Flat Iron

Flat Iron Overview

Few steaks combine affordability with flavor as well as Flat Iron steaks. The Flat Iron cut originates in the shoulder area of the cow, so it’s not as tender as some other pieces. However, the beef flavor is intense and worth experiencing. There are many tricks to keeping the meat from getting tough if you know how to work with beef. Many people choose this steak for recipes like stir fry, tacos, and other dishes that call for finely sliced meat. It can handle strong sauces and other accompaniments without being lost in the combination of flavors. Yet if you prefer to serve your steak all on its own, Flat Iron shines that way as well.

Flat Iron Grades

Even the humble Flat Iron steak offers better flavor and texture when you take the time to find a USDA Prime graded product. It’s the USDA Choice and Select grades that tend to result in a tougher or more dry Flat Iron steak. Beyond just the grade of the meat, you can also look for premium beef that is aged or from a specific beef breed for a superior experience.

Premium Angus Flat Iron

Choose a Scottish beef breed known for superior marbling and deeper flavor than your average cow. While Angus is now also known as an American breed, it’s still just as premium as ever.

USDA Wet Aged Flat Iron

Since the Flat Iron steak is a leaner cut that can be a little on the chewy side, wet aging is the perfect technique for increasing its flavor while keeping it tender. Wet aging by the steak company leaves you with less to do before you’re enjoying a great meal.

Wagyu Flat Iron

Japan produces some of the finest beef in the world. Wagyu beef can be raised in the US from bloodlines imported by the original breeders to give you some of the finest Flat Iron steaks available. The extra marbled and finely-grained meat remains tender no matter how you cook it.

Flat Iron Steak Cooking Guides

Cooking Flat Iron steaks that are tender and not tough is easy once you know the secrets of handling this cut. Treat this lean type of beef with care and you’ll get great results every time you have a craving for steak.

• How to Cook Flat Iron Steak: Learn the best general techniques for cooking the Flat Iron cut from Steak University. Make the most of even affordable steaks with the right tricks.
• How to Pan Sear Flat Iron Steak: Pan searing quickly adds flavor to Flat Iron steak without the risk of overdone meat.
• Crock Pot Flat Iron Steak: Don’t overlook the slow cooker when preparing Flat Iron steak. Get the most from this flavorful cut of beef with the help of a slow and low cooking method.
• Grilled Flat Iron Steak: Slap the meat on the grill and give it just a controlled dose of high heat to produce a great steak that won’t break the bank.

Flat Iron Recipes

Once you have an abundance of Flat Iron steaks to enjoy, you’ll want to explore new ways to bring out the meat’s flavor. Try these recipes that will transform the humble steak into something more transcendent.

• Low-Carb Flat Iron Taco Recipe: Tacos make a great meal any day of the week, especially when you pack them with finely sliced Flat Iron steak and your favorite toppings.
• Flat Iron Steak Marinade: Marinating the meat is the best way to keep Flat Iron tender while adding any flavors you like. Try this all-around favorite mix to increase the juiciness of this lean beef cut.
• Flat Iron Steak with Chimichurri: A spicy sauce with fresh herbs is the perfect accompaniment to this richly flavored steak.

Flat Iron FAQ's

What is a good way to cook a Flat Iron steak?

Slow cooking, grilling, and pan-searing are all good techniques for this kind of steak. Flat Iron steaks tend to toughen up when smoked, but there are ways to avoid that.

How is a Flat Iron steak different from a Ribeye?

Ribeye steaks have more fat. That may make the Flat Iron steak a better choice for everyday enjoyment to meet your dietary goals.

Why is the Flat Iron cut so affordable?

Since the Flat Iron is a little less tender and marbled than other cuts, it’s also more affordable. It’s easily marinated or cooked with care to avoid toughness.