Choosing the Right Cut of Beef for Grilling

There’s no better meal than grilled meats, grilled vegetables, or even grilled fruits — everything tastes better when cooked over an open flame. But when it comes to grilling, beef is a true star. The sizzling juices and smoky aroma are hard to beat. To get the most out of your next barbecue, here are five essential tips for grilling the perfect beef.

#1 Get Your Grill Hot

When grilling, heat is key. A hotter grill helps create that delicious sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Make sure your grill is preheated before placing the meat on it. For best results, use a high-quality grill like our PGS Grill Residential A-Series, which delivers consistent heat and great flavor development.

#2 Don’t Lose Your Marbles

The best steaks have a good amount of marbling — those tiny flecks of fat that add flavor and moisture. Cuts like rib-eye, T-bone, or New York strip are ideal for grilling because they stay juicy and flavorful under high heat.

#3 Keep It Simple, Silly

Steak doesn’t need complicated seasonings. A little salt and pepper right before grilling is all you need. This allows the natural flavors of the beef to shine through without overpowering them.

#4 Rub-a-Dub-Dub

If you're using oil, dip the steak in it rather than brushing it on. This helps the seasoning stick better. A blend of canola and olive oil works well, especially in a 90/10 or 80/20 ratio.

#5 Let It Rest

After taking the meat off the grill, let it rest for at least 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is as juicy as the last.

Now that you know how to grill beef perfectly, the next step is choosing the right cut. Here are some popular options:

For burgers, a 50/50 mix of ground chuck and sirloin gives the best balance of flavor and juiciness. If you're going for a steak, look for cuts with good marbling, such as porterhouse, T-bone, ribeye, or New York strip. For larger cuts, try roasts, but remember to cook them indirectly to avoid drying out.

Flank steak is another great option. Try this easy Carne Asada recipe: marinate 2 pounds of flank steak overnight in a mixture of lime juice, garlic, orange juice, cilantro, salt, pepper, olive oil, jalapeño, and vinegar. Then grill for 7–10 minutes per side. It's a quick and tasty way to enjoy grilled beef.

Gas grills offer several advantages over charcoal. They’re easier to control, cleaner, and produce less smoke. Plus, modern gas grills use radiant plates or lava rocks to give your meat that perfect sear. While some say gas lacks the smoky flavor of charcoal, you can easily add smoke using a smoke box accessory.

Whether you're a seasoned griller or just starting out, there's no better time to fire up the grill. With these tips and the right cut of beef, you're all set for a delicious outdoor feast. So grab your favorite cut, turn on the grill, and enjoy the magic of grilled beef. Bon appétit!