Flank steak substitutes
Flank steak substitutes — 7 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Skirt steak
Same amount as the flank steak
The best substitutes for flank steak are skirt steak (1:1 ratio), hanger steak (1:1 ratio), sirloin steak (1:1 ratio), or flat iron steak (1:1 ratio). Choose based on availability and cooking method.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- grilling
Updated 19 Aug 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of flank steak | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Skirt steakgrilling | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Hanger steakgrilling | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Sirloin steakgrilling | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Flat iron steakgrilling | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Chuck steakbraising | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Top sirloingrilling | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 7 | Ribeye steakgrilling | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Skirt steak
similar taste and texture
Similar cut from the diaphragm with comparable texture and flavor profile.
- Best for
- grilling, fajitas, stir-fries, marinades, quick cooking
Slightly more tender, similar cooking time, great for fajitas.
Hanger steak
similar taste and texture
Rich, flavorful cut with similar texture and cooking properties.
- Best for
- grilling, pan-searing, marinades, quick cooking, fajitas
More tender than flank, rich flavor, cooks quickly.
Sirloin steak
similar taste, different texture
Tender cut with good beefy flavor, more tender than flank.
- Best for
- grilling, pan-searing, stir-fries, marinades, quick cooking
More tender, less chewy, good for quick cooking methods.
Flat iron steak
similar taste, different texture
Tender, well-marbled cut with excellent flavor and texture.
- Best for
- grilling, pan-searing, marinades, quick cooking, fajitas
Very tender, good marbling, excellent flavor.
Chuck steak
similar taste, different texture
Economical cut with good flavor, requires longer cooking.
- Best for
- braising, slow cooking, stews, marinades
Less tender, needs longer cooking, more economical.
Top sirloin
similar taste, different texture
Lean, tender cut with good beefy flavor.
- Best for
- grilling, pan-searing, stir-fries, marinades
Tender, lean, good for quick cooking methods.
Ribeye steak
similar taste, different texture
Well-marbled, tender cut with rich flavor.
- Best for
- grilling, pan-searing, quick cooking
More expensive, very tender, rich marbling.
Questions
8 questionsWhat's the best substitute for flank steak in fajitas?
Skirt steak is the best substitute for flank steak in fajitas as it has similar texture and flavor. Hanger steak also works well and is often more tender.
Can I use sirloin instead of flank steak?
Yes, sirloin can substitute for flank steak, but it's more tender and less chewy. Adjust cooking time accordingly as sirloin cooks faster than flank steak.
How do I make flank steak more tender?
Marinate flank steak in acidic ingredients like citrus juice or vinegar for at least 30 minutes. Always slice against the grain and don't overcook it.
What's the difference between flank steak and skirt steak?
Flank steak comes from the abdominal muscles, while skirt steak comes from the diaphragm. Skirt steak is slightly more tender and has a more pronounced beefy flavor.
Can I use flank steak for stir-fry?
Yes, flank steak is excellent for stir-fry. Slice it thinly against the grain and cook quickly over high heat for best results.
What's the best way to cook flank steak?
Grill or pan-sear flank steak over high heat for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Let it rest before slicing against the grain.
Can I substitute ground beef for flank steak?
Ground beef can work in some recipes, but it won't have the same texture or presentation. Use it for dishes like tacos or stir-fries where the cut doesn't matter.
How long should I marinate flank steak?
Marinate flank steak for at least 30 minutes, but no more than 24 hours. Longer marinating can make the meat mushy due to the acidic ingredients.
Tips for substituting flank steak
8 tips- Flank steak should be cooked quickly over high heat to avoid toughness
- Always slice flank steak against the grain to ensure tenderness
- Marinate flank steak for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness
- Let flank steak rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking before slicing
- Flank steak is good for fajitas, stir-fries, and quick grilling
- Don't overcook flank steak - medium-rare to medium is ideal
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper doneness (130-135°F for medium-rare)
- Flank steak benefits from acidic marinades with citrus or vinegar