Name: Savory Marinated Skirt Steak: A Grilling Game-Changer
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 145 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Skirt Steak (Trimmed and cut into pieces); 1 tbsp Kosher Salt (Enhances flavor and tenderizes meat); 1/4 cup Olive Oil (Can substitute with avocado oil); 1/4 cup Red Wine Vinegar (Can substitute with sherry or balsamic vinegar); 1/4 cup Soy Sauce (Use low-sodium if desired); 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce; 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard; 3 cloves Garlic (Finely minced); 1 tbsp Fresh Thyme Leaves (Dried thyme can be a substitute); 1 tbsp Fresh Rosemary (Minced, dried rosemary works as well); 1/2 tsp Ground Pepper (Freshly ground for best flavor)

The tantalizing aroma of marinated skirt steak sizzling on the grill instantly transports me to summer barbecues with friends and family. This budget-friendly cut not only delivers incredible flavor but also turns weeknight dinners into culinary celebrations. The secret lies in our marinade, where simple ingredients like garlic, fresh herbs, and a splash of acidity bring this savory delight to life. With minimal prep time, you’ll have a juicy, tender steak that rivals even the most expensive cuts, perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself. Ready to elevate your grilling game without breaking the bank? Let’s dive into how to make this marinated skirt steak a showstopper on your dinner table!

Why is Marinated Skirt Steak a Must-Try?

Savory Perfection: Each bite is infused with a burst of flavor courtesy of a zesty marinade that transforms the economical skirt steak into a luxurious dish.

Easy to Make: No culinary expertise is required; just a few simple steps unlock this deliciously juicy steak.

Time-Saving: With a quick marinating process and fast grilling time, it fits perfectly into a busy weeknight.

Versatile Pairings: Enjoy it alone or as a filling for tacos, salads, or alongside grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Deliciously Affordable: Elevate your grilling game without hurting your wallet! This cut offers all the taste and none of the cost—perfect for any gathering.

Looking for more delightful ideas? Try pairing your steak with these Pepper Steak Bell or serving it with tasty Breadsticks Philly Cheesesteak!

Marinated Skirt Steak Ingredients

Unlock the secret to a flavor-packed, juicy steak!

For the Marinade

Skirt Steak – A flavorful and economical cut; guarantees juicy results when marinated right.
Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor and helps tenderize the meat; substitute with low-sodium salt if necessary.
Olive Oil or Avocado Oil – Adds moisture and flavor; choose according to personal preference.
Red Wine Vinegar or Sherry Vinegar – Brings acidity to the marinade, balancing the flavors; balsamic vinegar can be used as a substitute.
Soy Sauce – Provides umami richness; low-sodium options are available for those watching their salt intake.
Worcestershire Sauce – Adds depth and complexity, boosting savory notes in the marinade.
Dijon Mustard – Introduces a tangy kick; essential for adding depth of flavor.
Garlic (finely minced) – Offers an aromatic touch; using fresh garlic will elevate the taste even further.
Fresh Thyme Leaves – Contributes herbal notes; dried thyme can be a quick substitute if needed.
Fresh Rosemary (minced) – Infuses a fragrant earthiness; dried rosemary works in a pinch.
Ground Pepper – Enhances the overall flavor; using freshly ground pepper elevates each bite.

With these Marinated Skirt Steak ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a stunning dish that’s sure to impress everyone at the table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Marinated Skirt Steak

Step 1: Trim the Steak
Start by preparing your skirt steak for marinating. Place the steak on a cutting board and trim away any excess fat and silverskin. Cut the steak into 3-4 evenly sized pieces to ensure uniform marination and cooking. This step is essential for achieving tender and delicious results with your marinated skirt steak.

Step 2: Salt the Steak
Generously season all surfaces of your trimmed skirt steak with kosher salt. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat as it begins to draw out moisture. Allow the salted steak to rest for about 15 minutes while you prepare the marinade, which will help the salt penetrate further into the meat.

Step 3: Prepare Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary until they are well combined and emulsified. The mixture should appear slightly thickened, indicating that the flavors are well blended. This flavorful marinade will transform your marinated skirt steak into a sensational dish.

Step 4: Marinate
Place the skirt steak pieces into a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it is fully coated. Squeeze out any excess air from the bag and seal it tightly. Gently massage the bag to distribute the marinade evenly, then refrigerate the steak for at least 2 hours, up to 12 hours for maximum flavor absorption.

Step 5: Preheat Grill
As the steak marinates, preheat your grill to high heat, around 450°F. If you’re using a grill pan, place it over medium-high heat. Let the grill heat up for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring it’s hot enough to give your marinated skirt steak a beautiful, charred exterior for that perfect flavor.

Step 6: Prepare Steaks for Grilling
Once marinated, remove the skirt steak from the refrigerator and take it out of the marinade. Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess marinade, which can cause flare-ups on the grill. Sprinkle freshly ground pepper over both sides of the steak for an extra kick of flavor before grilling.

Step 7: Grill the Steak
Place the steak pieces on the hot grill or skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Grill for 3-4 minutes on one side until you achieve a deep char and grill marks appear. Flip the steak and continue cooking for an additional 2-4 minutes, monitoring the internal temperature with a meat thermometer until it reaches 125-130°F for medium-rare.

Step 8: Rest and Slice
Once cooked to your desired doneness, transfer the marinated skirt steak to a cutting board and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Allow the steak to rest for 10 minutes to let the juices redistribute, ensuring a juicy experience. After resting, slice the steak against the grain into half-inch pieces to maximize tenderness, and serve immediately for a delightful meal.

What to Serve with Juicy Marinated Skirt Steak

Elevate your grilled steak experience with delightful sides that enhance every savory bite of this perfectly marinated dish.

Grilled Vegetables: Charred zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus complement the steak’s richness while adding a fresh, smoky sweetness.
Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned and baked to perfection, these crunchy potatoes provide a satisfying contrast to the tender meat. Pair them with a tangy dipping sauce for extra flavor!
Tangy Coleslaw: A zesty slaw adds a crunchy and refreshing element that balances the savory notes of the skirt steak. It’s a delightful crunch in each bite.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn adds a burst of sweetness, and the grill’s smoky flavor makes it the perfect companion to your marinated skirt steak.
Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Their rich, creamy texture pairs beautifully with the juicy meat, creating a comforting contrast that feels like home.
Fresh Tomato Salad: Bright tomatoes drizzled with olive oil and vinegar add a burst of freshness, enhancing the meal’s overall flavor profile while keeping it light.
Red Wine: A smooth, fruity wine complements the steak’s robust flavors, making it a perfect pairing for a casual dinner or special occasion.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a silky chocolate mousse provides a rich finish to your meal, balancing the savory flavors beautifully and ending the dinner on a sweet note.

Expert Tips for Marinated Skirt Steak

• Room Temperature: Always allow the steak to come to room temperature before grilling; this helps ensure even cooking throughout the meat.

• Marination Time: For the best flavor and tenderness, marinate the skirt steak for at least 2 hours but up to 12 hours for maximum impact.

• Pat Dry: Don’t skip patting the steak dry after marinating. This crucial step helps achieve that perfect sear when grilling the marinated skirt steak.

• Avoid Overcrowding: Grill in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of searing, which affects the flavor and texture.

• Resting Time: Be patient! Allow the steak to rest for 10 minutes post-cooking. This step is key to keeping it juicy and flavorful.

Make Ahead Options

These Marinated Skirt Steak preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can marinate the skirt steak up to 12 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to fully develop (this not only saves time but enhances the taste). Simply follow the marinating instructions and store the steak in a resealable bag in the refrigerator. If needed, you can also prepare the marinade in advance; store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to grill, take the marinated skirt steak out of the fridge, pat it dry, and grill it as instructed. This way, you’ll savor a delicious, tender steak that’s ready to impress with minimal effort.

How to Store and Freeze Marinated Skirt Steak

Fridge: Store uncooked marinated skirt steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours. This allows the flavors to infuse while keeping the meat fresh.

Cooked Steak: If you have leftovers, refrigerate cooked marinated skirt steak in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, ensuring it stays moist.

Freezer: Freeze leftover cooked skirt steak by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil for extra protection. It can last up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Tip: For the best results, reheat skirt steak in a skillet with a splash of broth or water over medium heat. Cover to retain moisture while warming.

Marinated Skirt Steak Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to put your own spin on this marinated skirt steak—each variation adds exciting new flavors and textures!

Cut Swap: Substitute flank steak or sirloin for a different tenderness and flavor profile. Both cuts still offer that satisfying juiciness.
Herb Twist: Try using oregano or basil instead of thyme and rosemary for a fresh, vibrant twist that brightens the dish beautifully.
Sweet Elevation: Add a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar to the marinade to enhance caramelization while introducing a lovely hint of sweetness.
Heat Factor: Mix in chili flakes or sriracha to the marinade for a spicy kick that sets your taste buds tingling with excitement!
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika into your marinade for an added layer of richness that captures that beloved smoky essence from the grill.
Vinaigrette Option: Use a light vinaigrette instead of olive oil for a zesty burst of flavor and a tangy twist that perfectly complements the savory notes.
Soy Sauce Swap: For a gluten-free option, use coconut aminos in place of soy sauce. It retains that savory umami flavor while being friendly to various dietary preferences.
Marinade Burst: Experiment with adding a splash of orange juice or lime juice for a citrusy zing that brightens the flavors even more.

These variations can truly elevate your marinated skirt steak experience! If you’re curious about additional scrumptious pairings, consider serving it with Pepper Steak Bell or deliciously cheesy Breadsticks Philly Cheesesteak. Enjoy creating your unique masterpiece!

Marinated Skirt Steak Recipe FAQs

What’s the best way to select skirt steak?
Absolutely! Look for skirt steak that has a bright red color with minimal dark spots. The marbling should be visible, indicating fat distribution, which contributes to juiciness. It’s best to choose a piece that feels firm but not too rigid, as this will ensure tenderness after cooking.

How should I store uncooked marinated skirt steak?
Very simply! Keep the uncooked marinated skirt steak in a resealable plastic bag or airtight container in the refrigerator. It can stay fresh for up to 12 hours. Just ensure you use it within this timeframe to get the best flavor and tenderness.

Can I freeze marinated skirt steak?
Yes, you can! To freeze marinated skirt steak, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. This way, it can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it overnight in the fridge for optimal results.

What if my skirt steak is tough after cooking?
If your marinated skirt steak turns out tough, it’s likely due to cooking it too long or not slicing against the grain. Always grill to an internal temperature of 125-130°F for medium-rare, and be sure to let it rest for 10 minutes after cooking. When you slice, cut against the grain to maximize tenderness.

Can I make this recipe if I have a soy allergy?
Absolutely! You can substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative. It retains much of the umami flavor while offering a lower sodium content, making it a great option for those with soy allergies. Enjoy your flavorful Marinated Skirt Steak guilt-free!