Hanger Steak vs Skirt Steak Explained

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  • Post published:October 11, 2025
  • Reading time:5 mins read

Hanger steak vs skirt steak are two tasty beef cuts that can confuse cooks. Hanger steak is thick, tender, and rich, while skirt steak is thin, full of flavor, and cooks fast. Knowing hanger steak vs skirt steak helps you grill, sear, or pan-cook each cut the right way so you can enjoy your steak like a pro.

What Is Hanger Steak?

Hanger steak, also called the “butcher’s steak,” hangs from the diaphragm of the cow. Its unique location gives it a rich, beefy flavor that’s hard to match.

Nutrition Snapshot

  • Calories: 180–200 per 4 oz

  • Protein: 23–25 g

  • Fat: 9–12 g

  • Iron: High
    Hanger steak is nutrient-dense and packed with flavor.

Cooking Tips for Hanger Steak

  • Best cooked medium-rare to preserve tenderness.

  • Marinade for 2–4 hours for extra juiciness.

  • Cook quickly on high heat—grill, cast-iron, or broiler.

What Is Skirt Steak?

Skirt steak comes from the diaphragm muscles and is long and thin. Its intense flavor makes it a favorite in Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes like fajitas and tacos.

Nutrition Snapshot

  • Calories: 180–210 per 4 oz

  • Protein: 22–24 g

  • Fat: 10–13 g

  • Iron: High
    Skirt steak is lean yet rich in taste.

Cooking Tips for Skirt Steak

  • Cook fast and hot to avoid toughness.

  • Slice against the grain for tenderness.

  • Ideal for marinades with citrus or soy for flavor depth.

Hanger Steak vs Skirt Steak: Key Differences

Comparison Table

Feature Hanger Steak Skirt Steak
Cut Location Diaphragm Plate/diaphragm
Thickness Thick Thin
Flavor Bold, beefy Very intense
Tenderness Medium Chewier
Best Cooking Pan-sear, grill Quick grill, stir-fry

Flavor and Texture Differences

Hanger steak is slightly more tender than skirt steak but both offer bold flavors. Hanger steak holds up better to seasoning, while skirt steak absorbs marinades quickly.

Why Choose Hanger Steak Over Skirt Steak?

Tenderness

Hanger steak is naturally more tender, perfect for a medium-rare sear.

Versatility

Use it in steak sandwiches, stir-fries, or tacos.

Flavor Retention

Hanger steak keeps flavor when cooked medium-rare, making it ideal for sauces and pan drippings.

Why Choose Skirt Steak Over Hanger Steak?

Bold Flavor

Its intense beef flavor makes it perfect for Tex-Mex and Asian dishes.

Quick Cooking

Skirt steak cooks in minutes, ideal for weeknight dinners.

Tex-Mex Favorite

Tacos, fajitas, and burritos shine with skirt steak sliced against the grain.

How to Cook Hanger Steak: 6 Steps

  1. Remove steak from fridge, bring to room temperature.

  2. Pat dry and season with salt and pepper.

  3. Preheat a cast-iron skillet or grill.

  4. Sear each side 3–4 minutes for medium-rare.

  5. Let rest for 5 minutes.

  6. Slice against the grain for tenderness.

Video Suggestion: Embed a pan-seared hanger steak tutorial here with alt text “Hanger steak pan-seared recipe.”

How to Cook Skirt Steak: 6 Steps

  1. Trim excess fat and connective tissue.

  2. Marinate 30–60 minutes for flavor infusion.

  3. Preheat grill or skillet to high heat.

  4. Cook 2–3 minutes per side for medium-rare.

  5. Rest steak for 5 minutes.

  6. Slice against the grain to prevent chewiness.

Video Suggestion: Embed a grilled skirt steak tutorial here with alt text “Skirt steak grilled tutorial.”

Hanger Steak vs Skirt Steak: Cooking Methods

Air Fryer

  • Quick, even cooking for both steaks.

  • Ideal for weeknight meals.

Oven Roasting

  • Best for thicker hanger steaks.

  • Slow roast maintains tenderness.

Sous Vide

  • Ensures perfect internal temperature.

  • Excellent for precise texture and flavor control.

Hanger Steak vs Skirt Steak: Price & Availability

  • Hanger Steak: Often less available, medium price.

  • Skirt Steak: Widely available, affordable, especially for Tex-Mex dishes.

FAQs (Voice-Search Optimized)

Which steak is more tender, hanger or skirt?

Hanger steak is slightly more tender. Slice skirt steak against the grain for best results.

Can I cook skirt steak medium-rare?

Yes, high heat and short cook time preserve tenderness and flavor.

Are hanger and skirt steaks healthy?

Both are protein-rich, iron-dense cuts with moderate fat content.

Which steak is better for tacos?

Skirt steak is ideal due to flavor intensity and easy slicing.

Can I use hanger steak for stir-fry?

Yes, thinly slice against the grain and cook quickly for best results.

Nutritional Comparison Table

Nutrient Hanger Steak (4 oz) Skirt Steak (4 oz)
Calories 190 200
Protein 24 g 23 g
Fat 10 g 11 g
Iron High High

 

Quiz Time: Hanger vs Skirt Steak – Only True Steak Experts Pass!

Think you know steaks? Test your knowledge with these tough questions and drop your answers in the comments!

1. Which steak comes from the diaphragm, and why does that affect its texture?
a) Hanger steak
b) Skirt steak

2. Which cut is more fibrous and benefits most from slicing against the grain?
a) Hanger steak
b) Skirt steak

3. Which steak is more likely to be labeled “butcher’s secret” and why?
a) Hanger steak
b) Skirt steak

4. Which cut retains more flavor when marinated versus dry-seasoned?
a) Hanger steak
b) Skirt steak

5. Which steak is traditionally used in dishes like fajitas due to its shape and fiber?
a) Hanger steak
b) Skirt steak

6. Which steak is more sensitive to overcooking because of its muscle structure?
a) Hanger steak
b) Skirt steak

Think you nailed it? Comment your answers below and prove you’re the ultimate steak connoisseur!

Conclusion

Hanger steak and skirt steak each shine in different scenarios. Hanger steak is tender and versatile, while skirt steak packs bold flavor for quick meals. Try both and share your favorite cooking method below!

Find out which cut delivers more flavor, tenderness, and sizzle on your grill!