How to Grill Skirt Steak Perfectly: Best Grilling Tips & Foolproof Recipe
There was a time when skirt steak was considered one of the most budget-friendly cuts of beef. Those days are long gone. With the rising popularity of Mexican and Latin American cuisines, skirt steak has become a star ingredient—prized for its bold flavor and versatility.
Because it’s no longer a “cheap cut,” it’s all the more important to make sure you cook it perfectly. When grilled right, skirt steak delivers smoky char, juicy texture, and incredible flavor in every bite. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from choosing the right cut to grilling and serving it like a pro.
Inside Skirt Steak vs. Outside Skirt Steak
Although most stores label it simply as “skirt steak,” there are actually two types: inside skirt and outside skirt.
Inside Skirt: Narrower, thinner, and more irregularly shaped. It cooks quickly but tends to be less tender.
Outside Skirt: Thicker, wider, and more flavorful. While not melt-in-your-mouth tender, it has a better texture and is generally considered the superior option.
If you have the choice, always go for outside skirt steak. But don’t worry—this recipe works beautifully with either type.
Tips for Cooking Skirt Steak Perfectly
To get the most out of this flavorful cut, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Marinate for Flavor: Skirt steak isn’t about tenderness—it’s about big, bold taste. A good marinade enhances the flavor, so focus on that rather than trying to “tenderize.”
- Cook Hot and Fast: Because skirt steak is thin, high heat and a quick sear are essential. Aim for medium rare (130°F) to medium (140°F) internal temperature. Anything beyond that, and it becomes tough.
- Slice Against the Grain: Skirt steak has long muscle fibers. Cutting against the grain shortens those fibers, making each bite more tender and enjoyable.
Easy-to-Follow Grilled Skirt Steak Recipe
Yield: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
This recipe is straightforward, beginner-friendly, and guarantees juicy, flavorful results every time.
Ingredients
For the Steak:
- 2 pounds skirt steak (trimmed)
- Kosher salt and black pepper
For the Marinade:
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper (adjust to taste)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of ½ lemon
Instructions
- Prep the Steak: Pat the skirt steak dry and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Make the Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, soy sauce, red wine vinegar, garlic, parsley, lemon zest, lemon juice, and crushed red pepper. Mix well.
- Marinate: Place the steak in a resealable bag or shallow airtight container. Pour the marinade over, seal, and massage to coat. Let it marinate for 30 minutes to 2 hours. Remove from the fridge 30 minutes before grilling.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat the grill to high. Brush grates lightly with oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Steak: Remove the steak from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Grill over high heat for 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Avoid cooking beyond medium.
- Rest and Slice: Let the steak rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes. Slice thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness.
- Serve: Plate with your favorite sides and enjoy immediately while warm and juicy.
What to Serve with Grilled Skirt Steak
Skirt steak shines with simple, complementary sides. A few delicious pairings include:
- Grilled Corn on the Cob for a smoky-sweet balance
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes for creamy comfort
- Crispy Fries for a casual twist
- Fresh Green Salad to lighten the plate
Since skirt steak is so versatile, you can pair it with nearly anything—keep it simple, and let the steak remain the star.
Final Thoughts
Grilled skirt steak is a cut that rewards simple, careful cooking. Marinate it well, grill it hot and fast, slice it against the grain, and you’ll have a dish that’s packed with flavor and impossible to resist. Whether you’re preparing tacos, serving it alongside mashed potatoes, or simply enjoying it with grilled vegetables, this recipe guarantees success every time.
