There’s something undeniably magnetic about the sizzle of a perfectly grilled steak-an aroma that beckons you to gather around the fire and indulge in a moment of pure culinary bliss. Among the pantheon of cuts, hanger steak stands out as a hidden gem, prized for its rich, beefy flavor and tender texture. In this article,we’ll take you on a savory journey where the robust character of grilled hanger steak meets the decadent allure of garlic butter.Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or an adventurous home cook, prepare to elevate your next meal with a dish that’s as simple to prepare as it is unforgettable to taste. Savor the flavor, embrace the char, and let every bite tell a story of smoky perfection and buttery indulgence.
Savor the Flavor: Grilled Hanger Steak with Garlic Butter
Savor the flavor of perfectly grilled hanger steak, a cut prized for its rich, beefy taste and tender texture when prepared with care. This recipe captures the essence of backyard grilling elevated by a luscious garlic butter sauce that melts into every bite, transforming a simple steak into a memorable feast. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or an adventurous home cook, this guide will walk you through selecting, marinating, grilling, and finishing the steak to perfection with ease and confidence.
Prep and Cook Time
- Planning: 20 minutes (plus 2-4 hours marinating)
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 3 hours
Yield
- Serves 4 hungry people
Difficulty Level
- Medium – Great for intermediate cooks aiming to impress
Ingredients
- Hanger steak: 1.5 pounds, trimmed of excess fat and silver skin
- Olive oil: 3 tablespoons, extra virgin
- worcestershire sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Fresh garlic: 4 cloves, minced (plus 4 cloves whole for butter sauce)
- Fresh rosemary: 2 sprigs, finely chopped
- Fresh thyme: 1 sprig, finely chopped
- Sea salt: 1 teaspoon, plus more for seasoning
- Freshly ground black pepper: 1 teaspoon, plus more to taste
- Unsalted butter: 4 tablespoons, softened
- Fresh lemon juice: 1 tablespoon
Instructions
- choosing the perfect hanger steak: Look for a steak that’s deep red with a fine grain and minimal connective tissue. Opt for grass-fed if possible for enhanced flavor and tenderness. Pat the steak dry with paper towels before marinating to ensure your seasoning adheres well.
- Master the marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, sea salt, and black pepper. Place the steak in a large resealable bag and pour in the marinade, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Refrigerate for 2 to 4 hours to let the natural flavors meld and tenderize the meat gently.
- Preheat the grill: Bring your grill to high heat, aiming for 450°F to 500°F. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking and encourage even sear marks.
- Grill to perfection: Remove steak from marinade and let excess drip off-do not wipe.Place steak on the hottest part of the grill. For the coveted grill marks, position the steak at a 45-degree angle, grill for 3-4 minutes, then rotate 90 degrees and grill another 3-4 minutes. Flip and repeat on the other side until the internal temperature hits 130°F for medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer for best results.
- Rest the steak: Transfer the grilled steak to a cutting board, tent loosely with foil, and rest for 7-10 minutes.This step locks in juices, ensuring tenderness.
- Craft the garlic butter sauce: While the steak rests, melt butter gently over low heat in a small saucepan. Add whole garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant and golden brown,about 3-4 minutes,stirring often to avoid burning.Add lemon juice,stir to combine,and remove from heat.
- Slice and serve: Cut the hanger steak against the grain into thin slices. Drizzle generously with the warm garlic butter sauce. Garnish with extra fresh herbs or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for a final touch.
Chef’s Notes and Tips for Success
- Marinating time: The longer you marinate (up to 4 hours),the more tender and flavorful the steak becomes,but avoid exceeding 6 hours to prevent texture breakdown.
- Internal temperature guide: For ultimate tenderness, aim for medium-rare (130°F), but adjust to your preference – medium at 140°F, medium-well at 150°F.
- Butter variations: Infuse your garlic butter with a pinch of smoked paprika or a splash of soy sauce to add a smoky or umami twist.
- Make ahead tip: You can prepare the garlic butter sauce a day in advance; rewarm gently before serving.
- Substitution: If hanger steak is unavailable, flank or skirt steak offers similar texture and flavor when prepared with this marinade and grilling method.
Serving Suggestions
Present your beautifully sliced hanger steak on a warm platter paired with roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus or fingerling potatoes.Top with a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme and a light sprinkle of coarse sea salt flakes to enhance the buttery garlic sauce’s richness. A crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette makes an excellent contrast, perfectly balancing the bold flavors.
| Nutrient | Per Serving (4 servings) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 370 |
| Protein | 38g |
| Carbohydrates | 1.5g |
| Fat | 24g |
For more inspiration on grilling techniques and butter sauces, check our Ultimate Butter Sauces for Steak article. To understand the science behind meat tenderness, visit Serious Eats.
Q&A
Q&A: Savor the Flavor – Grilled Hanger Steak with Garlic Butter
Q1: What makes hanger steak a standout choice for grilling?
A1: Frequently enough dubbed the “butcher’s cut,” hanger steak boasts a rich, beefy flavor that rivals pricier cuts. Its loose texture allows marinades and seasonings to penetrate deeply, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender when grilled just right.
Q2: why pair hanger steak with garlic butter?
A2: Garlic butter is the perfect companion to hanger steak as its creamy richness complements the robust meatiness of the steak. The fragrant garlic and buttery smoothness elevate each bite, adding layers of flavor that linger on the palate.
Q3: How shoudl I prepare hanger steak before grilling?
A3: Start by patting the steak dry and seasoning it generously with salt and pepper. For an extra flavor boost, marinate briefly with herbs, olive oil, or a splash of red wine.Let the steak come to room temperature before grilling to ensure even cooking.
Q4: What is the ideal grilling technique for hanger steak?
A4: High heat and swift cooking are key. Grill your hanger steak over direct heat for about 3-4 minutes per side for medium rare. Avoid overcooking – hanger steak is best enjoyed with a warm pink center to maintain tenderness.
Q5: How do I make garlic butter for this dish?
A5: Soften unsalted butter and mix it with finely minced garlic, a pinch of salt, freshly ground black pepper, and chopped fresh parsley or thyme. Chill slightly to let flavors meld, then dollop generously onto the hot steak just before serving.
Q6: What sides complement grilled hanger steak with garlic butter?
A6: Think rustic and vibrant: grilled asparagus, roasted baby potatoes, or a crisp arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette. These side dishes balance the richness of the steak and garlic butter with freshness and texture.
Q7: Can I substitute hanger steak with another cut?
A7: While hanger steak is unique due to its flavor and texture, skirt steak or flank steak can be good alternatives. Just adjust cooking times accordingly, as these cuts may cook faster or slower and differ in tenderness.
Q8: Any tips for serving this dish to impress guests?
A8: Slice the steak thinly against the grain to highlight its tenderness and arrange it on a warm platter.Add a pat of garlic butter on top so it melts deliciously,and sprinkle with a little flaky sea salt for that extra gourmet touch.
Q9: How should leftovers be stored and reheated?
A9: Wrap leftover steak tightly and refrigerate for up to two days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a bit of butter to preserve juiciness and flavor. avoid microwaving, which can dry out the meat.
Q10: What wine pairs best with grilled hanger steak and garlic butter?
A10: A bold red wine such as Malbec, Syrah, or Cabernet Sauvignon pairs wonderfully.Their robust tannins and fruity notes cut through the richness and enhance the garlicky, buttery goodness of the steak.
Enjoy savoring every bite of this mouthwatering grilled hanger steak with garlic butter – a feast for both the senses and the soul!
Closing Remarks
As the final sizzle settles and the rich aroma of garlic butter lingers in the air, you’re left with more than just a delicious meal-you’re carrying forward a culinary experience that celebrates simplicity and bold flavors. Grilled hanger steak, with its tender texture and savory depth, paired with the luscious warmth of garlic butter, transforms an ordinary dinner into a memorable feast. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a home cook eager to elevate your repertoire, this dish invites you to savor every bite and share the joy of great food. So, fire up the grill, gather your favorite accompaniments, and let each forkful remind you that the best meals are those crafted with care, passion, and a little bit of garlic-infused magic.
