Grilling skirt steak is an art. It’s a flavorful cut of meat that’s perfect for high-heat grilling, but the cooking time is key to making it tender and juicy. So, how long should you cook skirt steak on the grill? That depends on a few factors, but don’t worry — this guide will walk you through every step to help you get that perfect char while keeping the steak juicy and delicious.
What is Skirt Steak?
Skirt steak is a long, thin cut of beef taken from the diaphragm muscle of the cow. Known for its rich, beefy flavor, it has a coarse texture and a prominent grain. Skirt steak is a popular choice for grilling because it cooks quickly and absorbs marinades well. Its intense flavor makes it great for dishes like fajitas or just served on its own.
Difference Between Skirt Steak and Flank Steak
Many people confuse skirt steak with flank steak because they look similar, but they’re different cuts. Skirt steak comes from the plate section of the cow, while flank steak is from the abdominal muscles. Skirt steak has more fat and a stronger beefy flavor. It also tends to be thinner than flank steak, which means it cooks a bit faster. Understanding this difference can help you adjust your grilling times.
Preparing Skirt Steak for Grilling
Preparation is crucial to ensure your skirt steak grills perfectly. Because skirt steak can be a bit tough, marinating it beforehand is highly recommended. A marinade helps tenderize the meat while adding extra flavor. Whether you go for a simple salt-and-pepper rub or a more elaborate marinade with garlic, lime, and herbs, allowing the steak to soak for at least 30 minutes to a few hours can make a big difference.
Do You Need to Trim Skirt Steak Before Grilling?
Sometimes, skirt steak can come with a bit of silver skin or excess fat. While a little fat is good for flavor, trimming away the tough silver skin is recommended. It can be chewy if left on, and it doesn’t break down during cooking, so take a few minutes to trim it before marinating.
How Long to Marinate Skirt Steak?
For best results, marinate skirt steak for at least 30 minutes and up to 24 hours. The longer you marinate, the more flavor and tenderness you’ll get. But if you’re in a rush, a quick 30-minute soak will still enhance the steak.
Setting Up the Grill for Skirt Steak
Getting your grill ready is as important as preparing the steak itself. Whether you’re using a gas or charcoal grill, the key is high, direct heat. Skirt steak cooks quickly, so you’ll want the grill to be nice and hot before the steak even hits the grate.
Ideal Grill Temperature for Skirt Steak
Skirt steak should be cooked over high heat. Aim for a grill temperature of 450-500°F (230-260°C). You can check the heat by holding your hand a few inches above the grill — if you can only hold it there for a couple of seconds, the grill is hot enough. This high heat ensures a nice char on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
How Long Do You Cook Skirt Steak on the Grill?
The cooking time for skirt steak is quick — which is one reason it’s such a great cut for grilling. On average, skirt steak only needs 2-3 minutes per side on the grill for medium-rare. But the exact time depends on the thickness of your steak and your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time for Rare Skirt Steak
For a rare skirt steak, grill it for about 1-2 minutes per side. The inside should still be very red, with an internal temperature of about 120°F (49°C).
Cooking Time for Medium-Rare Skirt Steak
For medium-rare, the most popular doneness for skirt steak, grill the steak for about 2-3 minutes per side. The internal temperature should reach 130-135°F (54-57°C).
Cooking Time for Medium Skirt Steak
If you prefer your steak more cooked, grill it for 3-4 minutes per side for medium, with an internal temperature of around 140-145°F (60-63°C).
Cooking Time for Well-Done Skirt Steak
For those who like their steak well-done, it will take about 4-5 minutes per side, reaching an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) or higher. Keep in mind that skirt steak can become tougher when cooked to well-done.
How to Check Doneness Without a Thermometer
You don’t need a thermometer to check the doneness of your steak, though it helps. The “finger test” is a simple trick you can use. Gently press on the steak with your finger. If it feels soft and squishy, it’s rare. If it’s firm but still has some give, it’s medium-rare. The firmer it feels, the more done it is.
Using a Meat Thermometer to Check Doneness
For precision, a meat thermometer is the best tool. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak to get an accurate reading. The internal temperature should be:
- Rare: 120°F (49°C)
- Medium-Rare: 130°F (54°C)
- Medium: 140°F (60°C)
- Well-Done: 160°F (71°C)
Resting Skirt Steak After Grilling
Once you’ve grilled your skirt steak to the desired doneness, let it rest before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that every bite is juicy and flavorful.
The Juiciness Factor: Why Resting is Critical
Resting your steak for about 5-10 minutes is essential. If you cut into the steak too soon, the juices will spill out, leaving you with a dry steak. Keep the steak warm by loosely covering it with foil while it rests.
Slicing Skirt Steak the Right Way
After resting, it’s time to slice the skirt steak. But be careful: how you slice it can affect the tenderness. Always cut against the grain. The “grain” refers to the direction of the muscle fibers in the steak. Cutting against the grain shortens these fibers, making the steak more tender to chew.
How Thick Should You Slice Skirt Steak?
For the best results, slice the skirt steak thinly, about ¼ inch thick. Thin slices maximize tenderness and allow the flavors to shine through.
Serving Skirt Steak: Best Pairings and Sauces
Skirt steak is versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Popular options include grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or even a fresh salad. Skirt steak also shines when paired with sauces like chimichurri or garlic butter, which enhance the meat’s rich flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Grilling Skirt Steak
Grilling skirt steak is simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin the experience. Avoid these pitfalls for a perfect steak:
- Overcooking: Skirt steak is thin, so it cooks quickly. Watch it carefully to avoid overcooking.
- Not Preheating the Grill: Always preheat your grill to ensure the steak sears properly.
- Not Resting the Steak: Skipping the resting step can cause the steak to lose its juices when sliced.
- Slicing with the Grain: Remember to slice against the grain to keep the steak tender.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you know when skirt steak is done on the grill?
Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer or use the finger test to judge doneness based on feel.
Can you grill skirt steak on a grill pan instead?
Yes, a grill pan works well, but you won’t get the same smoky flavor as with an outdoor grill. Cook over medium-high heat for similar times.
Should you flip skirt steak frequently on the grill?
No, only flip the steak once to ensure an even sear on each side.
Can you grill frozen skirt steak directly?
It’s best to thaw skirt steak before grilling to ensure even cooking. Grilling from frozen can result in an unevenly cooked steak.
How do you keep skirt steak tender after grilling?
Marinating, cooking quickly over high heat, and slicing against the grain are key to keeping skirt steak tender.
Conclusion
Grilling skirt steak can be quick and easy if you follow the right steps. With the right preparation, grill temperature, and timing, you’ll enjoy a juicy, flavorful steak that’s perfect for any occasion. Remember to keep an eye on the cooking time, let it rest, and slice against the grain for the best results.