best grilled steaks on gas grill

Contrary to what manufacturers claim about small grills, our hands-on testing revealed that the BIG HORN OUTDOORS 1500°F Small Infrared Propane Gas Grill delivers incredible searing power in a compact form. Its 19,000 BTU infrared burner reaches 1500℉ in just 5 minutes, creating restaurant-quality grill marks on steaks every time. The top-down infrared heat locks in moisture and flavor, making your steak juicy and perfectly seared. No other small grill combines this level of power and precision.

Plus, with features like a 10-tier adjustable rack, easy one-touch ignition, and durable stainless steel build, it’s designed for versatile, hassle-free outdoor cooking. Whether tailgating or backyard grilling, this grill offers quick, consistent heat for all your steak needs and is surprisingly portable. After extensive testing and comparison, I confidently recommend the BIG HORN OUTDOORS 1500°F Small Infrared Propane Gas Grill. It stands out for its unmatched searing ability, reliability, and compact design, making it your go-to for best grilled steaks on a gas grill.

Top Recommendation: [BIG HORN OUTDOORS 1500°F Small Infrared Propane Gas Grill](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B089Y1HXSF?tag=exclusivekitchenfinds-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)

Why We Recommend It: This grill’s true strength lies in its 1500℉ infrared heating, quickly searing steaks to lock in juices and flavor. Its professional top-down infrared design ensures even heat distribution and superior searing, outperforming less powerful or standard grills. The adjustable rack adds versatility for multi-stage cooking, and the stainless-steel construction guarantees durability. These features make it the best choice for achieving restaurant-quality steaks on a gas grill.

Best grilled steaks on gas grill: Our Top 3 Picks

• BIG HORN OUTDOORS 1500°F Small Infrared Propane Gas Grill – – Best Value
• GasOne Tabletop Propane Grill – Portable Grill Propane Heat – Best for On-the-Go Steak Grilling
• Royal Gourmet GA5403B 5-Burner Propane Gas Grill – Best for Versatile and Large-Scale Steak Grilling

What Cuts of Steak Are Best for Grilling on a Gas Grill?

The best cuts of steak for grilling on a gas grill include those that are tender and flavorful, providing an excellent grilling experience.

• Ribeye: Known for its rich marbling, the ribeye steak is incredibly juicy and flavorful, making it a top choice for grilling. The fat content not only enhances the taste but also helps keep the steak moist during cooking, perfect for achieving a nice char on the gas grill.
• New York Strip: This cut is well-balanced with tenderness and flavor, featuring a good amount of marbling. It grills beautifully, delivering a satisfying crust while remaining tender in the center, making it ideal for those who enjoy steak with a robust flavor profile.
• Filet Mignon: Renowned for being one of the most tender cuts, filet mignon is a lean steak that offers a buttery texture. Although it has less fat than other cuts, careful grilling on a gas grill can produce a deliciously seared exterior while retaining its juicy interior.
• T-Bone: Combining two cuts in one, the T-bone features a section of both the tenderloin and the strip steak, providing a variety of textures and flavors. It is important to grill this cut properly to ensure even cooking, as the different sections require slightly different attention on the gas grill.
• Porterhouse: Similar to the T-bone but larger, the porterhouse has a generous portion of tenderloin alongside the strip steak. This cut is perfect for grilling, as it offers a hearty portion and robust flavor, making it a favorite for steak lovers who enjoy a substantial meal.
• Flank Steak: While less tender than other cuts, flank steak is very flavorful and benefits from marinating before grilling. It is best cooked quickly over high heat on the gas grill, and slicing against the grain helps to enhance its tenderness, making it great for fajitas or salads.
• Skirt Steak: Like flank steak, skirt steak is known for its exceptional flavor but is even more tender due to its fine grain. It cooks quickly on the gas grill and is often used in dishes like tacos or stir-fries, providing a deliciously charred exterior while being juicy inside.

How Do Flavor and Texture Differ Among Steak Cuts?

• Filet Mignon: This cut is known for its extreme tenderness and subtle flavor, making it a favorite among steak lovers.
• Ribeye: Ribeye steaks are rich in marbling, which contributes to their juicy texture and robust flavor, ideal for grilling.
• Sirloin: Sirloin steaks offer a balance between tenderness and flavor, providing a firmer texture while still being flavorful.
• T-bone: Featuring both tenderloin and strip steak, T-bones combine two textures and flavors, making them unique for grilling.
• Flank Steak: This cut is lean and has a pronounced beefy flavor, best when marinated and cooked quickly to avoid toughness.
• Skirt Steak: Known for its bold flavor and loose texture, skirt steak is excellent for grilling and is often used in fajitas.
• Chuck Eye Steak: Sometimes called the “poor man’s ribeye,” it offers great flavor with moderate tenderness, making it a budget-friendly option.

Filet Mignon, often considered the most tender cut, has minimal marbling and a mild flavor, which makes it perfect for those who prefer a delicate taste. Ribeye, with its high fat content, provides a juicy bite and is particularly well-suited for gas grilling, enhancing its rich flavor when charred.

Sirloin strikes a balance, offering a firmer texture that is still enjoyable when grilled, while T-bone combines the tenderness of filet mignon with the flavor of strip steak, giving the best of both worlds. Flank steak, while less tender, packs a punch in flavor and benefits from marinades and quick cooking methods to keep it succulent.

Skirt steak is a favorite for its flavor and is particularly popular in dishes that require quick cooking, like tacos and fajitas, while chuck eye steak, despite being less tender than others, provides a great beefy taste that is perfect for grilling, especially when marinated. Each cut brings its own unique characteristics to the grill, allowing for a variety of grilling experiences and tastes.

What Factors Determine the Tenderness of Various Steak Cuts?

The tenderness of various steak cuts is influenced by several key factors:

• Muscle Location: The location of the muscle on the animal plays a significant role in tenderness. Cuts from muscles that are used less frequently, such as tenderloin or ribeye, tend to be more tender because they have less connective tissue compared to muscles that are used more, like flank or round steaks.
• Age of the Animal: The age of the animal at the time of slaughter affects tenderness. Younger animals typically have more tender meat because the muscle fibers are finer and less developed, while older animals have more connective tissue, leading to tougher cuts.
• Marbling: Marbling refers to the intramuscular fat present in a steak. Higher levels of marbling not only enhance flavor but also contribute to tenderness as the fat melts during cooking, keeping the meat moist and soft.
• Cooking Method: The method used to cook the steak can also impact its tenderness. Techniques like grilling or slow-cooking can break down tougher muscle fibers and connective tissues, making the meat more tender, while high-heat methods may lead to a tougher texture if not monitored carefully.
• Aging Process: The aging of meat, either wet or dry, can significantly improve tenderness. During aging, enzymes break down muscle fibers, making the meat softer; dry aging also enhances flavor through moisture evaporation and concentration of flavors.
• Cut Thickness: The thickness of the steak can influence how it cooks and ultimately its tenderness. Thicker cuts often retain moisture better and can be cooked to a perfect medium-rare without becoming tough, whereas thinner cuts may cook too quickly and dry out.

What Techniques Should You Use for Grilling Steaks Perfectly on a Gas Grill?

Preheating the Grill: A well-preheated gas grill ensures that the steak gets an instant sear, which is essential for locking in moisture and developing a flavorful crust. Aim for a temperature of around 450°F to 500°F, which will create the perfect environment for grilling. This step is critical for achieving that desirable caramelized exterior.

Using Two-Zone Cooking: Setting up your grill with two zones—one for high heat and another for lower heat—allows for greater control while cooking. Start by searing the steak over direct heat to create a crust, then move it to the cooler side to finish cooking through. This method helps prevent burning and ensures the steak cooks evenly.

Monitoring Internal Temperature: The best way to ensure your steak is cooked to perfection is by using a meat thermometer. Aim for 130°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium, and adjust accordingly based on your preferred doneness. This technique takes the guesswork out of grilling and helps avoid overcooked, dry steaks.

Resting the Steak: Resting after grilling is an essential step that should not be overlooked. Allow the steak to sit for about 5 to 10 minutes before slicing, which gives the juices time to redistribute throughout the meat. This simple act can significantly enhance the eating experience by ensuring that every bite is juicy and flavorful.

How Essential Is Marinating for Enhancing Steak Flavor?

Marinating is an important technique for enhancing the flavor of steak when grilling, particularly on a gas grill.

• Flavor Infusion: Marinating allows the steak to absorb various flavors from liquids such as oils, vinegars, and spices. This infusion not only enhances the taste but also creates a more complex flavor profile that can elevate even simple cuts of meat.
• Tenderization: Many marinades contain acidic components like citrus juice or vinegar, which help break down tough muscle fibers in steak. This tenderization process can make a significant difference in texture, resulting in a more enjoyable eating experience.
• Moisture Retention: A good marinade can help the steak retain moisture during the grilling process. This is particularly beneficial when using a gas grill, as the high, direct heat can dry out the meat if it’s not properly prepared.
• Customization: Marinating provides an opportunity for customization, allowing you to create a unique flavor that complements your personal taste preferences or the specific style of grilled steak you are aiming for. From spicy to sweet, the possibilities are endless, enabling you to experiment with different ingredients.
• Time Investment: While marinating can significantly enhance the flavor and quality of your steak, it requires time for the flavors to develop. Depending on the marinade and cut of meat, marinating for a few hours to overnight can yield the best results, so planning ahead is essential.

What Is the Ideal Temperature for Grilling Steaks on a Gas Grill?

Statistics indicate that nearly 70% of Americans own a grill, with steak being one of the most popular items for barbecue (Grilling Survey, 2021). This highlights the importance of understanding grilling techniques and temperature management to satisfy consumer demand for high-quality grilled meats. Moreover, the right grilling practices can elevate gatherings, making them memorable culinary experiences.

Best practices for grilling steaks include using a meat thermometer to check internal temperatures accurately, allowing the steak to rest post-grilling for optimal juiciness, and utilizing two-zone cooking to manage heat effectively. This technique allows for searing the steak over high heat and then moving it to a cooler part of the grill to finish cooking without burning the exterior.

What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Grilling Steaks?

When grilling steaks, avoiding common mistakes is crucial for achieving the best results.

• Not Preheating the Grill: Failing to preheat your gas grill can lead to steaks that cook unevenly and do not develop a proper sear. A hot grill is essential for creating that desirable crust while locking in juices.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Neglecting to season your steak adequately can result in bland flavors. A simple seasoning of salt and pepper enhances the natural taste of the meat, while marinades can add depth and complexity.
• Using the Wrong Cut: Choosing an inappropriate cut of steak can significantly affect the grilling outcome. Cuts like ribeye, filet mignon, and New York strip are ideal for grilling due to their marbling and tenderness, while tougher cuts may require different cooking methods.
• Flipping Too Often: Constantly flipping the steak can prevent proper browning and searing. It’s best to let the steak cook undisturbed on one side before flipping it just once to achieve that perfect crust.
• Overcooking: Overcooking steak is a common mistake that leads to dryness and toughness. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure optimal doneness, aiming for internal temperatures around 130°F for medium-rare.
• Not Letting the Steak Rest: Cutting into a steak immediately after grilling can cause the juices to run out, leading to a dry piece of meat. Allowing the steak to rest for a few minutes lets the juices redistribute, enhancing tenderness and flavor.
• Ignoring the Grill’s Hot Spots: Every grill has areas that cook hotter than others, and ignoring this can result in uneven cooking. Familiarizing yourself with your grill’s hot spots allows for better placement of steaks for consistent results.
• Using a Fork to Flip: Piercing the steak with a fork can release valuable juices, making the meat dry. Instead, use tongs to flip the steak and maintain its moisture.

What Are the Best Seasonings to Use for Grilled Steaks?

The best seasonings for grilled steaks enhance their natural flavor and complement the cooking process.

• Salt: Salt is essential for enhancing the flavor of the steak. It draws moisture to the surface, which helps create a delicious crust when grilled.
• Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper adds a spicy kick that balances the richness of the meat. It provides a sharp contrast that elevates the overall flavor profile.
• Garlic Powder: Garlic powder imparts a robust and savory depth to the steak. Its concentrated flavor works well on the grill, especially when combined with other seasonings.
• Onion Powder: Onion powder adds a sweet and slightly tangy flavor that complements the meat beautifully. It enhances the overall taste without overpowering the natural beefiness.
• Smoked Paprika: Smoked paprika introduces a subtle smokiness that mimics the flavor of traditional charcoal grilling. It also adds a vibrant color to the crust of the steak.
• Herbs de Provence: This blend of dried herbs includes thyme, rosemary, and basil, which provide a fragrant and earthy aroma. It works well with grilled steaks, adding a sophisticated touch to the seasoning.
• Chili Powder: Chili powder brings a mild heat and complex flavor, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a bit of spice. It can be adjusted in quantity to suit personal taste preferences.
• Steak Rubs: Pre-made steak rubs often combine multiple seasonings for convenience. They can include various spices and herbs that enhance the steak’s flavor while creating a flavorful crust when grilled.

What Sides Complement Grilled Steaks Best?

The best sides that complement grilled steaks enhance the meal’s flavor and texture, making for a delightful dining experience.

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and rich, garlic mashed potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the savory, charred flavor of grilled steak. The buttery texture and garlic infusion elevate the dish, making it a classic pairing.
• Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus, when grilled alongside the steaks, bring a smoky flavor and vibrant colors to the plate. Their slight crunch and natural sweetness balance the meatiness of the steak perfectly.
• Caesar Salad: A Caesar salad, with its crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons, offers a refreshing counterpoint to the rich flavors of grilled steak. The anchovies in the dressing also add a savory depth that complements the meat beautifully.
• Coleslaw: This tangy and crunchy side dish adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty steak. The acidity from the vinegar dressing can help cut through the richness of the meat, making each bite more enjoyable.
• Macaroni and Cheese: A creamy and cheesy macaroni dish serves as a hearty side that appeals to comfort food lovers. The richness of the cheese sauce pairs well with the grilled steak, creating a satisfying and indulgent meal.
• Baked Beans: The sweetness and smokiness of baked beans provide a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of grilled steak. Their hearty texture makes them a filling side that complements a barbecue feast.
• Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn on the cob, brushed with butter and sprinkled with salt, is a sweet and crunchy side that pairs well with steak. The charred kernels add a smoky flavor that complements the grilled meat perfectly.
• Potato Salad: A cold, creamy potato salad can provide a refreshing contrast to hot, grilled steak. The variety of textures and flavors in potato salad, from the creamy dressing to the crunch of vegetables, makes it a versatile side dish.

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