Top 5 Valentine’s Day Steak Cuts (With Perfect Sides and Desserts)
Valentine’s Day cooking works best when the meal is planned as a whole.
The steak, sides, and dessert should support each other, not compete.
This guide lists five reliable Valentine’s Day cuts, how to cook them, and what to serve alongside so the dinner feels balanced and intentional.
To achieve steakhouse-level results, use The MeatStick to track internal temperature and get notified when the steak reaches your target doneness.
1. Filet Mignon
Filet mignon is lean, very tender, and mild in flavor. It is one of the easiest cuts to cook evenly and plate cleanly.
How to cook
- Pan-sear in cast iron
- Finish with butter, garlic, and rosemary
- Medium-rare provides the best texture
Sides
- Truffle mashed potatoes or pommes purée
- Roasted asparagus or green beans with lemon
Dessert
- Chocolate lava cake
- Dark chocolate mousse
2. Ribeye
Ribeye is rich and heavily marbled, delivering strong beef flavor and a forgiving cook.
How to cook
- Grill or cast iron
- High heat for a deep crust
- Butter finish at the end
Sides
- Creamed spinach
- Crispy smashed or roasted potatoes
Dessert
- New York cheesecake
- Espresso brownies
3. Lamb Chops
Lamb chops offer smaller portions with a refined presentation and quick cook time.
How to cook
- Pan-sear or grill
- Rosemary, garlic, and Dijon
- Medium-rare for best moisture
Sides
- Roasted baby carrots
- Couscous or farro with herbs
Dessert
- Lemon tart
- Honey panna cotta
4. New York Strip
New York strip delivers a firm texture and pronounced beef flavor without excessive fat.
How to cook
- Pan-sear
- Butter and thyme finish
- Rest before slicing
Sides
- Garlic green beans
- Simple arugula salad with vinaigrette
Dessert
- Tiramisu
- Affogato
5. Wagyu or High-Marbled Steak
Wagyu and similar high-marbled cuts are best served in smaller portions with minimal preparation.
How to cook
- Very hot pan
- Light seasoning only
- Quick sear, no extended cooking
Sides
- Grilled mushrooms
- Blistered shishito peppers
Dessert
- Chocolate-dipped strawberries
- Fresh strawberries with whipped cream
When cooking a multi-course meal, consistency matters more than complexity. Tracking internal temperature with The MeatStick helps ensure each cut reaches the intended doneness, so the rest of the meal can come together without guesswork.
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