This summer, Food Network’s Grilling Central is packed with recipes for the entire family’s taste buds, boasting the best in burgers, dogs, chicken and more all season long. But with so many recipes, where do you start? Each Friday, FN Dish is giving you a complete menu that is stress-free, and this weekend’s spread features juicy grilled steak that won't break the bank.

No matter if you're buying filet mignon or flank steak, the price of beef can leave a sizable dent in your wallet, especially if you're shopping to feed a crowd. But even though it's a splurge item for many, steak is indeed a can-do meat for your next weekend cookout; the trick is knowing what to buy and how to stretch it so that you get the most for your money.

About that filet mignon — skip it. Stick to the flank or other budget-friendly cuts like hanger or skirt steak. These pieces of beef are every bit as flavorful as their expensive counterparts, but they're thinner, so they're more prone to overcooking. To remedy that and dodge chewy meat, simply keep the cooking time to a minimum. In his recipe for Skirt Steak (pictured above), Alton cooks the beef on hot charcoals for just 60 seconds on each side, then keeps it wrapped in foil for 15 minutes; the direct-heat method ensures that the meat develops a charred crust, while the aluminum tent helps it become tender. Click the play button on the video below to watch Alton make it.

Whether you're cooking for just your family or an entire backyard of guests, avoid making the steak the centerpiece of the plate. Instead, feature it in fajitas, as Alton does with his skirt steak, serve tacos or burritos, slice steak atop a mixed greens salad or toss it with pasta and vegetables. This way you'll be able to purchase less beef but still offer a hearty meal, as you'll have other ingredients beefing up the dish.