Hanger Steak Frites with Asparagus and Herb Butter

PRO TIPS

If you’ve never had hanger steak on the Model G2 Electric Grill, you’re about to understand why butchers used to keep this cut for themselves. Hanger steak has a deep, beefy, almost minerally richness that most everyday cuts can’t touch. When you plate it next to crispy frites, fresh asparagus, and a pat of herb butter melting over the top, it’s a complete dinner that punches well above its price point.

The key to this recipe is mastering temperature control. Hanger steak has real character, and a confident, high-heat cook on the Model G2 is what brings it out. Follow the recipe and you’ll pull off a sear that does full justice to the cut. The herb butter at the end isn’t a garnish, it’s the ingredient that ties the whole plate together.

For more steak night ideas, browse our full recipe collection or try our Porterhouse Steak for 2 and Coffee Crusted Grilled Ribeyes.

FAQs

What is hanger steak, and how is it different from skirt or flank?

Hanger steak comes from the plate section of the cow, specifically the muscle that "hangs" from the diaphragm. There’s only one per animal, which is why it’s sometimes called the "butcher’s steak," since butchers used to keep it for themselves. Compared to skirt steak, hanger has a beefier, more minerally flavor and a thicker profile. Skirt steak is thinner, fattier, and cooks even faster. Flank steak is leaner and wider with a tighter grain, making it ideal for rolling into dishes like pinwheels or slicing for fajitas. All three cuts benefit from high heat and slicing against the grain, but hanger delivers the deepest flavor of the bunch.

Can I make this grilled hanger steak recipe without a grill?

You can, but you’ll miss the sear and smoky char that makes this steak frites recipe special. If a grill isn’t available, use a cast-iron skillet heated over high heat on the stovetop. Get the pan screaming hot, add a high-smoke-point oil, and sear for three to four minutes per side. You can finish thicker cuts in a 400°F oven for a few extra minutes. 

That said, the Model G2 Electric Grill reaches temperatures up to 700°F and gives you precise dual-zone control, so you can sear on one side and keep your asparagus and frites warming on the other. It’s hard to replicate that setup indoors.

What sides pair well with steak frites besides asparagus?

The beauty of hanger steak frites is that it’s already a complete plate, but you can absolutely mix up the vegetables. Grilled broccolini, charred green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts all hold up next to a rich steak and crispy fries. A simple arugula salad with shaved Parmesan and lemon vinaigrette adds a bright, peppery contrast. For something heartier, try grilled corn on the cob or loaded baked potatoes instead of fries. And if you want to make it a real spread, throw some grilled scallops on alongside the steak for a surf-and-turf twist.