This Grilled Hanger Steak with Homemade Steak Sauce is a showstopping summer grilling recipe! The steak is perfectly charred on the outside, tender and juicy inside, and served with a bold, tangy, and savory homemade steak sauce. With just a few simple ingredients and quick grilling time, this dish is perfect for BBQs, dinner parties, or weeknight meals!
Full Recipe:
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Hanger Steak
- Bold, Beefy Flavor: Hanger steak is one of the most flavorful cuts of beef, making it a steakhouse favorite.
- Perfectly Grilled in Minutes: With just a few minutes on high heat, the steak develops a beautiful crust while staying juicy inside.
- Homemade Steak Sauce for Extra Flavor: This rich, tangy sauce complements the steak without overpowering its natural taste.
- Easy & Impressive: This simple recipe packs gourmet flavors, making it perfect for grilling beginners and experts alike.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with grilled veggies, mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or even in a steak sandwich.
What Makes Hanger Steak Special?
Hanger steak is often referred to as the “butcher’s steak” because butchers used to keep this prized cut for themselves. It’s located near the diaphragm of the cow and has:
- Incredible Marbling: This means it’s packed with juicy, rich flavors.
- Tender Texture: When cooked properly and sliced against the grain, it melts in your mouth.
- Affordable Alternative to Premium Cuts: It has the taste and tenderness of a ribeye at a fraction of the cost.
Unlike ribeye or strip steak, which can be cooked to various doneness levels, hanger steak is best enjoyed medium-rare. Overcooking can make it tough, so it’s crucial to grill it hot and fast.
The Secret to a Perfectly Grilled Hanger Steak
Grilling hanger steak is simple, but following these tips ensures the best results:
1. Pat the Steak Dry Before Seasoning
- Removing excess moisture helps create a beautiful crust when grilled.
- A simple olive oil rub enhances browning and flavor.
2. Season Generously
- Salt enhances the steak’s natural flavors and draws out moisture for a better sear.
- Garlic powder and black pepper add depth without overpowering the beefy taste.
3. Preheat the Grill to High Heat (500°F+)
- A hot grill ensures a quick sear and locks in the juices.
- Avoid cooking at low temperatures, as hanger steak is best grilled fast over direct heat.
4. Flip Only Once
- Let the steak cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes, then flip once for even cooking.
- This allows for maximum caramelization and a crisp exterior.
5. Rest Before Slicing
- After grilling, let the steak rest for at least 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute evenly.
- Cutting too soon causes the juices to run out, making the steak less juicy.
6. Slice Against the Grain
- Hanger steak has distinct muscle fibers, so slicing against the grain ensures tenderness in every bite.
The Ultimate Homemade Steak Sauce
While grilled steak is delicious on its own, this homemade steak sauce takes it to the next level. Unlike store-bought steak sauces, which can be too sweet or overpowering, this balanced and flavorful sauce enhances the steak’s natural taste without masking it.
What Makes This Steak Sauce So Good?
- A Perfect Balance of Sweet, Tangy, and Savory:
- Ketchup and honey provide natural sweetness.
- Dijon mustard and apple cider vinegar add tanginess.
- Soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce bring deep umami flavors.
- Sautéed Garlic and Onion: Adds richness and depth.
- Butter for Smoothness: A small amount of butter ties all the flavors together, giving the sauce a silky finish.
This steak sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Grilled Hanger Steak
This versatile steak pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some delicious serving ideas:
Classic Steakhouse Sides
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Buttery, creamy, and the perfect match for juicy steak.
- Grilled Asparagus or Green Beans: Light, fresh, and balances the richness of the steak.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Adds a crispy, caramelized contrast to the dish.
- Creamed Spinach: A classic, indulgent side that pairs perfectly with steak.
Low-Carb & Healthy Options
- Cauliflower Rice or Mashed Cauliflower: A lighter alternative to potatoes.
- Grilled Zucchini or Bell Peppers: Adds a smoky, sweet contrast to the dish.
- Arugula Salad with Balsamic Dressing: The peppery greens complement the richness of the steak.
Creative Serving Ideas
- Steak Sandwich: Slice the steak thinly and serve it on toasted ciabatta with arugula and steak sauce.
- Tacos: Load steak slices into warm tortillas with avocado, onions, and chimichurri.
- Steak & Eggs: Serve with fried eggs for an elevated brunch dish.
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Storing:
- Keep leftover steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- The steak sauce can be stored separately for up to a week.
Reheating Without Drying It Out:
- Oven Method: Warm at 275°F for 10 minutes, wrapped in foil to retain moisture.
- Skillet Method: Heat in a pan over low heat with a bit of butter or broth.
- Avoid the Microwave: It dries out the steak, making it chewy.
Why This Grilled Hanger Steak Is a Must-Try
- Rich, beefy flavor with a perfect grilled crust.
- Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients.
- Homemade steak sauce enhances the natural flavors.
- Perfect for grilling season, BBQs, and family dinners.
- Pairs well with a variety of side dishes and serving styles.
Conclusion: A Flavorful, Easy-to-Make Steakhouse-Style Dish
This Grilled Hanger Steak with Homemade Steak Sauce is a restaurant-quality dish that you can easily make at home. With a quick sear on the grill, a rich homemade sauce, and simple but bold seasonings, this recipe delivers mouthwatering flavors in under 30 minutes.