Grilling Vs Pan Searing
When your fridge is stocked with Riverbend Cattle Company beef, there’s no wrong way to cook it — but there is a right way to bring out the best in each cut.
Some steaks love the open flame. Others shine in a hot skillet with a good sear. Whether you're firing up the grill or cooking indoors, here's our quick guide to knowing which method to choose for each cut.
Best Cuts for the Grill
Bring on the heat and the smoke.
These cuts are made for high-heat cooking and bold grill flavor. Their marbling helps them stay juicy and tender over open flames.
Grill-Friendly Cuts:
- Ribeye – Rich and marbled, the king of the grill
- New York Strip – Balanced, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser
- Sirloin – Leaner but still grill-ready
- Skirt Steak & Flank Steak – Perfect for slicing thin across the grain
- Burger Patties – Nothing beats a grilled Riverbend Cattle Company burger
Tips for Grilling:
- Let steaks come to room temp before grilling
- Salt generously beforehand
- Rest your meat 5–10 minutes before slicing
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking (125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare)
Best Cuts for Pan Searing
No grill? No problem.
Some steaks love the direct, even heat of a cast iron skillet. Pan-searing brings out deep caramelized flavor — and it’s easy to do indoors.
Pan-Sear Favorites:
- Filet Mignon – Thick, tender, and benefits from butter-basting
- Denver Steak – Flavorful and perfect with a crusty sear
- Flat Iron Steak – Quick-cooking and versatile
- Steak Tips or Cubed Steak – Great in skillet meals or with sauces
- Ground Beef – Ideal for taco night, skillet meals, and more
Tips for Pan Searing:
- Use cast iron if you can
- Get your pan hot before adding the steak
- Sear in butter or tallow for extra flavor
- Finish thicker cuts in the oven if needed
Rancher’s Tip:
Want the best of both worlds? Try the reverse sear — start your steak in the oven at a low temp, then finish with a hot sear in a skillet or on the grill for that crispy edge and juicy center.
Cook With Confidence
No matter how you cook it, Riverbend Cattle Company beef brings the flavor. Raised on pasture, dry-aged to perfection, and delivered straight to your door — it’s beef you can feel good about putting on the table.
Not sure which cuts are in your box? Reach out anytime — we’re your family’s rancher, and we’re here to help.
View Our Latest Recipes
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Santa Maria-Style Grilled Tri Tip
Santa Maria-style tri tip is all about letting quality beef shine. This California BBQ classic uses a simple seasoning blend and high-heat grilling to create a beautifully charred crust and...
Santa Maria-Style Grilled Tri Tip
Santa Maria-style tri tip is all about letting quality beef shine. This California BBQ classic uses a simple seasoning blend and high-heat grilling to create a beautifully charred crust and...
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Sirloin Steak with Buttered Noodles & Roasted V...
This is a lighter take on a classic comfort pairing: steak and noodles. Instead of heavy sauces or elaborate preparation, Riverbend Cattle Company sirloin steak is simply cooked and served alongside...
Sirloin Steak with Buttered Noodles & Roasted V...
This is a lighter take on a classic comfort pairing: steak and noodles. Instead of heavy sauces or elaborate preparation, Riverbend Cattle Company sirloin steak is simply cooked and served alongside...
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Braised Short Ribs with Garlic & Herbs
There’s something timeless about a pot of short ribs slowly braising in the oven. The aroma fills the kitchen, the pace of the day naturally slows, and dinner becomes something...
Braised Short Ribs with Garlic & Herbs
There’s something timeless about a pot of short ribs slowly braising in the oven. The aroma fills the kitchen, the pace of the day naturally slows, and dinner becomes something...
