The Grilled Chuck Eye Steak is a budget-friendly cut that delivers rich, beefy flavors when cooked to perfection. Topped with a decadent herb butter infused with garlic, rosemary, and thyme, this steak is sure to impress at any gathering. The high-heat grilling method locks in the juices, creating a tender and flavorful experience that rivals more expensive cuts.
This dish is ideal for a summer barbecue or a cozy night in, offering a deliciously satisfying meal with minimal effort. The combination of savory steak and aromatic herbs creates a balanced, mouthwatering bite every time. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home.
Full Recipe:
- 4 chuck eye steaks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Optional: Lemon wedges for serving
Directions:
- Preheat your grill to high heat.
- Rub the chuck eye steaks with olive oil, salt, and pepper on both sides.
- In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, rosemary, thyme, and garlic.
- Grill the steaks for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until your desired doneness is reached.
- Remove the steaks from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes.
- Top each steak with a spoonful of the herb butter while resting.
- Serve with lemon wedges if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 480 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
About Chuck Eye Steak
Chuck eye steak, often referred to as the “poor man’s ribeye,” is a cut of beef from the shoulder area of the cow, specifically from the fifth rib. It’s located near the more expensive ribeye steak, sharing some of the same rich, beefy flavors and tenderness at a fraction of the cost. Chuck eye steak is a hidden gem for those who love a good steak but want to stick to a budget. This cut is well-marbled, which means it has a good amount of fat running through the meat, contributing to its flavor and juiciness when cooked properly.
Why Choose Chuck Eye Steak?
Chuck eye steak is an excellent choice for grilling because it has a robust flavor profile that stands up well to high-heat cooking methods. When seared on a hot grill, it develops a beautiful crust that locks in the juices, resulting in a tender and succulent steak. This cut is also versatile; it can be seasoned simply with salt and pepper or dressed up with herb-infused butter, as in this recipe, to add layers of flavor.
Tips for Perfectly Grilled Chuck Eye Steak
- Choose the Right Steak: Look for chuck eye steaks with good marbling (the white flecks of fat within the meat), as this will ensure tenderness and flavor.
- Bring to Room Temperature: Before grilling, let your steaks sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps them cook more evenly.
- Season Generously: Because chuck eye steak is a flavorful cut, it can handle bold seasoning. Don’t be afraid to season with a generous amount of salt and pepper.
- High Heat is Key: Make sure your grill is preheated to high heat before placing the steaks on it. This helps to create a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
- Rest Before Serving: After grilling, let the steaks rest for about 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it even more tender.
Serving Suggestions
This Grilled Chuck Eye Steak pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. For a classic steakhouse experience, serve it with a baked potato and steamed green beans. If you’re looking for something lighter, a fresh salad or grilled vegetables work beautifully. You can also slice the steak thinly and serve it over a bed of arugula with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a more modern twist.
Customizing the Recipe
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize the herb butter to suit your taste. For example, you can swap out the rosemary and thyme for other herbs like parsley, cilantro, or even a touch of tarragon for a more unique flavor. If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter. Additionally, you can finish the steak with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for an extra burst of flavor.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works because it balances the rich, beefy flavor of the chuck eye steak with the aromatic and buttery notes of the herb butter. The high-heat grilling method is perfect for developing a flavorful crust, while the herb butter melts over the steak, adding richness and moisture. It’s a simple yet effective way to elevate a budget-friendly cut of meat into something truly special.
Nutritional Information
Chuck eye steak is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. It’s a good source of high-quality protein, which is vital for muscle repair and overall body maintenance. Additionally, it provides important vitamins and minerals such as iron, zinc, and B-vitamins, including B12, which supports red blood cell formation and neurological function.
Here’s a brief overview of the nutritional profile per serving of Grilled Chuck Eye Steak (based on a typical serving size of 4 ounces of steak without additional ingredients like butter or seasoning):
- Calories: Approximately 230 kcal
- Protein: 23 grams
- Fat: 15 grams (including 6 grams of saturated fat)
- Iron: 10% of the daily recommended value
- Zinc: 20% of the daily recommended value
- Vitamin B12: 100% of the daily recommended value
The herb butter adds a bit more fat and flavor, so if you’re watching your calorie intake, you can use it sparingly or opt for a lighter version with olive oil and herbs.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement the flavors of this Grilled Chuck Eye Steak, consider pairing it with a full-bodied red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah. These wines have the bold tannins and deep flavors that match well with the richness of the steak. For those who prefer beer, a robust stout or porter would also be a great choice, offering complementary roasted malt flavors that enhance the savory notes of the meat.
Alternative Cooking Methods
While grilling is the recommended method for this recipe, there are alternative ways to cook chuck eye steak if you don’t have access to a grill or prefer a different cooking technique:
- Pan-Seared: Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat and sear the steak for 3-4 minutes on each side until a crust forms. Then, lower the heat and cook to your desired doneness. Finish with the herb butter.
- Oven-Roasted: Sear the steak in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) and roast for an additional 5-7 minutes, depending on thickness and desired doneness.
- Sous Vide: For precision cooking, you can use a sous vide method by cooking the steak at 130°F (54°C) for 2 hours, then searing it in a hot pan or grill for 1-2 minutes per side to develop a crust.
Each method offers a slightly different flavor and texture experience, so you can choose the one that best fits your preferences and available equipment.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store the cooked steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the steak in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) to avoid overcooking and drying out the meat. You can also enjoy leftover steak cold in a salad or sandwich.
Variations and Add-Ons
This recipe can be adapted in numerous ways to keep things interesting:
- Blue Cheese Butter: For a more indulgent twist, mix crumbled blue cheese into the herb butter before topping the steak. The tangy, rich flavor of the blue cheese pairs beautifully with the beef.
- Garlic Mushroom Topping: Sauté sliced mushrooms with garlic and butter, then spoon over the steak just before serving for an earthy, umami boost.
- Spicy Rub: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika and a pinch of cayenne pepper to the salt and pepper rub for a bit of smoky heat.
- Chimichurri Sauce: Serve the steak with a side of fresh chimichurri, a zesty Argentine sauce made with parsley, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil, to add a bright, herby contrast to the rich meat.
Conclusion
The Grilled Chuck Eye Steak with Herb Butter is a perfect example of how you can take an affordable cut of meat and turn it into a gourmet experience with just a few simple ingredients and techniques. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or new to cooking steaks, this recipe is approachable, versatile, and sure to impress. It’s a dish that showcases the beauty of uncomplicated cooking, where the quality of the ingredients and the care in preparation shine through in every bite.