Beef

NEWS

By STEPHANIE MEE

Raw ribeye steak with seasoning, garlic cloves, and rosemary

Ribeye

Ribeye is the perfect steak for grilling. It comes from the cow's rib area, where the muscles don't get worked as much, so it has good intramuscular fat and a tender texture.
A raw chuck steak on a wooden board

Chuck Steak

Chuck steaks are cut from a larger cut of meat called the chuck roast, which comes from the shoulder of a cow. These muscles get a good workout, making the meat tougher.
Raw chuck steak in a bowl with garlic and marinade
Chuck steak also contains a lot of connective tissue, which can become extremely chewy if not cooked properly. An effective way to cook chuck steak is to braise it or stew it.
Two raw New York strips on paper

New York Strip

Packed with beefy flavor, the New York strip comes from the short loin, which is located under a cow's backbone and home to some of the most succulent cuts of steak.
Raw New York strip steak
The New York strip is a great choice for a classic steak dinner because you can simply season it with salt and pepper or your favorite rub, then grill it, pan-sear it, or broil it.
Three raw sirloin steaks

Sirloin

Sirloin comes from the sirloin primal cut of the cow, which is behind the short loin closer to the cow's hind legs. This makes it slightly leaner than loin cuts.
Two cooked sirloin steaks
However, it can still be juicy and flavorful with just a slight chew when grilled, braised, or roasted. Even better, sirloin steak is often cheaper than strip or ribeye steak.
Sliced rare flank steak with salad

Flank Steak

The flank is a primal cut that is located on the cow's belly under the loin. It's a versatile cut that works well on its own or in stir-fries and braised dishes.
Sliced flank steak with chimichurri sauce
Because flank steak is lean and full of beefy flavor, it's a great choice for dishes with strong-tasting sauces and spices like stir-fries and tacos.