Chuck steak is one of those cuts of beef that doesn’t always get the attention it deserves. It’s affordable, packed with flavor, and when cooked the right way, it turns out tender and juicy. I used to overlook it at the grocery store, always reaching for ribeye or sirloin instead, but once I learned how to cook chuck steak properly, it became one of my favorite go-to meals.

The first time I made chuck steak, I treated it like any other steak—threw it on the grill and hoped for the best. It turned out tough and chewy, and I figured chuck steak just wasn’t for me. But after experimenting with different cooking methods, I realized this cut just needs a little extra love. Whether you marinate it, slow-cook it, or sear and finish it in the oven, chuck steak can be just as delicious as pricier cuts.

Now, I make this recipe all the time. It’s an easy, budget-friendly way to enjoy a great steak dinner without spending a fortune. If you’ve ever skipped chuck steak because you weren’t sure how to cook it, this recipe will change your mind.

Servings	Total
4	35mins

Where Did You Learn This Recipe?

I first started experimenting with chuck steak when I was looking for cheaper alternatives to expensive cuts of beef. I love a good steak dinner, but I wasn’t always willing to pay top dollar for ribeye or filet mignon.

After doing some research, I learned that chuck steak is a well-marbled, flavorful cut that just needs the right cooking method to become tender. I tried different marinades, slow-cooked versions, and even braising it in the oven. After some trial and error, I found that pan-searing and finishing in the oven gave me the best balance of flavor and tenderness.

Now, this recipe is one of my favorites. It’s quick, and easy, and gives you restaurant-quality steak without the high price tag.

Why Chuck Steak

There are plenty of reasons to love chuck steak! Here’s why I always keep it in my meal rotation:

Budget-Friendly – It’s one of the most affordable steak cuts.
Packed with Flavor – Chuck steak has a rich, beefy taste.
Great for Different Cooking Methods – You can grill it, pan-sear it, slow-cook it, or braise it.
Easy to Cook – With the right technique, it turns out tender and juicy.
Perfect for Meal Prep – It reheats well and works great in sandwiches or salads.

Chuck steak is sometimes called the “poor man’s ribeye”, and while it might not be quite as tender as a ribeye, it’s still delicious when cooked properly.

What Is Chuck Steak Made Of?

Chuck steak comes from the shoulder area of the cow, which means it has a lot of flavor but also some tough connective tissue. The good news is that when you marinate it or cook it low and slow, it becomes tender and juicy.

Unlike more expensive cuts, chuck steak has a good amount of marbling, which gives it that rich, beefy taste. It’s often sold as boneless steaks, but sometimes you’ll see bone-in chuck steaks, which can add even more flavor.

Because chuck steak is naturally a bit tougher, it’s best to either cook it quickly at high heat (like in this recipe) or slow-cook it until it’s fall-apart tender.

What to Have with Chuck Steak

Chuck steak pairs well with classic steakhouse sides, but you can also keep it light and fresh. Here are a few ideas:

Mashed potatoes – A creamy, comforting side.
Roasted vegetables – Carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts are great options.
Garlic butter mushrooms – Adds an extra layer of flavor.
Steamed rice or quinoa – A simple, neutral side.
Grilled corn on the cob – Perfect if you’re cooking outside.
Salad – A fresh green salad balances out the richness of the steak.

If you have leftovers, chuck steak is amazing in sandwiches, tacos, or even chopped into scrambled eggs for breakfast.

Is Chuck Steak Healthy?

Chuck steak is a great source of protein, iron, and B vitamins, but like all beef, it should be eaten in moderation. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional benefits:

High in protein – Helps with muscle growth and repair.
Rich in iron – Supports healthy blood circulation.
Contains healthy fats – Especially if you choose grass-fed beef.
No added sugars or carbs – A good option for low-carb or keto diets.

If you’re watching your fat intake, trimming excess fat before cooking can help. You can also pair it with lighter sides like roasted vegetables or a salad.

Kitchen Equipment

To cook chuck steak properly, you’ll need:

A cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pan – Helps get a great sear.
Tongs – For flipping the steak.
Cutting board and a sharp knife – To slice the steak after cooking.
Measuring cups and spoons – For the marinade.

Ingredients

For the steak:

2 chuck steaks (about 1 inch thick)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder

For the marinade (optional, but highly recommended):

¼ cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried rosemary

Directions:

Marinate the steak (if using)

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and rosemary.
Place the chuck steaks in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them.
Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for more flavor.

Preheat your skillet

Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and let it get hot.

Season the steaks

If you didn’t marinate the steaks, season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Sear the steaks

Place the steaks in the hot pan and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until a nice crust forms.

Finish in the oven (if needed)

If the steaks are still tough after searing, transfer the skillet to a preheated 375°F oven and cook for 5-10 minutes until tender.

Rest and slice

Remove the steaks from the heat and let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Serve and enjoy

Slice against the grain and serve with your favorite sides.

Tips

For extra tenderness, marinate the steak for at least a few hours.
Let the steak rest before slicing to keep the juices inside.
Slice against the grain for the most tender bites.
Use a meat thermometer – Cook to 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium, or 160°F for well-done.

FAQs

Can I grill chuck steak?
Yes! Just marinate it first, then grill over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side.

What’s the best way to tenderize chuck steak?
Marinate it, cook it slowly, or finish it in the oven after searing.

Can I use this recipe for slow cooking?
Yes! If slow-cooking, cook for 6-8 hours on low with broth and seasonings.

Conclusion

Chuck steak might not be as fancy as a ribeye, but when cooked the right way, it’s just as delicious. With the right seasoning, cooking technique, and a little patience, you can turn this budget-friendly cut into a tender, juicy steak that tastes amazing.

Try this recipe and see for yourself—you might just start buying chuck steak more often!

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