Mouthwatering Beef Neck Steak Recipes

While it's not as widely used as ribeye or sirloin, beef neck steak is a wonderfully flavorful and budget-friendly cut that deserves more attention. Sometimes labeled as shoulder top blade steak or shoulder petite tender, neck steak comes from the cow's neck and shoulder muscles. With long, slow cooking, this workhorse cut becomes succulently tender. Read on for tips and 15 sensational beef neck steak recipes that will make this underappreciated cut your new favorite.

Benefits of Cooking with Beef Neck Steak

Some advantages of using neck steak include:

• Inexpensive - More budget-friendly than premium cuts
• Flavorful - Hardworking muscles means more flavor
• Versatile - Slices, grinds, skewers, stew well
• Nutritious - Packed with iron, zinc and B vitamins
• Satisfying chew - Stands up well to marinades and cooking

Selecting and Preparing Beef Neck Steak

Look for these qualities when choosing neck steak:

• Bright red color with some marbling
• Moderate fat cap to prevent drying out
• 1 to 1 1/2 lbs steaks for uniform portions
• Slice across the grain for tenderness
• Pound to an even thickness before marinating

15 Tasty Beef Neck Steak Recipes

From the grill to the skillet to the slow cooker, these recipes highlight inventive ways to cook up beef neck steak.

1. Garlic Herb Grilled Neck Steak

A simple marinade makes incredibly flavorful grilled steak.

2. Steak Fajitas

Sizzling hot sliced steak, peppers and onions wrapped in tortillas.

3. Thai Steak Salad

Grilled marinated steak served over spicy Thai salad.

4. Steak & Potato Hash

Seared steak combined with crispy potatoes and veggies.

5. Neck Steak Sandwiches

Tender braised steak and melty cheese piled high on ciabatta.

6. Beef Stroganoff

Rich, creamy mushroom and steak sauce served over noodles.

7. Smothered Neck Steak

Slow cooked steak smothered in gravy and sautéed onions.

8. Chinese Pepper Steak

Spicy ginger soy sauce tossed with steak and bell peppers.

9. Beef Tips with Mushrooms

Bite size pieces simmered in a red wine mushroom sauce.

10. Slow Cooker Steak Chili

Hearty chunks of steak, beans and spices make this chili incredible.

11. Braised Neck Steak in Tomatoes

Slow cooked with garlic, herbs and fresh tomatoes for big flavor.

12. Steak & Guinness Pot Pie

Tender chunks in rich Guinness gravy baked under flaky crust.

13. Beef Empanadas

Savory spiced beef baked in tender pastry crusts.

14. Philly Cheesesteak Wraps

Thinly sliced steak, peppers, onions and cheese in a fresh wrap.

15. Beef Neck Birria Tacos

Spiced braised steak tacos with melty cheese and crispy edges.

Neck Steak Cooking Tips

• Marinate up to 24 hours to tenderize
• Cook low and slow through braising, stewing
• Use a thermometer - cook to 145°F for medium
• Let meat rest 5-10 minutes before slicing
• Slice very thinly across the grain

Conclusion

With its affordable price and full flavor, beef neck steak is an undervalued gem worth getting to know. A lengthy marinade helps tenderize while adding flavor. Slow moist heat cooking methods like braising, stewing, and simmering allow the collagen to break down into luscious gelatin for tender, juicy results. Neck steak takes well to endless global flavor profiles. Bring this economical cut into your kitchen rotation with the amazing recipes here!

FAQs

Q: What other names is neck steak called?

A: Shoulder petite tender, shoulder top blade steak, top blade steak.

Q: Is neck steak good for grilling?

A: Yes, if sliced thinly across the grain after marinating. Cook quickly over high heat.

Q: Is neck steak tough?

A: It can be without proper marinating. Long, slow cooking also tenderizes it.

Q: Can you braise neck steak?

A: Yes, braising is a great moist heat method that tenderizes neck steak wonderfully.

Q: What is the best cut of steak for fajitas?

A: Flank steak and neck steak work well. They absorb marinades and slice nicely.