Grilling Basics
Grilling is one of the most exciting ways to enjoy beef. Whether cooking on a gas or charcoal grill, in the backyard or at a tailgate, this cooking method provides maximum flavor and optimal tenderness.
Chef-Inspired Grilling Recipes for the Perfect Party
Beef has a starring role in your summer barbecue- whether you’re meeting with a small group of friends or hosting a large family gathering- we've got you covered! Beef's versatility allows you to plan ahead with marination or prepare a star worthy meal at a moment's notice! Impress your guests and learn delicious new ways to grill beef, proper doneness and meal planning tips.
First up...the grilling basics! Grilling is a popular method for preparing steak- it's known for no-fuss clean-up and that smoky, grilled flavor no other cooking method can mimic. If you're not an expert griller, don't fret! Follow these steps and you’ll find grilling easy and—most importantly—very satisfying. Check out our grilling guidelines for more cook time information.
PREP PAYS OFF
Some grill experts emphasize the importance of bringing steaks to room temperature before grilling, but we don’t recommend it for food safety reasons. Likewise, our cooking chart is based on the meat going directly from chill to grill. So plan on pulling the meat from the fridge, seasoning well, and getting started right away.
FIRE IT UP
Make sure your grill grate is clean. If you’re using charcoal, follow the directions for how much you’ll need and how to build the charcoal pile. For gas grills, refer to your owner’s manual and set the grill to medium.
GRILL, BABY, GRILL
Use an instant-read thermometer to monitor doneness, and let it go—don’t flip the steaks so much! One flip is usually all you need, but take care to avoid charring or burning and be ready to turn down the heat (or move to a cooler spot on the grill) if necessary. Keep in mind the internal temperature will continue to rise for a few minutes after coming off the grill.
REST & RELAX
Here’s another step novice cooks often overlook: resting the meat before serving—even if you’re hungry. It’s seriously worth the wait, because it prevents all those tasty juices from draining onto your plate. For most grill-friendly cuts, about five minutes is enough.
FINISHING TOUCHES
If you're slicing the steak before serving, be sure to cut across the grain to maximize tenderness.
THREE STEPS TO THE PERFECT GRILLED BURGER
- Set grill to medium and let heat for a minimum of 10 minutes if using gas or until coals turn white if using charcoal. Form patties and season liberally with salt and pepper. Place a dimple in the center of the burger patty to minimize shrinking and optimize cooking.
- Place burgers on the grill and cook approximately 4 to 5 minutes, depending on size and thickness. Flip burger and grill an additional 4 to 5 minutes or until the center of the burger reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
- Avoid pressing down on burgers and only flip burgers once during cooking.
Glossary
Grain
Although grain is an important part of raising beef, in this case it refers to the direction of the muscle fibers in a cut of meat. Slicing "across the grain" means slicing perpendicular to the direction of the fibers, which helps make the meat easier to chew.
Burgers with Grilled Onions |
Burgers with Grilled Onions |
Classic Ground Beef burgers with a classic topping of grilled onions. Old school is making a comeback.
Country Style Bourbon BBQ Short Ribs |
Country Style Bourbon BBQ Short Ribs |
Slow cook Country Style Short Ribs in Kentucky style BBQ sauce. Finished on the grill for that authentic BBQ taste.
BBQ Beef Chuck Steak |
BBQ Beef Chuck Steak |
Flavorful 7-Bone Chuck Steak is marinated and grilled. Use the marinade as your barbecue sauce.
Garden Herb Strip Steaks |
Garden Herb Strip Steaks |
Make a rub from thyme, oregano, lemon and garlic for big flavor on Strip Steak.
Outside Skirt
Opposite the Inside Skirt Steak, this cut is known for its robust flavor profile. Marinate and grill hot for fajitas or use for stir-fry.
Ribeye Steak
This steak is rich, juicy and full-flavored with generous marbling throughout. Sold bone-in. Due to the exceptional taste and tenderness Beef Rib Steaks deliver for operators and diners alike. Bone In Rib Steaks offer great plate coverage and impressive presentations.
Ranch Steak
Affordable, lean and versatile. Good for grilling or broiling.
Pairing Beef and Alcohol
While it all comes down to personal preference, we have compiled some general guidelines to finding the perfect beef and alcohol pairing.
Explore our Recipe Collections
Apply your cooking skills in the kitchen by trying one of our delicious recipes. No matter what you're in the mood for, we have a recipe collection that is sure to satisfy.
rancher recipes
Crafted by ranchers across America, these recipes are flavorful, nutritious and proven to satisfy the heartiest of appetites.
GROUND BEEF RECIPES
The versatility of Ground Beef has made it one of America’s all-time favorite. From hamburgers to lasagna, tacos to meatloaf, pasta sauce to wraps, Ground Beef offers easy and delicious options for any meal.