What Is a Denver Steak? A Butcher's Favorite You Need to Try

Where Does Denver Steak Come From?

The Denver steak is a relatively recent discovery in the world of butchery, but it’s quickly become a hidden gem for steak lovers. It comes from the chuck primal, specifically the underblade portion—a hardworking area of the cow that’s surprisingly well-marbled and flavorful when cut just right.

Despite being from the shoulder (a tougher area overall), the Denver steak is cut across the grain, resulting in a tender, rich bite—especially when cooked properly.

How to Cook a Denver Steak

Denver steaks are versatile and packed with flavor, making them ideal for a variety of cooking methods. Here's how to make the most of them:

🔥 Grilled Denver Steak

Best for: Smoky char and bold flavor

1. Bring the steak to room temperature.
   
   

2. Season generously with Simpson’s Appalachian Sea Salt & Pepper.
   
   

3. Grill over high heat for 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare (internal temp: ~130°F).
   
   

4. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.
   
   

Pro Tip: Because Denver steak is well-marbled, it benefits from a hard sear but doesn’t need long on the grill.

🛁 Sous Vide Denver Steak

Best for: Precision cooking and maximum juiciness

1. Season steak and vacuum seal or place in a zip-top bag using the water displacement method.
   
   

2. Sous vide at 130°F for 2 hours for medium-rare.
   
   

3. Remove and pat dry thoroughly.
   
   

4. Finish with a hard sear in a hot skillet (cast iron preferred) for 60–90 seconds per side.
   
   

Pro Tip: Sous vide is ideal for keeping Denver steak perfectly cooked edge to edge.

🍳 Skillet-Seared Denver Steak

Best for: Weeknight convenience with restaurant-quality results

1. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high until just smoking.
   
   

2. Add a high-heat oil (like avocado or canola).
   
   

3. Sear steak for 3–4 minutes per side.
   
   

4. Add butter, garlic, and fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme) in the last minute to baste.
   
   

5. Rest, then slice against the grain.
   
   

Pro Tip: Don't crowd the pan. A single steak per skillet yields the best crust.

🍽️ Meal Recommendation: Denver Steak with Chimichurri & Roasted Sweet Potatoes

For a show-stopping meal, pair your grilled or skillet-seared Denver steak with a zesty chimichurri sauce and roasted sweet potatoes.

• The bright, herby chimichurri cuts through the richness of the steak.
  
  

• Sweet potatoes add earthy balance.
  
  

• Serve with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh arugula salad.
  
  

Bonus: This dish is naturally gluten-free and easy to scale up for a crowd.

Ready to Try Denver Steak?

Whether you're firing up the grill or breaking out the cast iron, Denver steak is an affordable, flavorful cut that deserves a spot in your rotation. And when you source it from Simpson’s Meats, you’re getting premium-quality beef from farms that care.

Order our expertly butchered Denver steaks today—and discover your new favorite cu