Steak lovers rejoice! You don’t have to break the bank to enjoy a delicious and satisfying steak dinner. In fact, many affordable cuts of beef can be just as tender and flavorful as their pricier counterparts when cooked with creativity and care. From classic pan-seared steaks to slow-cooked braises and global-inspired stir-fries, we’ve got 18 mouth-watering budget-friendly recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest palates. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, these easy-to-make steak dishes are perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. So go ahead, get grilling (or pan-searing, or slow-cooking…) and enjoy the beef!
Pan-Seared Garlic Butter Steak
Savory flavors abound in this Pan-Seared Garlic Butter Steak recipe, a classic combination that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying a tender and flavorful steak in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 pounds flank steak or ribeye
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the steak with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Add the butter to the pan, letting it melt slightly before adding the garlic. Cook for 30 seconds.
4. Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
5. Remove the steak from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes.
6. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and spoon any remaining pan juices over the steak.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total, including resting time.
Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
This hearty slow cooker recipe yields tender steak with a rich pepper flavor, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 pounds flank steak
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 large bell pepper (any color), sliced
Instructions:
1. Season the steak with salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika.
2. In the slow cooker, combine the sliced onion, minced garlic, beef broth, red wine vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper.
3. Add the steak to the slow cooker and top with bell pepper slices.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Remove the steak from the slow cooker and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours (low) or 2-6 hours (high)
Grilled Flank Steak with Chimichurri
Elevate your grilled steak game with this flavorful Argentinean-inspired dish, featuring a tender flank steak smothered in a tangy and herby chimichurri sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh parsley leaves and stems
– 1 cup fresh oregano leaves
– 2 tbsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a food processor, combine olive oil, garlic, parsley, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Process until mixture is well combined and slightly chunky.
3. Season flank steak with salt and pepper.
4. Grill steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches desired level of doneness.
5. Let steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
6. Serve sliced steak with chimichurri sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. This beef and broccoli stir-fry is a great option for a weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add the broccoli and cook until tender-crisp, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Return the beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Skillet Steak with Mushroom Gravy
Savor a hearty, one-pan meal with this flavorful Skillet Steak with Mushroom Gravy recipe. Pan-seared steak and sautéed mushrooms combine to create a rich, savory gravy that’s perfect for serving over mashed potatoes or egg noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season steak with salt and pepper; sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium; add olive oil, onion, and garlic. Cook until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add mushrooms; cook, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and start browning, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Stir in beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until gravy thickens slightly.
6. Serve steak with mushroom gravy spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Marinated Cube Steak with Onions
Cube steak is a versatile cut of beef that absorbs flavors well, making it perfect for marinating. This recipe combines the tenderizing power of acidity with the sweetness of caramelized onions to create a mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cube steak
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large onion, sliced
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together olive oil, garlic, red wine vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme.
2. Add the cube steak to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the steak from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Cook the steak in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer to a baking dish. Top with sliced onions and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the steak reaches desired doneness.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cheesy Steak Quesadillas
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the flavors of steak, cheese, and spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb flank steak
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Slice the steak into thin strips and season with salt and pepper.
3. Add the olive oil, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the steak to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked to desired doneness.
5. Meanwhile, place one tortilla in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 2 minutes to warm.
6. Assemble the quesadillas by placing half of the cheese on each tortilla, followed by the cooked steak and a sprinkle of remaining cheese.
7. Fold the tortillas in half and cook in the skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steak Tacos with Lime Crema
Savor the bold flavors of grilled steak and creamy lime crema, wrapped in a crispy taco shell. This recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious meal or gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb flank steak
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 taco shells
– Lime crema (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced onions, cilantro, avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, oregano, and cumin. Brush mixture onto both sides of the steak.
3. Grill steak for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
4. Slice steak into thin strips against the grain.
5. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by placing sliced steak into a shell, and topping with lime crema, onions, cilantro, avocado, and sour cream (if using).
Lime Crema:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tsp honey
Whisk together ingredients until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef Stir-Fry with Bell Peppers
This quick and flavorful beef stir-fry is a perfect meal solution for a busy night. It’s packed with tender beef, crunchy bell peppers, and savory soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
– Optional: 2 green onions, chopped
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic and bell peppers to the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Return the beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce and black pepper.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Steak and Potato Foil Packets
Elevate your dinner game with these tender steak and potato foil packets, cooked to perfection in just a few minutes. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or outdoor gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 4 steaks (6 oz each)
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and sliced into thick rounds
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or your favorite seasonings
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a piece of foil, place a steak and a few potato slices in the center.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any desired seasonings.
4. Fold the foil into a packet, making sure to seal the edges tightly.
5. Repeat for each serving.
6. Cook packets for 8-12 minutes, or until steak reaches desired doneness.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Flat Iron Steak
A flavorful and tender steak dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 oz) flat iron steak
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze, olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
3. Season the steak with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Place the steak in a baking dish and brush the top with the balsamic glaze mixture.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked to your desired level of doneness (medium-rare is recommended).
6. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Steak and Egg Breakfast Skillet
A hearty breakfast skillet that combines the richness of steak with the simplicity of scrambled eggs and crispy potatoes. Perfect for a morning pick-me-up or a satisfying brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb flank steak, sliced into thin strips
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup diced potatoes (such as Yukon golds)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chives or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced steak and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the diced potatoes and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
4. Crack in the eggs and scramble them with a spatula until cooked through.
5. Add the cooked steak back into the skillet and stir to combine with the eggs and potatoes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chives or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Vegetable Kabobs
Savor the flavors of grilled beef and colorful vegetables with this easy-to-make kabob recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer barbecue, these kabobs are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef sirloin or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into large pieces
– 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into large pieces
– 1 onion, cut into wedges
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 zucchini, cut into slices
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite marinade or seasonings
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread beef, bell peppers, onion, garlic, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and any desired marinade or seasonings.
4. Grill kabobs for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until beef reaches desired doneness.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers
Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers: A Twist on a Classic Comfort Food!
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 slices of cooked Philly cheesesteak (see note)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until softened.
5. Stuff each pepper with the meat mixture, followed by a slice of Philly cheesesteak, some shredded cheese, and a sprinkle of Worcestershire sauce.
6. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Steak Fried Rice
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines savory steak with flavorful fried rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 1 cup sliced beef steak (cooked to desired doneness)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic; stir-fry until translucent.
3. Add mixed vegetables; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Push the vegetables to one side of the pan. Crack in beaten eggs and scramble them into the empty space.
5. Mix the eggs with the vegetables.
6. Add cooked steak, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry everything together until well combined.
7. Finally, add cooked rice; stir-fry until heated through and combined with the other ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Carne Asada Street Tacos
Tender and flavorful grilled steak is a staple of Mexican cuisine. This simple recipe brings the authentic taste of carne asada to your own kitchen, perfect for a quick and delicious meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound flank steak
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, and cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large ziplock bag, combine lime juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the flank steak to the marinade, making sure it’s coated evenly. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill the steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. Slice the grilled steak into thin strips. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by placing sliced steak onto a warmed tortilla, and garnish with radishes, lime wedges, and cilantro.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Steak and Cheese Sliders
Elevate your snack game with these bite-sized Steak and Cheese Sliders, perfect for parties or a quick dinner. Tender steak and melted cheese are sandwiched between soft buns, creating an irresistible flavor combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef sliders (80/20 ground chuck)
– 4 slices of cheddar cheese
– 4 hamburger buns
– 2 tbsp butter, divided
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Form the beef sliders into patties and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
4. Meanwhile, butter the hamburger buns.
5. Assemble the sliders by placing a cooked patty on each bun, followed by a slice of cheese.
6. Place the sliders under the broiler for an additional minute to melt the cheese.
7. Serve immediately and customize with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff
This classic Russian dish is a hearty and flavorful combination of sautéed beef, mushrooms, and a tangy sauce, served over egg noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces egg noodles
Instructions:
1. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the beef strips over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the mushrooms, onion, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the beef broth, tomato paste, mustard, and Dijon mustard to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
5. Return the cooked beef strips to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce.
6. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Stir in sour cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve the Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff over cooked egg noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover 18 mouth-watering cheap steak recipes that won’t break the bank! From pan-seared garlic butter to slow-cooked peppered goodness, these budget-friendly ideas will satisfy your cravings. Enjoy grilled flank steak with chimichurri, beef and broccoli stir-fry, or skillet steak with mushroom gravy. Try marinated cube steak with onions, cheesy quesadillas, or steak tacos with lime crema. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast or a hearty dinner, these recipes are sure to please. Get ready to sink your teeth into some deliciously affordable steak dishes!
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