Skirt steak is a wonderfully flavorful and affordable cut of beef that many people love for its rich taste. While it’s often grilled or pan-seared, cooking skirt steak in the oven is an easy and effective way to get juicy, tender results without much fuss. If you’ve ever wondered, how do I cook skirt steak in the oven?-this article will walk you through everything you need to know.
What Is Skirt Steak?
Skirt steak comes from the diaphragm muscles of the cow and is known for its long, thin shape and rich beefy flavor. There are two main types:
– Outside skirt steak: thicker and more tender
– Inside skirt steak: thinner and a bit tougher
Both work well in the oven, but outside skirt is usually preferred for its tenderness.
Preparing Your Skirt Steak for the Oven
Ingredients You’ll Need
– 1 to 2 pounds skirt steak
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
– 1 tablespoon lime juice or vinegar (optional for tenderizing)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: dried oregano, chili powder, cumin, or your favorite steak seasoning blend
Tips Before Cooking
– Let the steak come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
– Pat the steak dry with paper towels to help it sear better in the oven.
– Marinate if you like, but a simple rub of salt, pepper, and olive oil is often enough to bring out the flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Skirt Steak in the Oven
1. Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat is essential to quickly sear the steak and lock in juices.
2. Season the Steak
Rub olive oil, garlic, lime juice, salt, pepper, and any other seasonings evenly over both sides of the steak.
3. Place the Steak on a Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Lay the skirt steak flat on the sheet.
4. Bake and Sear
– Bake the steak for 6-8 minutes on one side.
– Flip it and bake for another 6-8 minutes for medium-rare to medium doneness.
– For thicker cuts or if you want more control, you can sear the steak first at 400°F for 5-7 minutes per side, then lower the heat to 300°F and finish cooking for 10-15 minutes until desired doneness.
5. Check the Temperature
Use a meat thermometer to check doneness:
– Rare: 120-130°F (49-54°C)
– Medium-rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
– Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
– Well done: 160°F+ (71°C+)
Avoid overcooking, as skirt steak can become tough if cooked beyond medium.
6. Let It Rest
Remove the steak from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, making the steak tender and juicy.
7. Slice Against the Grain
Skirt steak has long muscle fibers, so slice it thinly against the grain (perpendicular to the fibers) to maximize tenderness.
Extra Tips for Perfect Oven-Cooked Skirt Steak
– Cut into smaller pieces: If your skirt steak is very long, cutting it into smaller portions before cooking makes it easier to handle and slice later.
– Use a meat mallet or marinade: To tenderize tougher cuts, gently pound the steak or marinate it for at least 30 minutes.
– High heat is key: Cooking at high temperature quickly sears the outside, locking in flavor and moisture.
– Resting is essential: Don’t skip resting, or you’ll lose precious juices when slicing.
– Serve with flavorful sauces: Chimichurri, aioli, or a fresh herb sauce complement skirt steak beautifully.
What to Serve with Oven-Cooked Skirt Steak?
Skirt steak pairs well with:
– Roasted or grilled vegetables
– Fresh salads
– Creamy mashed potatoes
– Rice or quinoa bowls
– Warm tortillas for fajitas
Skirt steak cooked in the oven is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare any night of the week. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy a juicy steak dinner without firing up the grill. Ready to try it tonight?